By Air
Puerto Vallarta's international airport (Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, or PVR) is located about four miles (seven kilometers) north of downtown, and handles about 3,000,000 passengers per year. There are direct flights available from many U.S. and Canadian cities, with additional routes planned between Europe and Latin America starting in late 2011.
Upon your arrival, you’ll be given a small card called an FMT which allows you to travel as a tourist in Mexico for up to 180 days. If you arrive by air or ship, the FMT will be supplied by your carrier. Make sure you keep the card in a safe place. When you leave the country, you will be asked to return it. People who have lost their FMTs may be required to pay a fine.
By Ship
Puerto Vallarta has a beautiful port ready to accept docking cruise ships. Look for “Mexican Riviera” itineraries, as this is the term used to describe the west coast of Mexico.
Ships typically dock in Vallarta for a day, arriving in the morning (between 7 and 10am) and departing in the afternoon or evening.
Organized tours doing just about anything in Puerto Vallarta are easily purchased through the cruise lines. If you prefer to create your own itinerary, Puerto Vallarta’s Maritime Terminal is only a ten minute taxi or bus ride from downtown. See Port of Call PV page for tips and suggestions to help you make the most of your day.
By Bus
If you’re already in Mexico, a long-distance bus is a comfortable and inexpensive way to get to Puerto Vallarta.
Bus companies with lines to Puerto Vallarta:
Estrella Blanca
ETN
Primera Plus
TAP
Buses often have amenities such as air conditioning, movies, snacks, reclining seats, and restrooms. Departures from major cities are frequent, but tickets can also be bought in advance.
Puerto Vallarta’s bus station is located just north of the airport, about five miles (8 kilometers) north of downtown.
