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Parish of San Miguel
Narrow streets of San Miguel de Allende.

San Miguel de Allende is a small colonial town in the Bajio mountains of central Mexico, about 170 miles northwest of Mexico City. Founded as "San Miguel" in 1542 by a San Franciscan Monk named San Miguel El Grande, it became a centerpiece in the war for Mexican independence from Spain; it was renamed San Miguel de Allende after Ignacio Allende, a hero of the independence movement. In danger of becoming a ghost town in the early 20th century, the town was declared a national monument in 1926 and building became heavily restricted in the town's historic centro district, allowing the city to keep the colorful native facades that have become the backdrop of many famous works of art and even modern motion pictures.

A series of artist colonies were founded in San Miguel in the 1950s, including the famous Instituto Allende, and many G.I.s moved their families here following World War II either to attend one of these colonies or to escape the polio scares raging through many U.S. cities. The result was a healthy American expatriate population that exists today mostly as elderly retirees and second-generation business owners. This population, combined with wealthy Mexicans (especially actors and politicians) that have rediscovered San Miguel as a Malibu-like retreat from Mexico City, has created an eclectic mix of Old World Mexican charm, American hospitality, and a party atmosphere that makes San Miguel a world-class destination for adventurous travelers.

Understand

  • 1 San Miguel Tourist Information (Consejo Turistico de San Miguel de Allende), Plaza Principal 8, +52 415 152 1695. M-Sa 08:30-20:00, Su 10:00-17:30. Offers street maps and can arrange for Spanish or English tours of the city.

San Miguel is, first and foremost, a city built for relaxing. It is a Spanish colonial town of perhaps 140,000 people, a heritage site protected by the Mexican government in order to maintain its character. In July of 2008 it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a tourist destination, an art colony, and a retirement community for 12,000 foreigners – mostly Americans, Canadians, and Europeans. In spite of the increased number of foreigners over the past perhaps 20 years, it still is charming enough that many Mexicans visit for special holidays, and there are more than a few visitors who buy a house within a few days of their first arrival.

Climate

San Miguel's weather is typical of central mountainous Mexico. It varies little, and even in the hottest months (May and June) when daytime temperatures can reach 35°C, the dry air makes it tolerable and cool mountain breezes tend to make evenings delightful. Winter evenings (from December to February) can get cold, even down to freezing overnight, but it warms up quickly in the morning. The rainy season extends from June to September when days are pleasant for sightseeing until heavy downpours (usually late in the afternoon and evening) cool and freshen the air. Ultimately, the climate has the same lazy, quiet air and temperance as Palm Springs, encouraging long hours of swimming and pool-side tanning, reading or napping, or just lying in a hammock and forgetting the world exists.

San Miguel de Allende was founded by Franciscan Monk Fray Juan de San Miguel Miguel, who baptized the city with the name San Miguel el Grande. After the War of Independence from Spain in the year 1826, San Miguel was elevated to a city status and given the name San Miguel de Allende in honor of Ignacio Allende y Unzaga, the first Mexican soldier and a native of the city.

San Miguel's climate
Month: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
High Temp C/F 22/71 23/74 25/78 27/81 28/83 27/80 25/78 25/78 24/76 24/76 23/74 22/71
Low Temp C/F 8/46 9/48 10/50 12/54 14/57 14/58 14/58 14/58 14/57 12/54 10/49 8/47
Rain (mm/inches) 12/0.5 2/0.1 4/0.2 20/0.8 32/1.3 125/5.0 120/4.7 117/4.6 120/4.7 43/1.7 15/0.6 10/0.4

Films

Once Upon a Time in Mexico and And Starring Pancho Villa as Himself were filmed almost entirely in San Miguel.

Get in

Map
Map of San Miguel de Allende

One of the most difficult aspects of visiting San Miguel de Allende is actually getting there. Its remoteness is definitely part of the charm of the city. Your afternoon nap will never be disturbed by the sound of an overhead plane or a train pulling in, but reaching San Miguel, and eventually escaping, can be a problem if you do not understand your options.

If you're an experienced driver in Mexico, you'll have few problems reaching San Miguel. It's less than two hours from Léon and one hour from Querétaro, and maybe a three-hour drive from Mexico City. The only difficulty will come when you actually reach San Miguel. Parking spaces are at an absolute premium here, so you'll want to arrange to have a spot for your car waiting when you arrive. Additionally, the cobblestone streets were not designed for modern traffic, so driving around San Miguel can be a challenge. Most people walk or take a two-dollar cab ride anywhere downtown.

If you've never driven much in Mexico, driving to San Miguel is not difficult. While San Miguel is on the side of a mountain ridge, most of the roads leading to it are in excellent condition and safe to drive, at least during the day. Since much of this area is "free range" land, horses and cattle may find their way on the road, especially at night.

Seniors and tourists touring the region may find sightseeing more difficult because of the locals' propensity to drive fast along these two-lane highways. It's not much fun having a car on your bumper while trying to see the beautiful countryside in this area.

Your best bet is flying into Leon or Mexico City, and taking a shuttle or bus to San Miguel. Then you do not have to worry about parking you car, which is of little use once you arrive.

