San Miguel de Allende, a stunning colonial city nestled in the heart of Mexico, is a haven for art enthusiasts, history buffs, and food lovers alike. From its vibrant cobblestone streets to its awe-inspiring architecture, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers an array of activities and attractions that will delight any traveller. Whether you’re strolling through the colourful markets, admiring the intricate details of centuries-old cathedrals or indulging in the tantalizing flavours of authentic Mexican cuisine, San Miguel de Allende promises an unforgettable experience. In this article, what to do in San Miguel de Allende, we will explore some of the top things to do in this enchanting destination, ensuring your visit is nothing short of extraordinary.
We lived like a local for 6 weeks in San Miguel de Allende in Mexico house sitting and we stumbled across new areas, cafes, bars and things to do every day.
There is too much to fit in in just one week; maybe plan for at least 10 days.
San Miguel de Allende is a city you will probably fall in love with immediately. Think cobble-stoned streets, boutiques, rooftop restaurants and bars, incredible architecture and beautiful hotels. Did I mention great Mexican cuisine as well and yummy ice cream?
Dive into a community of passionate Mexico travellers sharing honest, unfiltered advice and insider secrets! From hidden beaches to authentic local experiences, our private Facebook group is your gateway to discovering the Mexico tourists rarely see. Join us and plan your dream Mexican adventure with those who know and love this vibrant country!
Do you need accommodation in San Miguel de Allende?
Where is San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende Guanajuato is located in the centre of Mexico in Guanajuato. Mexico City is 266.7km away.
San Miguel de Allende Mexico Map
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases (if applicable).
Related Reading: 19 Fun Things To Do in Puebla
Top 5 Things to Do in Mexico City
We love San Miguel de Allende in Mexico, a UNESCO World Heritage site that must be on your bucket list. A city in the middle of Mexico in the coolness of the mountains. It is a happening city where you can never be bored, with lots of weekly activities, a vibrant art scene and some of the best restaurants and meals we have enjoyed in Mexico.
San Miguel de Allende Interesting Facts:
- During the 20th century, it was in danger of becoming a ghost town as a result of the Mexican War of Independence
- It was originally called Izcuinapan by the local Indigenous people
- During the 1930s and 1940s, the town attracted many artists and writers
- In the 60s and 70s, San Miguel de Allende had an influx of hippies, and the city took on a Bohemian quality
- Many of the old colonial homes that fell into ruin have been sold at higher prices than homes in Mexico City; this is due to foreign buyers flocking to this city
- In the historic centre, there are over 2000 thousand doors, and hiding behind those doors are 2000 interesting courtyards
- Most residents are retirees from the US, Canada and Europe
The Best of San Miguel de Allende Attractions and Things To Do In San Miguel de Allende
Pick Up Your Free Edition of the San Miguel Walking and Shopping Guide
Our top tip is to pick up the English Free Edition of San Miguel Walking and Shopping Guide. The Guide publishes 10 easy walks around San Miguel de Allende with maps you can do in your own time.
We spent over 6 weeks in San Miguel de Allende and did one of the walks every couple of days. We learnt so much and saw so much. Our tip is to look into every open doorway when you pass by. There are so many colourful courtyards filled with colourful flowers and even fountains. You will find the Walking Guide in many shops around the colonial town.
Pick Up A Copy of the Friday Atencion Newspaper at the Biblioteca
Every Friday “Atencion” a weekly newspaper in Spanish and in English can be purchased from the Biblioteca and at various outlets. It is a great resource for the following week in San Miguel de Allende. It is your ‘go-to guide‘ on what is on and where to go and includes the local art galleries and the Sunday Biblioteca Tours to Homes in San Miguel de Allende, just to name a few.
Visit San Miguel de Allende’s Artisan Bakeries
San Miguel de Allende has some interesting Artisan Bakeries:
Try La Buena Vida at Plaza Golondrinas across from de Bella Artes at Calle del Dr Ignacio Hernandez Macias 72, Zona Centro, Centro
Cumpanio at Correo 29, Zona Centro, 37700 San Miguel de Allende,
They were 2 of our favourites. The rustic loaves of bread and yummy cakes made our daily visit one of the highlights of our time in San Miguel de Allende. It’s a pity about our waistlines.
You Will Be Spoilt For Choice with Great Coffee Shops
Enjoy a great cup of coffee at Buen Dia Coffee Shop down a quaint side street, Calle Del Pueblito #3A. Buen Dia was our favourite, but there were other coffee shops as well:
- Cafe Oso Azul at Calle Zacateros 17
- Lavanda Cafe at Calle Doctor Ignacio Hernandez Macias 87
- Inside Cafe at Avenida Insurgentes 66
Do You Love Markets?
After your coffee, wander through the Artisan Markets located at Lucas Balderas. The markets cover over three blocks, and at the end, you will find the green market, full of fresh fruits and vegetables and local stalls selling cheap Mexican food and juices.
