Downtown Puerto Vallarta Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Puerto Vallarta

Renting a car in Downtown Puerto Vallarta offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the vibrant surroundings at your own pace. This popular choice for tourists allows for easy luggage management and the ability to adapt your travel plans as you go. Families, outdoor enthusiasts, and couples seeking romantic experiences will find a rental car particularly beneficial. You can easily access key attractions, such as the scenic Malecon, which is perfect for outdoor and family activities, and is located right in Downtown Puerto Vallarta. Additionally, the beautiful Playa de los Muertos beach is just 2 km away, while the picturesque Los Muertos Pier is only 1 km from the downtown area. With a rental car, you can also venture to nearby neighborhoods like the Romantic Zone, which offers more beach experiences, and Colonia 5 de Diciembre, both of which are less than 1 km away. This convenience allows you to create your own itinerary, ensuring that you make the most of your visit to this charming region of Puerto Vallarta.

Most popular car rentals around Downtown Puerto Vallarta

• Midsize: This car option accommodates 5 travellers and provides space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for couples and families. Renting a midsize car in Downtown Puerto Vallarta allows you to navigate the area comfortably while having enough room for your luggage, ensuring a stress-free experience as you explore the beautiful surroundings.
• Fullsize: Perfect for families or groups, this car option also accommodates 5 travellers and can carry up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. Choosing a fullsize car when renting in Downtown Puerto Vallarta gives you ample space and flexibility, allowing your group to travel together with ease while enjoying the freedom to discover the local attractions at your own pace.
• Standard SUV: Accommodating 5 travellers with space for up to 2 medium suitcases, the standard SUV is a versatile choice for couples, families, and groups. This car type combines comfort with a bit of extra room, making it a great option for your travels around Downtown Puerto Vallarta. With an SUV, you can enjoy a higher driving position and the ability to handle various terrains, enhancing your travel experience.

Top rated car suppliers around Downtown Puerto Vallarta

• Routes: Routes is a popular choice among travellers, featuring one rental location situated 7 km away from Downtown Puerto Vallarta. Known for their range of vehicles, the most booked options include Midsize and Fullsize cars. Customers appreciate the flexibility Routes offers, allowing you to explore the beautiful surroundings of Puerto Vallarta at your own pace.
• Avis: Avis stands out with its rental location just 2 km from Downtown Puerto Vallarta, making it a convenient option for those looking to rent a car. The most popular vehicles from Avis include Compact Vans and Standard cars. Many travellers favour Avis for its reliable service and well-maintained fleet, ensuring a seamless rental experience as you navigate the vibrant attractions nearby.
• Payless: Payless provides excellent car rental options with a location located 4 km from Downtown Puerto Vallarta. Customers often choose Standard SUVs and Fullsize cars from this supplier. Payless is appreciated for its competitive pricing and the convenience it offers, making it an ideal choice for those wanting to explore the area comfortably while managing their luggage without hassle.

Where to stay around Downtown Puerto Vallarta

• Downtown Puerto Vallarta: The heart of Puerto Vallarta, Downtown offers a vibrant atmosphere with easy access to the beach, family-friendly activities, and outdoor experiences. Key attractions include the picturesque Malecon esplanade, perfect for leisurely strolls, and the bustling local market. The area is rich in dining options, ensuring you can enjoy local cuisine while being close to highlights such as Los Arcos marine park and Los Muertos Pier, making it an ideal base for your adventures.
• Romantic Zone: Located just 1 km from Downtown, the Romantic Zone is known for its charming ambiance and family-friendly atmosphere. This neighbourhood features beautiful beaches, including Playa de los Muertos, and offers a vibrant dining scene with bars and cafes. Visitors can explore the esplanade at Malecon, which hosts various outdoor activities and events, while enjoying the stunning views from Los Muertos Pier. It's a great choice for those seeking a romantic getaway or family adventure.
• Colonia 5 de Diciembre: Less than 1 km from Downtown, Colonia 5 de Diciembre is a lively neighbourhood ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The area boasts a historic vibe with easy access to the Malecon esplanade and the popular Playa de los Muertos beach. You can explore local markets and enjoy nearby distilleries for a taste of local culture. Attractions like Los Muertos Pier are within reach, making this neighbourhood a wonderful option for exploring the city's highlights while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Downtown Puerto Vallarta

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary depending on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling options, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge when picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance while booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Puerto Vallarta

The best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Puerto Vallarta is October, when both prices and demand are at their lowest. Nearby months like June through August also offer good value, featuring average prices and low demand. In contrast, January stands out as the most expensive month, with high demand and slightly higher rates. February and March follow closely, maintaining high demand and average to slightly high prices, making the early part of the year generally busier for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	70.7°F (21.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Slightly High
February	71.1°F (21.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
March	72.7°F (22.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	74.8°F (23.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
May	78.3°F (25.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
July	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
August	79.2°F (26.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
September	78.6°F (25.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
October	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
November	74.8°F (23.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
December	71.2°F (21.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Slightly High