Written by Claire Betts our Latin America & Polar Specialist
From the floor to ceiling glass of our Ritz Carlton Mexico City fortieth floor suite, the skyline is a sight to behold. Ringed by distant mountain and volcanoes, the valley of Mexico City sprawls out for miles every which way beneath us. Directly adjacent, the immense Chapultepec Park, the lungs of the city, offers calming green in a sea of concrete. Our hotel sits right on Avenida de la Reforma, the gargantuan avenue which slices through the heart of the capital, the perfect resting point from which to explore the city.
Best Neighbourhoods in Mexico City for First-Time Visitors
Chapultepec & Polanco
Starting next door, Chapultepec Park is home to the city’s zoo, botanic gardens and several world-class museums – none so resplendent as the Anthropology Museum, a treasure trove of Mexican artifacts which add a depth to our understanding of Mexican history. The neighbouring Polanco area, with its tree-lined boulevards, upscale boutiques and grand mansions is a lovely barrio to stroll or stay in one of many small, independent hotels.
Condesa & Roma Norte
The other side of Chapultepec, Condesa bleeds into Roma Norte as we hit some of the trendiest postal codes in town. Art deco architecture and a flourishing arts scene set the vibe, but the area is really a must for foodies. From Michelin-starred to street, culinary offerings are diverse and innovative, perhaps encapsulated best at Mercado Roma, Mexico’s first gourmet market. Here a symphony of smells fragrance the air; the hearty pozole stew mingles with not only the ubiquitous corn but wafts too, of authentic Indian curry. We grab an artisanal mezcal cocktail on the terrace and take in the smells, sights and sounds of the ritzy mercado.
Centro Histórico
Downtown, the historical centre cannot be missed, the immense Zocálo was once the heart of the Aztec capital Tenochtitlan, constructed on the marshes of Lake Texcoco. The Aztec Templo Mayor is still embedded in its centre and the grand colonial buildings list from subsidence due to its unique geological location. Dominating the central square, sits the Cathedral, which was built over almost three centuries. The colossal edifice amalgamates eclectic architectural features, including jaw-droppingly elaborate, baroque altars.
Coyoacán & San Ángel
We spend a day exploring the city’s southern neighbourhoods, San Ángel and Coyoacán, Mexico City shows us a softer side here. Once a rural hamlet, far from the city San Ángel has now technically been engulfed by the metropolis but with its cobblestone streets and bougainvillea swept buildings it does maintain the nostalgic feel of a bygone era. We browse local art the El Bazaar del Sábado, taking advantage of visiting on a Saturday. We walk in the footsteps of many of Mexico’s great writers and artists of its grand bohème past. These are the neighbourhoods of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera and in her Casa Azul, so visceral her presence remains, it offers an almost haunting insight into her personal universe.
San Miguel de Allende: A Must-See Beyond the Capital
Heading northwest of the city, around three and a half hours we hit our next destination, San Miguel de Allende. Whilst not directly en route, the pre-Columbian archaeological site of Teotihuacán is bathed in mystery and more than worth the slight detour. Weaving the trip into this journey helps to maximise days.
Named the “World’s Best City” for 2025 by Travel + Leisure, marking its fourth consecutive win, San Miguel de Allende barely gives others a fighting chance. There is no subtlety to its charm, San Miguel is obnoxiously beautiful in a Hollywood glamour, film set-esque sort of way. Compact and easily walkable, a meander through town needn’t, but does take hours, with each corner seemingly more photogenic than the next. The pièce de résistance, the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel takes pride of place in the central square, known for its distinguished pink hue, her neo-Gothic spires tower over San Miguel, making it the city’s most iconic landmark. Winding, ancient streets are lined with beautifully kept colourful houses interspersed with charming little squares, all perfectly manicured. Most impressively, the unassuming colonial façades open into huge labyrinths with spectacular inner courtyards.
In a city the size that everyone knows everyone, everyone certainly knows our guide, Arturo. Greeting all and sundry as we go, our man about town was instrumental in unlocking the hidden gems of this magical town. Outside of town he guides us around Fábrica La Aurora, this former textile factory now houses a plethora of art galleries, antique stores and artists’ studios. It is the perfect spot to pick up unique, quality pieces, we are able too, to stop and talk to some immensely talented painters, sculptors and mixed media artists, gleaning a special insight into the stories behind the pieces.
