How to Travel to San Miguel de Allende: The Ultimate Guide

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How to Travel to San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende is a charming colonial city in the heart of Mexico. It’s known for its beautiful architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant culture. If you’re planning a trip to Mexico, San Miguel de Allende should definitely be on your list.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about traveling to San Miguel de Allende, from how to get there to where to stay. We’ll also provide tips on how to make the most of your trip.

So whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, read on for all the information you need to know about traveling to San Miguel de Allende!

Method Pros Cons
Plane Fastest Most expensive
Train Cheaper than plane Slower
Bus Cheapest Slowest

Getting There

San Miguel de Allende is a beautiful colonial city in the Mexican state of Guanajuato. It is a popular tourist destination, and there are many ways to get there.

By Plane

The nearest airport to San Miguel de Allende is the Guanajuato International Airport (BJX). The airport is located about 45 minutes from the city center. There are direct flights to Guanajuato from several major cities in the United States, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Houston.

Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to the city center. The taxi ride will take about 30 minutes and costs around $20. The bus ride will take about 45 minutes and costs around $5.

By Car

San Miguel de Allende is located about 200 miles from Mexico City. The drive takes about 4 hours. The road is well-maintained and there are plenty of gas stations along the way.

If you are driving from Mexico City, you can take Highway 57 to Quertaro. From Quertaro, you can take Highway 45 to San Miguel de Allende.

By Bus

There are several bus companies that offer direct service to San Miguel de Allende from major cities in Mexico. The bus ride takes about 4 hours.

The most popular bus company is ETN. ETN offers direct service to San Miguel de Allende from Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Quertaro.

The bus fare from Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende costs around $50. The bus fare from Guadalajara to San Miguel de Allende costs around $30. The bus fare from Quertaro to San Miguel de Allende costs around $20.

Where to Stay

There are many great places to stay in San Miguel de Allende. There are hotels, bed and breakfasts, and Airbnbs to choose from.

Hotels

There are a variety of hotels to choose from in San Miguel de Allende. The hotels range in price from budget-friendly to luxurious.

Some of the most popular hotels in San Miguel de Allende include:

  • Hotel Casa Blanca
  • Hotel Posada Santa Fe
  • Hotel Matilda
  • Hotel La Casona
  • Hotel Boutique Casa del Conde

Bed and Breakfasts

There are also a number of bed and breakfasts in San Miguel de Allende. Bed and breakfasts are a great option for travelers who want a more intimate and personal experience.

Some of the most popular bed and breakfasts in San Miguel de Allende include:

  • La Casa de la Abuela
  • La Casa de los Sueos
  • La Casa de las Flores
  • La Casa del Bosque
  • La Casa del Sol

Airbnbs

If you are looking for a more affordable option, you can also consider staying in an Airbnb. Airbnbs are private homes or apartments that are rented out to guests.

Some of the most popular Airbnbs in San Miguel de Allende include:

  • Casa Luna
  • Casa Sol
  • Casa Arcoiris
  • Casa Azul
  • Casa Blanca

San Miguel de Allende is a beautiful city that is filled with culture and history. There are many ways to get there, and there are plenty of great places to stay. Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly option or a luxurious experience, you are sure to find something to your liking in San Miguel de Allende.

Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende is a charming colonial city in Mexico that is filled with things to do. From historical sites to museums to restaurants to bars, there is something for everyone in San Miguel.

Historical Sites

San Miguel de Allende is home to a number of historical sites, including:

  • The Parroquia de San Miguel Arcngel: This church is one of the most iconic landmarks in San Miguel. It was built in the 18th century and is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture.
  • The Casa de Allende: This house was once home to Ignacio Allende, a leader of the Mexican War of Independence. It is now a museum that tells the story of Allende’s life and the war.
  • The Instituto Allende: This art school was founded in 1940 and is one of the most prestigious art schools in Mexico. It offers a variety of courses in painting, sculpture, and other art forms.

Museums

San Miguel de Allende is also home to a number of museums, including:

  • The Museo de Arte de San Miguel de Allende: This museum houses a collection of Mexican art, including paintings, sculptures, and textiles.
  • The Museo Histrico de San Miguel de Allende: This museum tells the story of San Miguel’s history from the pre-Columbian era to the present day.
  • The Museo del Juguete Popular Mexicano: This museum showcases a collection of traditional Mexican toys.

Restaurants

San Miguel de Allende is home to a wide variety of restaurants, serving everything from traditional Mexican food to international cuisine. Some of the most popular restaurants in San Miguel include:

  • El Jardn: This restaurant serves traditional Mexican food in a beautiful garden setting.
  • La Alborada: This restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine in a stylish atmosphere.
  • The Restaurant at Casa de Allende: This restaurant offers fine dining in a historic house.

Bars

San Miguel de Allende is also home to a number of bars, where you can enjoy a drink and relax with friends. Some of the most popular bars in San Miguel include:

  • La Cucaracha: This bar is known for its live music and dancing.
  • The Rooftop Bar at Hotel Posada San Francisco: This bar offers stunning views of the city.
  • La Querencia: This bar is a great place to catch up with friends over a drink.

Nightlife

San Miguel de Allende also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants that stay open late. Some of the most popular nightlife spots in San Miguel include:

  • La Bodeguita del Centro: This bar is known for its live music and dancing.
  • The Secret Garden: This club is a great place to party until the early hours of the morning.
  • La Parroquia: This restaurant and bar offers live music and dancing on weekends.

Getting Around San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende is a relatively small city, so it is easy to get around on foot or by bicycle. However, there are also a number of other ways to get around, including:

Walking

Walking is the best way to explore San Miguel de Allende. The city is very walkable, and there are plenty of sidewalks and crosswalks. You can easily walk to all of the major attractions, restaurants, and bars.