Try The Local Icecream
Enjoy an ice cream from our favourite stand between Insurgentes and Hernadez Macias in front of a small park. Wonder which flavour will you choose? We loved the coconut and chocolate.
Time Your Visit For the Locos Parade in June
On the first Sunday after the 13th of June each year, head to Insurgentes early to get your spot to view the Locos Parade. Be prepared to be there for a few hours of fun and laughter, catching the sweets and dancing to the music from the floats. Ensure you have water and sunscreen.
People Watching in San Miguel de Allende
Enjoy some time sitting and crowd-watching in the Jardin and watch the strolling musicians and activities throughout the year. We were even fortunate to watch a display from the local Indians on a Sunday afternoon in traditional dress performing their traditional ceremonies.
Which San Miguel de Allende Church to visit?
With its stunning pink spires, the famous and iconic 17th-century Parroquia is the main attraction in the Jardin of San Miguel de Allende.
Enjoy Drinks and Dinner From Roof Top Bars and Restaurants
Enjoy the sunset from some of the best San Miguel de Allende restaurants such as Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar at the Rosewood Hotel and La Posadita near the La Parroquia.
Visit the Wineries of San Miguel de Allende
Vinedo Dos Buhos – Junto a Zirandaro, Carretera San Miguel de Allende – Buenavista, San Felipe Km. 2.8, 37880 San Miguel de Allende.
They do tastings and tours – more information here.
Rancho Toyan – Km 8.5 en la Carretera San Miguel a, Querétaro,
Enjoy tastings in their underground cellar.
Where to Eat in San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende Restaurants
More top places to eat in San Miguel de Allende are:
Tostevere at Codo 4 in Colonia Centro. Perfect for lunch and dinner with Mexican, International and Vegetarian options.
El Pata Barbacoa y Mixiotes at Calzada de la Estacion 112. A family restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch, as well as Mexican, Latin, and BBQ.
Casa Nostra Restaurant Terrace Rooftop & Bar at Calle Terraplen 8 Zona Centro. For great views, lunch and dinner are offered in Italian, Swiss, European, International, and Continental with vegetarian options.
Get Lost Around The Colonial Streets
Get lost in the colonial streets, wander into hotel courtyards and marvel at the architecture and the colours. Start from the main square and wander. You will come across local galleries, taco outlets, corner stores, parks, and more.
Visit The San Francisco Galleries and Gift Mall in San Miguel de Allende
There are many galleries in San Miguel de Allende. Local artists display their works here in this colonial building. Take some time to visit the local craft shops as well.
Address: Prolongacion, Calz de La Aurora SN, Aurora, 37700 San Miguel de Allende, Gto., Mexico
Plaza Norman
Local artisans display their crafts, here you will find the colourful ceramic skulls that Mexico is well known for.
Visit San Francisco Church
The Church commenced construction in 1778 and was completed 20 years later.
Take a Tour of Two in San Miguel de Allende
Evening Food Tour in San Miguel de Allende – Embark on a guided 3-hour culinary and walking tour in a small group with five carefully chosen food tastings. Discover some of the award-winning San Miguel de Allende restaurants as you learn about Mexican cuisine and eat enough for a satisfying dinner.
Half-Day Horseback Riding Tour Through San Miguel de Allende riding through canyons, rivers, and cattle ranches with lunch at the cattle ranch.
Tacos and Tequila Food Walking Tour of San Miguel de Allende – Wander the beautiful streets of San Miguel. Learn about the history and culture while enjoying delicious dishes and drinks in favourite local spots, including gourmet restaurants, family-owned restaurants, and even a taco stand and a cantina.
Where To Stay in San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende Hotels (hotels en San Miguel de Allende)
Rosewood Hotel: Nemesio Diez 11 Col Centro, San Miguel de Allende Historic Centre. Our favourite hotel in San Miguel de Allende with incredible views over San Miguel de Allende from their rooftop terrace where you can enjoy drinks and tapas nightly. The hotel offers excellent facilities for families such as kids club and kids swimming pool. The 5-star hotel also offers an outdoor pool, sauna, restaurant and bar.
Guest Review: Spectacular service by the concierge. I
loved every part of my stay – the rooftop bar and the personalized service there was the highlight.
There is scope for improvement at the 1826 restaurant as it was a bit slow. The spa experience was sublime. Will recommend Rosewood to everyone I meet.
Hotel La Morada: Correo No 10 Col Centro, San Miguel de Allende Historic Centre offers excellent facilities for families. The 4-star hotel has a golf course, jacuzzi and swimming pool, beauty centre and restaurant.
Guest review:
Likedthe location was great, as well as all the staff and the size of the room. We received a suite with an extra small bedroom which was a nice surprise. The staff at the hotel helped us set up our COVID tests to return to the US. It was overall a great experience.
DislikedThe location is a gift and a curse. It’s so close to EVERYTHING, including the church bells from the beautiful cathedral in the plaza. If you are an early riser, it may not bother you to hear the loud bells starting at 6am. If you tend to wake up a bit later, this may be a problem. The hotel does provide ear plugs but those didn’t do much for me.
