Overview
Puerto Vallarta, set on Mexico's Pacific coast in the state of Jalisco, is one of the country's best-loved beach destinations for British travellers. Golden-sand beaches, a cobblestoned Old Town and the dramatic Sierra Madre mountains rising behind the bay give it a character that's both relaxed and lively. Whether you're drawn to resort life in the Zona Hotelera, boutique charm in the Romantic Zone, or watersports across the Bahía de Banderas, Puerto Vallarta delivers warm weather and an easy-going welcome that keeps travellers coming back.
Best time to fly to Puerto Vallarta
The dry season, roughly November to April, is the best time to fly to Puerto Vallarta, bringing sunny days, low humidity and little rain - perfect for beach time and exploring on foot. December to March is also peak season for whale watching in the bay. May to October is hotter and more humid, with a rainy season from June to October that typically brings short, heavy afternoon downpours rather than washed-out days; this quieter period can suit travellers after fewer crowds, so check the When to book chart above for how fares move across the year.
Airlines and routes
There's currently no nonstop flight between the UK and Puerto Vallarta, so UK travellers typically connect via Mexico City or a US hub. British Airways flies direct from London Heathrow to Mexico City, with onward connections to Puerto Vallarta on Aeroméxico or Volaris. Alternatively, American Airlines, United and Delta offer routings via Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Atlanta or Los Angeles. All-in, total journey time usually runs from around 13 to 16 hours depending on the connection, so it's worth comparing routings - the price charts on this page show how airlines and stopovers affect fares.
Things to do in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta rewards travellers who venture beyond the sunbeds, with a genuine arts scene, mountain adventures and some of Mexico's best seafood on the doorstep.
- Malecón boardwalk: stroll the seafront promenade past bronze sculptures, open-air bars and sunset views over the bay.
- Zona Romántica: wander the Old Town's cobbled streets, galleries and rooftop restaurants in the city's most characterful neighbourhood.
- Marietas Islands: take a boat trip to snorkel this protected marine park, home to the famous hidden beach.
- Sierra Madre foothills: join a zip-line or ATV tour through jungle canopy just minutes from the city centre.
- Whale watching: spot humpback whales in the Bahía de Banderas between December and March.
At Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR)
PVR sits around 7km, roughly a 10-15 minute drive, north of downtown Puerto Vallarta, close to Marina Vallarta and the hotel zone. Authorised airport taxis and pre-booked private transfers wait directly outside arrivals, and most major hotels run their own shuttle service. Ride-hailing apps operate with some restrictions at the terminal, so it's usually simplest to book a transfer in advance or use the official taxi rank. Public buses also run along the coastal highway into town for a low-cost option.
Top tips for finding cheap flights to Puerto Vallarta
- Book around two to four months ahead of a winter departure, when demand for the dry season peaks - the When to book chart above shows how fares typically move.
- Flying midweek, especially Tuesday or Wednesday, is usually cheaper than weekend departures.
- Keep your dates flexible where possible, as shifting a day or two either side can unlock a noticeably lower fare.
- Compare connecting airlines and hubs, since routings via Mexico City, Houston or Los Angeles can vary considerably in price and journey time.
Travel essentials
UK passport holders don't need a visa for tourist stays in Mexico of up to 180 days, but you will need to complete a Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM) tourist card, usually issued on arrival or as part of your booking. The local currency is the Mexican peso (MXN); most resorts and restaurants take card payments, though it's worth carrying some cash for taxis and markets. Check your passport is valid for the length of your stay, and take out comprehensive travel insurance, as UK health cover such as the GHIC doesn't extend to Mexico.