By plane

The closest airports to San Miguel are the Aeropuerto Bajío/León (BJX), next to the town of Silao, about 70 miles away and Aeropuerto Querétaro (QRO), north of the city of Querétaro, about 45 miles away. Arriving at either of these airports will make your final journey a relatively inexpensive (USD30-60) hour shuttle or cab ride. A bus ride from Querétaro is even cheaper (around USD10-15), but the trip will take 2-2.5 hours because the bus is not direct to San Miguel and you have to take a taxi from the airport to the bus station. Colectivos from the bus station to the city center are much cheaper.

Your flight may be less expensive if you go through Mexico City (MEX), and connect to a flight to Leon or Querétaro. You may ride an airport bus from Mexico City to Leon and then catch a local bus to San Miguel. However, it's a 4-5 hour trip. Another option is a bus from MEX airport to Querétaro and on to San Miguel.

American and United airlines have direct flights to Leon from Dallas-Ft Worth and Houston, respectively.

  • By bus: From the Mexico City airport you can get a first-class bus ticket on the line called "Primera Plus" (see the section on "Buses") for about USD25 (2006). Buses leave every 45 minutes to 1 hour throughout the day and will take you non-stop to Querétaro in less than 3 hours. You can take a bus from there to the San Miguel bus depot for about USD8 (about 1 hour), or a taxi to your door in San Miguel for about USD35 (about 45 minutes).

By taxi or rental car

If you fly into Mexico City and need to reach San Miguel, do not try to take a taxi from the airport. The taxi drivers in Mexico City are well trained to cheat you by charging you three or four times the cost of a trip to San Miguel. It's simply not worth the hassle. If you're hell-bent on flying into Mexico City and not taking a bus, call ahead to the hotel or B&B where you're staying and ask them to send a taxi from San Miguel. Yes, they may charge you for both the trip to and from the airport, but it will be infinitely less expensive than if you try to pick up a taxi from the street outside the Mexico City airport. It is very important not to pick up a taxi from the street outside the Mexico City airport for safety reasons, in any case. Take one of the official airport taxis to your hotel. These "Transporte Terrestre" taxis are the only ones allowed inside the airport. You will buy a zone-priced ticket ahead of time inside the airport by walking all the way down to the right (several hundred yards) after exiting the international arrivals area.

If you fly into a regional airport like Léon or Querétaro, taking a taxi the rest of your way is much safer. Just make sure you use an approved taxi service (the green and white cars are official taxis). Even still, if you don't know San Miguel that well, you may want to consider calling ahead to your hotel or B&B and having them provide transport. Regional taxis may know how to get you to San Miguel, but only a taxi or car sent by your lodging will know how to get you straight to them.

By far the most convenient airport to fly into is Leon (BJX). Arrange for a ride beforehand with one of the many shuttle services listed on San Miguel websites. Average price about USD25-30 per person. This will almost always be cheaper than taking a taxi from the airport, and the driver will know the town of San Miguel much better than a taxi driver from the airport. There is no easy way to get from the Leon airport to San Miguel by bus.

Perhaps the best option for getting to your hotel, casa or B&B is to pre-arrange pickup at your arrival airport. The driver will meet you inside the terminal, in the area where you clear customs. The rates are USD70-120. A 6 passenger SUV will be the highest and a sedan for 3 is around USD70. You can arrange transportation through your SMA hotel, etc., or book direct. A favorite is Julio and Antonio at 52 415 154 0708. If you contact them directly, you will save the hotels commission. There are others that are as nice and reputable.

Transportes Turisticos del Centro SA de CV offers a great service. They provide reliable and very comfortable vehicles, all their staff is English-speaking and, best of all, they charge low prices.

By bus

  • 2 Central de Autobuses, Calzada de la Estacion 90 (Los Mezquites), +52 415 152 2206. The town is well served by first-class and second-class buses, and tickets for both can be purchased here at the station. Local buses marked 'Central' ($5 MXN) run frequently from the station to the center of town.
  • 3 Peradora Agencia de Viajes, Cuna de Allende 17, +52 415 152 8011. Sells first-class tickets for Primera Plus and ETN bus lines.

Get around

Street behind the Parish

On foot

Maybe 90% of San Miguel's attractions are within walking distance. Just keep in mind that because San Miguel was built into the side of a mountain, it can turn out to be difficult to traverse, some inclines are 15 or 20 degrees. Furthermore, the streets are cobbled and narrow – some were nothing but goat tracks before they were paved – and many have fallen into disrepair. Curbs are often a high step away from the road. All in all, the town can be unforgiving to an inexperienced walker. For this reason, it is advisable to bring comfortable shoes.

By car

Driving in San Miguel can be challenging due to very narrow streets and limited parking, and is best avoided. There was a time when the city was not so wealthy and only taxis could be found on these roads. Now that the real estate market has boomed, an influx of money has made cars more affordable and now the average resident is more likely to own one – good news for the economy, but bad news for the roads.

Many two-way streets in San Miguel are too narrow to support two lanes of traffic, and it's not uncommon for a street to become so choked with cars that drivers have to get out and negotiate which one is going to back up to a wider street to let the other pass. Many streets are one-way and indicated by arrow signs placed on the sides of buildings; a double arrow indicates a two-way street.

