San Miguel de Allende
The good folks at Travel and Leisure rated San Miguel de Allende, Mexico as The World’s Best Town. But, is it?
The staff at Pangeo stumbled into this quaint town thanks to a friend’s wedding, and we are confident in saying that, yes, it is worth a visit!
However, should you plan an entire vacation around this accolade-winning destination? Well, the answer to that lies in your vacation wishlist and how far you’re traveling to step foot in central Mexico.
Where is San Miguel de Allende?
Nestled in “El Corazon de Mexico”--which translates to “the heart of Mexico”--San Miguel de Allende is a picturesque gem located in the state of Guanajuato. Perched at an altitude of 6,234 feet, this UNESCO World Heritage Site exudes a timeless charm, blending cobblestone streets, vibrant architecture, and a deep-rooted artistic soul. Approximately 150 miles northwest of Mexico City, the town is a harmonious blend of historical grandeur and modern cultural dynamism.
What is the history behind San Miguel de Allende?
San Miguel de Allende was founded in 1542 as a Franciscan mission. Its strategic location along the silver route made it a vital hub during colonial times. In the early 19th century, the town played a pivotal role in Mexico’s fight for independence, with local hero Ignacio Allende emerging as a key leader. The name of the town has changed more than once, with the current name being an homage to Ignacio Allende himself. Originally a captain in the Spanish army, he led Mexican rebel forces against Spanish adversaries during the Mexican Revolution in 1810. In fact, many regard San Miguel de Allende as one of the first hubs of the Mexican Revolution Post-independence, it evolved into an artistic haven, drawing expatriates and creatives in the mid-20th century. Today, its rich history is evident in its well-preserved architecture and vibrant cultural traditions.
How do I get there?
Traveling to San Miguel de Allende can be an adventure in itself. There are no airports within immediate striking distance of the town, and by distance, the nearest major airport is Del Bajío International Airport (BJX) in Leon, about a 90-minute drive away. Alternatively, Querétaro Intercontinental Airport (QRO), roughly 70 miles from the city, offers a nearly equidistant option. Regardless of which airport you choose, plan for a 90 minute to 2-hour drive from the airport before you arrive in the colorful town center, Zona Centro. Much of the drive is through an austere, yet beautiful landscape. During our travels there, we found that these desert vistas grounded us in the stark nature and reality that envelops Guanajuato. It also highlights two important points: Make sure you hydrate and make double sure you take a bathroom break before you start your drive from your arrival airport to the town itself.
Since the Pangeo staff operates in the East Coast of the United States, San Miguel de Allende was a manageable flight itinerary that spanned roughly 6 hours of flying and 2-hour layover. If your interest in central Mexico has lured from a home farther afield, we recommend considering a brief stay in Mexico City. See the section below regarding our recommendations for the duration of a trip within San Miguel itself.
From either airport, you can rent a car, book a private transfer, or take a shuttle service. For a more immersive experience, buses from Mexico City provide a comfortable and scenic journey through central Mexico.
How long should I stay?
San Miguel de Allende’s charm unfolds best over a stay of 3 to 5 days. Why? If you have a pulse and a stomach that inevitably gets empty, the town will captivate you and delight your palate.
However, the town is small–and, as a brief reminder from above–much of surrounding Guanajuato is desert. Yet, the town has a European appeal and speed to it. Perhaps not a dense European metropolis, but certainly a small, and walkable, town or commune.
For those who have visited Europe, it’s very likely you’ve woven multiple cities and locales into one trip. In this case, your surrounding options–aside from Mexico City–will be limited or require careful research. Our returning flight to the USA was delayed, and our best option was to stay in the city of León, which was more of an industrial town that was bustling in the automotive industry.
We bet you’ll never tire of the pastel-color-lined streets and alleyways, complete with floral arrangements over every other door, saturated with hues that elicit the energy of the town. Not to mention the compulsive need to smile while you watch the mojigangas–or, life-sized paper-mâché puppets waltz through town.
However, at some point, the human mind craves something different. The more adventurous traveler may be satisfied after 3 full days. The traveler seeking a slower pace would benefit from a 5-day stay–perhaps one-week maximum.
This would allow ample time to explore its historical landmarks, have some stellar breakfasts, tacos, and cocktails, and soak up the artistic vibe. A longer visit also lets you venture into the surrounding countryside for wineries and natural wonders. Whether for a weekend escape or a week-long retreat, San Miguel adapts to your pace.
Where should I stay?
If you have a flexible budget, and want to stay near the central part of town, you can choose from a variety of options in Zona Centro. As aficionados of drone photography, we chose the Terrace Suite at Hotel La Morada, which afforded us very comfortable accommodations and a rooftop terrace for drone flights.
If choosing to honor a budget, there are PLENTY of options east, west, and north of Zona Centro. Some AirBnBs and hotels offer fine accommodations for $50 USD, but will be further removed from the central neighborhoods where many tourists spend most of their time. Another upside to this is the cost of food. There are many street stalls and small cafes in these parts of San Miguel that offer bites to eat at a notably lower cost than areas with more tourists.
