They call it “magic town” in Mexico, a place that charms you in every corner. The architecture, cobblestone streets, traditions and culture of San Miguel de Allende dates from 1542, mixing the craft markets and art galleries among stately buildings from the Viceroyalty period.
In 4-5 days you could savour profoundly its magic, but after a long trip around Mexico, we only had one day to visit and discover the essence of this place. A day in San Miguel de Allende should include these 5 activities:
BREAKFAST AT A BOUTIQUE HOTEL
After researching on google, social media and through recommendations, there was no doubt that Casa 1810 was the hotel for us to stay. We wanted to a boutique hotel, with character and sophistication, that kept local authenticity but with the amenities of a good hotel. There are many options in San Miguel de Allende, but Casa 1810 conquered us with its colonial courtyard, terrace with view to the Church and exquisite design. We enjoyed a breakfast with mexican “huevos rancheros” and sweet pancakes. I love Mexican sauces and we needed energy for a long day touring.
WALK WALK WALK
We put on comfortable shoes to start the journey through the cobbled streets. I was drawn to the windows and small doors of the colorful buildings. The churches and parks add to the architectural, cultural and natural diversity of the place.
WE HEART ART
San Miguel de Allende is a cosmopolitan town that concentrates artists and craftsmen from around the world, many coming for a short visit and settle to flourish in art and design.
To see the contemporary visited La Aurora Centro de Arte y Diseño an old textile factory where you can find treasures of plastic art, antiques, furniture, decoration as Atelier Stellis, Atrium, El Nogal, La Buhardilla, Patio Decor, and more.
To see the traditional visit “La Esquina”, Museo del Juguete Popular Mexicano The Mexican folk toy museum is an cultural institution dedicated to the preservation of the game and Mexican toy. Is a unique, fun and takes you back to childhood.
SHOP ‘TILL YOU DROP
The crafts market was one of my favorite places to get authentic Mexican handicrafts. You can find masks of different characters, ceramics, embroidery and typical objects of the area and specialties from other parts of Mexico like leather shoes typical of Guadalajara, replicas, and merchandising of Frida Khalo and traditional sweets.
A PLACE WITH HISTORY
The tourist tram is a good break from the walk, it takes you around the town and outskirts and goes up hill for the most beautiful panoramic views of town. The educational history is interesting and rich. Each trip lasts about an hour and 15 minutes, a guide will be narrating the historical details of the place making travel more enjoyable and interesting. Here we got to try traditional sweets: tumbagón.
CHILL AT SUNSET
The sunset is one of the most precious moments in San Miguel de Allende. We enjoyed a Margarita cocktail and guacamole at Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar at the hotel Rosewood, with live music while the sun tinted golden this amazing mexican place.
MEXICAN DINNER
San Miguel de Allende is known for its high culinary level. There are creative, traditional, Mexican or international cuisine, there is variety, flavor and spicy. We decided to go to a quiet place, simple and flavourful typical fajitas at the Cantina Pueblo Viejo. We walked back to the hotel through the main square and listening to the chimes of the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel which is the energetic centre, light and magic of the town.
Photos and content: Josefina Luna
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