Watch out for very steep streets. They can get even steeper than you realize and at least one in San Miguel is so narrow at the bottom that no more than a medium-sized car with its side mirrors pulled in can safely maneuver between the buildings. Scratches on the walls attest to drivers who have literally had to scrape between the buildings. Backing up the hill is usually not an option. Following a city bus is a good way to guarantee not getting into a tight situation.

On-street parking regulations are widely ignored by Mexicans. If you park on the street, do NOT leave it parked for more than 24 hours (There are no signs warning about this). Parking violations may result in the transit police removing your license plate(s). You will then need to find the police station, pay a fine, and hope that your plates are returned. A better alternative is that there are several paid parking lots in town; look for 'E' signs indicating Estacionamento (parking).

By taxi

Catch a taxi to any destination within central San Miguel for $35-40 MXN (2016), and $40-50 MXN after dark. In-town taxis are abundant and a great option after an afternoon of shopping. Taxis do not use meters and the price should be confirmed first. Taxis in front of the bus station are notorious for over-charging; most locals walk a few meters past them to flag down a cab on the street. If calling for a taxi to pick you up, the price doubles. If planning a late night out, most taxi drivers can be trusted to keep an appointment if the pickup time is arranged in advance.

By bus

San Miguel has its own pleasant and reliable bus system that serves the entire town, including out-of-the-way places like the Luciérnega Shopping Center and the bus depot. Buses are called urbanos and run from 07:00-21:00 daily for a flat rate of $5 MXN inside the city center (single ride, no transfer, driver gives change). The schedule is every 15-20 minutes in the central city; every 1-2 hours to and from outlying areas in the municipality. Routes are never referred to by their number but by the name of the destination. There is no route map.

Destinations are generally marked or painted on the side or on the windshield. 'Centro' means downtown and 'Central' means bus station. Buses are white with color-coded trim. All the blue-white and orange-white buses pass the stop opposite the Oratorio de San Felipe Neri downtown. Yellow-white buses make a circle around town passing near centro and central. All red-white, green-white, purple-white buses and some yellow-white buses connect to the outlying suburbs and are boarded at various stops located several blocks outside the center of town.

By tourist trolley

Two different companies provide sightseeing rides using trolley-looking buses that cost $60 MXN. You can ask for tickets in the main tourist office just in the main square. The ride lasts 1.5 hours (if traffic allows) and reaches the top of hill 'El Mirador' for a fantastic view of the town.

See

Parroquia San Miguel Arcángel
Unfinished mural by David Alfaro Siqueiros in the Centro Cultural Ignacio Ramírez (Bellas Artes)
Temple of the Immaculate Conception of the Sisters (Las Monjas)
Templo de Nuestra Señora de la Salud

Architecture

  • 1 Parroquia San Miguel Arcángel, Plaza Principal s/n (by the Jardín), +52 415 152 4197. Daily 08:00-20:00. The marvelous pink granite parish, looking like an ornate candy sculpture. The building itself dates from the 16th century, while the façade was designed in the 19th century by self-taught indigenous architect Zeferino Gutíerrez, who is said to have been inspired by a postcard depicting a European Gothic cathedral.
  • 2 Templo de la Inmaculada Concepcíon (Las Monjas), Canal y Hernández Macías s/n, +52 415 152 0688. Daily 09:00-18:00. Next to the Bellas Artes and part of the former convent, this church was constructed in the mid-18th century. The massive dome is said to be a copy of Les Invalides in Paris.
  • 3 Teatro Angela Peralta, Hernández Macías 82, +52 415 152 2200. Named after a famous Mexican opera singer who inaugurated the theater in 1873, this is one of San Miguel's principal venues for concerts and performances. It is not normally open to the public except during events.
  • 4 Oratorio de San Felipe Neri, Insurgentes s/n, +52 415 152 0521. Daily 09:00-18:00. Completed in 1714, the church features a delicately-carved pink sandstone façade.
  • 5 Templo de Nuestra Señora de la Salud (Church of Our Lady of Health), Plaza Cívica s/n. Daily 09:00-18:00. Built in the 17th century and notable for the scalloped stone dome over the main entrance.
  • 6 Templo de San Francisco, San Francisco s/n, +52 415 152 0947. M-Sa 08:00-14:00, Su varies. Built toward the end of the 18th century, this is a good example of Mexican Baroque architecture.

Museums and galleries

  • 9 Centro Cultural Ignacio Ramírez (Bellas Artes / Convento de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción), Hernández Macías 75, +52 415 152 0289, . M-Sa 10:00-19:30, Su 10:00-14:00. This former convent is now an art school and cultural center, and hosts rotating exhibits by local and international artists. Of particular note is an unfinished mural on the ground floor by David Alfaro Siqueiros, a contemporary of Diego Rivera. Free.
  • 11 La Esquina Popular Mexican Toy Museum (La Esquina Museo del Juguete Popular Mexicano), Núñez 40, +52 415 152 2602. W-Sa 10:00-18:00, Su 11:00-16:00. This museum collection is housed in a historic building, and includes a range of antique and modern hand-made toys. $30 MXN (adults), $20 MXN (children/seniors/students/teachers).

