30 Instagram-Worthy Things in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
Updated & Expanded April 15, 2024
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, is nothing if not Instragramable. There are so many people, places, and things in San Miguel to capture with your lens. With its rich colors, its colonial architecture and cobblestoned streets, its traditional crafts, great food, and its beautiful people, San Miguel will have your camera screaming, “This one! That one! Shoot that!” Whether you like to pose in beautiful places, capture interesting faces, or record your travels, San Miguel de Allende is up to the task.
Let these 30 photo subjects taken direct from Instagram and the dozens of images of the most beautiful and camera-worthy people, places, and things in San Miguel inspire you and your lens–and your IG followers.
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With Camera in Hand in San Miguel de Allende
One of the rules for visiting San Miguel de Allende in the central Mexican highlands: Never leave home without your camera! There are so many beautiful, odd, or off-beat things everywhere you look. Whether it’s a long-shot panorama of the streets and the view with purple jacaranda trees or more intimate details of a dancer or your dinner, San Miguel is a feast for your lens. As for posing? The perfect backdrop seems to present itself around every corner.
Don’t believe it? Just put #SanMigueldeAllende into the search box on Instagram and see what you get. This town is an Instagrammer’s banquet.
* To see more wonderful photos of San Miguel de Allende, click on the Instagram images embedded below and check out the feeds of the photographers. Likes and comments on their work are always welcome there.
#30 – The Old Gas Pump: Was This the First Gas Station in San Miguel?
This old pump is found at the corner of Calles Juarez and Mesones. I have no idea how long it’s been there, but I’ve seen it in some very old photos, from the ’30s or ’40s. Until a few years ago, it tilted at a bit of an angle. Then one day it disappeared.
There was a public outcry. “Where have you taken our beloved old gas pump? Bring it back!” But no worries, it had merely been removed to repair the base. It now sits proudly upright once again, just waiting for your camera. One of the best vintage things in San Miguel de Allende. Nice for posing with, too.
#29 – Vochos: The VW Beetles are One of the Best Things in San Miguel
You thought the original VW Beetle was a relic of the past? Not in Mexico, it’s not. In fact, Mexico was one of the very last countries in the world to still manufacture the iconic little car, and they can still be seen frequently on the streets of San Miguel. They are as beloved by Mexicans as they are in many other parts of the world. They even earned that ultimate sign of affection from Mexicans, a nickname. They are called vochos, though I have never been able to find out why. Perhaps for the “V” in VW.
On July 30, 2003, the last vocho rolled off the assembly line in Puebla, Mexico, accompanied by a Mariachi singing the song “Las Golondrinas” (a Mexican folk song that speaks of farewell). It was immediately shipped off to become a permanent fixture at the Volkswagen Museum in Wolfsburg, Germany. So keep your eye open for photographable examples of this most Mexican sight in San Miguel de Allende.
#28 – The Botica Santa Teresita – Here for 172+ years
This is not your usual corner drugstore. In fact, it’s the oldest apothecary in San Miguel de Allende and, it’s still going strong. It’s been around since 1852, in the same family for seven generations. I just recently put up a post about the German Pharmacy Museum in Heidelberg Castle, and the vintage apothecaries they showcase looked so much like this one.
You can find it at Relox #28, at the corner of Mesones. It’s hard to miss. If you’re lucky, the laid-back and friendly weimaraner that “guards” the place will be there. Her name is Lea, and she doesn’t mind having her picture taken.
#27 – The Mojigangas – Giant Papier-Maché Dolls that Dance
It was my very first week in San Miguel de Allende, many years ago, when I saw my first mojigangas. I was walking along the cobblestoned street, taking in the color, the light, the smells, when suddenly I heard some music that seemed to be moving my way. I walked to the corner, and dancing straight towards me was a pair of giant puppets, at least 10 feet tall, heads bobbing and arms swinging as they came.
Mojigangas show up in the San Miguel streets for every kind of fiesta, holiday, and party, but they are most commonly seen in wedding processions, usually followed by a burro and lots of tequila being passed around among the parading guests. The small hole in the front of the puppets clothes lets theoperator inside see where they are going. You don’t want to walk right into that burro!
