31 Best Things To Do in San Miguel de Allende in 2025

By Edd and Cynthia Staton

Updated November 2024

What is so special about San Miguel? This enchanting highland town, at an elevation of 6,000 feet, has had an outsized presence in the travel world these past few years.

It was named “Best City in the World” by Travel + Leisure readers in 2017 and 2018, and has claimed the award for “World’s Best Small City” from Condé Nast Traveler three years in a row. 

Not bad for a place with a population of less than 150,000 that was on life support less than 100 years ago. Vagabond artist Sterling Dickson got off a train there in 1937, decided he had found a home, and proceeded to transform an almost deserted mountain hamlet filled with crumbling homes into an international art center.

Recruiting young World War II veterans to study at his newly formed Bellas Artes school for the arts under the GI Bill of Rights, San Miguel quickly turned a corner and never looked back.

Fast-forward to the present, when hundreds of thousands of North Americans visit each year and, like Dickson, thousands have decided to stay.

Drawn by the fairy-tale setting, thriving art scene, fabulous restaurants, year-round springlike climate, and surprisingly low costs, visitors and residents alike are blessed with choice in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

How many days do you need to spend in San Miguel? We spent three busy weeks there and barely scratched the surface of all the possible activities. No matter how long you stay, it would be difficult to become bored.

When planning your own trip, here are the best things to do in San Miguel de Allende (called simply SMA by locals). Some are off the beaten path; a few are unusual; many are free!

Around town

1. Stop by the tourism office ~

The local tourism office is a smart first stop wherever you travel. If available, pick up a paper map to get an orientation of the entire city (not easy on a phone screen). Ask for recommendations. Find out if anything special is going on while you are there.

Address:  Plaza Principal #8 Zona Centro

2. Take a walking tour ~

We often book a walking tour as soon as we arrive in a new destination. It’s a great way to not just look at, but also learn about the history of the most important sites. Plus, you get an understanding of the “lay of the land” for the rest of your trip.

3. Hop on the Trolley ~

Or do it the easy way and take a trolley tour. Twice a day on Tuesday and Thursday, these bilingual tours last about 1.5 hours. You’ll rattle along the cobblestone streets while seeing many of the top sites, as well as get a bird’s eye view of the city from El Mirador.

4. Admire the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel ~

San Miguel’s most famous landmark, La Parroquia, is not hard to find. This outrageously ornate cathedral with soaring pink neo-Gothic spires sits in the center of town and dominates the skyline. 

Its eclectic baroque style, totally out of character for traditional Spanish churches of the period, was designed by a self-taught architect from postcards of European cathedrals.

5. People-watch in El Jardin ~

Across the street from La Parroquia is El Jardin, known to residents as the Main Square. Sitting among the rose bushes on a wrought iron bench beneath carefully manicured laurel trees is the perfect spot for locals and visitors to take in San Miguel’s sights and sounds. 

Children playing. Wandering mariachi bands. Street vendors selling everything from roasted ears of corn to ice cream. Instagram wannabees striking poses in front of the cathedral. This is people-watching at its best.

6. Stroll around ~

Aimlessly wandering its cobblestone streets and alleys will most likely be your favorite and most-repeated activity, because San Miguel seems like a movie set no matter which direction you look.

You won’t be able to stop taking photos of the pastel colored residences with handmade doors and gates, blooming bougainvillea, and decorative lamp posts.

Pro tip:  San Miguel is one of the safest places in Mexico, so be sure to go out for walks after dark. At sunset and into the evening there is an almost magical feeling in the air.

7. Schedule a Home and Garden tour ~

Curious to know what’s behind those walls? Of course you are! An easy way to find out is by scheduling a House and Garden Tour through Biblioteca Publica, San Miguel’s public library. Run by volunteers, the library houses the second largest collection of English and Spanish books in the entire country.

The tour features a rotating roster of homes in many different styles. You may find yourself inside a multi-million dollar mansion complete with swimming pool and hot tub perched high in the hills.

Address: Insurgentes #25, Zona Centro

8. Hike up to El Mirador ~

The best panoramic view of San Miguel is the outlook at El Mirador. It’s “only” a 20-minute walk from the downtown plaza, but the incline is extremely steep.