Other

  • 12 El Jardín (Jardín Allende, Plaza Principal). This central plaza with manicured trees is always buzzing with activity and is a good place for people-watching.
  • 13 Statue of Ignacio Allende, Plaza Cívica.
  • 14 Casa del Inquisidor, Cuadrante 36. An 18th-century mansion and the former office of the Inquisition was located in this building, now a private home. Directly across the street is the former jail for the Inquisition.

Do

Cultural events

Fiesta de los Locos
Procession during the Fiesta de San Miguel Arcángel
  • Semana Santa (Holy Week). The week before Easter. Celebrated with impressive and touching parades.
  • Fiesta de los Locos (Feast of Fools). The first Sunday after 13 June (feast day of St Anthony of Padua). This annual parade is unique to San Miguel, with thousands of participants clothed in outlandish and colorful costumes and tossing candy into crowds of spectators. The parade begins around 11:30 at the Templo of San Antonio and winds its way up Hernández Macías, Insurgentes, and San Francisco Núñez before terminating at the Jardín. Free.
  • Expresión de Corto, Fábrica la Aurora, Local 5-B, +52 415 152 7264, fax: +52 415 152 8899. Last week of July. An annual short film festival, co-hosted by the nearby city of Guanajuato. Hundreds of films from nearly all genres are screened in venues including the Jardín and in the Centro Cultural Ignacio Ramírez. Most films are subtitled in Spanish and English. Free.
  • San Miguel Chamber Music Festival (Festival de Música de Cámara de San Miguel de Allende), Hernández Macías 75, +52 415 154 5141. Late July and early August. An annual festival featuring internationally renowned quartets and soloists. Concerts are held in a number of venues, including the Teatro Angela Peralta.
  • Independence Day (Día de la Independencia de México). 16 September.
  • Día de San Miguel Arcángel (St Michael's Feast Day). Late September. A week of festivities celebrating the Feast Day of San Miguel's patron saint.

Sport and outdoor activities

El Charco del Ingenio Jardín Botánico
  • 1 El Charco del Ingenio Jardín Botánico (Jardín Botánico), Paloma s/n (uphill past Los Arcos, then take a left), +52 415 154 4715, . Daily 09:00-18:00. Unique park above the town with an enormous collection of cacti. A vast area just past the Balcones area which includes some of the older engineering installations (an old mill and raceway), lovely canyons, well informed guides (mostly expats) for the botanists and birdwatchers. Go early in the day to avoid the heat and for more wildlife. Locals who are members are sometimes given a key to the back gate – find one and buy him beers until he relents! The reservoir is host to a number of migratory birds, and the locals can be rather stunning as well. $40 MXN, $80 MXN (guided tours).
    • Guided birdwalks, +52 415 152 3644. 1st and 3rd Wed of every month 09:00-11:30. Tours are conducted in English, and meet inside the main entrance. $100 MXN (nonmembers), $60 MXN (El Charco or Audubon Society members).
  • 2 Parque Juarez (Benito Juarez Park). This well-used park is comprised of many old fruit orchards, and is now a favored nesting area for white egrets.
  • 3 Audubon Society Birdwalks. Meets on the 3rd Sunday of every month at 07:45 in front of the Instituto Allende (see listing under 'Learn'). The only chapter of the Audubon Society in Mexico, this group offers guided birdwalks to locations within and near San Miguel. Destinations include the El Charco del Ingenio Jardín Botánico (see listing above), the Río Laja, and the Presa Allende. Participants travel by carpool. $150 MXN (nonmembers), free (members).
  • Coyote Canyon Adventures, +52 415 154 4193, +52 1 415 153 5005, . Offers horseback riding, hiking, biking, rappelling, camping, four-wheeler (ATV), hot air ballooning, boating, Cañada de la Virgen pyramid tours, and multi-day cross country adventures. Their guides lead you safely through working cattle ranches, into canyons, through rivers, over plains, across gorges, and down sheer cliffs, all the while sharing with you their in-depth knowledge of the native flora and fauna.
  • 4 Bici-Burro Cycling, Hospicio 1, +52 415 152 1526, . A bike shop that has operated in San Miguel since 1963. They offer bike rentals and biking or hiking tours with guides that hold an intimate knowledge of the area around San Miguel. You have the choice of seven bike tours and two hiking trips which take you amongst natural landmarks and some of the historical ruins of the area. These are of varying degrees of difficulty and range from 5 to 8 hours. The bicycle tours include a 27 speed aluminium mountain bike with helmet, gloves and transportation if needed.

Learn

Spanish

Several schools offer classes and arrange a 'home stay' with a host family for a very good price.

