Don't forget your passports! US and Canadian citizens do not need a visa to enter Mexico.
There are two main airports that we would recommend flying into: Querétaro International Airport (QRO) and Guanajuato Leon International Airport (BJX).
QRO has direct flights coming in from Houston (United), Dallas (American), and Detroit (Delta / Aeromexico). QRO is a ~1-1.5 hour drive to San Miguel de Allende.
BJX has direct flights coming in from Houston (United), Dallas (American), and Atlanta (Delta / Aeromexico). BJX is a ~1.5-2 hour drive to San Miguel de Allende.
If neither of these airports work for you, the Mexico City International Airport (MEX) is also an option. However, this airport is a 3-4 hour drive from San Miguel de Allende.
If you find Mexican airlines that work for your itinerary, we've included a brief summary below of each Mexican airline.
Aeromexico (Delta equivalent)
Volaris (JetBlue equivalent)
VivaAerobus (Spirit equivalent)
Once you land in Mexico, we have a couple of options for how you can reach and get around San Miguel de Allende. We would not recommend renting a car, as parking is limited/difficult in SMA and all activities will be within walking distance once you arrive.
Transport from QRO or BJX airport
We would recommend either taking an Uber or a private/shared transfer for this 1-2 hour journey.
For Uber, you will be able to use the same mobile app as you do in the US/Canada and be sure the Uber is marked as displayed in the app. We recommend using the Uber Comfort option for the best experience with space and AC. We have used Uber multiple times coming from each airport and have had great experiences. An average Uber journey will typically cost $50-100 USD from either airport.
For private or shared transfers, we have listed three companies that we would recommend below. The prices range from $30-50 USD per person depending on the size of the vehicle. You will need to book directly with your preferred company, pay directly, and communicate via WhatsApp for all logistics.
Viajes San Miguel (link)
BajioGo (link)
San Miguel Eco Turistic (link)
Transport from MEX airport
We would recommend either taking a private/shared transfer or a bus. Coming from the Mexico City airport will take 3-4 hours.
For private or shared transfers, all of the companies listed above also offer private and/or shared transfers from MEX airport. This trip should take about 3-4 hours, and the prices range from $50-150 USD per person depending on the size of the vehicle.
For buses, take a look at the ETN bus company (link). Their buses are very comfortable, clean and surprisingly luxurious. You will want to depart from "Camino Real Aeropuerto Cdmx," which is the bus stop located at the airport hotel (Camino Real), and head for San Miguel de Allende. This trip should take about 4-4.5 hours at ~$40-50 USD per person. You will arrive at the bus station in San Miguel, which is on the west side of town and a ~10 minute drive/25 minute walk from downtown.
Transport within San Miguel de Allende
While most destinations will be walkable via the cobblestone streets, if you do need transport within SMA we recommend Uber (1st choice) or local taxis, who both have an extensive transit web across the city.
With Uber, most trips will come under $2-5 USD / 50-100 pesos.
With local taxis, keep an eye out for the authorized taxis with green exteriors and white roofs. Your hotel can arrange one or you can flag one down quite easily in the downtown area. You will need to agree upon a price before departing. Most trips will come under $2-5 USD / 50-100 pesos. You will, however, need cash for these trips.