If you haven’t visited via the aforementioned trolley tour, we recommend taking a taxi or Uber. You’ll thank us later for this advice.

9. Relax in Parque Benito Juarez ~

You will be doing a lot of walking while in San Miguel. There is no better place to get off your feet for a while than Parque Benito Juarez.

This large, lovely green space features narrow pathways, hidden gardens, lots of benches, and ample shade. Buy an ice cream from a vendor and relax! 

Pro tip:  While you’re in the area, stop by the Lavaderos del Chorro, a small square featuring basins once used as a public laundry during the Spanish colonial era. Then have lunch and tour the gardens at nearby Belmond Casa de Sierra Nevada’s Park Restaurant.

10. Sip cocktails at a rooftop bar ~

There is no better way to wind down after a long day of sightseeing than by stopping at one of the many rooftop bars in San Miguel for a sunset cocktail. In fact, visit a different one every evening!

Top choice for many visitors is Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar at the upscale Rosewood Hotel. Show up early to order a drink and snack from the inventive menu (hibiscus and tamarind margarita with lobster tacos, anyone?), then sit back and enjoy the show as the fading sun turns the sky beautiful shades of orange, pink, yellow, and purple.

Be sure to check out Quince, recently named 2024's Top Rooftop Bar in the World. With perfect views from every seat, Quince bills itself as both elegant and hip. The food, cocktails, music, and service combine to create a complete experience not soon forgotten.

11. Soar in a hot air balloon ~

Rooftop bars and the lookout point at El Mirador offer cool views of the city. But if you are looking for the most unique way to experience the beauty of San Miguel de Allende, hop in the gondola of a hot air balloon and soar about it all.

Globo San Miguel has been offering flights for over 25 years. Book their Classic Sunrise flight for an indelible memory.

12. Eat, eat, eat ~

If you consider yourself a foodie, welcome to paradise! From tasty street food to high-end fine dining, the culinary scene in San Miguel has it all. Here are some of our favorites to get you started.

Casa Nostra is TripAdvisor’s #1 restaurant in SMA for 2024. We celebrated our 50th anniversary with a fab dining experience on their rooftop terrace.

Cumpanio bistros serve up modern twists on classic French and Italian dishes. Be sure to pop in their sister bakery Panio for the most delectable breads and pastries you have ever tasted.

Bocaciega is renowned for inventive Greek dishes.

La Unica is an international chain with a San Miguel location that offers rooftop dining at its best.

Want to learn more about what you’re eating? Taste of San Miguel offers a variety of food tours from a 3-hour, 7 location tasting option to “Tacos and Tequila."

13. Hang out at a dive bar ~

When you have OD’d on all the fancy rooftop cocktail venues, it’s time to head to a good ole dive bar. One of the most notorious is La Cucaracha (The Cockroach). Jack Kerouac knocked down cheap beers here over 50 years ago, and little has changed since.

Address: Zacateros 22, Zona Centro

Our favorite is El Manatial, an SMA institution for almost 100 years. The swinging front doors recall old Western movies. Inside the stools of the small bar area are filled day and night with young hipsters and older expats.

The dining area in back offers a menu of surprisingly tasty food at super low prices. Potent, half-price margaritas during Happy Hour seal the deal.

Address: Barranca 78, Zona Centro

14. Come face to face with the Mask Museum ~

Get a unique glimpse into traditional Mexican culture at Another Face of Mexico, a non-profit mask museum. Bill and Heidi LeVasseur have spent more than 30 years gathering an extraordinary collection of over 500 Mexican ceremonial masks.

Their museum provides a fascinating understanding of the importance that dance ceremonies involving decorative masks play in Mexico’s indigenous cultures.

Address: Cuesta de San Jose #32, Colonia Azteca

15. Get back to nature in the botanical garden ~

A great change of pace from admiring SMA’s architectural splendor is wandering the many trails in its botanical garden, El Charco del Ingenio.

The sprawling 165-acre nature preserve, only minutes from downtown, contains many cacti species gathered from throughout Mexico. Stroll through tranquil countryside or have a picnic lunch near a small waterfall. 

Address: Paloma S/N, Las Colonias

16. Take a Tai Chi class ~

Another oasis of calm exists right outside San Miguel’s historic center. Lydia Wong, award-winning author and Master Shiatsu therapist, has created an inviting space where she teaches individual and group Tai Chi classes that are fun and energizing.

