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If you are looking for information on how to get from Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende, look no further!
I have taken this route several times, and in this post, I will share all your options, from the cheapest to the most comfortable ones and in between.
San Miguel de Allende is one of the most popular Pueblos Magicos in Mexico, not only as a tourist destination but it’s also as a favorite retirement paradise for many people from the US and Canada.
Funny enough, despite San Miguel’s popularity, getting there can be tricky as the closest airport is Queretaro, 86 km away, while Mexico City is about 272 KM.
But let’s get to the point. Find here below the best ways to get from Mexico City to San Miguel De Allende.
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How far is San Miguel de Allende from Mexico City? MAP
How to Get From Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende
If you are flying into Mexico City International Airport (MEX), you should know that there are only a few buses that go directly to San Miguel De Allende from Mexico City Airport. I will tell you more here below.
From Mexico City terminal Norte more time options will take you directly from Mexico City to San Miguel De Allende.
I will tell you all about it below, besides other options to get from Mexico’s Capital City to the beautiful San Miguel de Allende.
NB – Please keep in mind that there are two airports in Mexico City. This guide is intended for Mexico City Benito Juarez International Airport (MEX)
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BOOK AWAY is a reliable booking site where you can find different transfer options from almost anywhere to anywhere.
1. Booking a private car from Mexico City Airport to San Miguel de Allende
As I mentioned above the best and most comfortable way to get from Mexico City Airport to San Miguel de Allende is by private transportation. I have used Welcome Pick-Ups in other cities and I found the service impeccable. I was glad to see that they operate in Mexico City as well.
I reckon that it’s also the most expensive way to get from CDMX to San Miguel de Allende so here below you will find alternative and cheaper transportation options.
2. How to get to San Miguel de Allende from CDMX by UBER or DIDI
Uber from Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende is possible and pretty pricey. I have tried to simulate a ride but I had no luck. You may try once you land and see what the result says. Keep in mind that it is a long ride so not every driver will agree to accept the service.
With Didi, another Taxi service App widely used in Mexico, you will find much cheaper rates and still great service, but that also applies for DIDI Driver. You will need to check on the app once you land.
Both on Uber and DIDI you will find insanely low rates that wouldn’t even cover the gas. In fact, some drivers may refuse the trip or may ask you to pay extra. Keep that in mind.
► Also read: Uber in Mexico City
3. Bus from Mexico City Airport to San Miguel de Allende
At the moment I am updating this post there is only one bus per day that goes to San Miguel De Allende from Mexico City Airport on ETN.
It’s at 6.00 pm and gets to San Miguel at and costs 756 MXN – Please double check and get your ticket on ETN website.
Warning! Now, you need to keep in mind that ETN buses from CDMX Airport to San Miguel de Allende don’t leave from the airport terminal! I learned the hard way and missed the bus. 🙃 They leave from Camino Real Hotel.
ETN is a First-class bus from Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende. Keep in mind that if you don’t want to wait until 6 pm you have the option to leave from Terminal Norte Bus station where you have more schedule options with ETN. Check on their website as well.
You can get to Terminal Norte Bus Station by UBER or DIDi.
4. Private Shuttle From Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende
You will also find private shuttles from Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende. They are as expensive as Uber but more reliable because dedicated companies organize them. You can also book the return trip from San Miguel to Mexico City.
👉 Book your private shuttle from Mexico City Airport to San Miguel de Allende on VIATOR
5. Getting to San Miguel de Allende From Mexico City by Rental Car
Is it safe to drive from Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende? I am sure you are wondering. Well, the option of renting a car in Mexico City and driving to San Miguel de Allende is actually a great idea.
Once you get out of the city traffic, the road is very easy and safe.
This is the best option if you intend to explore the surrounding of San Miguel de Allende, as there are so many small towns to visit, hot springs, archeological sites, vineyards, and many other interesting attractions.
Keep in mind that in San Miguel, there are no car rentals. So if you don’t want to rent a car in Mexico City, which is understandable, you could rent it either at Queretaro Airport or Leon Airport.