#26 – Cañada de la Virgen – San Miguel de Allende’s Own Ancient Pyramid
This Otomí archaeological site, located just 15 miles/25km from San Miguel de Allende, had not yet been excavated when I first moved to town in 1990. Although they first began digging in 1995, the official excavation only began in 2002. The site was opened to the public in 2011. It was fist built around 540 C.E. on a small mesa in the Laja River valley. The Otomí were keenly interested in and aware of all astronomical phenomena, and this site reflects that. Around 900 C.E., the Otomi civilization began to decline and by 1050, the site was abandoned.
Unlike most ruins in Mexico, Cañada de la Virgen sits on private property. Visitors are allowed at structured times, and it’s best to visit with an informed guide. I highly recommend this tour to the pyramid, which includes a delightful and authentic lunch at a nearby ranch prepared by descendants of the Otomí who built the Cañada de la Virgen site.
Note: Touring these ruins is very challenging and not recommended for those with mobility issues.
#25 – Mariachis – No Mexico without Them
What would Mexico be without mariachis? Their music rings through the soul of the people. And San Miguel is not lacking in soul–or mariachis. They are easily found hanging around the Jardín, waiting for someone to come and ask them to play a favorite song. Sometimes I think they must get tired of playing Cielito Lindo.
You can’t miss them, in their beautiful, silver-button-studded ensembles. For a handful of pesos, they’ll play just for you…or happily pose with and for you.
#24 – The Churches – They’re Everywhere you Look
The churches of San Miguel are beautiful–and ubiquitous. Turn a corner and there’s a church or spire in your face, especially in the centro. They are a big part of the reason San Miguel de Allende received its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And they are wonderful to photograph, either in their own right or as a backdrop for a selfie.
#23 – The Dogs of San Miguel – A Breed of Their Own
Whether it’s the ubiquitous roof dogs, pups peering out of windows, or someone walking their beloved fur baby, you’re bound to see lots of dogs in San Miguel. And it’s great fun to photograph them in such a beautiful place. Many of them seem to love posing.
#22 – Quinceañeras – The “Sweet 15” Girls of Mexico
In Mexico and many other Latin American countries, for girls, turning 15 is a big–as in HUGE–rite of passage. It’s the moment they leave their dolls and sneakers behind, put on their high heels, and become women. The rituals associated with the quinceaños are complex and de riguer, but most of all, it’s a special church mass followed by a big party.
And the dresses–oh my, the dresses–for many, they are more important than a wedding dress will be. This is the quinceañera’s day to be a princess. A Cinderella. It’s not unusual to see them arriving or leaving one of the major churches in town for their special mass, especially the Parroquia. And most of them will happily pose for you.
#21 – El Tianguis – The Tuesday Market is a Feast for You and Your Camera
The Tuesday Market–aka “El Tianguis“–happens, well, every Tuesday at a big space just past the roundabout on the road to Queretaro. It’s a typical, though huge, Mexican weekly market. Stalls sell everything you can imagine and many things you can’t: fruits and vegetables, fresh fish, ready-made juice drinks, honey, old tools, clothes both new and used, shoes, kitchenware, CDs and DVDs, magic powders to bring back your lost love, toys and games, furniture, antiques. If you can think of it, it’s probably for sale there somewhere.
There’s also a whole section of places cooking up wondrous food to eat on the spot. Pick the one that’s most crowded with Mexicans chowing down to get the best of the best. And don’t leave your camera at home. Just watch where you put it.
#20 – The Roof Terraces – For a drink or a Meal, You Can’t Beat the Views
It seems like the number of roof terraces where you can get a drink or a lovely meal has exploded lately. Some have live music. Others are famous for their sunset views. Many are in or near the centro with views of the Parroquia and other churches. I’ve never tried one I didn’t fall in love with, but I have to admit my favorite is La Posadita. Their tamarind frozen margarita (pictured below) is to die for.