The landscaping of the grounds surrounding her studio transports you to a Zen garden in Japan. To immerse yourself in this unique environment, book one of her personally designed vacation rentals.

17. Shop for art at Fabrica La Aurora ~

A massive former textile mill has been transformed into the essence of San Miguel’s renowned art scene.

Fabrica La Aurora is a sprawling collection of art galleries and studios, shops, and cafes under one roof. Plan to spend several hours here browsing, chatting with artisans, and having an al fresco lunch at Food Factory or Cafe de la Aurora.

Drop by on Thursday for Open Studio Day, or stay late the first Saturday of each month during Art Walk for snacks and live music. 

 Address: Calz de La Aurora S/N, Aurora

18. Have fun at the Toy Museum ~

See history through a child’s eyes at Museo La Esquina, the museum of Mexican toys. More than 3,500 vintage toys accumulated over a 50-year period are displayed in four permanent galleries. One room is dedicated to transportation—think cars, trains, buses, and airplanes. Another features moving objects from fair like carousels and Ferris wheels.

Get in touch with your inner child while celebrating the culture and heritage of Mexican children at this charming attraction.

 Address: Núñez 40, Zona Centro

19. Catch a concert at Teatro Ángela Peralta ~

Named after Mexico’s most famous opera star, Teatro Ángela Peralta hosts performances by both local and international artists. This historic theater, opened in 1873, is an intimate space ideal for enjoying live concerts ranging from opera to flamenco dance shows. A special time to visit is during the International Jazz Festival held each November.

Address: Mesones 82, Zona Centro

20. Stop by a local mercado ~

San Miguel’s oldest market, Mercado Ignacio Ramírez, is named after a well-known Mexican poet. Popular with locals and tourists, it is a constant beehive of activity. In addition to selling fresh vegetables and exotic Mexican fruits, vendors offer everything from cheeses, spices, and snacks to clothing and local handicrafts.

Even if you’re not cooking during your trip to SMA, stop by for a taste of daily life.

Address: Calle Colegio, Zona Centro

21. Take a cooking class ~

Cooking classes are one of the most popular activities in San Miguel. If you enjoy preparing delicious food as much as eating it, here are some top options for you to sink your teeth into:  

Sazón Cooking School in the luxe Belmond Casa de Sierra Nevada serves up daily classes including Mexican specialties, healthy Mexican cooking and regional cuisine.

At Pura Vida Kitchen you can learn how to make gourmet tacos, Tamales and salsas, or even mole from scratch.

Established in 1998 and frequently featured in U.S. publications, La Cocina Cooking School offers immersive classes in Mexico’s culinary heritage.

Chef David Jahnke provides private cooking classes, market tours, or a combination of both. His instruction is tailored to your interests and level of expertise.

22. Wander in Mercado de Artesanías ~

If Fabrica la Aurora is the Neiman Marcus of San Miguel’s art scene, Mercado de Artesanías is more like Target.

Located right next to Mercado Ignacio Ramirez, this colorful covered market is a great place to pick up some affordable, handmade souvenirs. Don’t hesitate to gently bargain with the merchants. It’s expected.

Address: Lucas Balderas S/N, Zona Centro

23. Time travel at Museo Histórico Casa de Allende ~

Here is a bit of trivia for you. San Miguel de Allende is actually named after two different people: a friar named Juan de San Miguel and Ignacio Allende, a hero of the Mexican War of Independence.

Built in 1764, Allende’s birthplace and former residence was turned into the city’s museum in 1990. Its two floors are filled with artifacts that provide a glimpse into Allende’s life and an understanding of the history of the city. There are also paintings spanning three centuries and archaeological relics dating back to Mesoamerican culture in the area.

Address: Cuna de Allende 1, Zona Centro

24. Do it all at Dôce 18 Concept House ~

Dôce 18 Concept House is San Miguel’s answer to the popular Live-Work-Play concept—without the Work part. Under one roof you can eat, drink, shop, and stay.

This totally unique spot has three restaurants, a stylish bar serving inventive cocktails, a shopping space showcasing some of Mexico’s best designers, and six luxurious rooms in L’Ôtel boutique hotel.