Casa del Tio Hotel Boutique: Hospicio 21, San Miguel de Allende Historic Centre – the 2-star hotel with 6 rooms offers an in-house restaurant, outdoor terrace and rooms with a private terrace in the centre of San Miguel de Allende.
Guest review:
LikedEverything is perfect. The hotel location is excellent. Every attraction is within walking distance. The staff is very nice and always ready to help. The room is clean, and bed is comfortable. It is very quiet at night. I stayed in four hotels in Mexico, and this one is definitely the best of them. Recommend!
DislikedNothing
Casa 1810 Hotel Boutique: Hidalgo No 8 Colonia Centro, San Miguel de Allende Historic Centre. The 5-star 15-room boutique hotel offers guests an outdoor swimming pool, beauty centre and sun deck.
Guest review:
Likedbeautiful space and great location. nice bar/restaurant
Dislikedmaybe could have opened the lovely roof space for service before 4 pm
More options for the best hotels in San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende Weather
When is the best time to visit San Miguel de Allende?
The weather in San Miguel de Allende is pleasant all year round.
The driest months are February and March.
The hottest month is May and the wettest month is June.
How to get to San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende Airports:
For airports near San Miguel de Allende, you have two to consider: Queretaro or Leon Airport. Leon Airport is the closest to San Miguel de Allende (BJX). Leon Airport is located 1.5 hours from San Miguel de Allende. You can expect to pay up to USD100 for a taxi.
Flight Deals
Start researching your flights as soon as you have decided to visit San Miguel de Allende. We would also recommend signing up for their fare alerts. We normally book our flights 3 months out.
Find the cheapest flights with Skyscanner our ‘go-to’ when researching and booking flights.
Bus Travel San Miguel de Allende
Bus travel is an affordable and safe way to travel around Mexico. We travelled around Mexico using ADO Buses and Primera Plus.
For the latest schedules and ticket prices, click here.
Car Hire in San Miguel de Allende
Check our Wikitravel on Driving in Mexico for up-to-date information. We use Auto Europe for our car reservations worldwide.
Do you need an International Drivers License? You can obtain one here online in minutes.
Do You Need an E-Sim?
Using an eSIM from e-Simatic when you travel offers convenience, flexibility, and cost savings. With no physical SIM card required, you can easily activate a local or international data plan before or during your trip. e-Simatic’s eSIMs provide reliable mobile coverage in multiple countries, eliminating the hassle of swapping SIM cards or dealing with expensive roaming charges. Stay connected for navigation, communication, and sharing your adventures without interruption, making your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Our Mexican Posts:
We have spent quite a bit of time travelling around Mexico here are some of our favourite posts for you to enjoy:
Things to do in the Yucatan Peninsula
Chichen Itza Day and Night Visits
8 Activities to do in Guanajuato
Travel Insurance
World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world.
To Travel Too Travel Shop
In conjunction with Amazon, we have set up our own Travel Shop with over 800 travel products to assist you in travelling safer and smarter.
Are you on Pinterest? We are at To Travel Too, and we have many travel-related boards. Check us out at Pinterest. If you enjoyed our article, why not pin it to your board?
Why not take our article while wandering around San Miguel de Allende? You can just click our City Walk banner below for more information.
In conclusion, San Miguel de Allende offers a wealth of experiences and attractions that will captivate any visitor. Whether you’re drawn to its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, vibrant art scene, or lively festivals, this charming city has something for everyone. From exploring the cobblestone streets lined with colourful buildings to indulging in delicious Mexican cuisine and shopping for unique crafts and souvenirs, San Miguel de Allende promises an unforgettable journey. So whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, make sure to add San Miguel de Allende to your travel bucket list – it’s an experience not to be missed!
We are visiting in a month (for our first time) so I really enjoyed your post! Thank you!
Hi Amy,
Glad you enjoyed our post.
regards
Jane and Duncan
Can we pick up the guide with the walking tours all over town? We would love to get it on our first day since we are only there for 5 days.
Would you suggest sticking around SMA for that duration or is there a day trip you would recommend? We are on vacation so no need to stick around home for pets.
Thank you!
Hi Amy
I would recommend picking the guide up the first day and it is available at most of the boutique shops etc. There is a Tourist Information Centre in the Jardin you could always check with them first. The walking tours if you did one or two a day would give you alot to do in the 5 days that you are there. If you have time and the weather is good in the evening, head down to the Rosewood Hotel – go to the roof top bar called Luna at around 6.30pm – check when sunset is and have some interesting cocktails and tapas. We had two beers, two cocktails, a pizza (enough for two people) and the grilled vegetable baguette all for 700 MXN including tips. Great view of the area and sunset, take a jacket bit chilly. I personally would have enough to see and do around SMA. Don’t rush it. It is beautiful. Cheers!