  • 4 Habla Hispana Spanish School, Calzada de la Luz 25, +52 415 152 0713. Spanish classes at Habla Hispana are focused on enable students to communicate effectively. Emphasis is placed on verbal interaction in the classroom, and class placement is based more on verbal fluency than on academic knowledge. Spanish classes at Instituto Habla Hispana are designed as four week sessions and divided into three levels: Nivel Principiante (Beginner), Nivel Intermedio (Intermediate), and Nivel Avanzado (Advanced). The school is flexible in working with students who cannot stay for 4 week sessions and also will work with you on focused Spanish for medical professionals. Comfortable and affordable accommodations are available in a residence on same school grounds as well as homestays with local families. Program also includes cultural tours, music and cooking.
  • 6 Language Point (Languages), 20 de Enero Sur 42 (SW of the Jardín), +52 415 152 4115. 08:00-14:00. Spanish by speaking. Learn in groups of 3 maximum. Spanish lessons are designed to teach you the tenses and vocabulary you really need. The small class size allows real conversation, even for beginners. US $143/week.
  • 7 MexArt: Summer Teen Institutes, Calzada de la Aurora 48 (Casa Carly), +52 415 152 8900, . MexArt Summer Teen Institutes are one-month programs where students may focus on art or dance and Spanish language while immersed in Mexican culture. Students live in a central B&B with experienced counseling staff. MexArt excels in teaching the visual arts, dance, and Spanish. Participants choose one area in which to focus and choose other areas with which to experiment. Open to students ages 14-18.

Art

Walkway in the Centro Cultural Ignacio Ramirez (Bellas Artes)

San Miguel's many art institutes are always open to travelers looking to discover (or become the next) Frida Kahlo. Painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, you name it and it's probably there.

  • 8 Centro Cultural Ignacio Ramírez (Bellas Artes / Convento de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción), Hernández Macías 75, +52 415 152 0289, . M-Sa 10:00-19:30, Su 10:00-02:00. This former convent is now an art school and cultural center, and offers classes and workshops in painting, drawing, sculpture, textiles, and ceramics.
  • 9 Instituto Allende, Ancha de San Antonio 22, +52 415 152 0929, +52 415 152 0190, fax: +52 415 152 4538, . M-F 09:00-11:00 or 15:00-17:00. The oldest school of arts and language in Latin America, the Instituto offers accredited undergraduate degree programs, an international Master of Fine Arts (MFA), and art and photography workshops for travelers and the general public.
  • 10 Fábrica la Aurora, Calzada de la Aurora s/n (Colonia Aurora), +52 415 152 1312. A number of resident artists with studios here offer classes and workshops in a variety of media.

Buy

Craft shop

Arts and crafts

The streets around the Jardín are full of specialty shops selling common souvenirs, clothing, art, furniture, and Mexican tile, and any other type of Mexican artwork that you can think of. In addition to its cultural staples, San Miguel de Allende is known for its amazing shopping. Being near the geographical center of the country, artisans from every part of Mexico have been known to send their artwork to San Miguel to be sold. Whenever possible buy directly from the artisan. Many amazingly, talented artists are not able to support their families due to the low prices they receive for their art. At times it is very necessary to barter and at other times inappropriate – use your intuition and allow for mistakes.

Ladies: don't forget to pick up a pair of San Miguel shoes as soon as you arrive. Your walk around town will be much more comfortable.

  • 1 Fábrica la Aurora, Calzada de la Aurora s/n (Colonia Aurora, a 10 min walk from the Jardín), +52 415 152 1312, fax: +52 415 152 1312. The best place to get great quality Mexican and international art. This old textile factory has been converted into a unique art and design center that now houses over 30 artists, galleries, restaurants, antique shops, and specialty stores. Artists are usually in-house and demonstrating on Thursdays. Open late on the first Saturday of each month.
  • Mercado de las Artesanías, Andador Lucas Balderas. Open daily. Numerous stalls along a pedestrian mall west of the Mercado Ramírez with handicrafts from various regions of Mexico.

Markets

Tianguis de los Martes
Mercado Ignacio Ramirez
  • 2 Tianguis de los Martes (Tuesday Market), Salida a Querétaro (take bus 8 or 9 from the Plaza Civica on Mesones). Tu 08:00-16:00. A colorful market with acres of native crafts, cheap Lakers t-shirts, fly swatters, cheap leather jackets and miscellaneous stuff that you really need, like flypaper, sewing kits, and more flyswatters. This is the place to pick up the best produce in town, as well as local cheese, honey, and sausage. Fresh seafood is trucked in overnight from Veracruz. Also on offer is an enormous variety of street food, from gorditas and tacos to fresh fruit juices.
  • 3 Mercado Ignacio Ramirez (Mercado El Nigromante), Colegio (a few blocks from the Jardín. The main entrance is at the north end of Colegio Street). Open daily. A large indoor market with sections devoted to fruits and vegetables, meat, flowers, shoes and clothing, fast-food, ceramics, and souvenirs. Connected to the Mercado de las Artesanías - see below.
  • Mercado San Juan de Dios.. Largest indoor market, open daily, within the Historical Center. Most customers are locals. No handicrafts or souvenirs.