It’s best to book it in advance to make sure you have the vehicle you prefer. I normally recommend Discover Cars platform to compare rental car prices.
If you are concerned about renting a car or driving in Mexico, you can read my post for some useful tips.
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6. How to get to San Miguel de Allende from Mexico City by BUS
Going from Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende by bus is the cheapest way. Since fewer busses are leaving from Mexico City Airport, you can take an Uber and get to Terminal Norte where the ETN and Primera Plus leave to San Miguel de Allende directly.
The buses that leave from Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende leave from Terminal Norte (there are different bus terminals in Mexico City, depending on where you are going).
You have two bus companies going to San Miguel de Allende from Mexico City:
Primera Plus – They only have 2 buses per day going to San Miguel de Allende. Primera Plus is a good company similar to ADO in terms of comfort.
ETN – They have different schedules from Mexico City to San Miguel from 6 am to 7 pm.
ETN is my favorite bus company in Mexico. The seats are wide and spacious, and you have your own video screen with a great choice of movies, music, and program.
They offer you new headphones, and the buses are sparkling clean. Also, some of the buses are double decks, and if you manage to sit on top of the front seat, you have a 180° panoramic view.
It’s recommended to get your ticket in advance. You can book it on their respective platforms.
7. Mexico City to San Miguel De Allende by Plane
Another option would be for you to fly into either Queretaro Airport (QRO), about 80 KM away, or Leon Airport (BJX), about 90 KM away.
The closest airport to San Miguel de Allende is Queretaro but Leon Airport (also called El Bajio Airport) is convenient as well.
From there, you could get an UBER or a DIDI, which would be cheaper than leaving from Mexico City.
Or you have the option of booking private shuttle service from both Airport to San Miguel de Allende
👉 Book your private shuttle from Queretaro or Leon Guanajuato Airport to San Miguel de Allende on VIATOR
How to Move Around San Miguel de Allende
Moving around San Miguel de Allende is easy, and you don’t need a car.
The town center is small, and you will love walking around the steep, narrow, cobblestone roads to discover the city’s treasures.
However, around San Miguel, there are many incredible things to do and places to see. So if you don’t have your own car, you may want to use taxis or Uber.
Although UBER is available in San Miguel de Allende, UBER drivers are scarce and take a long time to pick you up.
➢ Do I need travel insurance in Mexico? Yes, you do! I can never stress enough what a lifesaver it can be in unexpected situations. Although I hope I never need it, it gives me peace of mind to know that whatever happens, I am covered. I have been using Safety Wing, and I find it quite fair, covering a lot for its pricing level. Depending on your needs or you can compare different insurance companies on this useful site, TRAVEL INSURANCE MASTER. Make sure you read carefully what’s included before making the purchase.
Visiting San Miguel de Allende by Day Tour
To enjoy San Miguel de Allende fully, you will need to spend a few days here.
However, if you don’t have the time to travel to San Miguel for so many days and you are visiting Mexico City, you can still join afull-day tripfrom there, where everything is well organized, and a guide will show you around the highlights of San Miguel.
🚌 San Miguel de Allende Tour from Mexico City
4.5⭐ 224 Reviews
In this full-day tour (11 hours approx), a guide will take you around this colonial city’s baroque architecture and landmarks, including the market, the main churches, and interesting art galleries.
You will also have free time to stroll around the cobblestone streets on your own in the afternoon.
I love the place. Mario took the time to explain to us in English about San Miguel. He also recommended to us to try to eat inside the mercado where the locals eat. Very good to help the economy. Victor was a good driver, too.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Nemesia_F, Jun 2023
Top Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende is brimming with amazing things to do, delicious restaurants, spectacular rooftops, and events.
The city is alive every time of the year, especially in September with the patron saint festivities and independence day.
I will write a full post about the things to do in San Miguel de Allende, but I will share some of the highlights below.
✔️ Stroll around the pretty cobblestone roads, and note the beautiful doors and decorations.
✔️ Hang out in the Jardin, right in front of the famous La Parroquia, the baroque church with a gothic facade.