#19 – This Street – Aldama
Calle Aldama is very likely the most photographed street in San Miguel de Allende. The view up this typical street with the Cuadrante fountain and the spires of the Parroquia at the end is an icon of the town. Whether you shoot it day or night, with cars or without, or with you or someone else posing in it, you’ll be in good company.
#18 – Food – The Food! Mexican Food and Other Glorious Tastes
Well, it wouldn’t be Instagram if you weren’t going to post your meal, would it? And San Miguel is a dream destination, a mecca, a holy grail, for foodies. When I first moved here, you could get Mexican food, pizza, or an American-style steak or hamburger. And that was about it.
Now? There are some 500 restaurants in San Miguel at last count, a number that seems to change–and grow–almost daily. They cover every type of food you can think of. San Miguel is one of the finest food destinations in Mexico–or in Latin America. Whether it’s the shrimp-filled jicama tacos at La Azotea (pictured below), a traditional bowl of pozole, or gourmet fine dining that can make any “World’s Best” list, you’ll find it here. So click your meal. Then post it!
#17 – Street Food – So Good it Needs a Category of its Own
Street food all over Mexico is an important part of local culture. Tacos, ice cream, hamburgers with bacon and jalapeños. Roasted corn on the cob the Mexican way, brushed with mayonnaise and sprinkled with grated cheese and chile powder. Tamales and stole. Ice cream. I’m drooling writing this.
Are you afraid to try it? I have found that most every street food vendor is San Miguel is as concerned about their customers not getting sick as you are. Otherwise, they won’t stay in business. They conscientiously use purified water and sanitize their veggies. If you see a lot of people gathered around one vendor, you can feel confident their food is safe, pure, and delicious. I urge you to just try it.
#16 – Street Vendors
There used to be many more street vendors in San Miguel. As part of the campaign to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city moved them to the Mercado de Artesanias, the Artisans’ Market (which is very much worth a visit). Those that are still found around the Jardín tend to be Otomí women selling their traditional “Maria” dolls and other crafts. Then there’s the hat man, who always brings a smile with his hats piled high on his head. And of course, the balloon sellers, the delight of every kid in the plaza.
#15 – The Conchero Dancers: Dancing for God and Tradition
One of the best times to visit San Miguel de Allende is the first Friday in March. That’s when the indigenous dancers, known as conchero dancers for the shell-like shakers they wear on their ankles, perform in the streets around the Jardin. You can also see them at some of the other festivals in town, but the Dia de la Conquista, in March, is the best and surest time to see lots of them.
If we still used actual film, every serious photographer would have to take several rolls with them. Because the scene is a photographer’s dream. The colorful costumes, with gold lame and applique and 6-foot pheasant feather headdreses, are amazing. The drummers pounding away are dizzying. The dressed-up children are delightful. And they don’t seem to mind being photographed at all.
#14 – The Burros – These Guys Work Hard
Like horses, burros are working animals in San Miguel, though there are fewer in the streets than there used to be. In the past, it was common to see them delivering firewood in the winter and bags of soil in the summer, selling them door to door. Today, more people used gas for their fireplaces, and we’ve learned not to use the soil from the mountains because it needs to stay in the mountains.
But these lovely little fellows are still seen in the streets, especially as part of wedding processions or ready to pose for your camera (in exchange for some pesos, because a burro’s gotta eat). One distinctive fellow, el Burrito Filoman, is quite famous locally. He’s pie-bald and usually adorned with flowers. Watch for him.
#13 – Art & Artists
San Miguel has been known as an artists’ colony for close to 75 years, if not more. It’s a core part of what the town is. And evidence of artists and their work is everywhere. Weather you’re watching them create a work-in-proggress, or gazing at the final product in one of the dozens of galleries in town, they make wonderful IG subjects.
#12 – The Murals of San Miguel
Until recently, public wall art was confined to the Muros en Blanco Arts District in Colonia Guadalupe, and that is still the best neighborhood to go mural hunting. But the phenomenon has now spread into other parts of town. Colonia San Antonio is also a good hunting ground.
