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Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo to Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco from $129: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
to
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

How to Get from Playa del Carmen to Puerto Vallarta: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$129 by busBest price
1899 kmDistance
6h 19m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Playa del Carmen to Puerto Vallarta with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  19m
Estimated price
$168-533
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
51h  3m
Estimated price
$129-228
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1899 km
Duration: 6h 19m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
42h  15m
Estimated price
$180-357
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
28h  26m
Estimated price
$250-380
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Traveling From Playa del Carmen to Puerto Vallarta

The journey from Playa del Carmen to Puerto Vallarta offers a delightful contrast between the vibrant beach life of the Riviera Maya and the lush, mountainous backdrop of the Pacific coast.

Best Neighbourhoods in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta features diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm.

Zona Romantica
• Bustling nightlife and vibrant LGBTQ+ scene.
• Charming cobblestone streets with local eateries.
Marina Vallarta
• Upscale area with luxury hotels and yacht clubs.
• Peaceful waterfront perfect for leisurely strolls.
El Centro
• Historic downtown with local markets and art galleries.
• Iconic Malecón boardwalk with stunning ocean views.

Best Times To Visit Puerto Vallarta's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your Puerto Vallarta experience significantly.

Banderas Bay
Early morning offers the calmest waters and fewer tourists.
Los Arcos National Park
Visit during weekdays to enjoy quieter snorkeling and kayaking.
Malecón Boardwalk
Evenings provide a lively atmosphere with street performances and less heat.

Puerto Vallarta Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Puerto Vallarta enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures and distinct rainy and dry seasons; the best times to visit are from December to April when sunny skies prevail. Understanding the weather patterns can help you plan activities better, ensuring you make the most of your time in this beautiful coastal city.

Dining Recommendation in Puerto Vallarta

A must-try dish in Puerto Vallarta is the spicy shrimp ceviche at El Barracuda, where fresh seafood is beautifully paired with local avocado and zesty lime. Unlike Playa del Carmen's focus on international tastes, dining in Puerto Vallarta immerses you in local flavors and traditions, highlighted by the coastal ambiance and vibrant markets nearby.

Playa del Carmen - Puerto Vallarta operators

Explore transport companies operating between Playa del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
volaris.com

Plane from Cancun (CUN) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR)

Average Duration
4h 32m
Estimated price
$1686-1687

Plane from Cancun (CUN) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR)

Average Duration
6h 30m
Estimated price
$1686-1687

Plane from Cancun (CUN) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR)

Average Duration
6h 53m
Estimated price
$1686-1687
Website
vivaaerobus.com

Plane from Cancun (CUN) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR)

Average Duration
6h 53m
Estimated price
$1684-1685

Plane from Cancun (CUN) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR)

Average Duration
5h 37m
Estimated price
$1684-1685
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+52 555 784 4652
Website
ado.com.mx

Bus from Playa del Carmen Alterna to Terminal Central de Autobuses del Norte

Average Duration
28h 40m
Estimated price
$1688-1689

Bus from Terminal Central de Autobuses del Norte to Puerto Vallarta

Average Duration
12h 35m
Estimated price
$120-120
Contact phone
800 507 5500
Website
futura.com.mx

Bus from Playa del Carmen Alterna to Puerto Vallarta

Average Duration
42h 15m
Estimated price
$180-357
Contact phone
+52 937 138 4100
Website
facebook.com

Bus from Puerto Aventuras to Tuxtla Gutiérrez

Average Duration
18h 30m
Estimated price
$5331-5332
Contact phone
+52 55 2886 8728
Website
autotravel.mx

Bus from Tuxtla Gutiérrez to Central ACN

Average Duration
24h
Estimated price
$5331-5333
Contact phone
+52 333 111 8780
Website
vallartaplus.com

