What attracts so many foreign retirees and visitors to this small colonial Mexican town? San Miguel does not boast enormous historical sights, but it is a sight in itself with its quaint streets framed with colourful old architecture and year-round perfect weather. Although sometimes referred to as Mexican Disneyland due to its fairy-tale feel, the town maintains its traditions and authenticity. The town of San Miguel is nestled within other visit-worthy destinations like Guanajuato City, Dolores Hidalgo, and Querétaro which makes it a perfect base for longer vacations.
Strolling through the cobbled-streets around El Jardin
One of the main pleasures of visiting San Miguel is walking leisurely through the old center. There is no need for taxis as everything can be reached on foot. The surrounding buildings offer a pleasant shade in the hot summer. While bouncing from one artisan store to the next, one should not miss the subtly pink-coloured Parroquia de San Miguel and the Templo de San Francisco church. Stop at the Fabrica La Aurora for countless art galleries. As every corner of the town has its own charm, just wonder around and find your own favorite place.
Indulging in sunsets and cocktails
There is nothing more romantic than watching the glowing silhouette of the Gothic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel during the sunset while sipping a creatively crafted cocktail with a Mexican twist. On the more expensive side, head to one of the high-end rooftop bars such as Luna Bar in the Rosewood Hotel or Hotel Nena’s Sky Bar – both adjacent to each other and just a short stroll away from El Jardin, offering sweeping panoramas of the historic center.
Tip: A more wallet-friendly (but no less spectacular) alternative is to head to El Jardin just before sunset, and treating yourself to some delicious esquites or elotes (corn snacks) while enjoying the front-row view of the radiant pink towers of the Parroquia.
A foodies’ and shoppers’ paradise
In recent years, San Miguel has reinvented itself as a cosmopolitan town attracting artists, chefs and designers from all around Mexico and even the world. The result of this is world-class cuisine and shopping opportunities.
Don’t be surprised to find Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, Indian, English and (of course) Mexican food here. It is almost impossible to find a bad-tasting dish in San Miguel, but for something extra special make sure to visit Café San Agustín for out-of-this-world churros (sweet fried dough pastries) with hot chocolate. On Saturdays, San Miguel also hosts an organic market (tianguis orgánico) offering local and international treats of superior quality (geared mostly towards foreigners).
Shopping options are limitless with boutique stores focusing on jewellery (like the well-known Opal Mine), fashion (Mixta), and local handicrafts. The largest choice of local handicrafts is in the large Mercado de Artesanías which includes metal crafts, paintings, local sweets, instruments, and other handicrafts from all over Mexico. Look for the ‘celestial poop’ in one of the candy stores. Prices are a bit higher than in comparable markets in Mexico City, so save some pesos if you plan to stop by the capital later in your travels.
Latin America’s response to the Sistine Chapel: Atotonilco
Although not covered with frescoes of famous Renaissance artists, the Sanctuary of Jesus Nazareno de Atotonilco boasts some of the most original and elaborate religious art in the entire Latin America. The frescoes depict Catholic motifs combined with indigenous folklore and historical events – after all, this church played a huge role in the Mexican independence movement began in the 19th century. After your visit head to the small market stalls just outside of the church to savour some heavenly local snacks such as freshly made gorditas.
The small town of Atotonilco, where the church is based, is a mere 14km away from San Miguel de Allende and can be easily reached with a taxi, local bus or even by bike. A visit to Atotonilco can be combined with a trip to Dolores Hidalgo to learn more about the independence movement, or with a visit to the nearby balenarios (thermal water spas).
Tip: The main chapel of this sanctuary can be visited free of charge, but the smaller chapel near the main entrance has the most impressive frescoes and can be visited for a symbolic fee. Ask the guards to unlock the gates to this part of the church.
Cacti, gorges and viewpoints from El Charco
A short ride (or a not-so-short walk) into the hills of San Miguel offers a green escapade from the hustle of the town. In the botanical garden El Charco del Ingenio you can stretch your legs with a short hike through the diverse local vegetation. The path includes wetlands with nesting birds, a deep gorge filled with legends and minor colonial ruins. The far left section of the garden rewards hikers with a dramatic view of San Miguel and the surrounding landscape.
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