San Miguel de Allende stands out as a unique gem in a globe that includes dynamic cities and gorgeous locations, consistently deserving the title of “Best City in the World.” It’s also what supported the city’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 and drew American expat Greg Gunter—a full-time resident since 2009—to this charming village of 150,000 residents, about 20,000 of whom are fellow expat residents. This “Best City” recognition given by the renowned Condé Nast Traveler is more than just praise, it’s a monument to the city’s distinctive fusion of culture, charm, and attraction that captures everyone who enters its cobblestone streets. Resident Gunter—a real estate Broker who has helped hundreds of expats transition to a new life here—explains what makes San Miguel de Allende the best city in the world and an unrivaled travel destination and second-home paradise in Mexico.
Cultural Riches
San Miguel’s vibrant and diversified culture is at the core of its allure. The history and customs of Mexico are alive and well in this 480-year-old UNESCO World Heritage City. The city’s historic core, a maze of winding alleyways and colonial-era buildings, is a physical example of how Spanish and indigenous cultures coexist. San Miguel’s culture is a dynamic tapestry that draws visitors worldwide, with cultural festivals like the Guanajuato International Film Festival and the San Miguel Writers’ Conference to indigenous-originated events like the Dia de los Muertos celebrations so widely photographed. An artistic city, the abundance of enticing art galleries and museums means there’s a gallery opening somewhere several nights a week.
Architectural Beauty
San Miguel de Allende’s streets are dotted with charming facades, and the historic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel dominates the city’s skyline. Every part of the city’s carefully conserved architectural legacy—the city’s UNESCO zone enforces strict architectural preservation—delivers an undeniably alluring sense of nostalgia. Gunter—originally schooled as an architect—notes the city boasts the best-preserved examples of all Mexican architectural styles, ranging from classic Spanish Colonial to Baroque Churrigueresque to a Mexican Modernist by Starchitect Ricardo Legorreta, currently listed for sale by Gunter. San Miguel’s architecture is a call to sit down and enjoy the moment, and exploring it is like entering into a living history book.
Warm Community
The warmth of San Miguel de Allende goes beyond its climate. It’s a place where the locals and foreigners coexist together, fostering a welcoming atmosphere. Both locals and visitors are welcomed with open arms, creating a sense of community that makes you feel like a member of something larger—a dynamic, global community sharing San Miguel’s elegance. This city boasts over 100 NGOs, many funded and managed by American expats, providing a strong cross-cultural support for the native residents. Gunter has sat on the board of and continues to support local NGOs like Patronato Pro Niños, Casita Linda and Pro Musica, among others, supporting causes ranging from children’s health care, to housing the homeless, to scholarships for budding classical musicians.
Artistic Haven
San Miguel de Allende has long been an artistic haven, drawing creatives worldwide. The city’s vibrant art scene includes many galleries, workshops, and studios where local and international artists collaborate and thrive. It’s a place where artistic inspiration is nurtured and celebrated. The Fabrica Aurora proves just one ideal example of this artistic bent as a collaborative hosting over 43 art galleries, antique shops and restaurants where the monthly Art Walk doubles as a block-party for art minded locals to meet and greet.
Scenic Beauty
San Miguel de Allende offers stunning views and unmatched natural beauty tucked away in the charming Mexican hills. The city’s nature is a lovely background to daily life, from the tranquil botanical gardens to the vast vistas atop El Mirador. The natural splendor of San Miguel never fails to wow, whether you’re taking in a breathtaking sunset or observing the stars above.
Safety and Serenity
San Miguel de Allende is renowned internationally for its safety, adding to its appeal as a destination for expatriate residents and travelers. It’s a place where one can wander the streets of Centro at any hour without worry, basking in the tranquil and secure environment that sets it apart from many other cities.
San Miguel de Allende’s status as the “Best City in the World” is not a title bestowed lightly. It reflects the city’s remarkable blend of culture, architectural beauty, community warmth, gastronomic delights, artistic inspiration, scenic wonder, and safety. San Miguel embodies the essence of Mexico’s history and the warmth of its people, making it a place where dreams and memories are cherished.
Resident expat and Broker Greg Gunter has helped so many hundreds of fellow expats transition to their dream lifestyles in San Miguel de Allende that he brands himself as The Dream Pro, “San Miguel’s Dream Home Expert!” He helps inquisitive future expats—anyone researching homes for sale in San Miguel de Allende—uncover the magic of San Miguel de Allende, demonstrating daily that it’s a destination where every day feels like an adventure. Gunter has established himself as a visionary in the industry, transforming how we perceive luxury brokerage. As the owner and Broker of the local Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices real estate office, his name is synonymous with excellence in the San Miguel de Allende real estate market. His reputation as a trusted advisor is built on integrity—backed by Warren Buffett’s eponymous brand—and a genuine passion for helping clients achieve their real estate dreams.
Gunter cherishes the opportunity to introduce the San Miguel lifestyle to future residents, sharing insight into local real estate and luxury homes for sale in San Miguel de Allende on his web site DreamProHomesLuxury.com.