Whimsical or dark, traditional or abstract, the wall art/graffiti found in San Miguel is very photo-worthy. Since street murals are, by their very nature, ephemeral, the ones pictured below might have been painted over, but you’ll find others just as interesting in their place.
#11 – The View from the Miradors
The long view of San Miguel from the viewpoint known as “El Mirador” was my very first view of the town many, many years ago. And it was in that moment that I fell in love with it.
There are actually two miradores or viewpoints. One is on the caracol, the periferal road that circles around high above the town. The other is on the Salida a Querétaro, as you come down into town. I think it has the best views, but you should try to see both.
#10 – The Sunsets – a World Class Lightshow
San Miguel is famous for the quality of its light. That’s one reason it has drawn artists for decades. And that light often turns into the most magnificent sunsets. I have sometimes turned a corner only to have the breath knocked right out of me by the brilliance of the sky as the sun sank behind the Santa Rosa mountains.
A good place to catch the sunset is from one of the rooftop terrace bars in town, especially from the back half of the terrace at La Posadita on Calle Allende.
#9 – Fireworks, Fireworks, Always Fireworks
Mexicans love fireworks. And when I say love, I mean they sometimes seem obsessed with them. They are set off for every occassion–birthdays, anniversaries, Mother’s Day, Guadalupe Day–or sometimes for no obvious occasion.
I once saw a group of workers setting up a fireworks display in the Jardín. A bit later, I asked my friend Juan what the occasion was. “What day is it?” he asked. “Tuesday,” I replied. “Ah…” he replied with a grin. “It’s the Tuesday fiesta.”
#8 – This Fountain – One of Many but a Favorite
There are several fountains dotted all over San Miguel. They were the source of fresh water for the households in town. I have seen vintage photos of women with enormous clay pots on their shoulders waiting their turn to fill them at one of the town’s public fountains.
This fountain, on Calle Cuadrante where Aldama begins, behind the Parroquia, is one of the prettiest, and certainly the most often photographed. Over the years, the wall behind it has been painted different colors, but it’s always beautiful. It will make a lovely addition to your Instagram feed of people, places, and things in San Miguel de Allnde.
#7 – Hot Springs – For Getting Your Relaxation On
Thanks to underground activity of the Taxco-San Miguel de Allende fault system, there are dozens of thermal springs, or aguas termales, just a few miles from central San Miguel. Not all are developed or open to the public, but several are. My personal favorites are La Gruta Hot springs and Escondido Place.
If you need to get away from the bustle of town for some intensive self-care and hard-core relaxing, these hot springs, all just off the road to Doldores Hidalgo and no more than 15 minutes from town, are the place to do it. And, of course, take the camera–but also a means to protect it from the water.
#6 – The Doors of San Miguel
Ah, the doors. Whole books have been published featuring the doors of San Miguel. They are both beautiful in their own right and intriguing for making us wonder what’s behind them. You never know in this town. The mystery is part of its charm.
The doors are one of the main reasons never to leave your house or hotel without a camera. even for a quick run to a corner tienda. You’ll definitely want to snap several of them.
#5 – The Voladores – A High-Flying Ritual
If you happen to be in town at the right time, usually for the Fiesta de San Miguel at the of September, the Voladores de Papantla will likely be in town. These guys have been named by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The set up a tall pole in front of the Parroquia. Several times a day, five men in traditional attire climb that pole. One stands on a tiny platform at the top, playing music on a flute. The others sit on cross bars and wind ropes around themselves. On cue, they fling themselves off the pole backward. Head down, they slowly circle the pole as the rope unwinds until they reach the ground.
It’s like watching a ballet, a carefully choreographed dance that is both beautiful and religiously meaningful to them. Just don’t forget to breathe as you watch them descend.
#4 – El Charco del Ingenio – San Miguel’s Wonderful Botanical Garden
El Charco is a true delight at any time of year. It’s a large preserved area where only plants indigenous to this part of the high desert grow. There are walkways, ceremonial plazas, lakes and a waterfall and a dam you can walk across. There’s a greenhouse where new plants are propagated. It should definitely be on your must-see list for San Miguel de Allende.
