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Best Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende

The charming town of San Miguel de Allende is more than a Pueblo Magico (Magical Town), it is the “corazón de Mexico” (the heart of Mexico). You’ll often see that phrase on souvenirs and postcards and once you experience it you’ll understand why. San Miguel de Allende has been awarded “Best City in the World” and is home to many expats. This city will have you falling in love and wanting to come back. If you’re ready to book your ticket to the enchanting town, do it! And if you still need some convincing, keep reading and I’ll share all the best things to do in San Miguel de Allende.   

people walking cobblestone streets san miguel de allende mexico

Wander the Cobblestone Streets

Get lost walking the cobblestone streets and admiring the colonial architecture of San Miguel de Allende. It’s easy to get around the city by foot. Enjoy a walk around and pop into shops and cafes as you please.

woman walking down cobblestone street san miguel de allende mexico

Fabrica La Aurora

Fan or art and novelty items you may want to take home? Check out the many galleries at the Fabrica La Aurora. It was once a textile factory and now home to many artists’ works. You can still see the old textile machines on display. It’s easy to spend a couple hours here and if you get hungry there are cafes in the building. Fabrica La Aurora also hosts events and workshops.

fabrica la aurora art galleries san miguel de allendefabrica la aurora artist galleries san miguel de allende gto mexico

Address: Calzada de la Aurora S/N, Aurora, 37710 San Miguel de Allende, Gto., Mexico

Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel

The most iconic structure in San Miguel de Allende is La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel. This grand neo-Gothic church was built in the 17th-century and is the center of the city. This pink church with intricate details is a must-see in San Miguel de Allende.

la parroquia church san miguel de allende mexico

la parroquia church christmas tree lights night time san miguel de allende
La Parroquia during Christmas season

Address: Plaza Principal S/N, Zona Centro, 37700 San Miguel de Allende, Gto., Mexico

El Jardin – The Main Plaza

This is the main square of San Miguel de Allende and where the action happens day and night. Between people watching, the view of La Parroquia or cultural events, it’s never a dull moment.

Address: Plaza Principal S/N, Zona Centro, 37700 San Miguel de Allende, Gto., Mexico

Enjoy the City from the Best Rooftops in San Miguel de Allende

Between breakfast, lunch, dinner or just to grab a drink or two you can enjoy the best views of San Miguel de Allende from above in one of its rooftops. Check the best rooftops in San Miguel de Allende here.

woman holding margarita rooftop pool san miguel de allende mexico
Nena Sky Lounge
rooftop city view san miguel de allende luna tapas bar
Luna Tapas Bar
Santuario de Atotonilco

Dubbed the “Sistine Chapel of Mexico,” Santuario de Atotonilco is a church located about a 25-minute drive outside the city center of San Miguel de Allende. This chapel was built between 1740 and 1776 and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.

santuario de atotonilco church unesco san miguel de allende mexico
Photo by: Carlos Melgoza

Address: Calle Principal, Atotonilco, 37700 Atotonilco, Gto., Mexico

Experience Casa Dragones Tequila at the Smallest Tequila Bar in the World

If you’re a tequila fan, a spirit connoisseur, or just curious, considering booking a tequila tasting at the Casa Dragones tasting room. The tasting is an experience in itself. You’ll be guided through the process by a Casa Dragones representative and taste the Casa Dragones Joven Tequila. You must book your reservation in advance as there are certain time slots available and the bar can only accommodate up to six guests.

woman drinking tequila tasting casa dragones san miguel de allende

Stuff Your Face with Churros at Cafe San Agustin

Love churros? Who doesn’t!? San Miguel de Allende has some of the best churro rellenos (churros with filling) and you can get yours at Cafe San Agustin. In the evening expect a line (it isn’t that long and is definitely worth the wait).

churros on table

Address: San Francisco 21, Zona Centro, 37700 San Miguel de Allende, Gto., Mexico

El Charco del Ingenio Botanical Garden

Located a few minutes drive away from the historic town is El Charco del Ingenio Botanical Garden. If you’re without a car it’s a brisk walk and there is also an uphill hiking route you can choose to take if you want the challenge. This natural preserve is home to rare plants and gardens of cacti. There are guided tours available, bird watching tours and more.

Address: Paloma S.N., Las Colonias, 37720 San Miguel de Allende, Gto., Mexico

Get Your Shop on at Mercado de Artesanías

Enjoy a couple hours to a day shopping for authentic woven tops and dresses and traditional souvenirs such as a catrina (skeleton woman figure), pottery or Mexican folk art. There are tons of vendors at the mercado so take your time and do get there early before the crowds pour in. This is the best place to shop in San Miguel de Allende.

artisan market san miguel de allende

mercado de artesanias san miguel de allende mexico

Address: Lucas Balderas S / N, Centro, 37700 San Miguel de Allende, Gto., Mexico

Getting to San Miguel de Allende

Wondering how to get to San Miguel de Allende? The two closest airports are Del Bajío International Airport (BJX) in Silao, Guanajuato and Querétaro International Airport (QRO). Both are about an hour and a half drive from San Miguel de Allende. You have a few options for getting to the city

  1. Take a taxi – about $100 USD from either airport
  2. Hire a driver in advance (your hotel may be able to help arrange this) – about $100 USD from either airport
    Cesar is a San Miguel de Allende-based driver who offers airport service and private tours.
  3. Use a group shuttle – $30 one way from either airport
  4. If you’re planning on driving around then renting a car is the best and one of the cheapest options.
  5. If you’re on a shoestring budget then taking a bus would be your best bet from BJX…
    From Del Bajío International Airport (BJX):

    • Take a taxi to the Silao Bus Station – should be around $7USD or less
    • Take a bus to San Miguel de Allende – $8-12 USD
      NOTE: This does take about 1-2 hours longer than a group shuttle service.

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Where to Stay in San Miguel de Allende

If you’re looking for a place to stay I’ve compiled a list of some of the best places according to your budget.

Budget

Posada de Luna
The price and location can not be beaten. With close proximity to the Mercado de Artesanías, you can be sure to get there early to snag the best deals. Enjoy the swimming pool and delicious breakfast.

Moderate

Posada De La Aldea
If you have a car and looking for an affordable but comfortable place to stay, consider staying at Posada De La Aldea. With amenities like a pool and free parking, this place has all the comforts of home and more.

Xacalli Hotel Boutique
This beautifully decorated hotel has a prime location and a gorgeous rooftop terrace. If you’re looking to be in the center of the city, this is the perfect place.

Luxury

Hotel Nena
Rooftop pool with a view, need I say more? This sleek hotel is modern with authentic Mexican touches. It has all the amenities you can want and free parking is available.

Rosewood Hotel
It doesn’t get more luxurious than the Rosewood Hotel. If you’re looking to splurge on the best stay in San Miguel de Allende, this is it.

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Best Rooftops in San Miguel de Allende

Jeanine

3 comments

Best Rooftops in San Miguel de Allende - Le Wild Explorer January 25, 2018 at 7:22 am

[…] you heading to San Miguel de Allende? Check out the best things to do in San Miguel de Allende here. And I hope to catch you on one the best rooftops in San Miguel de […]

Janiel February 8, 2018 at 10:41 pm

This place looks amazing, that first building though…..wowza! Will have to save this pin so when I go I can remember all this great stuff.

Jeanine February 13, 2018 at 8:45 am

Thank you, Janiel! Yes, it’s quite an impressive city. I can’t wait for you to visit.

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