Groceries

  • 4 Mega Comercial Mexicana, Carretera a Celaya 2, +52 415 120 2029. Daily 07:45-22:00. This branch of the large hypermarket chain has a deli, bakery, and pharmacy, as well as clothing and electronics. Also located at the front of the store is a café, optometrist, and GNC. A taxi stand is located just outside in the carpark.
  • 5 [6] Soriana Súper, Libramiento Jose Manuel Zavala Zavala 165 (Plaza La Luciérnaga), +52 415 120 4711. Daily 08:00-22:00. Another hypermarket chain with a decent selection of food items but on the eastern outskirts of town, far from the Historical Center.
  • 6 Bonanza Supermercado, Mesones 43a, +52 415 152 1260. Daily. Conveniently located a short distance from the Jardín, this is a good place to stock up on essentials as well as other items which are often not carried by the other larger supermarkets. Somewhat overpriced and catering to non-Mexicans with many food items imported from the USA.
  • Bodega Aurrera (Walmart), southwest corner of Calzada de la Estación and Highway 51 (Celaya-Dolores) (continue west past the bus station). Open daily. Large supermarket, part of a national chain, partly owned by Walmart. It has a bakery, a pharmacy, and the usual supermarket departments but unlike Mega, it does not have a prepared food section. Prices somewhat lower than at Mega or Soriana.

Eat

Cafetería San Agustín
  • 1 Café de la Parroquia / La Brasserie, Calle De Jesus 11 (one block from the Jardín), +52 415 152 3161. Café de la Parroquia: 08:00-16:00; La Brasserie 18:00-22:00. Beautiful courtyard dining on fresh, local ingredients. Although many menu items seem at first to be the "usual", there's nothing ordinary about them. Try in particular the chicken soup (throw in all the onions and cilantro), tacos and any omelette. $6-12 entrees.
  • 3 Cafe San Antonio, Refugio Sur 24, +52 415 152 3016. Regional, national and international cuisine. Enjoy your breakfast, lunch or dinner in a luscious and open courtyard in the heart of Colonia San Antonio, under the century old native mesquites, pines and pirules. Truly a unique experience.
  • 4 Café Yenatu Panza, Calzada de la Aurora 48 (follow Hidalgo out of the Jardín until it turns into Aurora), +52 415 152 8900. Daily 08:30-12:00. This is undoubtedly the most innovative and creative breakfast menus in town featuring design-your-own omelets & breakfast burritos, exquisite French toast, and home made fruit salsa. The vibe is very comfy and clients can choose from indoor or outdoor-garden seating. There's even free wireless. $5-7 MXN.
  • 5 Cafetería San Agustín, San Francisco 21, +52 415 154 9102. Daily 08:00-23:00. A well run restaurant with great food, Mexican and international. The restaurant/cafe in proud of their freshly made churros and a variety of hot and cold chocolate milks. Owned by Margarita Gralia.
  • 6 Casa Payo, Zacateros 26, +52 415 152 7277. One of the most traditional restaurants offering Argentine cuisine, with Mediterranean ambience inside dining and exterior in a charming patio featuring live music.
  • 7 Cha Cha Cha, 28 de Abril Norte 37 (Colonia San Antonio). Daily 13:00-19:00. Owned and operated by Mexican couple.
  • 8 El Correo, Correo 23 (a block away from the main square), +52 415 152 4951. A small Mexican food spot which offers simple yet interesting authentic Mexican food in a great location.
  • 9 Grill & Garden (formerly Bistro Los Senderos), Libramiento SMA-Dolores Hidalgo Km 3.5 (8 minutes N of San Miguel), +52 415 155 9594, . F-Su 13:00-19:00. Relaxed country atmosphere serving both old favorites and innovative fusion dishes – the restaurant has its own organic herb and vegetable garden. Great place to take visitors, and kids – bicycles available and horse back rides by reservation. Gets very busy on Sundays, reservations recommended. This charming place also prepares gourmet picnics, and available for private events. $200-400 MXN.
  • 10 La Grotta, Cuadrante 5, +52 415 152 4119. Daily 14:00-22:00. A wonderful, multi-story restaurant owned by Daniel and son Dyami. La Grotta is located downhill, around the corner, just a block from the main cathedral. While true that the restaurant is casual and the main items are pizza, calzones, and Italian-related, don't let that fool you – the food is very carefully and freshly prepared.
  • Naturalismo (one block from the Jardin toward the end of Cuna de Allende). Many people find that organic food is not always easy to access in Mexico and this is one place that has organic home cooking.
  • 12 El Pegaso, Corregidora 6 (just off the Jardín), +52 415 154 7611, . Daily 08:30-22:00. This trendy cafe style restaurant offers a delightful blend of Mexican and international flavor. Its atmosphere is definitely one of the best in town.
  • Planta Baja, located in front of "Las Monjas" church this modern Mexican restaurant is definitely one of the most avant-garde spots to eat in San Miguel. Great food.
  • 13 Posada Carmina, Cuna De Allende 7, +52 415 152 8888, fax: +52 415 152 1036, . This restaurant is based in the patio of a charming inn located in a remarkably well preserved colonial house. Branded as 'fusion', the food offered by this restaurant will make your visit to San Miguel even more memorable, it mixes the classic elements of Mexican cuisine with oriental flavors and dishes.
  • 14 Restaurante Mama Mia, Umaran 8 (S of the Jardín, half a block from the Parroquia), +52 415 152 2063, . Su-Th 08:00-03:00, F Sa 08:00-05:00. An open air patio restaurant with a stage and an exterior/second floor patio. The restaurant has traditional Mexican dishes, but specializes in pizzas and pastas. An always packed space, this is an amazing place to eat with a clean kitchen, and a lively bar.
  • 15 El Rincon Español, Correo 29. A must for an international night, administered and owned by a Catalan immigrant the food is truly exceptional, you will not be disappointed.
  • 17 Tacos Don Felix, 15th Fray Juan de San Miguel, +52 415 152 5719. F Sa 18:00-24:00, Su 14:00-18:00. Wonderful soups, nachos, and entrees. Try the Three meats enchiladas. Friendly service. It is worth the trip! Moderate.