#3 – The Colors of San Miguel
LIke with the doors, whole books have been published about the colors of San Miguel. You will scarcely find a single article about the town that doesn’t mention them. Mexicans love bright colors and lots of them. You see it in their houses, their folk art and crafts, everything they touch. It’s like part of the air they breathe.
Personally, I never knew how much color was missing as a thing in my life until I moved to Mexico. Now, it’s like sunlight. I can’t live without color.
#2 – Bugambilia – The Most Prevalent Flower in San Miguel
Bugambilia–aka bougainvillea–are uber-popular in San Miguel. They love the sunshine and climate and grow easily. You’ll see them bursting out of pots, spilling over walls, draping themselves around doorways. They come in many colors, but the most common is a deep fuchsia.
Whenever I see a bougainvillea anywhere in the world, I feel like I am home. When the petals fall and polka-dot the sidewalks with color, I love to pick them up and keep them in a wooden bowl on my coffee table.
#1 – La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel – San Miguel’s Icon
I saved the best for last. The Parroquia church–a parrish church, not a cathedral–is the most photographed thing in all of San Miguel de Allende. It’s on postcards, T-shirts, shopping bags, and anything else you can print on. It is THE icon of San Miguel, recognized in many parts of the world.
It easily stands alone as a photo subject, but it also makes a great backdrop for a selfie, a wedding shot, a quinceañera, or a dog. You’ll find yourself snapping it from every angle. I guarantee it.
Time to Hit the Calles with Your Camera
So now you have an idea what to look for and where to find it when you set out to create your collection of photos of San Miguel de Allende for Instagram. The ‘Gram loves San Miguel. You will too.
What’s your favaorite spot to photograph in San Miguel? What most strongly catches your eye. And what have I missed? Let us all know in the comments.
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Donna! You captured San Miguel’s beautify, colors, culture. I love your photos and they make me miss San Miguel so much. You are truly an artist.
Thanks so much, Sandra. You are always so kind. Not all the photos are mine. Many are from other Instagram accounts. If you click on the photo, it will take you to their IG account.
What is amazing to me is how much has not changed since I lived in San Miguel de Allende for a year, 1963-4. I had my 10th birthday there. Our photos back then were slides and my parents took many of the same scenes that are featured here. There was no botanical garden then and no modern art street murals, but everything else is very familiar to me—53 years (gulp!) later. When I visited for the first time again in 2012, I could still find my way places. This photo essay is making me want to return.
Thank you, Suzanne. It’s good for me to hear that these things have not changed. San Miguel has grown so much… it is more than twice the size it was when I first moved here in 1990. But the spirit is the same. The essence doesn’t change. I’ll be happy to welcome you anytime, with or without Mr. Excitement.
Donna.. where is that first photo from.. with the red arches??
Vicki – It is the roofline of the Colegio de Sales taken from the south side of the Plaza Civica. I took it a few years ago. I never looked to see if they have changed the colors. It’s one of my favorite SMA shots.
I like these and also challenge you to explore beyond the road less travelled….beyond generic San Miguel
I agree Anado, although this post was pretty specifically about that generic SMA, since I was looking for what visitors tend to photograph most often. But I also like getting below the surface. For instance, I’ll be writing about Rancho Agustin Gonzalez, where I spend time with Otomi friends. Those are the kinds of stories I love to do. Thanks for your comment.
I love these photos of San Miguel de Allende. Everything (buildings, people, scenery) looks so vibrant and full of life.
Agreed, Donna, and that’s what San Miguel IS–vibrant and full of life.
Those photos are stunning. I would love to see all those bright colors and the doors in person. It looks like a very special place to visit.
Thanks Lois. I hope you can make it down one day. We’ll have a cafe con leche.
This was sure an enjoyable look-see. You’re right, San Miguel is definitely great for Instagram. I enjoyed the colors, the old buildings, and the incredibly tasty-looking food, too.
Thanks, Tami. I’m glad you enjoyed it.
San Miguel de Allende is a beautiful city which I plan to visit sometime next year. I also love all the old Volkswagens you see driving around Mexico. I learned about that fact when I visited Mexico City last year. How much time did you spend in San Miguel de Allende?
