A cosmopolitan and picturesque colonial city and designated UNESCO World Heritage site, San Miguel de Allende is internationally renowned for its rich history, awe-inspiring colonial architecture and appreciation of the arts. The warmth of the people and the vibrant setting have captured the hearts of visitors for centuries. Founded in 1542 by the Franciscan monk Fray Juan de San Miguel, the missionary town was an important stopover on Spain’s silver route and later featured prominently in the Mexican War of Independence. Today, in an environment where the region’s rich cultural heritage is celebrated and artistic expression abounds, guests are presented with an endless array of leisurely pursuits—from historic walking tours, festivals and cooking classes, to art exhibitions, shopping among the mercados and bullfighting.

The town of San Miguel de Allende is nestled on a hillside in the central highlands of Mexico approximately 177 miles northwest of Mexico City.

Awash in the warm, saturated hues so favored by the city, and complemented with colonial-style arches, artisan ironworks and hand-carved wood adornments, the boutique resort of Rosewood San Miguel de Allende blends seamlessly with the town’s 19th-century Spanish colonial architectural palette.

Gracing the corner of Nemesio Diez and Calle Aldama, adjacent to the Parque Benito Juarez, the resort is a short stroll down Calle Aldama from the historic El Centro. At the corner of Nemesio Diez and Ancha de San Antonio, the Instituto Allende is the resort’s other venerable neighbor.

Transportation:

Airports: Queretaro International Airport (20 miles), Leon International Airport (45 miles, 1.5-hr. drive), Mexico City’s Benito Juarez International Airport (170 miles, 2.5-hr. drive)

Getting There: Approximate flying times to Leon: Houston, 2 hrs.; Dallas, 2.2 hrs.; Los Angeles, 3.2 hrs.; Chicago, 5 hrs.; New York, 7 hrs.; Mexico City, 50 mins.; Monterrey, 1.1 hrs.

Transfer Details: Private airport transportation is provided by luxury Suburban between airports in Leon, Queretaro and Mexico City. Transfer by helicopter is also available, offering a breathtaking first impression of the beauty of San Miguel de Allende.

Time Zone: CST

Immigration & Customs: For U.S. citizens, a valid passport is required.

Local Currency: The Mexican Peso is the official currency. However, U.S. currency is widely accepted and travelers checks and major credit cards are also accepted at most establishments.

Climate: San Miguel enjoys near-perfect weather, offering visitors the perfect balance between summer and spring—an ideal climate in which to enjoy al fresco experiences. The climate is temperate with cool evenings and warm days.

Area Attractions

• Jardin Principal: The heart of El Centro, surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings and archways and manicured laurel trees, the garden hums day and night with activities, from political rallies and live music to dance presentations and artisan commerce. In the presence of La Parroquia, locals and expats alike enjoy the life and energy of the square.
• La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel: The town's iconic landmark, a spectacular church with a neo-gothic façade built in early 1700s.
• Presidencia Municipal: Built in 1736, this building houses a painting depicting the creation of the first City Council of independent Mexico.
• Bellas Artes: National art institute with galleries, theater and cafe
• Iglesia de la Concepcion: Completed in 1891, this impressive church features a two-story dome and the elegant Corinthian columns inspired by Paris ’ Church of the Disabled.
• Centro Cultural Ignacio Ramirez "El Nigromante": Originally a convent in 1754, now a beautiful art institute.
• Instituto Allende: 17th-century weekend retreat of Count Tomas de la Canal, now a cultural institute open to visitors. Along with a cafe, restaurant and gallery of modern Mexican art, the Instituto also provides cultural, adventure and shopping tours.
• Iglesia de San Francisco: This neoclassical church built in 1799 features one of Guanajuato state’s finest Churrigueresque facades as well as interior paintings depicting St. Francis.
• Santa Casa de Loreto: A reproduction of its namesake in Italy, built in the 18th century with a baroque facade.
• Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Salud: 18th-century church with a facade in Churrigueresque style with oil paintings depicting religious scenes.
• Casa del Mayorazgo de la Canal: Neoclassic building with an enormous wooden carved door featuring intricate baroque details.
• Casa del Inquisidor: 18th-century residence with an elaborate facade denoting strong French influence.
• Teatro Angela Peralta: Neoclassic theater inaugurated on May 20, 1873.
• Biblioteca Publica: Beautiful colonial building containing Mexico's second largest English-language library. On Sundays, a popular house-and-garden tour departs from the library.
• Plaza Civica: Public square built in honor of General Ignacio Allende y Unzaga.
• Oratorio de San Felipe Neri: Built in the early 1700s, the facade of this church is a beautiful and original example of baroque architecture. Inside are beautiful neoclassic altars as well as works of art by Miguel Cabrera.
• Paseo del Chorro: Water spring originally used by local indigenous tribes before being discovered by the Spanish in the 16th century. Now a shady and peaceful park.
• Casa de Ignacio Allende: Baroque-style colonial house, c. 18th century. Birthplace of insurgent hero Don Ignacio Allende y Unzaga. Currently houses archaeological artifacts and historical documents from the 1700s to the Mexican War of Independence, along with works of contemporary art.
• Parque Benito Juarez: Expansive public park
• El Charco del Ingenio: Local ecological park perfect for hiking, running, rappelling and mountain biking. Several times a month, ritual herbal steam baths known as temazcales are open to the public.
• Jardin Botanico Cante: Comprehensive botanical garden containing over 1,000 species of cacti and an extraordinary orchid garden.
• Museo de Arte Contemporaneo y Parque Ecologico: Open-air art gallery and eco-tourism area with mountain biking and horseback riding
• Shopping: San Miguel Allende is known internationally for its great variety of handicraft works, including tin ware, wool, stonework, papier mache, hand-blown glass and pottery. Outstanding works of art are also on display year round in the town's many art galleries and at Fabrica La Aurora. Local markets include Mercado Artesanal and Mercado de San Juan de Dios.