San Miguel de Allende walking tour & city guide
A pink gothic church and colorful colonial streets.
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San Miguel de Allende, in the highlands of central Mexico, is one of the most beautiful colonial towns in the country. Its cobbled streets of ochre, red and yellow houses lead to a fairytale pink church, and its art scene and pleasant climate have attracted artists and travelers for decades.
The Parroquia and the JardĂn
The Parroquia de San Miguel ArcĂĄngel, with its pink neo-gothic towers, is the symbol of the town. Its unusual facade was designed in the late 19th century by a local stonemason who is said to have been inspired by postcards of European cathedrals.
In front of it, the JardĂn Allende, the main square, is shaded by trimmed laurel trees and surrounded by colonial buildings. In the evenings, mariachis play and families gather on the benches.
Art and surroundings
The town has a long artistic tradition. The Bellas Artes cultural center, in a former convent, has a mural by David Alfaro Siqueiros, and the FĂĄbrica La Aurora, a former textile factory, is now filled with galleries and design shops. The Mirador viewpoint offers a classic panorama of the town.
Nearby, the Charco del Ingenio botanical garden protects cacti and a canyon, the Atotonilco sanctuary is known as the 'Sistine Chapel of Mexico', and several natural hot springs are popular for a relaxing day.
Visiting tips
San Miguel is about three and a half hours from Mexico City by bus. The streets are steep and cobbled, so wear good shoes. Festivals take place throughout the year, especially around the town's patron saint in late September, with fireworks and parades.
Top sights in San Miguel de Allende
- 1
Parroquia de San Miguel ArcĂĄngel
The famous pink gothic church.
- 2
JardĂn Allende
The town's main square.
- 3
Mirador
A viewpoint over the rooftops.
- 4
FĂĄbrica La Aurora
A former factory turned art center.
- 5
Charco del Ingenio
A botanical garden and canyon.
- 6
Atotonilco Sanctuary
A church covered in painted murals.
Food markets & where to eat in San Miguel de Allende
Mercado Ignacio RamĂrez
A local market with food stalls.
JardĂn Allende
Street carts with corn, tacos and ice cream.
Calle Hidalgo and Calle UmarĂĄn
Rooftop terraces with views of the Parroquia.
Mercado Sano
An organic market and food court.
Food to try in San Miguel de Allende
Enchiladas mineras
A Guanajuato specialty with potatoes and carrots.
Elote
Grilled corn with mayonnaise, cheese and chili.
Gorditas
Thick stuffed corn cakes.
Churros
Fried dough with chocolate.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to San Miguel de Allende
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in San Miguel de AllendeCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in San Miguel de Allende.
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