San Miguel de Allende is a popular trip from Mexico City. You can make it a day trip, but I’d recommend spending at least one night or a weekend in San Miguel de Allende because it’s a long drive – about 4-5 hours from CDMX. This popular tourist destination is one of many Pueblos Mágicos (Magic Towns) in Mexico. The main attraction is La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel in the main square, and even just walking around is beautiful. Last year, we spent Christmas there, and it was beautifully decorated and festive. The perfect weekend getaway.
How to get to there
Where to stay
What to do
Tour Options
How to get to San Miguel de Allende
Rent a Car
San Miguel is approximately four hours from Mexico City, depending on traffic. Renting a car depends on where you are staying and how much you want to drive when you get there. In my opinion, it’s not necessary unless you are staying on the outskirts of the city, or want to drive to other towns (such as Guanajuato) while you’re there. You will use the car to get to San Miguel, but little else – it’s a relatively walkable city. I’ve rented from Avis in Mexico before, and it was fine, but keep in mind – the car rental prices in Mexico are low, but the insurance cost is generally high.
Get a Driver
Getting a driver to take you to San Miguel is another option, but will likely cost about $200 each way. I found this option on Viator ($200 one way). This is a great option if you’re in a group or if you are going as a family and want minimal hassle.
Take the Bus
The bus is a great option. It costs about $70 – $80 per person (round trip) to take the ETN bus. The ETN bus is a very comfortable bus with large seats, TVs, bathrooms, and lots of space. It’s kind of like a business class bus. This is what my husband and I do when we go to San Miguel. Take into consideration that it will probably take 5 hours on the bus, there are no phone chargers, and no stops for food. So bring snacks and a portable charger and download some good movies on your phone or tablet for the ride.
Where to Stay in San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende is a destination location for tourists so there are many options for hotels and Airbnbs. You can find anything from small, family-owned hotels to large luxury hotels, so there truly is something for everyone. Here I’ve added a range of options.
- Rosewood ($$$)
- Mesón Hidalgo ($$$)
- Orchid House San Miguel ($$)
- Cantera 1910 Boutique Hotel ($$)
- Airbnbs
What to do in San Miguel de Allende
The town of San Miguel de Allende is a great place to walk around, relax, and take it slow. There are a few things to see, but people go there more for weekends away and to enjoy the beauty of the town. Here are a few suggestions. of what I would do in a weekend in San Miguel de Allende.
- Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel – A must-do, and hard-to-miss, this beautiful church is at the center of San Miguel de Allende. I recommend seeing it both in the day and at night. If it’s Christmas, even better!
- Get Brunch and Coffee at Lavanda Cafe ($$) – One of the best-rated, and most highly recommended brunch spots in San Miguel.
- Walk around Parque Benito Juárez – This beautiful, serene park hosts many artists selling their pieces and families walking around and enjoying nature.
- Get Churros at Churros San Augustin ($) – I will never pass up a churro, and this old school churreria is a great spot for a snack.
- Have Dinner with a view (& a show) at Quince Rooftop ($$$) – The reason to go is for the view and the show they put on during dinner. Try it for yourself to see what I mean!
Tour Options
Want to make it easy? Check out the all the available tour options for San Miguel de Allende below.
