Tips for Visiting San Miguel de Allende: What to Know Before You Go

San Miguel de Allende, with its cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and vibrant culture, is one of Mexico’s most magical destinations. If you’re planning a visit, here are my top tips to help you make the most of your time in this enchanting colonial city.

Is San Miguel de Allende Safe For Tourists?

From my personal experience—absolutely yes! Having traveled extensively, I feel as safe—or safer—in San Miguel de Allende than most places I have visited, including many cities in the United States. Like any city, San Miguel is not without crime, and there have been incidents in some outlying neighborhoods. However, these areas are outside the historic center where most visitors spend their time. In the main tourist areas, San Miguel generally feels very safe.

That said, as the saying goes: “nothing good happens after midnight.” Use the same common-sense precautions you would anywhere else—especially late at night when the streets are quiet.

Do I Need Mexican Pesos?

Yes. While some touristy areas in Mexico accept U.S. dollars, San Miguel generally does not. Fortunately, there are plenty of ATMs in Centro. Most businesses take credit cards, so you’ll mainly need pesos for tips, taxis, small shops, and taco stands. Some stores may offer a discount for cash on larger purchases—like artwork—so it can be worth having pesos on hand.

Tip: The best exchange rates usually come from your home bank—consider ordering pesos before you travel to San Miguel.

How Do I Get Around San Miguel de Allende?

There are abundant taxis in San Miguel

There’s no better way to experience San Miguel than wandering the streets, peeking through open doorways, and popping into the many shops and galleries. But if walking isn’t your thing, don’t worry:

Uber generally works great, with

short wait times. A typical fare from

one end of town to the other is about

$4 USD

Taxis are also readily available in

central areas and cost about the

same as Uber. Note that taxis only accept

cash in small denominations of pesos

(bills or coins).

Tip: Take a screenshot of your destination in Google Maps and show the address to the taxi driver to avoid confusion.

Is The Water Safe to Drink?

Ah, the age-old travel question!  The quality of the water can vary significantly depending on the location in the area and the treatment systems installed in the facility. The last thing you want on vacation is spending a day indoors instead of exploring. So, when in doubt, grab a bottle of water—it’s the easiest way to stay hydrated and worry-free. Better safe than… well, sorry!

Do I Need to Speak Spanish?

No. Almost all hotels, restaurants, and shops speak enough English for you to get by comfortably. However, don’t expect locals to know more than basic phrases.

When I need to ask a more in-depth question, I always start by asking if the person I’m addressing speaks English. If they say no or “a little,” I use a translation app to make sure there is no confusion.

Tip:  Google Translate is a lifesaver when you’re exploring a new place. Just tap the microphone to have a quick back-and-forth conversation—speak into your phone, then let the other person reply right there. Super handy in restaurants, shops, or taxis. And don’t forget the camera feature—point it at menus, signs, or even handwritten notes and watch the translation pop up instantly.

What Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit?

San Miguel is beautiful year-round, but the experience changes with the seasons:

January – March. While much of the U.S. is cold and wet, San Miguel enjoys abundant sunshine and mild weather. Daytime highs reach the upper 70s, while mornings and evenings dip into the 40s. Rain is rare during these months—perfect for strolling cobblestone streets and enjoying outdoor cafés.

Bougainvillea in April

April – May. The warmest months of the year, with highs often in the 80s and occasionally into the 90s. Despite the heat, the humidity stays low, making it more comfortable than it sounds. The countryside turns dry and brown, but the city remains full of vibrant color from its bougainvillea and blooming jacarandas.

June – September. This is the rainy season, but don’t let that deter you. Showers usually come as short, dramatic afternoon thunderstorms, leaving mornings and evenings clear for exploring. The rain refreshes the landscape, turning fields and gardens into lush, green oases.

October – December. A spectacular time to visit. With lows in the upper 40s and highs in the upper 70s, the climate is comfortable, and the skies are brilliantly blue. Rainfall is minimal, and the city comes alive with cultural festivals, parades, and holiday celebrations.

 What Should I Wear?

Your wardrobe will depend somewhat on the season—December through February are the coolest months, while April and May can be quite warm.

During the day: Almost anything goes—shorts, casual dresses, or jeans are all fine.

In the evenings: It tends to get cooler, so long pants or skirts and a jacket are most comfortable. You’ll rarely see men wearing shorts at nicer restaurants in the evenings, regardless of the temperature; traditionally, Mexican men don’t wear shorts, even during the day.

Footwear is key: The centuries-old cobblestone streets and stone sidewalks ooze charm but can be very slippery. Wear shoes with rubber soles and avoid spike heels or slick leather soles.

Conclusion

San Miguel de Allende is a warm, welcoming place full of history, art, and incredible food. A little preparation goes a long way to make your stay comfortable and unforgettable. Enjoy your adventure in this beautiful city!