How to get around in Puerto Vallarta?
 

Which traveling methods work best in the city of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico? I was thinking of renting a car, but should I just use taxi instead? How is the public transportation system? Please tell me the pros and cons of each traveling method.

If staying "in" the city then walk or take a cab, or maybe learn how to use the bus (I have only done the first two). Having a car downtown didn't look like much fun to me.

If staying outside the city then a car makes more sense. This is what we did on our last visit, when we spent most of our time to the north and only went downtown twice.

A rental car is good if you stay outside the city or want to visit other towns.

Staying or visiting within the city of PV... walking, taking the bus, or a taxi all work equally well, depending on where to where you're headed.

A very extensive bus system can take you most anywhere, there are also several bus lines that go out of town, 5.5 pesos anywhere in town, no transfers, and out of town for less than 20 pesos.

Thank you all very much for your replies!

We walked most everywhere. Taxis are available, but we found it was taking a big chance on our lives. They drive like maniacs. Worst of any destination we've been to. We used recommended tours for exployering. We felt they were worth it.

I have never seen a taxi in an accident in PV.

You haven't been here enough time, suze.
The bus and walking are all you need to do your own 'tour'

On the subject, I *have* seen pedestrian accidents, so whether you are afraid of the taxis or not... DO please be careful crossing the street.

AND I do agree certainly agree with the poster who says you can make your own "tour" easily enough in downtown PV, with a good street map and your own two feet.

Yeah I gal working in one of the shops was hit by a car near Los Muertos. Not seriously hurt fortuntly.
I'm with Sue as I have yet to see a cab in an accident in almost 25 years of PV travel.

Ah but Cabron lives in PV, so I humbly bow to his observations.

My favorite taxi thing is when they back up the entire block of a one-way street. Appears your car must only be *facing* in the direction of the one-way, not necessarily moving forward in that direction(lol).

We're planning to stay in Nuevo vallarta area and might want a car for a day or two of our week long trip. Are there rental places in Nuevo? And where would you recommend exploring for a day trip? (We will likely take the bus if going into Puerto Vallarta. I'm thinking about exploring other areas with a car.)

Thanks!

Nothing in Nuevo, closest would be Bucerias, Gecko Car Rental. Up the coast are many places to visit, see map:
http://vallartainfo.com/outerlimits.html