Top 5 Magic Towns Near Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta Jalisco Mexico is a magical destination on the country’s Pacific Coast. Second only to Cancun, it is the city in Mexico that attracts the most tourism each year, with more than 4 million visitors pouring into the destination to experience all that it has to offer. In terms of vacation experiences, Puerto Vallarta is a haven for all types of adventures, even those that involve nothing more than complete relaxation. It is for this reason, that so many tourists come back time and time again, making the city their home away from home.

Whether you have been to Puerto Vallarta Jalisco Mexico once or a dozen times, you’ll find a plethora of activities to keep you busy. What’s more, there are unique places to visit near Puerto Vallarta Mexico that may make your trip even more spectacular. There are five towns near Puerto Vallarta that have been designated as Magic Towns in Mexico, giving travelers even more reason to take a daytrip out of the city: Tequila, San Sebastián del Oeste, Sayulita Mexico, Talpa de Allende, and Mascota.

What is a Magic Town in Mexico?

Pueblos Magicos, or the Magic Towns in Mexico, are a collection of small cities that have been given a special distinction by the Mexican government for their magical qualities. Each town has made unique contributions to the Mexican identity through its charming history, awe-inspiring beauty, or for the legends that have come from its people.

Magic Towns in Mexico

There are 121 Magic Towns in Mexico, each of which is vastly different from the rest Spread across the country, these towns are a window to the diverse landscapes and cultural regions that so many have come to love. They show off the very best of Mexico and its people, and for that, they have been given the elite distinction of a Magic Town by the federal government.

Top 5 Places to Visit Near Puerto Vallarta Mexico

While there are countless things to do in Puerto Vallarta to keep visitors entertained from the beginning of their trip to the end, some travelers like to experience life in Mexico outside the trendy tourist destinations. For those looking for a more traditional experience, there are towns near Puerto Vallarta, which can be visited on a day trip and that offer a completely distinct type of vacation experience. On your next trip to Puerto Vallarta Jalisco Mexico, take a day to visit one of these Magic Towns in Mexico.

1. Tequila, Jalisco

If you find yourself asking, what is a Magic Town in Mexico?, Tequila may just be the best example to answer your question. As you may have guessed by its name, Tequila is home to the renowned alcoholic spirit that has taken the world by storm. Native to this small town, Tequila is one of the best places to go near Puerto Vallarta if you are interested in learning about the rich history of your favorite drink. When you visit this magic town, you’ll be astonished by the massive fields of agave plants that blanket the horizon; the only place in the world permitted to grow and distribute authentic tequila. You’ll also get to learn how tequila is made, taste the different flavor profiles of reposado, blanco, and anejo, and pick up a few bottles of your favorites. While there is nothing quite like experiencing this pueblo magico with your own eyes, if you can’t make the day trip, tequila tasting is one of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta and given its close proximity to the city, you are likely to find a vast array of brands and flavors to sooth your cravings and peak your interest.

2. Sayulita Mexico

A once quiet surfing village off the coast of Riviera Nayarit, Sayulita Mexico has become one of the most popular towns near Puerto Vallarta with visitors longing to spend a day strolling through its streets and relaxing on its beaches. A longtime favorite among surfers, yogis, and laidback travelers, Sayulita offers stunning beaches, which are perfect for surfing, paddle boarding, and swimming. In addition, a myriad of boutique shops and vendors line the cobblestone streets, selling their artwork, jewelry, clothing, and more. It truly is one of the best places to go near Puerto Vallarta if you are into laidback vacations and authentic experiences.

3. San Sebastián del Oeste, Jalisco

If you are looking for a change of scenery, San Sebastian del Oeste is one of the best places to go near Puerto Vallarta. This mountainous town is respected for its rich mining history and important traditions. As you stroll through town, you’ll be struck by the beautiful haciendas, emerald green mountains, and cobblestone streets that stretch out in every direction, and you’ll most certainly be enthralled by the legends that make the city so well known. Of all the places to visit near Puerto Vallarta Mexico, this is one of the most charming.

4. Talpa de Allende

While completely different, Talpa de Allende and Mascota are two towns near Puerto Vallarta that can be visited on the same day trip from the city. Talpa, a destination surrounded by pine forests, is the final stop of a popular pilgrimage route that sees millions of visitors to the town each year. Its rich mining history and important religious contexts makes it a great place for those who love to experience the culture of Mexico while they travel.

5. Mascota

This colonial-style town nestled in the mountains brings travellers one of the more unique things to do in Puerto Vallarta. A little over two hours away, Mascota takes you into a completely different climate, where you can enjoy mountain views and cooler temperatures.