Six to nine days is a great length for a Mexico trip, with stops in both Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta. Alternatively, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Mexico City. Get inspired with kimkim’s Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta trip ideas below.
## Planning Your Trip: How Many Days for Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta?
When considering a trip to the vibrant and culturally rich region of western Mexico, a common question arises: How many days should you dedicate to exploring Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta? The answer, of course, depends on your individual travel style, interests, and the depth of experience you seek. However, based on travel patterns, we can offer some helpful guidelines.
Generally, most travelers find that a combined trip to Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta comfortably fits within a timeframe of six to nine days. This allows for a balanced experience, providing sufficient time to delve into the unique offerings of each destination without feeling rushed. You’ll be able to explore historical sites, sample local cuisine, and perhaps even indulge in a tequila tasting, which is a must when visiting this region of Mexico.
For those fortunate enough to have ten days or more at their disposal, the possibilities expand considerably. With extra time, many travelers opt to enrich their Mexican adventure by incorporating additional stops along the way. This could mean venturing further into the Jalisco region or exploring other nearby states.
The most popular extension to a Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta itinerary is undoubtedly Mexico City. The nation’s capital offers a captivating blend of ancient history, modern art, and bustling city life, making it a compelling addition to any Mexican itinerary. Adding Mexico City allows you to experience the contrast between the colonial charm of Guadalajara, the coastal beauty of Puerto Vallarta, and the metropolitan energy of Mexico’s largest city.
## Dive Deeper: Recommended Itineraries for Guadalajara & Puerto Vallarta
To help you visualize your trip, let’s explore a few recommended itineraries:
### A Comprehensive 9-Day Itinerary
This itinerary focuses on providing a balanced introduction to both Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, allowing you to experience the highlights of each destination.
**Day 1:** Begin your journey with arrival in Guadalajara. Take the day to settle in and enjoy a free day exploring the city at your own pace. Guadalajara’s vibrant atmosphere and stunning architecture will immediately captivate you. Overnight in Guadalajara.
**Day 2:** Immerse yourself in the historical heart of Guadalajara with a guided tour, exploring its magnificent cathedrals and delving into its rich museum scene. In the afternoon, venture to Tlaquepaque, a charming artisan village, and discover “The Magic of Cacao” with a delightful chocolate tasting experience. Overnight in Guadalajara.
**Day 3:** Embark on an unforgettable Tequila Distilleries Tour. Witness the traditional process of tequila production from agave fields to the distillery, and of course, indulge in a tasting session. Overnight in Guadalajara.
**Day 4:** Explore the scenic Chapala Riverside Route. Enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Chapala, Mexico’s largest lake, and soak in the tranquility of the surrounding landscapes. Overnight in Guadalajara.
**Day 5:** Discover the fascinating archeological site of Teuchitlán-Guachimontones, a unique pre-Columbian settlement characterized by its circular pyramids. Explore the village and learn about the ancient cultures that once thrived here. Overnight in Guadalajara.
**Day 6:** Travel from Guadalajara to Puerto Vallarta. Upon arrival, enjoy a free afternoon exploring the charming coastal city of Puerto Vallarta. Stroll along the Malecon, the city’s famous boardwalk, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Overnight in Puerto Vallarta.
**Day 7:** Enjoy a free day in Puerto Vallarta. Relax on the beautiful beaches, indulge in water sports, or explore the city’s many art galleries and boutiques. Overnight in Puerto Vallarta.
**Day 8:** Depart from Puerto Vallarta, taking with you unforgettable memories of your Mexican adventure.
This nine-day adventure offers a captivating blend of western Mexico’s beauty, history, and culture. It begins in Guadalajara, where you’ll explore its historic Spanish-colonial landmarks, indulge in tequila tours, and enjoy chocolate tastings. Then, it’s off to the coast and Puerto Vallarta, where you’ll have ample time to relax on the beaches, dine in world-class restaurants, and enjoy the city’s famous nightlife.
## Considering an Extended Itinerary?
### A 13-Day Itinerary Including Mexico City
For those with more time, adding Mexico City to your itinerary creates an even more enriching experience. This 13-day itinerary provides a comprehensive overview of Mexico’s cultural and historical highlights.
**Day 1:** Arrive in Mexico City. Enjoy free time exploring the city, perhaps visiting the Zocalo, the city’s main square, or indulging in some delicious street food. Overnight in Mexico City.
**Day 2:** Embark on a tour of historic Mexico City, immersing yourself in its rich history and vibrant culture. Enjoy a street food tasting, sampling the city’s diverse culinary offerings. Overnight in Mexico City.
**Day 3:** Be amazed by the pre-hispanic beauty of the chinampas in Xochimilco, floating gardens that offer a unique glimpse into Mexico’s past. Visit the Frida Kahlo House and explore the charming neighborhood of Coyoacán. Overnight in Mexico City.
**Day 4:** Experience the grandeur of Teotihuacan, “The City of the Gods,” with a guided biking tour. Explore the ancient pyramids and learn about the civilization that once thrived here. Overnight in Mexico City.
**Day 5:** Travel from Mexico City to Guadalajara. Upon arrival, enjoy a free afternoon exploring Guadalajara. Overnight in Guadalajara.
**Day 6:** Explore the historical landmarks and museums of Guadalajara. Enjoy a free afternoon, perhaps visiting a local market or relaxing in a park. Overnight in Guadalajara.
**Day 7:** Embark on a Tequila Distilleries Tour, learning about the production process and indulging in a tasting session. Overnight in Guadalajara.
**Day 8:** Discover the artisan village of Tlaquepaque and experience “The Magic of Cacao.” Overnight in Guadalajara.
**Day 9:** Travel from Guadalajara to Puerto Vallarta. Enjoy a free afternoon exploring the city and soaking in the coastal atmosphere. Overnight in Puerto Vallarta.
**Day 10:** Embark on a wild dolphins and snorkeling adventure at Los Arcos, a stunning natural rock formation. Overnight in Puerto Vallarta.
**Day 11:** Visit a Sea Turtle Camp and learn about conservation efforts to protect these endangered creatures. Overnight in Puerto Vallarta.
**Day 12:** Transfer to Mexico City via Puerto Vallarta Airport (PVR). Overnight in Mexico City.
**Day 13:** Depart from Mexico City.
This extended itinerary allows you to explore the history and culture of Mexico, starting in the country’s capital, Mexico City. Float along the colorful canals of Xochimilco, sample Mexican street food, and wander local neighborhoods like Roma and Coyoacán. Then, it’s off to Guadalajara for stunning architecture, lessons on the magic of cacao, and a visit to the town of Tequila for distillery tours and tastings. The trip culminates on the beaches of Puerto Vallarta, where you’ll swim with dolphins and visit a sea turtle camp!
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