Last Updated on April 1, 2024 by Soumya
Looking for the best things to do in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico? You’re at the right place.
San Miguel de Allende is a charming colonial town located in the heart of Mexico. It is known for its colorful architecture, vibrant art scene, and delicious cuisine.
From exploring historic landmarks to indulging in immersive cultural experiences, there’s plenty of fun activities in San Miguel de Allende.
One of the must-see attractions in San Miguel de Allende is La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel, a stunning pink church that serves as the city’s iconic symbol.
But there’s so much more, including spotting beautiful doors, visiting gorgeous churches, and checking out unique Mexican museums.
Let’s take a deep dive into the 20 Top Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.
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Top Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende
Marvel at La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel
La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel is a must-visit attraction in San Miguel de Allende.
Its breathtaking neo-gothic architecture and pastel pink color make it the most recognizable landmark in San Miguel.
Built in the 19th century, La Parroquia is also one of the most photographed churches in Mexico. Whether you visit during the day or at night, when it is decked out in lights, the church is absolutely gorgeous.
Trust me, La Parroquia is an unmissable addition to your San Miguel de Allende bucket list.
✦ Pro Tip: Visiting San Miguel de Allende? Check out our epic 3-day itinerary for the city.
Ride a Hot Air Balloon
Image courtesy: Dopeyden from Getty Images via Canva Pro
I am a big fan of hot air balloon rides, but could not do the San Miguel Hot Air Balloon Ride the last time I was there because, well, I did not book the tour in advance!!!
Riding a hot air balloon in San Miguel de Allende offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site from above.
Imagine floating gently over the Mexican countryside and catching glimpses of the historic cityscape as the sun rises, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.
This magical experience gives you a bird’s eye view of landmarks like La Parroquia, standing majestically amongst the colonial buildings and greenery.
If you’re seeking adventure and breathtaking views, a hot air balloon ride in San Miguel de Allende is an unforgettable way to appreciate the beauty and charm of this enchanting town. Remember, this tour is only available Monday through Thursday, and spaces fill up quickly.
📖 Related Read: Love hot air balloon rides? Try the surreal Mexico City balloon ride that takes you on a trip over the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacan.
Join a Historic Center Guided Tour
If you’re a first-time visitor to San Miguel de Allende, I recommend taking this Historical and Cultural Walking Tour to get a beginner’s introduction to the city.
Led by a knowledgeable guide who offers insights into local history and culture, this tour allows you to see the top San Miguel de Allende attractions in a very short time. That gives you ample time to explore your favorite landmarks on your own once the tour is over.
Further, the tour guide also provides wonderful recommendations for places to eat and hidden gems in San Miguel de Allende.
✦ Pro Tip: This is one of my favorite introductory San Miguel de Allende introductory tours. I highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city for the first time.
Stroll through the colorful alleys of San Miguel de Allende
Strolling through the colorful alleys of San Miguel de Allende’s Historic Center is like stepping into a colorful painting.
Every lane is dotted with colorful buildings adorned with beautiful doors and windows. Remember to check the characteristic door knockers. And every street corner tells a story.
Alongside the colors of San Miguel, the alleys are dotted with artisanal shops, galleries, and cafés that invite passersby to indulge in the local culture and craftsmanship.
📖 Related Read: Find more inspiration in our post on the Most Beautiful San Miguel de Allende Doors and Windows.
Click pictures on Aldama Street
I am sure you have seen pictures of a gorgeous street in San Miguel Allende lined with colorful colonial houses, each adorned with intricate doorways and vibrant bougainvillea covering their walls.
This is the famous Aldama Street – one of the most photogenic spots in San Miguel de Allende.
Apart from its colorful ambiance, the street offers an uninterrupted view of the iconic La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel, adding to its charm.
Explore Museo Casa de Allende
If you’re a history buff, you will love Museo Casa de Allende. This museum is set in a 17th-century mansion and was once the home of Ignacio Allende, a Mexican War of Independence hero.
Today, Museo Casa de Allende features several artifacts that offer a glimpse into ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, such as the ones in Chupicaro and Canada de la Virgen.
You can also see historical documents depicting life in San Miguel de Allende in the 18th and 19th centuries.
In short, if you’re looking for a good history museum in San Miguel de Allende, Museo Casa de Allende is a great choice.
Visit the Church of San Francisco
If you enjoy good architecture and beautiful churches, visit the Church of San Francisco.
This stunning church stands out with its intricate façade, featuring carvings that reflect the artistic talent of the indigenous people. The architecture is a fascinating blend of Mexican Churrigueresque and Neo-Classical European styles.
Inside, the elegance continues with a beautifully adorned altar and a small museum filled with religious art.
Shop for souvenirs at the Artisan Market
Head to the San Miguel Artisan Market (Google Maps) for a unique shopping experience in Mexico.
