21 Best San Miguel de Allende Tours to Book in 2024

1. San Miguel Hot Air Balloon Flight

Start your day with a sunrise adventure in a hot air balloon over San Miguel de Allende. With gorgeous views of the city and its surrounding countryside, there is no better way to experience the beauty and magic of the region.

When you book this hot air balloon ride over San Miguel, you’ll have views its charming cobblestone streets winding through the town and the stunning landscapes that surround it. At this hour, the sunrise casts a golden glow over the city, creating a magical atmosphere.

As you soar through the air, you’ll have the opportunity to capture photos of the city from a unique perspective. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty of this enchanting city from above.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking an adventure, a hot air balloon ride over San Miguel de Allende is an incredible experience.

With over 40 years of experience, this balloon company ensures a smooth and safe journey during this bucket list experience.

San Miguel de Allende Walking Tours

These walking tours of San Miguel de Allende are a great way to discover the town, including hidden gems and must-see attractions.

I recommend booking one of these walking tours on one of your first days in the city. When I travel to a new destination, I find it’s a great a way to get a lay of the land and a historical perspective on the area.

2. Private Walking Tour San Miguel de Allende

Explore the city’s hidden gems and iconic landmarks when you book this private San Miguel de Allende walking tour. This personalized tour is designed to give you an intimate and in-depth view of this charming town. 

With your knowledgeable guide by your side, you’ll learn about the history and culture of San Miguel de Allende as you visit its top sights.

What sets this private walking tour apart is the unparalleled personal attention you’ll receive. Unlike larger group tours, you’ll have the opportunity to chat with your guide about everyday life in the city.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or have been to San Miguel de Allende before, this is a great way to discover the city. You’ll uncover hidden enclaves and must-see attractions, all while enjoying the freedom and flexibility of a private tour.

3. Chocolate Tasting and Walking Tour

Get ready for a mouthwatering adventure as you discover the fascinating history of chocolate in Mexico and its role in Mexican cuisine. This unique chocolate tasting and walking tour in San Miguel de Allende allows you to indulge your taste buds while exploring the city’s sweet and savory side.

Your guide will lead the way to five different chocolate tastings, carefully selected to showcase a variety of flavors and uses. As you make your way between chocolate stops, you’ll also have the chance to soak in the beauty of the city’s iconic landmarks.

But it’s not just about exploring the city through its chocolate – it’s about the people you’ll meet along the way.

As you join fellow chocolate enthusiasts you’ll meet local merchants who are passionate about their craft. They’ll share their knowledge and stories about how European influences have shaped Mexican chocolate culture.

This chocolate tasting and walking tour is perfect for any chocolate lover with a desire to explore San Miguel de Allende.

4. Historical and Cultural Walking Tour of San Miguel de Allende

Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of San Miguel de Allende as you embark on this fascinating cultural and walking tour through the city’s historical landmarks. 

Your guide, Jalal, will captivate you with the stories behind the buildings and the cultural heritage that shape this incredible city.

Through this historical and cultural walking tour, you’ll gain a deeper understanding for the vibrant tapestry of San Miguel de Allende’s past and present.

5. Driving Tour of San Miguel de Allende

Want to see the most of the area in a short amount of time? Then you should book this driving tour which highlights the best of San Miguel and the surrounding area, from its colonial streets to its breathtaking viewpoints and the history in between.

It starts with driving through the colonial streets in the center to visit the main church and adjacent garden. You’ll also have an opportunity to stop at an incredible vista overlooking the city.

Then, at the Mercado de Artesanias, your guide will explain different Mexican crafts and give you an opportunity to taste local food and fruits.

This San Miguel de Allende tour ends with a visit to Atotonilco, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This impressive church is often referred to as the Sistine Chapel of Mexico because of its incredible frescos that cover the interior walls and ceilings.

This is a great tour if you want to see more of the town and its beautiful landscapes with the comfort of private transportation.

San Miguel de Allende Food Tours

Foodies – get ready to delight your taste buds. These food tours in San Miguel de Allende will take you on a gastronomic adventure. 

From a taco and cocktail crawl to a tasting of SMA’s best restaurants, there is a food tour on this list for everyone.

6. Tacos and Tequila Tour in San Miguel

This taco and tequila tasting is more than just a food tour in San Miguel de Allende. It’s also a walking tour that takes you on a journey through the rich history and culture of Mexican food.

