Art & Culture
In the 20th century San Miguel became a mecca for artists and writers drawn to the desert’s ethereal glow, and the city blossomed into the cultural hub it is today.
Main Content
San Miguel De Allende
The Heart of Mexico San Miguel de Allende
About The City
Set in the high desert 165 miles (266 kilometers) north of Mexico City lies the colorful colonial city of San Miguel de Allende. Originally home to the indigenous Chichimeca people, the city was seized by the Spanish in the 16th century after the 40-year Chichimeca War. San Miguel was a main stop on the trade routes between Mexico City and the famed silver mining cities of Guanajuato and San Luis Potosí, and became known for its textiles, and grand haciendas built by wealthy merchants.
A Rich History
San Miguel de Allende played a significant role during the Mexican War of Independence in the early 19th century, as the city was the first in Mexico to gain independence from Spain. Additionally, San Miguel was the birthplace of two heroes of the war, Juan Aldama and Ignacio Allende, the latter after which the city was renamed.
A UNESCO World Heritage City
Filled with lively art galleries, world-class restaurants, and charming baroque and neoclassical architecture framed by rustic cobblestone streets, the beauty of San Miguel de Allende earned it the title of UNESCO World Heritage city in 2008.
A City of Magic & Wonder
San Miguel de Allende was also voted Best City in the World in 2017 and 2018 by Travel + Leisure, and Best Small City in the World in 2020 by Condé Nast Traveler. A city filled with culture, history, art, architecture and so much more, San Miguel de Allende truly is the heart of Mexico.
Watch Our Videos On San Miguel de Allende
The Flavors & Textures Of San Miguel de Allende
The Weather In San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende has a superb climate. This is one of the many reasons the city is so popular among visitors and residents alike. Even though winter days can get cold (October to the middle of March), they are generally very pleasant. The temperature shifts very quickly and, by the second half of March, the days start getting warmer but It rarely gets overly hot, even in the midsummer. By May, the thermometer is at its highest at approximately 87.5 °F. The days start to cool off when the rainy season begins in the summer (June through September). The rainy season is not that heavy, there are usually scattered storms followed by clear blue skies, lots of sunshine and plenty of clean air. The countryside explodes with color.
The average is 57 days of rain per year. Expect cool nights most time of year.
Your Guide To San Miguel de Allende
Explore San Miguel de Allende
Learn more about the different areas within and around San Miguel de Allende.