15+ AMAZING spots in San Miguel de Allende from a LOCAL
15+ AMAZING spots in San Miguel de Allende from a LOCAL
Champi Alvarez
Available for hire
Amazing recommended spots from a local born and raised in the city :)
Updated ago
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San Miguel de Allende is one of the most picturesque and unique colonial cities in Mexico, and as a local that has watched it grow and completely transform, I can recommend the best things to do in the city for your next visit just as we locals love.
These are my favourite and some that you definitely cannot miss if this is your first time visiting!
FOR NATURE LOVERS
La Gruta Spa
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Thermal waters with both open and closed warm pools that are worth visiting. Plus it's only $250MXN/$13USD per person for the whole day.
I recommend arriving early for the best experience of having the place almost to yourself!
Open from Wednesday to Sunday from 7am to 5pm.
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Charco del Ingenio
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A Botanical Garden & extraordinary Nature Reserve that has an extensive collection of cacti and other succulent plants from Mexico, many of them rare, threatened or in danger of extinction. You can walk around and watch wonderful fauna and flora plus there's a wonderful museum on it.
Open every day from 9am to 6pm. And the cost for entrance is $50MXN/$3USD.
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Coyote Canyon Adventures
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A local and sustainable tour operator that offers horseback riding excursions, archaeological & cultural tours and adventure activities around the city.
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La Playita | Beach Club
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FOR ART LOVERS
Fabrica la Aurora
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After having been an important driving force for the labor sector in the textile industry for nine decades, what was once a textile factory, today houses canvases, sculptures and handicrafts by great artists who live in San Miguel.
Open every day from 10am-6pm, except Sundays that close at 5pm.
Free Entry.
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Instituto Allende Escuela de Arte y Español
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A school of art and Spanish in a colonial structure that is worth visiting where you can still take classes today.
An art school that became an independent part of the Department of Education of the State of Guanajuato when the National Institute of Fine Arts was created.
With beautiful murals from important Mexican and foreign artists.
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Murales Guadalupe
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This neighbourhood has become the most picturesque and artistic in the city. With hundreds of murals around the streets, its worth taking a look and wandering around the neighbourhood for it as well as charming cafés and restaurants.
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Museo La Esquina del Juguete popular Mexicano
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FOR HISTORY + ARCHEOLOGY LOVERS
Cañada de la Virgen
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The Cañada de la Virgen archaeological zone, located in the municipality of San Miguel de Allende, is a pre-Hispanic settlement located on the northern border of Mesoamerica, whose main monuments were used to make observations of the sky.
Open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm and offering hourly tours that are worth taking.
Entry is $75MXN/$4USD.
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Centro Cultural Ignacio Ramírez El Nigromante
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The Centro Cultural Ignacio Ramírez "El Nigromante" is a vital art center in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. It has a rich history, originally a convent and now a hub for artistic education and cultural events. With its diverse range of classes, exhibitions, and performances, it plays a crucial role in nurturing artistic talent and promoting cultural enrichment in the region. Its historical significance and ongoing contributions make it a cornerstone of the local arts and culture scene.
Plus the building is beautiful.
Open everyday except Monday from 10am to 6pm.
Free entry.
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Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel
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The Parroquia, with its stunning neo-Gothic façade, is a must-visit for first-time travelers to this charming Mexican town. As you approach its towering pink spires, you'll be captivated by the architectural beauty that graces the town's skyline.
Inside, you'll discover a serene sanctuary filled with history and tradition. Admire the intricate altar, ornate décor, and the awe-inspiring atmosphere that makes this church a cultural and spiritual gem. Whether you come for a moment of quiet reflection or to appreciate the architecture, the Parroquia de San Miguel is a testament to the town's rich heritage and a must-see during your visit.
A place where locals still hang out especially on Sundays and where you get to witness Mariachi bands playing on afternoons mostly on weekends.
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FOR THE BEST ROOFTOP VIEWS IN TOWN
Luna Tapas Bar
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On top of the Rosewood hotel, this rooftop offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains, making it ideal for sunset lovers.
Make a reservation as it can get full very quickly.
Open every day from 12pm to 11pm. Except Mondays when opening times are from 2pm-11pm.
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Atrio Restaurant & lounge
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Known for its delicious food and warm atmosphere, which is also operated by a local-- this place has one of the most impressive views of the San Miguel de Allende parish, very worth visiting, even if only for a few drinks.
Make reservations in advance.
Open everyday from 1pm-10:30pm.
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Casa Nostra Restaurant, Terrace and Rooftop
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A restaurant and rooftop offering Italian and European specialities with an incredible view to the city. Ask for the top floor to get the best views ever and make a reservation in advance as it fill up quickly!
Hours:
Wednesdays + Thursdays 5:30-10pm
Friday to Sunday 2-11pm.
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
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La Azotea Restaurante
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FOR WINE LOVERS
Santísima Trinidad - Dolores Hidalgo
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A bit further away from San Miguel de Allende, though very worth it. It has the most beautiful views of a vineyard restaurant in the surrounding of San Miguel and a delicious menu, the kale salad with goat cheese, caramelized ginger, balsamic reduction & red wine is to die for, as well as any of the grilled dishes you order from the menu.
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Viñedo Dos Buhos
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An incredible all-organic winery in the outskirts of the city. The only vineyard that offers Orange Wine and it is a must in hot afternoons.
A restaurant with yummy food and the possibility of getting your own picnic with a bottle of wine to enjoy in the vineyards.
Hours:
Wednesday + Thursday 11am-5pm
Friday to Sunday 11am-6pm
Closed Monday and Tuesday
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VIÑEDO - CUNA DE TIERRA
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The first winery from the region offering diverse types of wine and a restaurant that has amazing food. Very worth it, as you can also take a tour around their vineyard and learn about their process.
One of my favourites!
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For a full FOODIE'S guide to the best spots to eat in the city:
And if you need any local help for your trip to San Miguel de Allende or anywhere in Mexico, I'd love to help out! Let's have a chat:
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Champi Alvarez
Available for hire
✨🧘🏽♀️ I’m Champi, a Mexican creator and traveler based in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. I’m an avid traveler, Mexico lover and mindfulness practitioner and share lots about it on my instagram page @champitravels :)
🇲🇽 I focus on exploring mindfully my home country, Mexico, and have been doing it so for over 4 years, as well as living a more mindful life here and anywhere I go to. I'm a certified Mindfulness teacher so I love implementing this into my travels.
🗺️ My travel services and guides are personalized and crafted with love for you to have the best experience in this magical country. Especially to these destinations which I've experienced several times: Baja California Sur, Chiapas, Guanajuato City and State, Huasteca Potosina, Queretaro and my beloved hometown San Miguel de Allende.
🌯 From unique food guides, curated and personal recommendations to incredible destinations itineraries and wholesome conversations, I love inspiring you to love Mexico as much as I do 🇲🇽 🫶🏽
💛 I'd be happy to help you out if you're traveling solo, as a couple, as a family with older kids or traveling with your parents as well! There are some amazing experiences for everyone I'd be happy to share with you :)
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