✔️ Watch the sunset from El Mirador, the best lookout point in the city.
✔️ Have a drink on one of the city’s rooftops (the best one is the Rosewood terrace).
✔️ Visit La Cañada de la Virgen Archaeological Site with an archeologist – BOOK HERE
✔️ Relax in La Gruta hot springs and spa.
✔️ Take a food tour and try the delicious local restaurants in San Miguel de Allende – BOOK IT HERE.
✔️ Take a private walking tour of the pretty town – BOOK IT HERE.
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Where to Stay in San Miguel de Allende
Recommending a hotel in San Miguel de Allende is a really difficult task. There are so many pretty options for all budgets. I wrote a post on the top boutique hotels in San Miguel de Allende.
Here I mention my top favorite ones.
1. Belmond Sierra Nevada
Belmond Casa de Sierra Nevada is one of the most luxurious and romantic hotels in San Miguel de Allende.
It’s spread throughout different properties in the town center, all of them prestigious colonial buildings that have been refurbished and turned into luxury hotels.
You will love staying here if you are ready to splurge.
Just a perfect luxury spot…great location amenities and a staff beyond all words. Merci et au revoir as we say in French
BETHANY| august 2022
2. Casa No Name
Casa No Name is my second favorite hotel. It’s a cute property located in an old mansion where you can still appreciate the old wall murals.
The elegant rooms are scattered around and hidden behind plants and arches. You will also love the rooftop terrace, with spectacular views over the city.
The hotel preserved its history and it was a wonderful place to explore. Mariana and Daniela were exceptionally helpful from the time we booked, organising our transfers from CDMX, a side trip to Queretaro, and booking dinners. We had an early starts to the days, and they made sure that breakfast was ready.
Kwong | March 2023
3. Hotel Nena
It’s a small intimate old mansion with spectacular spacious rooms full of charm and history.
The stone walls, the high ceilings, fine art pieces scattered around the property walls, furry carpets, and every little detail create a dreamy, romantic atmosphere.
You can enjoy spectacular cathedral views from the rooftop terrace while relaxing and appreciating the elegant ambiance.
Our stay was simply perfect. Carmen and the staff were super friendly & the Chilaquiles for breakfast were super tasty. The hacienda with the pool is a little paradise in San Miguels lovely old town. Very spacious & quiet rooms with very comfortable beds.
alexander | august 2023
How to Get from Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende FAQ
How Much Is the Shuttle From Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende?
A shuttle from Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende can be around 100 USD per person
How Much Is a Taxi From Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende?
A taxi from Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende can charge between 2900 to 3500 MXN
How Far Is San Miguel de Allende de Mexico City?
From San Miguel de Allende to Mexico City, there is about 268 km distance (166 miles)
How Many Days Do You Need in San Miguel de Allende?
I would say a week if you can so that you can enjoy the lively life of the pretty town and explore its museum, churches, art gallery, rooftops, and delicious restaurants, but also explore its surroundings.
If you are in a rush, a day trip will do to get the taste of it, at least. 😜
What Is the Best Time of Year to Go to San Miguel de Allende?
The short answer to this question is that it’s always a good time to visit San Miguel for the mild climate and the lively vibes all year round. There is always something interesting to do in the city.
What Is the Coldest Month in San Miguel de Allende?
The coldest month in San Miguel de Allende is January, with a min average temperature of 41°F and a maximum of 81°F.
Is the Drive From Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende Safe?
Absolutely! The roads are well-maintained, and numerous rest stops are along the way. Of course, it’s important to exercise common sense and caution.
How to Get From Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende: Final Thoughts
San Miguel De Allende is a gem, a colonial town impregnated with art and beauty, and it will make you fall in love, as it happened to all of us who visited.
In fact, not only San Miguel De Allende has been nominated a Pueblo Magico and a UNESCO world heritage site, but also been elected in the 2021 World’s Best Awards, the world’s best city. I have lived there for several months at different times and I am not surprised that you are looking for ways to get there. You will love it.