When you book this tacos and tequila tour, you’ll meet your guide at a centrally located restaurant where you’ll receive a cultural overview of Mexican cuisine.

From there you’ll embark on a three-hour adventure, visiting various locations to indulge in gourmet tacos and cocktails. From Baja fish to savory beef tacos, each location has been carefully handpicked to provide an authentic experience.

As you stroll through the charming streets of San Miguel de Allende, you’ll have an opportunity to see some of its iconic sites in between tasting the food you’ve just learned about.

This San Miguel de Allende food tour is perfect for those who want to enrich their experience of Mexican culture through its cuisine. It will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the taste and traditions of Mexico.

7. Taste of San Miguel de Allende Food Tour

Stroll through the flavors and history of the city on this top rated 3-hour food tour in San Miguel de Allende.

Your bilingual guide will give you a local view of the food and history of San Miguel as you explore its diverse culinary scene. You’ll visit family-owned restaurants and stands, where you will sample delicious mole, ceviche, churros, chocolate and more.

This tour isn’t just about the food. You’ll also have the chance to admire the city’s stunning architecture and learn about its history. Your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories and anecdotes along the way, giving you a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of the dishes you’re tasting.

With a maximum of only eight foodies on this small group tour, you can expect an intimate experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply someone who loves to eat, this San Miguel de Allende food tour will satisfy your cravings and leave you with a newfound knowledge of the city’s gastronomy.

8. Evening Tour For Foodies

If you’re a foodie looking for a true insight into the culinary delights of San Miguel de Allende, you’ll want to book this evening gastronomic tour for foodies.

You’ll be treated to tastings at some of the best restaurants in the city, from Mexico’s most traditional dishes to desserts. You’ll also learn about the award-winning chefs and how they are inspired by the locally sourced produce.

To further enhance your experience, there is an option to add a wine tasting to the food pairings during this small group tour.

San Miguel de Allende Wine Tours

Do you want to explore the blossoming world of wine in Guanajuato? Then you should book one of these San Miguel de Allende wine tours with an English speaking sommelier to guide the way. 

You’ll discover the vineyards nestled in the hillsides surrounding San Miguel as you sip on a variety of wines and learn about the winemaking process. 

9. Award Winning Vineyard and Wine Tasting Near San Miguel

Do you want to visit the most awarded winery in the state of Guanajuato? Then you need to book this vineyard and wine tour with a local charcuterie board pairing.

Upon arrival, you’ll step into the beautiful gardens of the hacienda and admire its stunning architecture. As you delve into the history of wine in Mexico, you’ll learn about the origins of this vineyard and the passion that goes into cultivating the varieties of grapes found in Guanajuato.

This San Miguel de Allende wine tour includes an explanation of the entire process and visit to the wine cellar. It wraps up with a tasting of three varieties of wine, perfectly paired with a local cheese and meat plate.

As you take in the gorgeous vineyard views, each sip will showcase the true essence of the region.

10. Private San Miguel de Allende Wine Tour

This private wine tour is fully customized based on your wine tasting preferences. You’ll have the freedom to select two wineries amongst the 12 vineyards in the area.

Whether you prefer to visit family-owned wineries or explore the largest vineyards in the region – the choice is up to you.

If you want to learn about the complexity of Guanajuato’s growing wine industry, you should book this private wine tour in San Miguel. Your guide’s knowledge about the history of winemaking in this region will add incredible value to this vineyard tour.

At each winery, you’ll have the opportunity to taste a variety of wines paired with cheese to savor their distinct flavors.

11. Private Drink Tasting with a Certified Sommelier

This is a unique private tasting experience in SMA led by an internationally certified sommelier who shares his love for traditional Mexican drinks. 

You’ll embark on a masterclass to learn the process, flavors, aromas, and qualities of each Mexican spirit (wine tasting available as an alternative).

You’ll have the opportunity to compare and contrast the unique flavors of Tequila, Mezcal, Sotol, Bacanora, Raicilla, and Posh while learning how to discuss spirits and wines.

If you are purely a wine lover, you can customize this tour into a wine tasting. In that case, you’ll learn about the Mexican wines from different regions.

This San Miguel de Allende tour is a great way to start your evening out in the city. Whether you’re a wine lover, a mezcal enthusiast, or intrigued by the world of Mexican spirits, this experience is for you.

