Looking for things to do in San Miguel de Allende? Look no further.
This article covers everything you need to know for a short-term stay in this beautiful town. San Miguel is a relatively small city but has plenty of things to keep you entertained.
The atmosphere of the city is laid-back, which makes it perfect for retirees and digital nomads. If you want to take a break from the fast-paced life of a huge metropolis like the capital, San Miguel de Allende is your best bet. You will fall in love with its charming cobblestone streets, stunning architecture, and fancy rooftop bars.
But, before we get into the top attractions, let’s discuss a few important topics.
Let’s start with the main concern most people have when planning a vacation to Mexico: Safety.
Is San Miguel de Allende Safe?
San Miguel de Allende had been out of the radar of the drug cartels for many years. It was known to be one of the safest cities in Mexico. All that has changed in recent years. The city has experienced some criminal activity lately. However, have in mind that most of the criminality in Mexico is concentrated in the drug trade world. The tourists and expats are not the target.
I encourage you to ignore the media and visit San Miguel de Allende. Don’t let other people stop you from exploring this beautiful city. As always, follow our 10 Travel Safety Tips for First-Timers and never drop your guard.
How to get to San Miguel de Allende
Getting to this beautiful town can be a little bit tricky. There is no international airport in San Miguel de Allende. To get here, you will have three options:
- Bajío International Airport (BJX) – ~60 miles
- Querétaro Intercontinental Airport (QRO) – ~50 miles
- Benito Juarez International Airport (MEX) – ~170 miles but the most accessible from most countries.
For detailed logistics on how to get to San Miguel, make sure you review our article on How to Get to San Miguel de Allende.
How to get around San Miguel de Allende
If you stay in Zona Centro, you will be at walking distance to most attractions. For the few attractions that are not at walking distance, Uber and taxi will be your best options.
Recommended Restaurants in San Miguel de Allende
Mama Mia
Popular Italian restaurant and bar. The atmosphere, food, and cocktails are great. It is also a popular nightlife spot, open every day of the week.
Address: Umarán 8, Zona Centro, Centro, 37700 San Miguel de Allende, Gto., Mexico
Website: Mama Mia
La Mesa Grande
A cool bakery and café, known for its great sandwiches and wood-fired pizzas.
Address: Zacateros 49, Zona Centro, 37700 San Miguel de Allende, Gto., Mexico
Website: La Mesa Grande
Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar
Stylish bar on the rooftop of the Rosewood Hotel. The menu offers delicious tapas and cocktails. The view is spectacular, specially at sunset.
Address: Nemesio Diez 11, Zona Centro, Centro, 37700 San Miguel de Allende, Gto., Mexico
Website: Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar
La Posadita
A great place to get your fix of authentic Mexican cuisine. The restaurant also has a nice rooftop terrace, perfect for those date nights.
Address: Cuna de Allende 13, Zona Centro, 37700 San Miguel de Allende, Gto., Mexico
Website: La Posadita
Where to Party in San Miguel de Allende
La Azotea
A nice rooftop terrace with a good selection of cocktails and tapas. It is the best option for pre-gaming and/or those chill nights with friends.
Address: Umarán 6, Zona Centro, 37700 San Miguel de Allende, Gto., Mexico
Website: La Azotea
La Coronela
A fun cantina bar for those who prefer nightlife with a more local vibe. This place is open every day of the week.
Address: San Francisco 2, Zona Centro, 37700 San Miguel de Allende, Gto., Mexico
Website: Cantina La Coronela
La Ingrata
A fun nightclub for those who prefer dancing all night long. If you like reggaeton, cumbia, and bachata, you will have a blast.
Address: Mesones 95, Zona Centro, 37700 San Miguel de Allende, Gto., Mexico
Website: La Ingrata
Mama Mia
Popular Italian restaurant and bar. The atmosphere, food, and cocktails are great. It is also a popular nightlife spot, open every day of the week.
Address: Umarán 8, Zona Centro, Centro, 37700 San Miguel de Allende, Gto., Mexico
Website: Mama Mia
The Top 5 Things to do in San Miguel de Allende
Parroquia San Miguel de Arcangel
The most emblematic place of the city. It is a must to spend time exploring the area around Jardín Allende, where the Parroquia is located. Here you will find great markets, restaurants, and bars.
Mirador
For a stunning view of the city, go to El Mirador. You can take an uber up there, but I recommend the 15-minute uphill walk from Jardín Allende. The city seems a lot bigger from this viewpoint.
Mercado de Artesanías
The best spot to purchase souvenirs for your loved ones. It is located on Callejón Lucas Balderas. Most of the art pieces found in this place are made by local Mexican artists. This is a great way to support the local economy.
La Gruta
Beautiful spa about a 15-minute drive outside of the city center. Here you can swim in hot springs, get a massage, and/or chill at the pool. This is by far the most “instagrammable” spot in San Miguel de Allende.
Address: A Dolores Hidalgo km 10, El Cortijo, 37893 San Miguel de Allende, Gto., Mexico
Website: La Gruta Spa
Cost: $200 MXN ($11 USD)
Day Trip to Guanajuato City:
The capital of the state of Guanajuato. It is debatable which is the most beautiful city between San Miguel and Guanajuato. It is about 1-hour drive from San Miguel, which makes it perfect for a day trip.
How long should you stay in San Miguel de Allende?
San Miguel is a great place for a long-term stay. If you are a digital nomad, you should consider adding this city to your destinations. I would not mind spending a few months exploring San Miguel and the entire Bajío region.
If you are an occasional traveler, with limited vacation, 2-3 full days are enough to see the most important sights. What most people do is adding San Miguel to their Mexico City itinerary. This works really well because at the same time you will be taking a break from the chaotic capital.
Closing Notes
San Miguel de Allende is an amazing place for nomads, retirees, and travelers that like laid-back places with big city amenities. The charming streets, stunning architecture, and stylish rooftop bars will make you fall in love at first sight.
The city has been selected as the best city in the world multiple times by Travel + Leisure readers. Most travelers just love the vibe is place.
Is it the best city in the world? I wouldn’t go that far, but it is a place you should visit.
Don’t think it twice and book that ticket.
As always, be safe.
Hector
