San Miguel de Allende

Mexico, North America

San Miguel de Allende is famous for its colonial architecture, vibrant arts scene, and rich cultural heritage. The charming cobblestone streets are lined with colorful buildings, galleries, and cafés, inviting exploration. Notable attractions include the stunning Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, the bustling Jardín Principal, and the insightful Instituto Allende. The city also hosts various festivals that showcase its lively spirit, making it an appealing destination for travelers seeking art, culture, and unique experiences.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Town

Vibe

History

Airport

Querétaro

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel

Stunning neo-Gothic church, iconic to the city.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through El Jardín

Vibrant central park, perfect for people-watching.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Instituto Allende

Art school showcasing local talent and exhibitions.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at the Mercado de Artesanías

Local artisan market for unique handcrafted goods.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Fabrica La Aurora

Art and design center in a converted textile factory.

No booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a hot air balloon ride

Breathtaking views of San Miguel's landscape from above.

Booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend the Festival de Cine San Miguel

Annual film festival showcasing local and international films.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Casa de la Cultura

Cultural center with workshops, performances, and exhibitions.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the San Miguel de Allende Hot Springs

Relax in natural thermal waters, a tranquil escape.

No booking required
10

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Learn to cook Mexican cuisine

Hands-on cooking classes to master local dishes.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~15%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

4 (#41 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Mexican Peso

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Mole

VE

Rich sauce made with chiles and spices (National dish)

Tacos al Pastor

Tortillas filled with marinated pork

Chiles en Nogada

Stuffed peppers with meat and walnut sauce

Pozole

Hearty soup with hominy and meat

Tamales

V

Corn dough filled with various ingredients

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)