Road trip through the bajío: from querétaro to san miguel de allende

Road trip from Querétaro to San Miguel de Allende: a cultural getaway in the Bajío

The drive from Querétaro to San Miguel de Allende is one of the most charming getaways in Mexico’s Bajío region. Spanning about 65 km, this route offers history, culture, gastronomy, and beautiful scenery. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a long weekend, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore some of the region’s most iconic magical towns.

How to get from Querétaro to San Miguel de Allende by car

There are several ways to travel from Querétaro to San Miguel de Allende, but driving is undoubtedly one of the best ways to make the most of your trip. With car rental in Querétaro, you can leave whenever you like, stop at points of interest, and enjoy the changing landscapes of the Bajío.

The estimated travel time is around 1 hour and 30 minutes via Federal Highway 111D, a modern, well-marked toll road that connects both destinations. It passes through rural areas and small towns in Guanajuato, giving you the chance to explore magical towns near Querétaro before reaching San Miguel de Allende.

Along the way, you’ll find toll booths, rest areas, and gas stations, making for a safe and comfortable trip. The road alternates between straight stretches and gentle curves, with views of green fields, crops, and hills characteristic of the Bajío.

Driving also gives you the freedom to explore nearby towns without relying on public transport. You can take a quick detour to Atotonilco, known as the “Sistine Chapel of Mexico,” with its impressive murals and colonial architecture. This small town is less than 10 km from San Miguel de Allende and adds great cultural value to your road trip.

Once in San Miguel de Allende, having a car allows you to explore freely—its colonial squares, panoramic viewpoints, cafés, art galleries, and artisan shops. The city has both public and private parking, making it easy to visit the historic center. The flexibility of combining San Miguel with other cultural routes across the Bajío makes Hertz México car rental an ideal choice for maximizing your experience.

Magical towns to visit on the way from Querétaro to San Miguel de Allende

Along the Querétaro–San Miguel de Allende route, you’ll find several magical towns worth visiting. Traveling by car lets you stop in each one, explore its architecture, taste local food, and enjoy its culture without worrying about time.

El Pueblito: just 10 minutes from Querétaro City, this charming town in Corregidora is a perfect first stop on your road trip. Its main attraction is the Sanctuary of Our Lady of El Pueblito, a major religious site housing the original image of the state’s patron saint. Around it, you’ll find colonial houses, ceramic and textile workshops, and markets with local treats like acelga tamales, artisanal bread, and traditional ice cream.

Bernal: about 50 km from Querétaro’s capital, Bernal is one of the state’s most visited magical towns, famous for Peña de Bernal—the third-largest monolith in the world. From its base, you can hike or take guided climbs with panoramic views of the semidesert. The town center features cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and a peaceful atmosphere. Don’t miss the Mask Museum, San Sebastián Mártir Parish, and craft shops selling textiles, milk candies, and local wines. Try regional dishes like cracked corn...

Tequisquiapan: known for its colonial architecture and lovely plazas, this town is ideal for culture and food lovers. Its main square, Plaza Miguel Hidalgo, features the Santa María de la Asunción Parish and the Handicraft Market, where you’ll find wicker, leather, and ceramic goods. Close by, La Pila Park is perfect for a short rest. Traveling by car makes it easy to reach nearby communities like San Nicolás or La Trinidad, where artisanal traditions and Bajío-style gastronomy thrive.

What to do in San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende is one of the Bajío’s most important destinations, offering plenty of cultural, recreational, and culinary activities.

Explore the Historic Center: stroll its streets and visit the Parish of San Miguel Arcángel, the Main Garden, and the Handicraft Market. The colonial architecture, colorful balconies, and plazas make every walk a unique experience.

Visit art galleries: the city has numerous galleries showcasing local and international artists, featuring painting, sculpture, photography, and design.

Enjoy local gastronomy: try dishes like enchiladas mineras, stuffed peppers, and traditional sweets. Markets and cafés offer fresh products and authentic flavors that reflect the Bajío’s culinary heritage.

Join festivals and cultural events: San Miguel hosts festivals such as the International Jazz Festival, the Chamber Music Festival, and the San Miguel Fair, immersing you in the local culture and traditions.

And that’s just the beginning: San Miguel de Allende has much more to offer, from scenic viewpoints and natural hot springs to cultural experiences that capture the Bajío’s spirit.

The road trip from Querétaro to San Miguel de Allende is a unique experience blending history, culture, and natural beauty. Along this journey, you’ll discover some of Mexico’s most charming magical towns. Plan your itinerary and book ahead to make the most of this unforgettable getaway!