Puerto Vallarta: Bikes and Bites Tour

Puerto Vallarta: Bikes and Bites Tour is a lively way to combine sightseeing, exercise, and culinary exploration—all in one compact package. For $65 per person, you get about three hours of riding through the city’s most iconic spots, stopping at authentic restaurants, street food stands, and artisan food stalls. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this tour takes you along the bustling boardwalk, through charming Old Town, and past some of Puerto Vallarta’s most photogenic views.

Two things we particularly like about this experience: First, the variety of food—from tacos and carnitas to sopes and ice cream—means you get a true taste of local flavors. Second, the scenic bike ride offers a level of activity that beats a standard walking tour, allowing you to cover more ground while enjoying the sights and sounds of this vibrant city.

One consideration is that the tour covers about 4.5 miles (7 kilometers) over cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces, which could be challenging for those with back issues, mobility problems, or limited biking experience. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable on a bike and looking for an active way to explore Puerto Vallarta’s culinary scene. This tour suits adventurous eaters, casual explorers, and anyone wanting a more dynamic experience than just wandering on foot.

Key Points

• Active exploration: Combines cycling with food tasting, letting you see more of Puerto Vallarta than a walking tour.
• Authentic flavors: Tastes include tacos, carnitas, sopes, ice cream, and regional drinks from local vendors.
• Expert guide: Guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and helpful recommendations.
• Scenic views: The route includes the boardwalk, Old Town, and ends at the beach, providing picturesque scenery and a chance to relax afterward.
• Small group setting: Limited to 10 participants, fostering a friendly, personalized experience.
• Value for money: All tastings, bike rental, and guidance are included, making it a cost-effective way to experience local cuisine.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Puerto Vallarta Bikes and Bites Tour

An Overview of the Experience

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, exercise, and local culinary delights. It runs for about three hours, typically in the morning, making it an ideal way to start your day. You’ll meet your guide at Vallarta Food Tours’ office on Av México, where your adventure begins. From there, a comfortable bike awaits to ferry you through the lively streets, scenic boardwalks, and colorful neighborhoods of Puerto Vallarta.

The tour’s core appeal is its ability to combine physical activity with tasting authentic regional foods. Instead of wandering aimlessly or waiting in line at a restaurant, you’ll visit several spots—each offering a different flavor profile and experience—while your guide shares insights into the city’s food culture and history.

Route and Stops: What You’ll See and Taste

The route covers approximately 4.5 miles (7 kilometers), a distance that’s manageable if you’re comfortable on a bike. The tour begins at the Vallarta Food Tours office, then heads toward the lively boardwalk, a hub of activity, with views of the ocean, street performers, and vendors. From there, you’ll pedal into Old Town, a favorite among visitors for its cobblestone streets, colorful storefronts, and vibrant atmosphere.

Along the way, you’ll stop at local restaurants and street food stalls where you can indulge in tacos, rich with flavorful meats and fresh toppings; carnitas, tender pork perfect for tacos; and sopes, thick corn tortillas topped with beans, cheese, and meat. One reviewer highlights a “great food and chocolate shop,” emphasizing that the stops aren’t just about quantity but quality and authenticity.

The guide’s commentary makes these stops more meaningful, sharing stories behind each dish and the history of the neighborhoods. The final stop is at the beach, where you can unwind with a cold cerveza or cocktail, soaking in the ocean views and recounting the day’s highlights.

The Guide: Knowledgeable and Friendly

Multiple reviews praise the guides, with mentions of Homero and Christian—both described as amazing, helpful, and friendly. They’re praised for their knowledge, humor, and helpful recommendations. The guides not only point out sights but also introduce you to the local food scene in an engaging way, making the experience feel personal and insightful.

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The Food: Authentic and Diverse

The variety of regional dishes ensures you get a genuine taste of Puerto Vallarta. The tours include tacos, carnitas, sopes, ice cream, and regional drinks, which gives you both a savory and sweet overview of local flavors. Reviewers consistently mention that the food is excellent and that they appreciated experiencing dishes they might not have found on their own.

The Active Component

While the focus is on food, the bike ride adds an active element that enhances the overall experience. You’ll cover more ground than a typical walking tour, and the movement helps you work up an appetite. The ride is described as comfortable, but it’s important to note that cobblestone streets can be bumpy, and the total distance might be tiring for those with back problems or mobility issues.

Logistics and Practicalities

• Price: $65 per person, which includes bike rental, guide, and tastings. Considering the number of stops and the quality of food, this offers good value.
• Duration: 3 hours, usually in the morning, leaving plenty of time to explore the rest of Puerto Vallarta afterward.
• Group Size: Limited to 10 participants, creating a friendly and less rushed atmosphere.
• What’s Included: All tastings and the guide.
• What’s Not: Hotel pickup/drop-off and gratuities, so plan accordingly.

Considerations and Who Will Enjoy It

This tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable on a bike who want to combine sightseeing with authentic food tastings. It’s not ideal for those with mobility limitations, back issues, or difficulty biking. Also, if cobblestone streets are a concern, be prepared for some bumps.

It’s a flexible activity for travelers who enjoy learning about local culture through food and are looking for a more engaging way to explore Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant neighborhoods. The small group size makes it intimate, allowing for personalized recommendations and conversations.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

If you’re seeking a combination of active sightseeing and culinary discovery, this tour hits the mark. The guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both fun and informative. The route offers beautiful ocean and city views, perfect for photo opportunities.

The authentic food stops ensure you’re tasting regional specialties rather than touristy placeholders. Ending the tour with a cold beer or cocktail at the beach provides a satisfying conclusion and a chance to relax after your ride.

This experience offers great value for the price, considering the included tastings, bike, and guide. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots and get a true flavor of Puerto Vallarta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or teenagers?
It depends on their comfort level with biking and cobblestone streets. The route covers some uneven surfaces, so younger kids or teens who are confident bikers will enjoy it more.

Do I need to bring my own water or snacks?
No, all tastings are included in the tour price, and water is typically provided. However, bringing your own water bottle is always a good idea.

Can I join if I don’t ride a bike very well?
The tour is designed for those comfortable on a bike. If you’re unsure about your biking skills, consider practicing beforehand or choosing a different tour.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for biking and weather conditions. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat, especially if it’s sunny.

Are the stops wheelchair accessible?
No, the tour involves cycling over cobblestones and uneven surfaces, and is not suitable for wheelchair users.

How many people usually participate?
Limited to 10 participants, creating an intimate group setting that fosters conversation and personalized attention.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance allows flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, Puerto Vallarta’s Bikes and Bites Tour offers an engaging way to experience the city’s lively neighborhoods, stunning ocean views, and delicious regional cuisine—all while getting a bit of exercise. It’s perfect for food lovers who enjoy active outings, and for travelers seeking authentic flavors paired with local insights. Just be sure you’re comfortable on a bike and ready for some cobblestone streets, and you’ll find this tour a memorable highlight of your visit to Puerto Vallarta.

You can check availability for your dates here: