San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende is Mexico's most internationally celebrated colonial city — a Bajío highland town of 70,000 that has been drawing artists, writers and retirees from North America and Europe since the 1950s, UNESCO World Heritage listed and voted the world's best city multiple times by travel publications. Its pink-stone neogothic parish church (the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel), visible from everywhere, is one of Mexico's most photographed images. The Parroquia, designed in the 19th century by self-taught indigenous mason Zeferino Gutiérrez (reportedly inspired by postcards of European Gothic cathedrals), dominates the central Jardín principal. The surrounding streets of Spanish colonial mansions, many converted to boutique hotels and restaurants, are excellent for wandering. The Centro Cultural El Nigromante (Bellas Artes), a former convent, has excellent murals and regular art exhibitions and cultural events. San Miguel's arts scene — printmaking, painting, photography, jewellery — reflects the international creative community that has made it home. The food scene is excellent and diverse — excellent Mexican and international restaurants. The hot springs at La Gruta and Escondido Place (30 minutes outside town) are excellent. Day trips to Guanajuato, Dolores Hidalgo and the Cañada de la Virgen archaeological site are worthwhile. The most pleasant seasons are October–May; rainy season is July–September.