If you’re seeking a luxury stay, you may want to review your options near Parque Benito Juaréz, just south of Zona Centro. Options like The Rosewood or Numu boast high-end decor, comfort, and dining options–all with excellent views, to boot.
What’s the weather like?
San Miguel de Allende’s weather is as enchanting as its streets. The town enjoys a semi-arid climate, making it a year-round destination. Spring (March to May) brings warm days and cool nights, with temperatures hovering around 80°F during the day–although it is common to experience temperatures in the 90s. Summer (June to September) sees occasional rain showers that breathe life into the surrounding landscapes, and the temperatures will stabilize in the 80s or 90s.. Autumn (October to November) offers crisp mornings and sunny afternoons, while winter (December to February) is mild, with daytime highs in the 70s and cooler evenings.
We attended a wedding with a black tie dress code in early May and expected a forecast of 95 degrees Fahrenheit (You can imagine a tuxedo was not going to be my first choice of apparel). The dry heat was manageable, and in fact, by nightfall my formal wear felt very comfortable!
So, don’t let the Weather Channel fool you: Bring something warm for evenings, just in case. It is a desert climate after all.
What’s the food scene like?
Food in San Miguel de Allende is an experience that tantalizes the senses. The culinary scene here is a harmonious blend of traditional Mexican flavors and innovative fusion cuisine. Don’t miss:
Breakfast: Breakfast is to die for in San Miguel de Allende. Breakfasts are hearty and can hold you over for hours. Our favorite was Ki’Bok Coffee, right down the street from our hotel.
Tacos al Pastor: Found in bustling street stalls, these tacos are a celebration of spiced pork, pineapple, and fresh salsa. Our driver recommended Pescau as a great stop for tacos, and it did not disappoint in the least!
Chiles en Nogada: A seasonal dish representing the Mexican flag with its vibrant green, white, and red colors.
Mole: Rich and complex, this sauce accompanies chicken or enchiladas for a hearty meal.
High-End Dining: Restaurants like Aperi and The Restaurant offer world-class dining experiences, blending local ingredients with global techniques. We enjoyed Aperi for a final meal before we departed. While you do not need to pay fine dining prices to have a great meal in this town, we were ready to splurge on their culinary concepts and wine list.
We chose to drink bottled water throughout our trip, just to be safe. We’re happy to report that we did not experience any GI issues from eating fruit or having cocktails with ice. Restaurants and bars in the town took great care in providing a sanitary experience.
What activities should I consider within the town?
San Miguel de Allende brims with activities that cater to diverse interests. A must-see is the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, the iconic neo-Gothic church that dominates the skyline. Wander through the Jardín Principal, the town’s lively main square, where musicians and artisans converge.
Art lovers can explore the Fábrica La Aurora, a former textile factory turned art and design center. Cooking classes, such as those at Sazon, offer a deep dive into local culinary traditions. Don’t miss the chance to soak in the town’s natural hot springs, like La Gruta Spa, for a rejuvenating escape.
What activities should I consider outside the town?
Beyond the city limits, San Miguel de Allende offers adventures that captivate the soul. Visit the Santuario de Atotonilco, often referred to as the "Sistine Chapel of Mexico," for its intricate frescoes.
For nature enthusiasts, the El Charco del Ingenio botanical garden is a sanctuary of native plants and wildlife.
Wine lovers can indulge in tastings at nearby vineyards like Viñedos San Lucas or Cuna de Tierra, which showcase the region’s burgeoning wine scene.
We also strongly considered a hot air balloon ride, and would have booked it were it not for a wedding itinerary. If you want a 360-degree panorama of the area, and are willing to wake up early for it, then give it a go!
What languages do the locals speak?
The primary language in San Miguel de Allende is Spanish, but English is widely spoken, especially in areas frequented by tourists. This bilingual culture makes it easy for international visitors to navigate the town and connect with locals.
We encourage all travelers to learn the native languages of your destinations. Being able to show courtesy to a local by speaking in their native tongue can go a long way. For those who speak Spanish, you’ll find that you’re able to access more of what the city offers when speaking with local residents.
Is San Miguel de Allende Safe?
Safety is a top concern for travelers, and San Miguel de Allende consistently ranks as one of Mexico’s safest destinations. The town’s welcoming atmosphere and low crime rate contribute to a sense of security. That said, it’s always wise to follow standard travel precautions: stay aware of your surroundings, avoid carrying large sums of cash, and secure your belongings.
Conclusion: Is San Miguel de Allende worthy of the accolades?
In a word: Yes!
In multiple words: Yes, but don’t overextend your stay if you crave diversity and faster-paced travels.
With its blend of historical allure, artistic spirit, and vibrant cultural scene, San Miguel de Allende offers an unparalleled travel experience–at least in our view. It blends Mexican culture, art, and cuisine with the vibe of a European hamlet. From its sun-dappled streets to its warm and hospitable locals, the city has a magnetic quality that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.
Travel + Leisure crowned it the No. 1 Best City in the World—an accolade richly deserved. Is it our #1? With countless destinations in our memory banks, and in our bucket lists, only time will tell how this trip ages in the annals of Pangeo travel.
Why not visit and decide for yourself?
