
Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel Pitillal
A stunning neo-Gothic church, the vibrant heart of Pitillal, offering a glimpse into authentic local life and unique cultural experiences.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Warm, sunny, and humid local feel.

Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel Pitillal
Best Time
Warm, sunny, and humid local feel.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning neo-Gothic church, the vibrant heart of Pitillal, offering a glimpse into authentic local life and unique cultural experiences.
"A lovely quaint church with hymns sung by mariachis on the first of every month at 10 and 12 am."

🎯 Experience Local Life
Embrace the authentic, local atmosphere of Pitillal.
⬆️ Climb for Views
Use the exterior spiral stairs for unique views of Pitillal and the bells.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel
Pitillal, Puerto Vallarta
A stunning neo-Gothic architectural gem, this church is the vibrant heart of the Pitillal community.

Carved Jesus Artwork
Inside the church
A breathtakingly detailed carved Jesus that is considered a true work of art by visitors.

Spiral Staircase Views
Exterior of the church
Climb the spiral stairs for unique perspectives of Pitillal and close-ups of the church bells.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Timing is Key for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Experience Local Life
Embrace the authentic, local atmosphere of Pitillal.
⬆️ Climb for Views
Use the exterior spiral stairs for unique views of Pitillal and the bells.
🎶 Enjoy Unique Hymns
Don't miss the lively, unexpected mariachi hymns on the first of the month.
📸 Stunning Architecture
Admire the impressive neo-Gothic design, a symbol of the town.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Experience Local Life
Embrace the authentic, local atmosphere of Pitillal.
⬆️ Climb for Views
Use the exterior spiral stairs for unique views of Pitillal and the bells.
🎶 Enjoy Unique Hymns
Don't miss the lively, unexpected mariachi hymns on the first of the month.
📸 Stunning Architecture
Admire the impressive neo-Gothic design, a symbol of the town.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel for its stunning neo-Gothic architecture and its role as the vibrant heart of the local Pitillal community. The unique mariachi hymns on the first of the month and the opportunity to climb for views are frequently highlighted as memorable experiences.
"A lovely quaint church with hymns sung by mariachis on the first of every month at 10 and 12 am. They give the hymns a lively and unexpected twist, not mariachi like at all.
Use the spiral stairs outside on the left of the church to reach the second floor for an nice view of the proceedings.
Continue climbing to the next floors for a view of Pitillal and close-up views of the bells."
Steve Edwards - Sitivi
"I sat in the park on Saturday morning at 9:00am. in was warm, sunny, & humid.
An area & place very "local" in all ways"
george weiss
"If you go to Puerto Vallarta, a visit to this beautiful church will be a very pleasant experience."
Silvia M.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel is located in the Pitillal neighborhood, which is easily accessible from Puerto Vallarta. You can take a local bus, a taxi, or an Uber to reach the church. Many city tours also include a stop here, offering a convenient way to visit.
Pitillal offers a more authentic, local experience compared to the main tourist zones of Puerto Vallarta. While the church is a point of interest, the area retains its traditional charm and is less crowded with international tourists.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to visit the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel. It is a functioning church, and visitors are welcome to enter and admire its architecture and interior. Donations are always appreciated.
As a place of worship, the church generally follows typical visiting hours for religious services. It's best to visit during daylight hours when it's open to the public for prayer and admiration. Specific hours can vary, so checking locally is advised.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the church, but it's always respectful to be mindful of ongoing services or prayer. Avoid using flash photography during services. The exterior architecture is also very photogenic.
The front facade of the church is iconic. For unique perspectives, consider climbing the exterior spiral stairs for views of Pitillal and the bells. The surrounding park also offers good vantage points.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
The Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel features a striking neo-Gothic architectural style, reminiscent of European cathedrals. Its distinctive facade makes it a prominent landmark in Pitillal.
On the first of every month, the church hosts lively mariachi hymns at 10 AM and 12 PM, offering a unique and festive experience.
Other local festivals and religious celebrations may also occur throughout the year.Visitors often rave about a 'breathtaking carved Jesus' inside the church, describing it as a true work of art.
You can climb the spiral stairs located on the left side of the church to reach the second floor for views of services and continue higher for views of Pitillal and the bells.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more engaging visit, consider timing your trip for the first of the month to witness the lively mariachi hymns. While the music might be unexpected, its energy can be captivating for younger visitors. The opportunity to climb the exterior spiral stairs also offers a bit of adventure and unique views, which kids often enjoy. Remember to keep the tone respectful inside the church, especially if services are in progress.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To reach Pitillal, consider using local buses or ride-sharing services like Uber from Puerto Vallarta, which are generally more affordable than taxis. Once there, exploring the church and the surrounding local area is free. The unique experience of the mariachi hymns on the first of the month is also a free cultural event. This makes it a perfect addition to any itinerary focused on experiencing local culture without overspending.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel
Beyond its visual appeal, the church holds significant cultural and religious importance for the local residents. It serves as a central gathering place and a focal point for community events and celebrations.
For those interested in architecture, the intricate details and the overall grandeur of the structure are well worth appreciating. It stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and artistic influences present in the region.
Experiencing Pitillal's Local Charm
On a Saturday morning, the area around the church is described as warm, sunny, and humid, with a distinctly 'local' feel. This is a place where you can observe daily routines, interact with residents, and experience the community's vibrant spirit. It's an opportunity to step away from the typical tourist path and immerse yourself in a more grounded travel experience.
Attending a service, especially the unique mariachi hymns on the first of the month, is highly recommended for a truly memorable experience. This blend of religious devotion and local tradition makes the visit to Pitillal and its parish church a rich cultural encounter.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit