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Use this list to discover the best Instagram spots in San Miguel de Allende. It includes 15 of the most photogenic areas of the city, like:
- Churches
- Panoramic views
- Flower-covered facades
- Colorful mosaics and murals
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site
- An underground wine cave
- And so much more!
If you’re ready to snap some amazing pictures, this list of the 15 best Instagram spots in San Miguel de Allende – and the convenient map marking all of their locations – will make it easier than ever.
Let’s get started!
1. Umaran Street at Sunset
The Jardin (main square) of San Miguel sits up on a hill with two streets running down from it.
Because they go west, during sunset they become the perfect place to snap a photo of the changing light on the buildings and in the hills beyond them.
This is one of my favorite photos from my time in San Miguel, and definitely one of the best Instagram spots in the city.
2. Bar San Miguel
I just can’t get enough of this little bar. This unassuming scene is so simple, colorful, and perfect, it’s really just exactly what I imagined Mexico to be before I came, so it was awesome to have that vision validated on this street corner.
3. Church of the Immaculate Conception (from the Quebrada St. Bridge)
The Church of the Immaculate Conception gets a bit ignored in favor of the more dominant Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel in the center, but this view of it from the Quebrada St. Bridge is definitely still Insta-worthy.
4. Luna Tapas Bar at the Rosewood Hotel
If you come to San Miguel and don’t take a photo at the Luna Tapas Bar, did you really even visit at all?
This is certainly the most popular Instagram spot in San Miguel de Allende, and for good reason. Come for dinner and drinks at sunset, stay for the live music and panoramic views!
5. The Iconic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel Church
The San Miguel Church is the most iconic symbol of the city. It’s in the center square and is truly the center of culture and activities in this small colonial town.
Snapping a photo without anyone in it may be difficult, but if you’re patient (or a good editor) it’s definitely possible. You can also learn more about the church and the other iconic sites in the city on this short San Miguel walking tour.
6. Cafe Rama
How gorgeous is this flower-covered cafe?
I walked Cafe Rama often when I lived in San Miguel and I took a picture of it pretty much every time! This is one of the best Instagram spots in San Miguel de Allende to capture the color and energy of the city.
Plus, afterward, you can step inside for a coffee or snack to fuel up for the rest of your photo trek through the city.
7. Charco del Ingenio Botanical Garden
Charco del Ingenio should be on your San Miguel to-do list whether you’re into photography or not.
This 165-acre protected area has panoramic views of San Miguel from above, native plants, cacti gardens, a canyon walk, sculptures, cafe, and more.
Entrance is only 50 mxn / 2.50 usd usd per person and you can definitely plan to spend a few hours at this peaceful escape from the crowds below.
Book a botanical garden walking tour to visit or check it out on your own with this guide.
8. View of San Miguel Church from Aldama St.
Aldama Street has, hands down, the best view of San Miguel Arcangel church.
The street is also surprisingly lightly trafficked so you can be as basic as you want taking photos in the middle of the road to capture that perfect Instagram shot of San Miguel de Allende here.
9. Ki’Bok Coffee Rooftop Terrace
More church views! What did you expect?
Ki’bok Coffee is one of the best cafes in San Miguel and the rooftop terrace has beautiful 360-degree views of the church and colorful streets that surround it.
10. Atotonilco Sanctuary UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Atotonilco Sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 20 minutes by car from San Miguel de Allende.
The church was built in the 1700s and the main draw is the Baroque paintings that cover the walls and ceilings, earning it the nickname “The Sistine Chapel of Mexico.”
Click here for a step-by-step guide to visiting Atotonilco from San Miguel de Allende.
11. The Chapel of Jimmy Ray
The Chapel of Jimmy Ray is also about 20 minutes by car from the city center.
This compound, gallery, and explosion of color is the home and passion project of American artist Anado Mclauchlin.
You can see the mosaics, sculptures, art, murals, and more on guided tours on Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday – visit the website to make an appointment or read my step-by-step guide to visiting the Chapel of Jimmy Ray from San Miguel de Allende.
12. Mercado de Artesanias
This sprawling market has many personalities as it winds through San Miguel. Walk through the whole market to get some fab souveniers and some nice photos of the colors, art, and pretty alleyways.
13. Rancho Toyan Vineyard
The Rancho Toyan Winery is probably the most unique Instagram spot in San Miguel de Allende.
Not only is it a gorgeous organic vineyard, it also has a hand-dug underground wine cave guarded by monk statues. The lighting and vibe are so strange and tours include tastings with food pairings down here as well.
You can book San Miguel vineyard and wine tasting experiences on Airbnb or check out my step-by-step guide to visit Rancho Toyan to see it on your own!
14. Lavanda Cafe
Lavanda Cafe has the best coffee in San Miguel. It’s brewed with lavender for a subtle and unique flavor and they also serve up a mean breakfast as well.
If you don’t want to wait in line or sit down, you can grab a coffee at the window for an easy Instagram shot to go. (Want more caffeine in your bloodstream? Learn how to roast your own coffee in San Miguel and take it home!)
15. The Many Cultural Events
Last up on my list of the best Instagram spots in San Miguel de Allende are the many and varied cultural events that take place in the city throughout the year.
Expect light shows on the church, fireworks in the square, dance performances, parades, drum circles, and more and try your best to make it to at least one during your stay.
This calendar of events will help you discover what’s going down when you’re there!
Discover the Best Instagram Spots in San Miguel de Allende
Use this map to discover the best Instagram spots in San Miguel de Allende on your own, or book one of the many private photoshoot experiences on Airbnb to get professional pictures in all the most beautiful spots throughout the city!
Ready to go?
Explore accommodation like unique stays on Airbnb (like the lovely traditional Mexican apartment we stayed in) or the top-rated hotels on Booking.com to plan the perfect night, weekend, or long-term stay in San Miguel de Allende. Then, browse tons of San Miguel food, culture, and nature experiences on Airbnb to round out your itinerary!
This article is part of the Secrets of San Miguel Series. Read the rest below:
San Miguel de Allende Day Trips: 4 Step-by-Step Guides
4 Best Cafes in San Miguel de Allende
How to Get Lost in the Botanical Garden of San Miguel de Allende
Celebrate Grito de Dolores in San Miguel de Allende (Like a Local!)
How to Spend a Perfect Birthday in San Miguel de Allende
Then, plan the rest of your trip with the Mexico Series for more insider tips on what to see, do, eat, drink, and discover in the country!
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Great list. I’d add one more to it. The roof top bar in hotel El Palamore
Thanks for sharing! I’ll check it out next time I’m in San Miguel 🙂