San Miguel de Allende, MEXICO – recently named “best city in the world”, this enchanting town was the perfect pace for an overdue sister’s trip. If you like rooftops, sunsets, colorful streets, and some of the best views of central Mexico, SMA should be at the top of your list.
Our Stay
5 days / 4 nights
Arrive: BJX / Depart: QRO
We hired a private car through TransportArte San Miguel for the 1.5 hour drive into San Miguel from Leon, Guanajuanto. $85 each way for two pax- clean and safe cars with a professional drivers.
STAY
There are many beautiful hotels to choose from, but we chose to rent an Airbnb for private views of the city. Our place was only 3 blocks away from the central square and Parroquia for only $100/night.
EAT & DRINK
Quince – named “best rooftop in the world” in 2022. Kick off your trip by booking reservations for sunset here just next to the Parroquia.
Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar at Rosewood – this should be #1 on your list. In my opinion it’s the best view of the city with tasty aguachile and cocktails
Bekab – artisan mixology with panoramic views. They made the best upscale Paloma!
Fatima 7 Rooftop – great lunch spot serving both Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine with views of the Parroquia and Iglesia de San Francisco
Ki’Bok Coffee – premium coffee. Their original location is in Tulum.
Cafe Umaran – one of the most stylist cafes in el centro.
Lavanda Cafe de Especialidad – perfect spot for breakfast with the best chiliquiles. Arrive early and expect a line. There are two locations so make sure to search “de Especialidad”. If you don’t have patience or time to wait, there is a window where you can order coffee and pastries to go.
Cafe Colibri – breakfast among hummingbirds in this peaceful courtyard
Jacques – my friend’s favorite place for brunch in the city
The Room – tiny Mezcal bar which is in fact…a room. Reservations recommended! Located on Calle de Hernández Macías number 76.
Chocolates y Churros San Agustin – we ate our churros off the street, but wanted to try this place too!
Bocaciega – Greek cuisine recommended by my friend who lives in SMA
DO / SHOPPING
Fabrica de Aurora – beautiful Cultural Center of Art and Design that used to be a famous textile factory. It’s full of artisan products (like Javier Servin’s ceramics) and art galleries.
Azul Cobalto – Javier Servin’s standalone ceramic shop near the Parroquia.
Ceramica Lopez – large ceramic store with beautiful vases, serving platters, cups, shot glasses, and more
Arte Zapateco – textile shop! Fair prices for the most beautiful table runners, pillow cases, napkins, and blouses.
El Mirador – fantastic panoramic viewpoint of the city. To beat the crowds, you can get similar views from Calle Huerta or De La Garita
Spa Day at Essential Massage and Watsu – ~$50 USD for 75 minutes, book by WhatsApp. Cash only.
Wine Day
Dos Buhos – go for the wine and stay for lunch
Viñedos San Lucas – a one hour visit includes a tour of the vineyard, the lavender fields, plus wine and olive oil tasting with cheeseboard. $35 USD / $690 MX Pesos.
Vinicola Toyan – three different tours/tastings to choose from ranging from $350-$800 pesos. Book via Whatsapp!
If you have a few more days, I highly recommend visiting Guanajuanto and/or Queretaro — especially since you’ll be flying out of one of those airports.
Tarmacs And Tequila 