San Miguel de Allende Cooking Classes

If you want to take your Mexican culinary skills to the next level, then you should book a cooking class in San Miguel de Allende.

Not only will you learn how to cook traditional Mexican dishes, but you’ll also discover the history and culture of the country through its food.

12. Mole Cooking Class in San Miguel de Allende

Do you want to learn how to make one of the most traditional foods in Mexico? Then you need to book this mole cooking class located in a gorgeous private home in the heart of San Miguel de Allende.

You’ll embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of Mexico, with a particular focus on the rich and complex mole sauce.

While sipping on a rich cacao drink or glass of red wine, you will learn about each ingredient used to create the dishes. Then retreat to the cozy den with fireplace to learn about the history and cultural significance of mole and how it was once reserved exclusively for the upper class of Mayan and Aztec society.

Once the mole sauce is ready, you’ll use it to prepare enmoladas, a traditional Mexican dish similar to enchiladas but with a mole twist. You’ll also learn how to make two types of salsa and Mexican rice, the perfect accompaniment to mole.

13. Private Mexican Cooking Class with Professional Chef

Immerse yourself in the flavors of Mexico when you book this private cooking class led by a professional chef. This is your chance to learn about the culinary history of Mexico and discover the secrets behind authentic Mexican recipes.

What makes this cooking class unique is the opportunity to customize your menu and create your own gastronomic experience. With the guidance of a professional chef, you can choose to make other authentic Mexican dishes that pique your interest.

Not only will you learn how to make these delicious recipes, but you’ll also gain valuable tips and techniques that you can use at home.

14. Cañada de La Virgen Tour with an Archeologist

Step back in time as you explore the fascinating history of Cañada de La Virgen on this archaeological tour led by an expert guide. Your archeologist guide, Albert, participated in the excavation of the site in 2004. He possesses a wealth of knowledge to share with you.

This adventure begins with learning about the rich history of the Otomi people and other Mesoamerican cultures. From there, you’ll embark on a 3-kilometer (2-mile) walk, tracing the footsteps of the ancient inhabitants of Cañada de La Virgen. Your guide will point out recent discoveries and provide insightful commentary along the way.

You will also have an opportunity to climb to the top of the pyramid, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. From this vantage point, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the significance of this ancient site.

This small group tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. Get ready to uncover the secrets of Cañada de La Virgen that you won’t learn on any other tour.

San Miguel de Allende Horseback Riding Tours

One of the most beautiful ways to see the gorgeous landscapes surrounding the town is by horseback. So it’s not surprising that there are an abundance of San Miguel de Allende horseback riding opportunities.

Options include half and full day horseback riding through the canyon as well a ride paired with a visit to soak in the nearby hot springs. I’ve detailed the best options below.

15. Horseback Riding and Hot Springs Tour

Imagine soaking up the stunning landscapes surrounding San Miguel de Allende and then rejuvenating your body in the healing waters of the nearby hot springs. This San Miguel horseback riding experience is the ultimate combination of adventure and relaxation.

Saddle up and start the day with a 2.5 hour horseback ride through the picturesque countryside. You’ll ride through several authentic small towns in Guanajuato that are difficult to visit without a guide.

After refueling with lunch at an authentic Mexican ranch, your guide will drive to the hot springs where you can unwind and soak your tired muscles.

Keep in mind, depending on the day you’ll either visit Escondido Hot Springs or La Gruta Spa. This is a great way to experience a day outside of San Miguel and combine two popular activities.

16. Half or Full Day Horseback Ride in San Miguel

This is a great tour for those who want to get out of the city to explore the majestic Coyote Canyon by horseback.

If you book the full-day San Miguel de Allende horseback tour, you’ll start your day at a Mexican ranch where you’ll learn how to milk cows, tend to the animals, and make cheese quesadillas.

After spending the morning on the farm, you’ll take a horseback ride through the Coyote Canyon where you’ll be rewarded with dramatic landscapes. At the top ridge, you’ll have a 20-minute break to take in and photograph the incredible views.

Then you’ll descend the canyon and ride along the river to return to the ranch where a homemade lunch will be waiting for you.

If you decide to book the half-day horseback riding tour, you’ll have an option to add an adventurous rappelling session or a soak in the hot springs.