Thanks for the commennt, Nate. When I visited Mexico City often in the 1990s, many of the taxis were “vochos” with the front passenger seat removed for luggage and packages. I loved that. And I actually live in San Miguel now. I have been here 14+ years total, 10 in the ’90s and now since 2013.
Beautiful photos of San Miguel de Allende. I have never been to this part of Mexico but it does have that classic Mexican vibe and style. The Mojigangas remind me of the Gigantes I’ve seen in parades in Spain.
Thanks Rhonda. I’ve read that the Mexican mojigangas developed from the Spanish tradition of the Gigantes. So good call.
Such a great idea showcasing where you live. These are some spectacular photos. My favorites were the rusted VW’s and the ladies in the traditional costume. So colorful and fun. Nice street art, too.
Thanks, Melody. San Miguel is an easy place to photograph well. There are wonderfu and colorful pictures everywhere you look.
Wow! San Miguel de Allende looks instagramable indeed. Everything is so colorful!
It is that, Mags. Color everywhere. That’s Mexico for you!
What a great collection of photos that display a variety of sides to SMA. I’ve heard great things about it and it’s nice to see it from a locals’ perspective. I’m looking forward to seeing it for myself later this year.
Thank you, Vicki. I know you will enjoy San Miguel. I hope I’ll be in town when you do. Contact me!
Beautiful photos. At first I was going to say I liked the Mojigangas. Those giant figures are so colourful. But then I saw the doors. So much colour in San Miguel de Allende. Now I know why you did a post on the Instagrammed photos!
Thanks Janice. Yes, San Miguel is so photogenic, it’s easy to find wonderful pix. And I am an IG junkie, so it was a natural!
Great Pictures. I lived in Mexico City for five years and traveled all over. Mexico is a great place to take colorful pictures. Some of your pictures remind me of places in Portugal. I hope to visit Mexico again soon. Thanks again for sharing.
Thanks Carol. I agree that many paces in Mexico look like htey could be in Portugal. Or Spain.
San Miguel de Allende seems like such a photogenic place! I’d really like to visit, so thanks for the tips!
You will love it when you do visit, Catherine. Color everywhere. Have your camera ready!
These are all great photos! I’ve been seeing so much of San Miguel de Allende lately; it really does seem to be a colorful and Instagrammable city 🙂
Thanks, Francesca. Yes, San Miguel has been in the news a lot lately, especially since Conde Nast named it the “Best Small City in the World” last year. And yes, SMA is all about color.
Hi. I’m a Woodstock generation woman seeking compadres.
Daughter died. Had enough of winter blues in UK. Dug out my old rucsack and heading for Mexico in February. A little wobbly about this spontaneous travel urge…but hey!…life is short!
Not afraid of travelling…( once-upon-a-time travelled Tehran…Herat..Kandahar..Kabul in a VW). But uncertain about the loneliness of being an elderwoman in a hostel.
Hi Fiona – Congratulations on your decision to hit the road again. I salute you. I’ve not stayed in any hostels in Mexico, I have stayed in many of them in various European cities. I’ve never really felt out of place as an older woman there. On the contrary, I felt welcomed and had many interesting conversations with other guests of all ages. I sometimes felt a slight sense of being seen as a curiosity, but after a brief conversation, that always dissipated. I say just go fo it!
Is this the place in the movie Coco? I was just really curious because of the colorful flags and the vibe of the place. I love it already! I agree that it really is instagrammable. I would really love to go there right now!
Hi Jake – It’s easy to see why you’d think Coco was set in San Miguel. Others have thought the same, and it might have been all or part of the inspiration. But those flags and vibe and architecture and color and Day of the Dead celebrations do show up in various places in Mexico. The whole country is kind of wonderful that way. Do come to San Miguel. It’s magical.
Hi Dona,
Loved this read. San Miguel has been on my travel list for a while. Great photos.
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for the kind words, Danny. Yes, San Miguel is a photographer’s paradise. And it’s pretty spectacular even if you don’t take photos. I hope you get there one day soon.