Address: Calle Relox 18, Zona Centro

Day trips

As if there isn’t enough to do in San Miguel, beyond its boundaries lie even more varied and interesting options. Some are tours that provide transportation to and from the city. For the others, consider using Uber or hiring a private driver.

25. Marvel at the Sanctuary of Atotonilco ~

Thirty minutes outside of SMA is an historic complex centered around a large cathedral called Santuario de Jesús Nazareno de Atotonilco. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, its domed ceiling is decorated with Baroque frescoes so impressively beautiful that the church is often labeled the Sistine Chapel of Mexico.

Address: Calle Principal 31, 37893 Atotonilco

26. Go horseback riding ~

Pretend you are in the cast of Yellowstone with a horseback riding tour. Offering a variety of outdoor experiences for over 20 years, Coyote Canyon Adventures is your go-to source to channel your inner gaucho. Half- and full-day programs are offered including transportation to and from SMA.

27. Tour a winery

Think Mexico only produces tequila and beer? Then you will be surprised, as we were, to discover that the area around SMA is one of the world’s newest viniculture centers, and there are nearby wineries to visit in every direction.

We highly recommend Tres Raíces, where we took a vineyard tour and enjoyed a 3-course tasting menu with wine pairings. Delicious! The ultramodern facility includes a hotel and restaurant.

28. Explore Cañada de la Virgen ~

Cañada de la Virgen is an impressive archaeological zone located about 40 minutes from San Miguel de Allende. Constructed by the Otomi between AD 540 and 1050, the 40-acre site was abandoned for over 900 years and has only been open to the public since 2011.

The complex consists of four pyramids specifically constructed to track key lunar cycles and the movement of the planets. The attraction is best appreciated with this guided tour led by an archaeologist who was part of the original excavation.

Address: Carretera San Miguel de Allende - Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, Gto.

29. Soak in hot springs ~

Worn out from walking and exploring in San Miguel? Take a load off and relax in a pool of hot spring water. Two options are close to the city—La Gruta and Escondido Place. Both offer similar experiences, with thermal water pumped into man-made pools, and have restaurants, spa facilities and gift shops.

Pro tip: Combine a stop at one of the hot springs with a visit to nearby Sanctuary of Atotonilco. Also, complimentary towels are not provided, so remember to bring your own.

30. Mummy’s the word in Guanajuato ~

For a change of scenery, consider a visit to the colorful colonial town of Guanajuato. A little more than an hour’s drive from SMA, Guanajuato offers a more laid back vibe and some fabulous photo opportunities from the steep hills overlooking the historic downtown area. Save your energy by riding the funicular (cable car) up the top and back down.

Besides wandering through the narrow alleys, favorite attractions include the stunning Our Lady of Guanajuato Basilica and the Juarez Theater. For a totally offbeat activity, go see the Museum of the Mummies, a creepy display of over 100 formerly buried cadavers naturally mummified by the large amount of limestone and clay in the ground. Yikes!

31. Discover Santiago de Querétaro ~

Querétaro is an interesting city of over one million residents that almost no one has ever heard of. Only an hour’s drive from San Miguel de Allende, its large, well-maintained historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with museums, shopping, restaurants, and rooftop bars. 

With nary a tourist in sight and little English spoken, Querétaro offers a more authentic Mexican experience. Visit now before the travel world takes notice.

Wrapping it up

We have a prediction and word of caution to wrap up our guide of best things to do in San Miguel de Allende. Our crystal ball says that once you are back home, you will have a hard time deciding your favorite part of the trip. Was it a special meal? An unexpected discovery? Or simply the experience of being immersed in such a gorgeous setting?

Now for the warning. Many people come for a visit to San Miguel and are so captivated they never leave. Could you be the next? No matter what, this enchanting jewel in the Mexican highlands will without a doubt remain in your memory forever.

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Edd and Cynthia Staton are recognized experts on retiring abroad and expat life. They have appeared on network television, written hundreds of articles for national and international publications, and are regularly featured in the media including MarketWatch and Next Avenue.

They are award-winning journalists, authors of three Amazon best-selling books, and creators of Retirement Reimagined!, a Master Course providing comprehensive, step-by-step guidance to successfully move abroad.

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