San Miguel de Allende is not the spot to stock up on touristy tat, independent boutiques and upscale restaurants line these streets – a paradise for serious shoppers and fine diners. That said, for a late-night snack, Tacos Don Tomás really hits the spot, just follow your nose from the main square to the modest truck and far from modest queue. Here the marinated, spit-roasted pork tacos (al pastor) really steal the show. If you can, stay at the Belmond Sierra Nevada which is set across six historical homes in the heart of town and just gorgeous. If you can’t, a drink at their rooftop bar with its stunning sweeping views over the city is the perfect way to wind down on an evening in San Miguel.
A Journey Into the Soul of Mexico
Mexico is a country that rewards curiosity, and nowhere is that more evident than in the contrast between Mexico City and San Miguel de Allende. One is bold, buzzing and ever evolving; the other is slower, sun-drenched and steeped in colonial elegance. Each has its own rhythm, its own flavour, its own story to tell. And when you travel with us, we’ll help you uncover them both in a way that feels personal, insightful and effortless.
But these cities are just the beginning. Our Ultimate Mexico itinerary has been carefully designed to take you beyond the obvious: from Oaxaca’s colourful markets and celebrated food scene to the remote Mayan ruins of Palenque, the highland towns of Chiapas and the white sands of the Yucatán Peninsula. It’s a journey rich in culture, character and contrast, crafted by us, travel experts who know the country inside out.
Claire answers your FAQs about tailor-made travel to Mexico City & San Miguel de Allende holidays
When is the best time to visit Mexico City and San Miguel de Allende?
The ideal time is November to April. This is the dry season, with clear skies, mild temperatures and ideal conditions for walking, sightseeing and al fresco dining. It’s also when both cities host vibrant festivals, Día de Muertos in November and Semana Santa around Easter being particularly special.
How many nights should I spend in Mexico City and San Miguel de Allende to make the most of a luxury holiday?
We’d recommend at least three nights in Mexico City and three to four nights in San Miguel de Allende. This gives you time to immerse yourself in the culture, explore with a private guide, enjoy the culinary scene and unwind properly. Longer stays allow us to build in day trips, spa time or unique local encounters, tailored entirely to your interests.
How far is San Miguel de Allende from Mexico City and how do I get there?
It’s about 3 and a half hours by road from Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende, and we can arrange a private chauffeured transfer, detouring to Teotihuacán, a scenic, cultural and relaxing journey.
What are the highlights of food and culture in Mexico City and San Miguel de Allende?
In Mexico City, expect world-class dining, from Michelin-starred restaurants to vibrant street food in Roma and Condesa. The Anthropology Museum, Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul, and the historic Zócalo are cultural must-sees.
In San Miguel, the food scene leans towards upscale farm-to-table and local chefs are making waves globally. The town itself is an open-air gallery with artisanal shops, boutique galleries and colonial charm at every turn.
What kind of luxury accommodation can I expect in San Miguel de Allende and what’s special about it?
San Miguel’s finest hotels are housed in restored colonial mansions, often with inner courtyards, rooftop views and an exceptional attention to design and service. Think Belmond Casa de Sierra Nevadaor other properties that blend Mexican heritage with contemporary luxury. They feel more like private homes than hotels.
What makes San Miguel de Allende unique among Mexican luxury travel destinations?
It’s the creative energy. San Miguel attracts artists, designers and chefs from around the world, but without losing its identity. The city is UNESCO-listed, full of colour and craftsmanship, yet small enough to wander on foot. There’s a richness here, culturally and visually, that sets it apart from the beach resorts or big cities.
How far in advance should I book a tailor-made Mexico City and San Miguel de Allende holiday to ensure availability in luxury hotels, fine dining experiences and more?
For the best availability and flexibility, especially during peak months (December to March), we recommend booking at least 6 months in advance. Boutique hotels here are small and often book out early, particularly during festivals or wedding season. Booking ahead also allows us to secure top tables at sought-after restaurants, private guides and curated experiences without compromise.
Discover Mexico the Ultimate Way
Speak to Claire, or any of our Mexico & Central America tailor-made travel experts, to begin planning your journey through Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende and beyond. Call +44 (0) 20 7386 4622 or make an online enquiry.
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