Bus from Terminal Tlaquepaque to Puerto Vallarta

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$5334-5335

Playa del Carmen to Puerto Vallarta: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Playa del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Playa del Carmen to Puerto Vallarta covering 1536 miles of diverse landscapes, from lush jungles to stunning coastlines. ⏱️ Enjoy an immersive journey lasting approximately 28 hours and 26 minutes, making pit stops along the way to explore hidden gems and savor local cuisine. 💸 Prices for this adventure range from $250 to $380, offering budget-friendly options for those seeking an unforgettable drive along the Mexican coast.
Average price
$250 - $380
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Playa del Carmen to Puerto Vallarta, spanning 2,351 km over 1 day and 18 hours with 5 transfers. Enjoy the diverse landscapes and cultures you encounter along the way. 🌴 Opt for Route 2 for a slightly faster trip, taking 1 day and 12 hours with 2 transfers covering a distance of 2,256 km. Experience the convenience of traveling by bus through Mexico's picturesque regions towards Puerto Vallarta. ⛰️ Consider Route 4, a 1 day and 14-hour adventure with 4 transfers over 2,282 km. Witness the beauty of Mexico from the comfort of a bus, as you journey towards the vibrant destination of Puerto Vallarta.
🛫 Flying from Playa del Carmen to Puerto Vallarta involves taking a connecting flight, as there are no direct flights available. The quickest option with one stopover typically lasts around 4 hours and 32 minutes. You can choose from airlines such as Volaris and Viva Aerobus for this journey. 🌴 The total travel time from Playa del Carmen to Puerto Vallarta by plane is approximately 6 hours and 19 minutes. This allows for a seamless transition between the two beautiful Mexican destinations, offering convenience and comfort for travelers. 💸 Depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors, flight prices between Puerto Vallarta and Playa del Carmen can range from $168 to $533. Securing a ticket in advance and comparing different options can help you find the best deal for your travel budget.
Departure Point
Cancun Airport
Arrival Point
Puerto Vallarta Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 32m and has one stopover
🚌 The journey from Playa del Carmen to Puerto Vallarta by bus is a long one, with a total duration of approximately 42 hours and 15 minutes, including transfers. There is no direct bus service available between these two destinations. 💰 The prices for a bus ticket between Playa del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta can range from $129 to $228, depending on the operator and class of service chosen for the journey.
Departure Point
Playa del Carmen Alterna station
Arrival Point
Puerto Vallarta station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Playa del Carmen to Puerto Vallarta.

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The distance between Playa del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta is 1180 miles, or 1530.2 miles by road. If you are traveling by plane, the typical travel time is 6 hours and 17 minutes. However, if you prefer to drive, it will take approximately 28 hours and 19 minutes by car. Alternatively, if you choose to take a bus, the average travel time is around 42 hours and 15 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Playa del Carmen to Puerto Vallarta is by bus via Tuxtla Gutiérrez, which costs around $110-$180. However, this option is time-consuming as it takes approximately 46 hours and 45 minutes. Alternatively, the quickest option is to fly, which takes around 6 hours and 17 minutes and costs between $90-$450. Although flying is more expensive, it saves a significant amount of time compared to traveling by bus.
The prices for a bus ticket between Playa del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta range from $166 to $330. It is recommended to check different bus companies and book in advance to secure the best price. Other modes of transportation such as flights and car rentals may have different price ranges, so it is advisable to compare prices and choose the option that best fits your budget and preferences.
To get from Playa del Carmen to Puerto Vallarta without using public transportation, you can consider renting a car and driving. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 1530 miles, which takes approximately 28 hours and 19 minutes. Rental car prices vary, ranging from $250 to $370, depending on factors such as the type of car and the duration of the rental. Driving allows you the flexibility to make stops along the way and enjoy scenic views as you travel from Playa del Carmen to Puerto Vallarta.
To travel from Playa del Carmen to Puerto Vallarta without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 42 hours and 15 minutes, and tickets usually cost between $160 and $330. It's important to note that this is a long and overnight trip, so it's advisable to bring essential items like snacks, a travel pillow, and entertainment to make the journey more comfortable. Additionally, it's recommended to check the bus schedules and book your ticket in advance to ensure availability and secure the best fare.
No, there is no direct link between Playa del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta by bus. Instead, you would need to take a bus from Playa del Carmen to Mexico City North, and then transfer to another bus to Puerto Vallarta. The entire journey, including transfers, takes approximately 42 hours and 15 minutes. The bus services are operated by ADO and Futura.
The flight between Playa del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta typically takes around 4 hours and 12 minutes with one stopover. However, it is important to note that there is no direct flight between Cancun Airport and Puerto Vallarta Airport. The prices for flights between Puerto Vallarta and Playa del Carmen can vary, with the range typically being between $92 and $445. It is recommended to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best deals and options for your specific travel dates.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near Puerto Vallarta. With over 1383 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a variety of options that suit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Puerto Vallarta start at $82 per night, offering affordable choices for those on a tight budget. Whether you prefer a beachfront resort or a boutique hotel in the city center, there are ample options available for a comfortable stay.

Trips from Playa del Carmen

Trips to Puerto Vallarta