Taxis

Taxis are another convenient way to get around San Miguel de Allende. Taxis are relatively inexpensive, and they can take you anywhere in the city. You can find taxis at the airport, train station, and major hotels.

Uber

Uber is a popular ride-sharing service that is available in San Miguel de Allende. Uber is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. You can order an Uber through the app, and your driver will pick you up at your location.

Rental Cars

Rental cars are available at the airport and major car rental companies. Rental cars are a convenient way to get around San Miguel de Allende, but they can be expensive. You will need to have a valid driver’s license and a credit card to rent a car.

San Miguel de Allende is a beautiful city that is filled with things to do. Whether you are interested in history, art, food, or nightlife, you will find something to enjoy in San Miguel. The city is also very walkable and easy to get around, so you can easily explore all that it has to offer.

How do I get to San Miguel de Allende?

There are several ways to get to San Miguel de Allende, depending on your starting point.

  • By air: The closest airport to San Miguel de Allende is Len Guanajuato International Airport (BJX), located about an hour and a half drive from the city. From BJX, you can take a taxi, bus, or rental car to San Miguel de Allende.
  • By bus: There are several bus companies that offer direct service to San Miguel de Allende from cities throughout Mexico. The most popular companies are ETN and Primera Plus.
  • By car: If you’re driving from the United States, the most direct route is to take Interstate 10 to El Paso, Texas, and then Highway 54 to San Miguel de Allende. The drive takes about 12 hours.
  • By train: There is no direct train service to San Miguel de Allende from the United States. However, you can take a train to Mexico City and then connect to a bus or taxi to San Miguel de Allende.

What is the best time to visit San Miguel de Allende?

The best time to visit San Miguel de Allende is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is mild and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 65F to 85F. The rainy season runs from May to October, and while it can rain heavily at times, the weather is still warm and sunny most of the time.

Where should I stay in San Miguel de Allende?

There are many great hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs to choose from in San Miguel de Allende. The most popular areas to stay are the Centro Histrico, the Zona Rosa, and the Colonia San Antonio.

  • Centro Histrico: The Centro Histrico is the heart of San Miguel de Allende, and it’s home to many of the city’s most popular attractions, including the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcngel, the Jardn Principal, and the Mercado de Artesanas. There are also plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops in the Centro Histrico.
  • Zona Rosa: The Zona Rosa is a more modern area of San Miguel de Allende, and it’s home to many of the city’s best restaurants and bars. It’s also a popular spot for nightlife.
  • Colonia San Antonio: Colonia San Antonio is a quiet, residential neighborhood that’s located just outside of the Centro Histrico. It’s a great option for travelers who want to stay close to the city center but in a more peaceful setting.

What are the must-see attractions in San Miguel de Allende?

There are many must-see attractions in San Miguel de Allende, including:

  • Parroquia de San Miguel Arcngel: This church is one of the most iconic landmarks in San Miguel de Allende. It’s known for its beautiful pink exterior and its intricate interior.
  • Jardn Principal: This plaza is the heart of San Miguel de Allende. It’s a great place to relax, people-watch, and enjoy the atmosphere.
  • Mercado de Artesanas: This market is a great place to find souvenirs and handicrafts from San Miguel de Allende. You can find everything from traditional Mexican clothing to hand-painted pottery.
  • Casa de Allende: This museum is dedicated to the life and work of Ignacio Allende, one of the leaders of the Mexican War of Independence. The museum is housed in a beautiful colonial mansion.
  • El Chorro: This waterfall is located just outside of San Miguel de Allende. It’s a popular spot for swimming and hiking.

What are the best things to do in San Miguel de Allende?

In addition to visiting the must-see attractions, there are many other things to do in San Miguel de Allende, including:

  • Take a cooking class: There are many cooking schools in San Miguel de Allende where you can learn how to make traditional Mexican dishes.
  • Go horseback riding: There are several horseback riding companies in San Miguel de Allende that offer day trips and overnight trips.
  • Visit the hot springs: There are several hot springs located just outside of San Miguel de Allende. They’re a great place to relax and soak away your stress.
  • Go hiking: There are many hiking trails in and around San Miguel de Allende. They range from easy to challenging, so you can find something to suit your fitness level.
  • Visit the nearby pueblos mgicos: There are several beautiful pueblos mgicos located within a short drive of San Miguel de Allende. They’re a great way to experience the traditional Mexican culture.

What is the food like in San

San Miguel de Allende is a beautiful city that is full of culture and history. It is a popular tourist destination, and for good reason. There are many things to see and do in San Miguel de Allende, and it is a great place to explore.

If you are planning a trip to San Miguel de Allende, there are a few things you need to know. First, you need to decide when to go. The best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. Second, you need to decide how you are going to get there. The easiest way to get to San Miguel de Allende is by plane. There are direct flights from many major cities in the United States and Canada. Third, you need to decide where you are going to stay. There are many hotels and hostels in San Miguel de Allende, so you will be able to find something to fit your budget.

Once you are in San Miguel de Allende, you will be able to enjoy all that the city has to offer. You can visit the many historical churches and museums, or you can explore the city’s vibrant art scene. You can also relax in one of the many spas or go hiking in the surrounding mountains.

San Miguel de Allende is a truly special place, and it is a city that you will never forget. If you are looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, then San Miguel de Allende is the perfect destination for you.

Key Takeaways

  • San Miguel de Allende is a beautiful city that is full of culture and history.
  • The best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from November to April.
  • The easiest way to get to San Miguel de Allende is by plane.
  • There are many hotels and hostels in San Miguel de Allende, so you will be able to find something to fit your budget.
  • San Miguel de Allende is a truly special place that you will never forget.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.