Drink

If you can't find something to do in San Miguel at night, you're not looking hard enough. If you can't find something to do on a Saturday night, you're outright blind. This city is filled with clubs, bars, dance halls, and restaurants, and almost all of them have SOME plan for every night of the week. Following are just a few options, try these out, but also seeking your own favorite hang-out.

  • 2 La Cava de la Princesa, Recreo 3, +52 415 152 1403. Showcases musicians from Mexico City. Cover charge depends on the band.
  • 3 El Grito Night Club, 15 Umaran (about a block from the Jardín), +52 415 120 0156, . F Sa 22:00-04:00, holidays. This is arguably the most popular club in town, and easily the most expensive. It has a $15 cover charge, enough to dissuade the casual visitor from dropping in to take a look. Inside, the building is a panoply of stone and glass sculptures, light displays, and music. How energetic the evening gets usually depends on the crowd, but it's hard for the evening to get much past midnight before the dancing starts. El Grito is only open Fridays and Saturdays, or on certain holidays, like New Year's Eve (when they jack the price up to $50).
  • 4 Mama Mia, Umaran 8 (a few doors from the Jardín), +52 415 152 2063, . Su-Th 08:00-03:00, F Sa 08:00-05:00. Mama Mia's is actually four clubs in one. There's a restaurant and bar in the center with some amazing Italian food, a sports bar to the left (usually displaying a soccer or football game of some kind), a music bar to the right where local acts frequently play (especially Pilaseca, a very popular funk-blues band that tours most of Mexico and the States), and a hard-to-find rooftop lounge overlooking the city. This is a great default place to while away the hours when nothing else is appealing – the music is worth it, if nothing else.
  • 5 Manolo's Sports Bar, Zacateros 26, +52 415 152 7277. Daily 15:00-23:00. Complete coverage of national and international sports – if it is on TV they have it.
  • Mexicana (across from Hotel Mansion Virreyes). Trendy black and red interior, just off the main square for an amazing evening.
  • Planeta Dorado, Calle Miguel Hidalgo 3, +52 415 154 8398. Daily 22:00-04:00.

Sleep

Budget

  • 1 Casita de las Flores, Colonia Allende (20 min walk from the Jardín), +52 415 117 7223, . A clean, comfy and friendly alternative to lonely, boring hotels, the Casita is social like a hostel, but far more private — and much kinder to your budget. Includes a fully-equipped kitchen where guests can cook any time. Clean and well-maintained. $390+ MXN.
  • 5 Iron House Hostel, H Colegio Militar 17-D (8-min walk from the Parroquia), +52 415 154 6108, . Independent hostel. Ricardo, the owner, is a resident of San Miguel and is always happy to show you the real gems of the town: the best sights, clubs, restaurants, bars, hot springs, artisanal markets. Weekly and monthly rates available. US $25 private room, US $10 dorm.

Mid-range

  • Arcos del Atascadero Bed and Breakfast. Quiet, with gardens and back yard, yet 12 minute's walk to the center. The solar heated swimming pool makes for a pleasant escape from the heat of the day.
  • Casa Carly, Calzada de la Aurora 48, +52 415 152-8900. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon. Seven charming casitas (small houses) surrounding a beautiful garden. Each casita has a kitchenette, coffee maker, TV, DVD player with a huge selection of films, Wi-Fi. On the grounds is one of the best breakfast cafes in the entire town (not included in room rate). USD75.
  • Casa Carmen. Bed and breakfast close to El Jardin. Eleven rooms start at USD92 per night + USD24 per additional guest. Breakfast and lunch are served in a comfortable dining room. The food is outstanding - including soup, main course, and dessert at lunch time. There is also an interior courtyard and rooftop garden. Owner is very warm and friendly. USD92+.
  • Casa Don Pascual. Colonial-style boutique bed and breakfast with magnificent views.
  • Casa Florida, Hernandes Macias 60 (2 blocks from the main Jardin), +52 415-154-8195 (Mexico), +1 813-480-0505 (USA). 3 wonderfully designed rooms, full breakfast, roof garden, great sunset and close to El Jardin. USD99.
  • Casa Mia Suites Apartments, Correo No. 61 Int 1 Col. Centro CP, +52 415 152-2757. Each room has a terrace, private toilet and bath with toiletries, living room, and fully equipped kitchen. High-speed Internet, car hire, currency exchange, and laundry/dry cleaning. USD110+.
  • Casa de la Noche, Organos #19, Centro. A former brothel (or "house of the night") that has been converted into a very charming guest house with rooms and suites. 5 minutes from El Jardin and Parrochia. The grounds are beautiful with Mexican handiwork evident everywhere. Rooms, USD40+; suites with kitchenette, USD100+. Weekly and monthly rates are available..
  • Casa de Suenos. Artistically designed rooms. Within the property's premises is La Escuela, an art school. A bed and breakfast near El Jardin. Offers a self-service kitchen, rooftop garden.
  • Contento. A small, clean, quiet bed and breakfast. Healthy food is served there.
  • Meson San Antonio (Half a block away from the Angelica Peralta Theater across from the Tio Lucas Restaurant). The rooms are spacious and quiet, and the staff are very kind. If you warn them beforehand, someone will check you in or open the door for you any time during the night. Continental breakfast is included with your room, and you can order additional, simple food such as sandwiches and fruit. USD70.
  • Real de Minas (Calle Ancha San Antonio). Great location near downtown. Inside this colonial-style building you will find a water well. People say Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico's independence hero, used to drink this water when he was in San Miguel. USD100.
  • Portal 8 Hotel Concepto. A renovated colonial house. Offers 10 rooms, spa, and lounge bar with panoramic views of the city.