The artisans in this market showcase a wide range of Mexican art and heritage, from handwoven textiles and intricate silver jewelry to colorful ceramics and traditional Mexican folk art.
The Artisan Market is spread over 3 blocks. So, allow yourself at least an hour or two to stroll through the aisles and pick your favorite gift items from Mexico.
On the eastern end of the Artisan Market, you will find Ignacio Ramirez Market, which is as vibrant as the pyramids of fruits, vegetables, and flowers that are sold here. It is the perfect place to see local life and take some amazing photographs.
📖 Related Read: Looking for things to buy in Mexico? Check out our list of 27 traditional Mexican souvenirs.
Fun Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende
Enjoy the Views from El Mirador
Image courtesy: ferrantraite from Getty Images Signature via Canva Pro
If you want to capture San Miguel’s spectacular panoramic views, hike to El Mirador.
El Mirador allows visitors to see all of San Miguel, with its historic buildings, cobbled streets, and vibrant colors stretching out beneath.
Whether you’re an avid photographer aiming to capture the city’s beauty or simply someone who enjoys scenic vistas, El Mirador provides stunning views and wonderful memories. There are a couple of restaurants and bars nearby to relax after your hike.
The best time to visit is during sunset when the sun paints the sky orange and pink, and the city glows with a magical light. This makes for an unforgettable experience.
Join a Wine Tasting Tour
The region around San Miguel is renowned for its thriving vineyards and has begun to make a name for itself in the wine production industry. In fact, it is one of the newest and hottest destinations on the Mexican Wine Route.
Join a wine-tasting tour in San Miguel de Allende to sample exquisite local wines and delve deeper into the process of winemaking in Mexico. Learn about the unique techniques and traditions that go into producing each bottle.
Walk around the vineyard and enjoy the gorgeous views of the Mexican countryside.
Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or simply someone who appreciates a good glass of wine, a local vineyard and wine-tasting tour promises to be a highlight of your San Miguel de Allende trip.
Hang out in the Civic Plaza
The Civic Plaza in San Miguel de Allende is the best place for people-watching.
Built in the 16th century, this plaza is surrounded by stunning colonial architecture. At the center, you can see a tall statue of Ignacio Allende astride a horse.
San Miguel’s Civic Plaza is always buzzing with the energy of locals, artisans, and vendors.
Take a leisurely stroll, enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine at nearby cafes, or sit on one of the many benches to soak in the lively atmosphere.
Go Horseriding
If seeing Ignacio Allende on a horse has raised your equestrian instincts, go horse-riding in San Miguel de Allende.
Experience the colonial charm of San Miguel de Allende on this sunset horseback riding tour of 2 hours.
Relax at Benito Juarez Park
Image courtesy: elijah.lovkoff’s Images via Canva Pro
Like Chapultepec Park is for Mexico City, Benito Juarez Park is for San Miguel de Allende. It serves as a tranquil escape from the bustling streets of the city.
Benito Juarez Park was built in the 20th century and sports a typical European design with carefully manicured gardens, fountains, bridges, pools, and wrought iron benches.
It is also home to several plant species, including walnuts and blackberries.
Join a San Miguel de Allende Food Tour
Joining a food tour in San Miguel de Allende is the best way to immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine.
San Miguel de Allende is one of Mexico’s new culinary hotspots alongside Puebla. It is known for its fusion of traditional Mexican flavors with innovative gastronomic techniques.
Participate in this 3-hour food tour and taste various dishes, including shrimp tacos, chile en nogada, and mesquite beet salad. Learn about the history and ingredients behind each creation.
Also, learn about San Miguel de Allende’s history and architecture between samplings.
Cook Mexican food with a local chef
Image courtesy: Dan Richards from Getty Images via Canva Pro
Are you someone who loves cooking their own food? Do you love adding new culinary skills to your repertoire while traveling?
Then, you have to join this San Miguel de Allende Cooking Class with a licensed chef.
Prepare delicious Mexican dishes such as tortilla soup, Mexican fritters, snapper in banana leaf, and yummy desserts while learning about Mexico’s culinary history.
👉 This is my favorite cooking class in San Miguel de Allende.
Offbeat Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende
Visit the Allende Institute
If you love to check out hidden gems, visit the Allende Institute (Google Maps) in San Miguel de Allende.
Located south of the historic center, the Allende Institute is a visual arts school offering several art courses and degrees.
For tourists, the Allende Institute is a beautiful museum offering rich insights into the region’s vibrant art and cultural scene.
The institute is housed in a 17th-century hacienda with a private chapel and gorgeous courtyards. The courtyards were one of my favorite photo spots in San Miguel.
The institute also houses stunning murals that depict significant historical moments in Mexico.
