5 reasons you should be planning a trip to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Northwest from Mexico City in the Free and Sovereign State of Guanajuato, the city of San Miguel de Allende is one of the unsung destinations of the country. The art, culture, and beauty of the city cannot be underestimated.

The problem is that it’s often overshadowed by the resorts on the coasts as well as other communities like Mexico City. But San Miguel de Allende deserves to be on your travel list for a multitude of reasons, and is ready and waiting for you.

Historic and stunning architecture

San Miguel de Allende was a community long before the Spanish arrived in the 16th Century. But like much of the country, the impact of the colonial era is extremely evident here, particularly in the remaining architecture.

Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, a famous Neo-Gothic church, stands out thanks to its stunning pink towers. The Santuario de Atotonilco is also worth checking out. It has been referred to by some as the Sistine Chaple of Mexico.

Celebrated cultural festivals

If there’s one thing that can be said about San Miguel de Allende, it’s that this city loves having festivals. They are going on throughout the year, with several happening every month. It almost doesn’t matter when you travel, you’re almost guaranteed to run into one.

Naturally, Day of the Dead is a big deal. But if you have the opportunity, stop by for the Festival Internacional de Jazz & Blues or La Calaca Festival. Honestly, you don’t really have to plan too hard. There are so many amazing festivals here.

The arts and culture scene

The culture of Mexico is vast and runs back thousands of years. And an outstanding place to celebrate it is in San Miguel de Allende. It is home to numerous museums and galleries highlighting the art, culture, and history of this part of the world.

Museo Histórico Casa de Allende is interesting as it focuses on the country’s fight for independence. The Mask Museum of San Miguel de Allende offers a unique look into a key cultural aspect that many people don’t understand. And these are just the beginning.

Eating amazing and unique food

Mexican food varies greatly from region to region across the country. And the food in San Miguel de Allende is reputedly incredible, with multiple restaurants being respected by international food travelers and locals alike.

Garambullo Fonda Gourmet, Zibu Allende, and Tacos San Francisco are all must-stop destinations in town. Lavanda Café is also a marvelous experience, due in no small part to the front of the building that screams classic Mexico.

Experience Mexico’s highlands

The natural beauty both in and outside of the city cannot be underestimated. Parque Benito Juárez is full of life, both thanks to the flora and the people in it. While this isn’t the only park in town, it also pays to step away from San Miguel de Allende.

There is a lot to experience a short distance from the city, including the various archeological ruins as well as all of the nature around you in the highlands. Canada de la Virgen is both a Federally Protected Sanctuary and home to some exceptional pyramids.