Splurge

  • Dos Casas Hotel. Contemporary designed boutique hotel, 2 blocks from the center. Includes wine bar and restaurant.
  • Haciendas Las Trancas. Centuries-old ex-hacienda. Ten suites with beautiful views of the Sierra Madres, each with Internet, satellite TV, propane fireplace, terrace, private bath. Additional beds and linens can sleep up to 30 people total. Wi-Fi throughout the porches and gardens. The hacienda is huge (approximately 40 rooms). Includes all meals, use of horses, heated pool/Jacuzzi, 17 piece Cybex Gym. Spa services available.
  • Hotel El Atascadero. One of San Miguel's oldest family-owned hotels. Once home to a famous bullfighter, a silk plantation, and has been for decades a retreat for artists such as Diego Rivera and Pablo Neruda.
  • Sagrada Wellness, La Mesita 11, Rancho La Mesita (15 min out of town). A retreat. San Miguel is not only a wonderful visit because of the town, but also spectacular for its gorgeous countryside. Sagrada's quiet and tranquil location is high up in the country with views of the high desert. Cabanas and canvas bungalows are spacious and with modern amenities. Architecture is amazing - very modern and built with sustainable materials. Food, yoga, and other spa treatments are offered separately.
  • Villa Mirasol, Pila Seca 35, Centro (4 blocks from the main square). Converted colonial home with 12 rooms and suites. USD100-150.

Stay safe

San Miguel de Allende, while perhaps safer than other tourist destinations in Mexico, can be unsafe. Most tourists don't have a problem when visiting San Miguel de Allende, but you should still exercise caution while on your visit. Use common sense, keep your valuables and cash out of sight and stay in well lit areas at night.

Connect

  • 11 Central Post Office (Servicio Postal Mexicano), Calle Correo 16 (on the corner of Corregidora, one block from the Jardín), +52 415 152 0089. M-F 08:00-16:00, Sa 08:00-12:00.
  • 12 Public Library (Biblioteca Pública), Insurgentes 25, +52 415 152 0293, toll-free: +52 415 152 7048, . M-F 10:00-19:00, Sa 10:00-14:00. Has one of the largest bilingual collections in Mexico, with over 30,000 titles in English, and operates a small gift shop and café. Free wifi is available throughout the building. Temporary membership $100 MXN refundable deposit, + $20 MXN (nonrefundable).

Cope

  • Atención San Miguel is a weekly bilingual newspaper that is the main source of local news for English speaking residents and visitors. The calendar of the week's events is particularly useful. Atención is published on Friday and is widely available at newsstands and businesses ($15 MXN).
  • Green Map San Miguel uses an interactive map with layers of information on sustainable living in San Miguel. Look here for information on restaurants that serve organic and/or local food, recycling and composting, greentech businesses, green organizations and bus routes.

Consulates

Go next

  • Thermal pools just outside of town for an afternoon of relaxation. Hail a taxi or grab a bus for just a few dollars to these pools, but be sure to arrange return transportation or know when the last bus arrives. The only hotel near the pools is said to be expensive and generally booked.
  • Atotonilco is a historic church approx. 10km outside of SMA. The sanctuary services as a piligramage desitination and the site where Ignacio Allende met up with Father Hidalgo to begin their fight for Mexican Independence.
  • Guanajuato, the Capital of the state. It is known for its network of tunnels under the city and for its "Museo de las Momias" (mummy museum), and you can also see Cristo Rey atop the Cerro de Cubilete.
  • Dolores Hidalgo is 40 km away and is worth a visit as it is the birthplace of Mexican independence - and a great place to sample odd ice cream flavors like pork rind and avocado.
This city travel guide to San Miguel de Allende is a usable article. It has information on how to get there and on restaurants and hotels. An adventurous person could use this article, but please feel free to improve it by editing the page.