I hope that this post helped you find the best options for you to to get to San Miguel De Allende from Mexico City. The cheapest is by bus, the most comfortable is by private transportation, and the most fun is by car. Pick the one you prefer and enjoy Mexico. 🙂
Before You Go…
Here are some useful posts that you may be interested in…
- The 13 best boutique hotels in San Miguel de Allende
- The 3 best hot springs in San Miguel de Allende
- Where to stay in Guanajuato: the best hotels and homes for every budget
- Top 29 things to do in Guanajuato Mexico
- The Top 17 Fun Things to Do in Mexico City
✨ Mexico Travel Planning Guide ✨
👉 Do I Need Travel Insurance to Travel to Mexico?
I would do it if I were you. You never know what can happen, and knowing that you will be covered for any expenses will give you peace of mind and make your travel worry-free. You can check outSafetyWing,which I have used and find affordable and comprehensive, and alsoTravel Insurance Master,which is great because you can insert all your information and what kind of insurance you need, and their system will pull out the best insurance for your needs.
🚰 Can I Drink Tap Water in Mexico?
No, you can’t! Maybe in some areas or in some homes where they have installed water filters but to be on the safe side, I would say, never drink tap water in Mexico. Carry a water bottle with you and fill it up where you find available potable water sources. Most of the hotels have those.
🚗 Is It Safe to Drive in Mexico?
The short answer is that it depends on where you are. However, in general, if you stick to the main roads and don’t drive at night, you should probably be safe. In lesser tourist areas, you should probably check the local news to stay up to date. Driving in the Yucatan Peninsula is easy everywhere, even at night, although I would still avoid it. I recommend Discover Cars because the site offers the option to compare prices among different car rentals, and you can add their own full coverage.
Read more on my guide on Renting a car in Mexico.
📱 Will My Phone Work in Mexico?
It will probably work, especially if you have a European or US phone, but your roaming rates may be to the stars (check with your SIM provider). Even if have an affordable international rate, you will be much better off by buying a Mexican SIM Card. It’s cheap, easy to set up, and it will keep you connected with your friends, family, and, more important, google Maps so you will never get lost!
🤕 Is It Safe to Travel to Mexico Right Now?
The short answer is, yes it is. However, there are parts of Mexico that are indeed troubled and you should avoid for now, and others that are super safe and easy to travel around.
Regardless of where you are you should always use some common sense rules such as, never flaunting expensive clothing, accessories, electronics, or money and keeping a low profile.
Read more on my detailed guide on safety in Mexico. If you are traveling to a specific destination I have got you covered as well:
- Is Cancun Safe?
- Is Tulum Safe?
- Is Puerto Vallarta safe?
💉 Do I Need Any Vaccine to Travel to Mexico?
No, there is no vaccine requirement (of any kind) to travel to Mexico
🇲🇽 Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Mexico?
If you are coming from the US or Europe you don’t need a VISA to enter Mexico. Once you get in you need to fill out a form that you need to keep with you until you leave. If you don’t have it you will pay a fine.
Although the tourist visa for US and European travelers used to be 6 months long which you could easily renew by leaving the country for a couple of days and going back, nowadays they have been stricter. You may be asked how you would sustain your living and other similar questions. Sometimes they even ask you to show your credit cards.
It seems odd but they can do that. If you intend to stay longer than a usual couple of weeks’ vacation time, just be honest and explain your plans. If you are not from the US, check this site to see if you need a visa
💸 Where Do I Find the Best Travel Deals for Mexico? 💸
A trip to Mexico can be expensive if you love to travel with all the comforts (like I do). There are a few tricks that will help you find the best deals. Here are my tips:
👉 DON’T travel in the high season, which is Holy week, Christmas and winter in general, and August.
👉 Book months in advance to find early booking discounts
👉 Use aggregators such as Discover Cars to find price comparisons and VRBO for vacation rentals!
👉 Look for packages flights+hotels on Expedia.
👉 Check on Booking.com or Hotels.com for hotel deals
Happy travels!!