17. Romantic Sunset Horseback Ride and Candlelit Dinner

Experience the romance of San Miguel de Allende as you ride by horseback through the picturesque colonial town. You’ll pass through the tranquil Benito Juarez Park and continue to a panoramic viewpoint to watch the sunset.

The evening continues with a stop at a traditional cantina for a drink and serenade by a Mexican mariachi band before enjoying a candlelit dinner.

If you’re looking for a romantic evening in San Miguel de Allende, you should book this sunset horseback riding tour with a candlelit dinner.

This romantic sunset horseback ride and dinner is the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a romantic evening with your partner. As a bonus, your tour guide will take photos of the two of you during the tour.

18. Grutas Tolantongo Hot Springs From SMA

If you’re looking for an adventurous day trip, book this all inclusive tour to Grutas Tolantongo Hot Springs. While there are closer thermal waters, his spectacular site is one of the most beautiful hot springs I’ve ever seen.

When you arrive at Grutas Tolantongo, the first thing you’ll do is immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the hot spring pools with incredible mountain views. Soaking in the warm, soothing waters will melt away any tension and leave you feeling rejuvenated.

After taking a dip in the hot springs, it’s time to indulge in a relaxing lunch on the banks of the thermal turquoise river surrounded by more breathtaking views.

Once you’ve satisfied your hunger, it’s time for adventure. You can soak in the warm waters of the river, feeling the gentle current carry away your worries. But the real highlight awaits you – the glorious waterfalls and caves.

Equipped with a headlamp, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the caves and witness the beauty of the interior waterfalls. It’s a truly awe-inspiring experience, one that will leave you in awe of nature’s beauty.

19. Learn Mexican History: Dolores Hidalgo and Atotonilco Tour

You’ll immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of these two charming towns when you book this private tour of Dolores Hidalgo and Atotonilco.

Dolores Hidalgo, known as the birthplace of Mexico’s independence movement, is a town steeped in historical significance. As you explore its streets, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful colonial architecture that tells the story of a nation’s struggle for freedom. You’ll have an opportunity to try homemade ice cream, whose diverse range of flavors are a local specialty.

Next you’ll visit Atotonilco Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This small town is home to a stunning church known as the Sistine Chapel of Mexico. Step inside and be mesmerized by the intricate murals that adorn the walls and ceilings, depicting visually striking scenes of the life and death of Jesus Christ.

This is a truly immersive experience that allows you to connect with the heart and soul of these towns. The tour includes pickup and drop off from your hotel, making it convenient and hassle-free.

20. Guanajuato Tour From San Miguel de Allende

Do you want to visit Guanajuato City from San Miguel? Skip the hassle of public transport and instead enjoy a comfortable ride in a private vehicle that will take you straight from your hotel to Guanajuato City.

This private Guanajuato tour from San Miguel de Allende is a great introduction to the city with a knowledgeable guide. 

You’ll explore the top sites of Guanajuato such as Monumento al Pipila, Juarez Theater, the Diego Rivera Museum, and Plaza de la Paz.

With your guide leading the way, they will tell you about the history and other characteristics of the city that may be difficult to discover on your own.

During your tour, you’ll also enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor authentic Mexican cuisine.

This tour is a good option if you’re short on time and want to explore another of Mexico’s most beautiful cities.

21. Art Class in San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel has inspired artists from around the world for decades. And you’ll have an opportunity to experience the same creative inspiration when you book this art class in San Miguel de Allende.

This art class isn’t just about learning how to paint, but also about delving into the rich cultural and historical heritage of Mexico. Led by the talented teacher, Isis, you’ll be introduced to the principles of art and beauty that have shaped Mexican aesthetics for centuries.

Once you have gained a deeper understanding, you’ll have the opportunity to choose your focus for the class. Whether you prefer portraits, landscapes, or still life, you can explore your creativity through drawing, pastels, watercolors, or oils. Isis will be there every step of the way, providing guidance and troubleshooting any challenges you may encounter.

What sets this art class apart is the personalized attention you’ll receive in a small-group setting. With all the necessary painting tools and accessories provided, you can simply relax and enjoy the process of creating. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced painter, this class is suitable for all skill levels.

At the end of the session, you’ll have a beautiful artwork to take home and frame, serving as a lasting memory of your time in San Miguel de Allende.