From Puebla to San Miguel de Allende

On my previous visit to colonial Mexico, I overlooked two important cities: up-and-coming Puebla and ever-popular San Miguel de Allende. It’s perhaps more sensible to combine one or the other with a stay in Mexico City, but I found it easy enough to make an itinerary of just Puebla and San Miguel, which are approximately four and a half hours apart by car. Their contrasting atmospheres made them an appealing combination.

Artists still work in San Miguel de Allende, but it doesn’t feel bohemian. In fact, the town is the most expensive of Mexico’s colonial cities. People dress up, especially on the weekends, when San Miguel draws visitors from Mexico City, Querétaro and Guadalajara. Holiday weekends can be especially crowded, making it wise to visit during the week, when there isn’t as much competition for reservations in top restaurants. The wine country just outside San Miguel is also quieter on weekdays.