Nestled away from the hustle and bustle of bustling Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende emerges as the picturesque heart of Mexico’s central highlands. Rich in colonial history, culture, and a thriving arts scene, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a true time capsule, complete with winding cobblestone streets and vibrant plazas adorned with colorful flowers.
San Miguel de Allende has gained international recognition for its unique artistic community, making the small city a haven for creatives and artisans. As you wander through its intricate streets, you’ll come across galleries, studios, and workshops showcasing a range of art, from traditional folk pieces to contemporary masterworks.
For outdoor enthusiasts, San Miguel de Allende serves as a gateway to stunning natural landscapes and hiking opportunities, such as the majestic Peña de Bernal. Additionally, the city boasts a growing culinary scene, featuring top-notch restaurants, cafes, and rooftop bars that blend traditional Mexican flavors with international influences. Notably, Casa Dragones, a renowned tequila distillery, is located in San Miguel de Allende, offering visitors the chance to sample Mexico’s finest spirits amidst colonial grandeur.
La Casa Dragones, the esteemed tequila distillery in the heart of San Miguel de Allende, is housed in a historic stone stable that once accommodated the famed Dragones Calvary during Mexico’s War of Independence. According to founder Bertha González Nieves, “San Miguel is so special because it holds so much history and is one of Mexico’s most beautiful cities.”
Whether you’re drawn to its rich history, inspired by its creative energy, or eager for premium tequila tasting, San Miguel de Allende offers a unique experience that can be enjoyed in just a few days. Discover how to make the most of a long weekend in this vibrant, historic town with insider tips from González Nieves.
Established in 1542 by a Franciscan monk, San Miguel de Allende’s colorful collection of colonial-era buildings is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
To get to and around San Miguel de Allende, international travelers can fly into Querétaro Intercontinental Airport (QRO) or Del Bajío International Airport (BJX) near León and arrange private transfers, shuttle services, or car rentals. Once in town, navigating is easy due to its compact size and pedestrian-friendly layout. Visitors can explore the historic city center on foot, take taxis for longer distances, or rent bicycles for a fun eco-friendly adventure.
The best times to visit San Miguel de Allende are during spring and fall, when the weather is mild and ideal for exploring the city on foot. Consider timing your visit with one of the city’s popular events, such as the Cervantes Festival in April or Día de Muertos in early November.
For accommodation, Hotel Matilda offers stylish accommodations and a vibrant atmosphere, while Casa Hoyos provides uniquely designed guest rooms in a restored colonial building. When it comes to dining, Garambullo Fonda Gourmet is a great spot for breakfast, while Tostévere is known for serving some of the best tostadas in town. Browse through the hand-written menu, and prepare to enjoy some pulpo (octopus) tostadas stacked high, or opt for the popular short rib sandwich if tostadas aren’t your preference. Make sure to come thirsty, as Tostévere is renowned for its tasty cocktails.
A local gem and one of González Nieves’ top recommendations in town is Bovine Brasserie, an Australian steakhouse. She describes it as having a sophisticated atmosphere that perfectly combines simplicity and contrast. For a truly unforgettable dining experience, guests can indulge in a private, five-course pairing dinner at La Mesa Dragones, specially crafted to complement Casa Dragones. The beautiful design of La Mesa Dragones features walnut cabinets made of laton and wire mesh showcasing their selection of sipping tequilas.
At La Casa Dragones, visitors can arrange rooftop tequila tastings with stunning views of central San Miguel de Allende.
In terms of drinking experiences in San Miguel de Allende, the La Casa Dragones Tasting Room is located in a beautifully restored colonial building dating back to 1671. Guests can participate in guided experiences such as tequila tastings combined with a tour of the historic home, or tastings focused on the premium brand’s barrel-aged expressions. As the sun sets, you can reserve a rooftop tasting overlooking the city, or an after-dinner mixology experience to learn how to make dessert-inspired cocktails.
Just a short 15-minute drive from the city center is Cava Garambullo, a small natural winery that was one of the first to establish in Guanajuato over a decade ago. Unrelated to the previously recommended cafe, Cava Garambullo offers visits, tastings, and occasional workshops and events on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
When visiting San Miguel de Allende, a must-see attraction is the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, a neo-Gothic parish church located in the heart of the city. With its pink towers and intricate facade, the Parroquia showcases the unique colonial architecture of San Miguel. Originally built in the 17th century, the church underwent significant renovations in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors should not miss exploring the interior with its stunning altars, ornate decorations, and beautiful stained glass windows.
For a three-day itinerary in San Miguel de Allende, day one could involve exploring art, architecture, and local history, as well as treasure hunting in the boutiques, cafes, and galleries around El Jardín. Day two could be dedicated to a hike up Peña de Bernal, one of the tallest monoliths in the world, located near the town of Bernal in Querétaro. After conquering the summit, visitors can explore the charming colonial town known for its handicrafts and local cuisine. Recuerda disfrutar de una refrescante agua fresca o unos tradicionales churros rellenos de cajeta. Antes de regresar a San Miguel de Allende, date un paseo por la pintoresca plaza del pueblo.
No te vayas de San Miguel de Allende sin probar su mejor tequila local, Casa Dragones.
imagen de cortesía
Día 3: Compra, Visita Azoteas y Prueba Tequila Premium
Empieza tu último día en San Miguel de Allende con un desayuno en La Cabra Iluminada, un café con un idílico patio arbolado que ofrece affogatos y chai lattes. Después del desayuno, dirígete a Doce 18 Concept House, ubicado en el Hotel Casa Arca. Otro favorito de González Nieves, Doce 18 ofrece una amplia variedad de piezas de moda y decoración para el hogar, textiles hechos a mano y joyería de plata. Ayuda que esté ubicado en el mismo edificio que la Sala de Degustación de Casa Dragones.
Ve allí después (asegúrate de reservar esta experiencia con antelación) para embarcarte en una exclusiva experiencia de cata de tequila dirigida por expertos que te guiarán a través de los matices de los tequilas de Casa Dragones. Aprende sobre el intrincado proceso de elaboración del tequila, desde el cultivo del agave azul hasta el arte de la destilación. Disfruta del suave y refinado sabor de Casa Dragones Joven, un tequila para degustar, conocido por su perfil de sabor distintivo y suavidad.
Doce 18 (arriba) ofrece una amplia variedad de artículos de moda, piezas de decoración para el hogar y joyería de plata. Los coloridos textiles característicos de la ciudad son otro recuerdo popular.
Después de tu cata de tequila, aventúrate un poco mareado y listo para explorar. Camina hacia el norte unos 15 minutos hasta el barrio de Guadalupe, donde puedes admirar una amplia variedad de arte callejero que adorna los callejones empedrados. Cruza el río para probar pulque, una bebida alcohólica tradicional hecha a base de savia de agave fermentada, en Pulques y Curados La Otomí.
A medida que el sol comience a ponerse, dirígete a cenar en Luna Rooftop, en el Rosewood San Miguel de Allende, conocido por sus vistas de 360 grados del horizonte de la ciudad, así como por sus tapas de inspiración mexicana. Después de la cena, termina tu noche en Bebek, el bar de la azotea en Casa Hoyos, para disfrutar de cócteles preparados por la mixóloga Fabiola Padilla, inspirados en ingredientes y tradiciones ancestrales mexicanas. Asegúrate de probar su Milk Punch hecho con Casa Dragones Blanco antes de regresar para descansar bien durante la noche.