A Long Weekend in San Miguel de Allende

If you’re traveling by bus or car from Mexico City, you’ll likely arrive in San Miguel de Allende in the early afternoon. Once you’re checked in to your hotel, head straight to Jardín Allende and the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, the beautiful centerpiece of San Miguel. There, you’ll find a plethora of street food to fuel you for an afternoon stroll to get your bearings in this picturesque town.

Be sure to stop by the nearby Dôce 18 Concept House, a unique space that houses shops, art, eateries and L’Ôtel Casa Arca.

In the evening, head to Luna Rooftop at the Rosewood Hotel to enjoy breathtaking sunset views along with cocktails and small plates.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Lavanda Café. Don’t skip the latte de cáscara, a latte made with roasted cacao husk syrup that is sure to be the best coffee of your trip.

Next up: shopping! San Miguel de Allende has wonderful boutiques, perfect for buying souvenirs for loved ones, or yourself! Etnēa Boutique by Eclectic Array carries fair trade items made by Mexican artisans. From home decor to jewelry and embroidered band tees, there’s something for everyone. La Modernista stocks a lovely collection of clothing, shoes and accessories for men, women and children, all sourced from makers in the Iberian Peninsula.

Tequila lovers should not miss Casa Dragones, a small-batch tequila producer based in San Miguel de Allende. An array of experiences await at La Casa Dragones – be sure to reserve in advance on their website.

Non-drinkers will be delighted by the array of zero-proof drinks available on nearly every restaurant’s menu, and the coffee scene is also exceptional. Jacques Cafe, located on one of the prettiest streets in San Miguel de Allende, offers an American and Middle Eastern inspired menu, plus a full coffee bar, fresh juices, smoothies and more. A great choice for an afternoon break.

San Miguel’s best restaurant might just be the casual but cozy Tostévere, specializing in (but not limited to) tostadas. The menu here is creative and delicious – you can’t go wrong with any choice. Do make a reservation well in advance as this popular spot books up nightly.

Live Aqua Urban Resort is the destination for Sunday brunch in San Miguel de Allende. With live music and a breakfast buffet to rival any other, it’s a place to see and be seen. Make a day of it with reservations at Live Aqua’s full-service spa, a true oasis that boasts everything from single treatments to thoughtfully crafted experiences.

After the spa, walk your blissed-out self to nearby Fabrica la Aurora, a former textile factory that has been converted to dozens of gallery spaces, plus a few food and beverage outlets. In town, Kuna Galeria features the eclectic pieces of a handful of Mexican artists.

Enjoy one last sunset from the rooftop of Quince or La Posadita, neighboring restaurants with some of the best views in town.