Walk with Mojigangas
Looking for a unique cultural experience in San Miguel de Allende? Walk with the mojigangas.
Mojigangas are giant, colorful, papier-mache puppets that parade through the streets of San Miguel during festivals and special events like weddings, symbolizing joy and celebration.
These puppets, about 15 feet tall, are literally the highlight of every parade or “callejoneada” in the city center.
You can see them during festivals and sometimes even in the evenings, just out for a stroll.
If you want to learn more about these fascinating puppets (their origins trace back to Spain), head to Casa Mojiganga (Google Maps), where Hermes Arroyo has been creating these puppets for many years and specializes in them. You can also buy some papier-mache products here.
Check out the Toy Museum
The Toy Museum in San Miguel de Allende, also known as La Esquina Mexican Toy Museum, is a must-visit if you’re interested in learning more about Mexico’s cultural heritage.
This special museum houses an incredible collection of over 3,000 toys crafted by Mexican artists from all over the country.
From miniature figurines and party sets to elaborate wooden puzzles and large-size puppets, the Toy Museum in San Miguel is home to all kinds of crafty Mexican toys.
Do not miss their collection of Mexican dolls in the first room called the Play House.
Visit the Sanctuary of Atotonilco
The Sanctuary of Atotonilco, located about 15 minutes from the Historic Center of San Miguel de Allende, is often called the “Sistine Chapel of Mexico.”
This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its stunning murals, which cover virtually every inch of its walls and ceilings and depict biblical stories.
Here, you can see a true blend of European and indigenous Mexican artistic styles, which makes the murals unique and special.
The sanctuary is also one of the most religious places in Mexico. It attracts pilgrims and visitors from around the world.
✦ Pro Tip: It is hard to get to Atotonilco by public transport—buses are rare and mostly not on time (tried and tested!). The best way to visit the sanctuary is on this guided tour from San Miguel de Allende, which includes pick-up and drop-off.
Join an Archeologist-led Tour of Canada de la Virgen
[Image courtesy: Daniel Van Pelt via Canva Pro]
The ruins of Canada de la Virgen are a must-visit if you’re interested in Mexico’s pre-Hispanic history.
The ancient city of Canada de la Virgen, dating to the 4th century, was once home to the Otomi civilization.
The ruins are home to Mexican pyramids and ancient structures such as the House of the Wind, the House of the Longest Night, and the House of the Thirteen Heavens – strong examples of Otomi’s astronomical prowess.
Situated just a short drive from San Miguel de Allende, this archeological site is best explored on this guided tour with an actual archeologist who was involved in excavating the ancient site.
📖 Related Read: Love day trips? Here are the 7 best places to visit near San Miguel de Allende.
Where to stay in San Miguel de Allende?
The best place to stay in San Miguel de Allende is in the historic downtown so that you can walk to every attraction.
Here are a couple of the best hotels in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.
I loved my stay at Casa Maricela B&B in the historic center. It had the most adorable rooms and a beautiful rooftop.
If you’re looking for something more fancy, book a room at Casa de Sierra Nevada, a Belmond Hotel. Housed in a colonial mansion with beautifully manicured gardens, Casa de Sierra Nevada also has some of the best rooftop views in the town.
👉 Find more San Miguel de Allende hotels here.
Practical information for visiting San Miguel de Allende
Best time to visit San Miguel de Allende
The best time to visit San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, is from November to April when the weather is cool and dry. May to October is hot and rainy.
How to get to San Miguel de Allende?
Tourists often visit San Miguel de Allende on a full-day tour from Mexico City, which is ideal if you do not have too much time.
But if you have the liberty of time, I recommend spending at least 3 days in San Miguel de Allende to experience all the amazing things that the city offers.
You can fly directly to the Queretaro Airport (QRO) or the Bajio International Airport (BJX) in Leon. Book a private transfer from Queretaro Airport to San Miguel de Allende here.
If you’re traveling from Mexico City, there are 7 seven best ways to get to San Miguel de Allende including bus, car, and tour. Read our ultimate guide on getting to San Miguel de Allende from Mexico City to learn all the details.
How to get around San Miguel de Allende?
The best way to get around San Miguel de Allende is by walking. It is the easiest because it is really hard to drive in the narrow, cobbled lanes of the historic center. Might as well walk and enjoy the beauty surrounding you.
| Experience more of San Miguel de Allende and Nearby Read our posts on Perfect San Miguel Itinerary | Explore the colonial town with our perfect 3-day San Miguel de Allende itinerary. San Miguel’s pretty doors are absolutely unmissable. San Miguel Day Trips | Spend some more time around town with these epic San Miguel de Allende day trips. Do not miss the Sanctuary of Atotonilco, Mexico’s Sistine Chapel. Getting There | Travel to San Miguel easily with this Mexico City – San Miguel de Allende Transport Guide. |
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