Things To Do
Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel
San Miguel’s iconic landmark, the Parroquia (officially the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel), is now world-famous. Look for its eclectic, neo-Gothic spires, crowning the city skyline, to locate the downtown area called the Centro. In 1880, self-taught mestizo architect and stone quarry master Zeferino Gutiérrez is said to have designed the church’s facade based on postcards of European cathedrals. He mapped out each day’s scope of work in the sand with a stick, since blueprints would have required reading and writing, two skills his craftsmen didn’t possess. You need not listen closely to hear La Luz, the largest of eight bells, tolling the hours clearly.
El Jardín
El Jardín is San Miguel's main plaza, located in the heart of the city. At the Zocalo, as El Jardín is often called, you can spend time people-watching, perusing the nearby shops and restaurants and reorienting yourself should the town's winding roads lead you astray. We loved grabbing some baked goods from La Colmena Panaderia to enjoy as we people-watched.
Aldama Street
Aldama Street in downtown San Miguel de Allende is one of the most beautiful streets in the world, according to Architectural Digest magazine. It is most photographed street in San Miguel!
Church of the Immaculate Conception
Church of the Immaculate Conception also call (Las Monjas – the Nuns) is not far from the iconic La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel. The church has yellow distinctive dome with statue of the Immaculate Conception sitting on top and bell tower. Zeferino Gutierrez built the church between 1755 and 1891.
Atotonilco Sanctuary (World Heritage Site)
Known as Mexico's Sistine Chapel, this vitally important church in the hamlet of Atotonilco, 11km north of San Miguel, is defined by its connection to the independence struggle, which has made it an important icon for Mexicans.
Fábrica La Aurora Centro de Arte y Diseño*
A popular stop in San Miguel de Allende, the Fábrica la Aurora spins a new yarn as a complex filled with antique shops, galleries, artist studios and restaurants. It’s a former textile mill that has been converted into a vibrant arts center.
Mercado de Artesanias
The Mercado de Artesanías is known for its wide selection of handmade crafts, including pottery, textiles, and jewelry, made by local artisans from San Miguel de Allende and the surrounding areas. It is quite large, about 3 blocks long stretching from the corner of Relox/Del Palmar to Colegio, where the Mercado Ignacio Ramirez begins (food market).
Vineyards & Wine Tasting
The San Miguel wineries are spread out from the east edge of San Miguel de Allende to the west side of Dolores Hidalgo. We enjoyed wine tastings at Cuna de Tierra, Tres Raices, and La Santisma Trinidad .
Enjoy the Sunset
Watching the sunset at various rooftop bars and restaurants was one of our favorite things to do. We recommend Quince, La Unica, Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar, and Atrio - to name a few.
Restuarants and Cafes
You honestly can't go wrong. Stay tuned for a link to a list of our favorite restaurants and cafes.
Lavanda Cafe
One of the BEST cafes we have ever been to! Definitely worth checking out. Try to arrive early because it does get busy.