San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, is a city that shouts art through its colonial beauty. Not surprisingly, many travelers consider it as one of the most beautiful destinations in Mexico. Here is a list of what to do and how to enjoy your time in a place that is also a World Heritage Site.
In San Miguel it is the details that conquer, the cobbled streets, the houses full of color that always seem to be partying, the combination of styles in their constructions and much more. Touring this beautiful city is an experience, here the hotels look like galleries, but above all there is an extraordinary cultural fusion in which people from all over the world flow and contribute something to the magic of this destination.
HOW TO GET?
If you are in the city of Guanajuato there are buses that leave from the bus terminal and cost approximately 5 dollars. The travel time is one hour and a half. Tourist agencies offer various tours to this destination and prices vary depending on the stay.
HOW’S THE WEATHER?
As in all places, the weather varies depending on the season, but mornings and nights are usually very cool, so don’t forget your sweater.
WHAT TO DO IN SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE?
El Jardín Principal
The first step is to know El Jardín Principal, it is in the first square of the city and it is ideal to start the tour. Enjoy the time in the shade while you take a snow and in the background you can listen to the live music of the central kiosk.
The Parish of San Miguel
The imposing facade of the parish, located almost in the center, will steal your attention. His style is neo-gothic and was built at the end of the 17th century. The name of the architect is not known exactly, but there is a whole story around it, it is said that European postcards inspired its construction and, when you see the photographs, you will notice that its beauty seems taken from a painting.
La Iglesia Nuestra Señora de la Salud
This church is very close to the first square of the city and your view can not depart from it, because its architecture stands out that is combined with religious images in perfect harmony.
Go to the Mirador de San Miguel and try a raspado
Some say that the eyes are the best camera, because the images they capture are those that last over time. The statement is true, so do not deprive them of enjoying the best view of the city. In the Mirador de San Miguel you will see everything from the top, you can deposit some coins to see more details of the city in a viewers and then pass with the handicraft vendors in the area. If you are thirsty after walking the stony streets, try a delicious raspado. They are served in small pots with the name of the city that will ultimately remain as memories.
The Handicraft Market
Without leaving the center, you only need to walk a few meters and discover the paradise of shopping lovers. Here you will find more than 40 businesses with local crafts.
Watch a play at the Angela Peralta Theater
Just like the Juarez Theater in Guanajuato, you can’t leave without seeing any function at the Angela Peralta Theater, whose story began to be told since 1873 and is currently still a meeting point where art comes alive.
Tour the Museo Casa de Allende
Have you ever wondered why it is called San Miguel de Allende? The best way to know the history of this place is to decipher the character that gave it its name. His house still retains the style of the nineteenth century. The museum opens from Tuesday to Sunday and the entrance costs around 3 dollars.
The Centro Cultural Ignacio Ramírez El Nigromante
For those who travel by art, this will be another reason to fall in love with this place. Here you will discover the legacy of painters such as David Alfaro Siqueiros in a place where American artists were inspired while fleeing from World War II.
Adventure park
If you wonder what to do in San Miguel Parque de Aventura if you travel with children this is the answer. Visit the Parque San Miguel, you can take any taxi from the center and it won’t take long to arrive. There you will find ATV tours, zip lines, suspension bridges, horse riding and other activities. There are also options for adrenaline fans, you can camp for 30 dollars a night and includes the tent and breakfast. They also offer packages with different activities.
Relax in the hot springs
After the adventure relax in the hot springs. In the Gruta SPA they use natural products and offer good massages and treatments. The entrance fee is around 6 dollars and they are located at kilometer 10 of the San Miguel – Dolores Hidalgo highway. They also have a bar, restaurant and cafeteria, an ideal place for the whole family.
WHERE TO EAT?
Breakfast at Lavanda Café
This is the best place to have breakfast no matter what time you wake up, the cafeteria has its morning menu at all times of the day. We recommend alternative coffee options.
Try going to Jacinto
Jacinto is one of the best restaurants in Mexico, it looks luxurious but in reality there are options for all kinds of budgets, from exotic dishes to pizzas and tacos are part of its varied menu.
Dessert
San Miguel is famous for its churrerías. Breakfast in one of many with a delicious freshly brewed coffee pot.
Cool off with a drink
El Manantial is the oldest cantina in San Miguel and has been open since 1920. Its atmosphere is ideal for a beer while you rest from your tour. If you crave something longer, try Mezcal Art, a proposal that drives this drink in the city and also offers a tasting and the opportunity to support local products. They also organize guided tastings and feature a beautiful garden full of art that is perfect for spending the day.
WHERE TO STAY IN SAN MIGUEL?
The Matilda hotel is like staying in a gallery, from the entrance you will find majestic works and books everywhere. Its restaurant is rated by travelers as one of the best in San Miguel.
This city definitely has a lot to offer no matter what type of traveler you are. The important thing and the best advice is to always pay attention to the details, that you get carried away by the fragments of the history of Mexico hidden in each place of your visit. Enjoy San Miguel and have a good trip!
