San Miguel de Allende Greatest Hits Jaunt
San Miguel de Allende Greatest Hits Jaunt
Our 3-Day, Jaunt-approved list of the best spots in this romantic, rooftop bar-filled Mexican mountain town.
The elevator pitch: This colorful, charming artist’s haven in the mountains attracts many retirees, couples, and food lovers. Rooftop bars abound, and the skyline doesn’t disappoint.
When to go: Great to visit all year, highs are usually around 75-85°F (24-30°C), and lows are usually around 45-60°F (7-16°C), depending on the month. Try to go between November through April for a lower chance of rain.
Where to stay: If you’re willing to shell out, we love the new Rosewood or the iconic Belmond. If chain hotels aren’t your thing, Casa Blanca 7 is a tiny, luxe, Moroccan-inspired option. For a more economical option, we’d go for an Airbnb. We recommend staying in the city center, where all the action is, but if you don’t mind Ubering or walking, check out the brand new, modern Live Aqua Resort.
How to get around: San Miguel is pretty small. Most of the spots are in the city center, which is highly walkable. When you need to leave the center, Ubers are cheap.
TRIP OVERVIEW: Greatest Hits
What this is: our Jaunt-approved list of all the most epic spots in San Miguel
What this isn’t: random recommendations from “Karen” in Minnesota (she’s probably not visiting San Miguel yet, but you never know…)
Day 1: Explore the City
Cumpanio
Breakfast in Centro
map | site | @cumpaniomx
Modern yet warm. Our #1 favorite spot in San Miguel - we won’t blame you for going every morning (we did). Some of the best pastries this side of the Atlantic.
El Jardin
Explore the center of the city
map
Bustling and authentic. San Miguel’s lively center square, featuring the iconic pink Gothic church you’ve seen all over Instagram. Take some time to explore the cobblestone-lined streets of the city, including its many art galleries and shops.
Don Taco Tequila
Lunch in Centro
map | site | @dontacotequila
Innovative and casual. This cozy taco spot has an incredible all-vegan menu. We promise, you won’t miss the meat! Try the jamaica flower tacos.
Charco del Ingenio
Active and breathtaking. This botanical garden about 15 minutes outside the city features amazing views of the enchanting San Miguel skyline. Bring your sneakers and explore the trails!
Luna Rooftop Tapas
Cocktails in Centro
map | reserve | site | @rosewoodsanmiguel
Elegant and lively. Head back to the city center for a pre-dinner cocktail at the new Rosewood. San Miguel has no shortage of rooftop bars, but we love this one for its ambiance and menu of light bites. If you happen to be there on a Thursday, make sure you stop by for their Sunset Sessions, featuring a live DJ.
Aperi
Dinner in Centro
map | reserve | site | @aperimx
Fresh and innovative. Arguably the best restaurant in San Miguel, this molecular gastronomy-focused spot is like if Pujol and El Bulli had a child. Reservations are definitely required!
Bar at the R
Going Out in Centro
map | site | @thebaratther
Lively and fun. This funky bar, semi-hidden in The Restaurant, features local DJs and craft cocktails. It’s a great place to wrap up your night!
Day 2: Head Out to the Countryside
Lavanda Cafe
Breakfast in Centro
map | site | @lavanda_cafe
Rustic and charming. Stop by this hip cafe, which features an amazing organic food menu, before heading out of the city for the morning. We highly recommend the eponymous lavender latte. PS - bring cash!
Hotel La Santisima Trinidad
Lunch Outside the City
map | site | @la.santisima.trinidad
Enchanting and airy. Grab an Uber to this hotel for an afternoon of relaxing activities, located about a 30-min drive from the city. Wine tasting, a lavender farm, and horseback riding - this place has it all! Make sure to grab reservations for lunch so you can get in.
Quince
Cocktails in Centro
map | reserve | site | @quince.sma
Lively and trendy. When you come back to the city, grab a cocktail at this hip rooftop bar. It’s been rated the #1 rooftop bar in all of Mexico, and we can’t argue with that!
La Azotea
Dinner in Centro
map | site | @laazoteasma
Vibrant and picturesque. We’re continuing the rooftop bar tour of San Miguel. Head over to La Azotea for a lovely dinner. They don’t take reservations, so expect a slight wait. Highly recommend trying the jicama tacos.
Mama Mia
Going Out in Centro
map | reserve | site | @mamamiasanmiguel
Laid back and lively. Swing by this Italian restaurant after dinner for cocktails and live music. You can take your pick of their many bars on the property!
Day 3: Explore Art Galleries
La Ventana Coffee
Coffee in Centro
map
Casual and simple. This unassuming walk-up window serves incredible coffee. Grab one in the morning before heading south to Rustica for breakfast.
Rustica
Breakfast in Guadiana
map | @rustica.sma
Fresh and casual. Explore a more residential area south of the city center, and grab breakfast at Rustica. This cafe features healthy options, and is vegetarian-friendly!
Fabrica la Aurora
Check out the galleries and artisans
map | site | @fabricaaurora
Eclectic and charming. This former textile factory north of the city has been converted into a shopping center featuring galleries, furniture shops, and more. It’s a lovely way to spend an afternoon (and a few thousand, if you’re in the mood to shop).
Live Aqua Resort
Lunch in Azteca
map | site | @liveaquasanmiguel
Sleek and refreshing. This brand-new resort just north of the city features amazing architecture, multiple restaurants, and a sleek pool. Grab a late lunch here (and maybe a cocktail or two) and explore the property.
Nómada Cocina de Interpretación
Dinner in Centro
map | site | @nomada_cocinadeinterpretacion
Acclaimed and modern. This chef-driven spot features international, expensive-tasting dishes - at Mexican prices. If you happen to be here on a Wednesday, the tasting menu is a great value!
La Mezcaleria
Cocktails in Centro
map | site | @lamezcaleriasma
Cozy and hipster. Top the night off at this dark, moody mezcal bar (duh), which also features tapas and an extensive wine list.
What didn’t make the list?
The restaurant scene in San Miguel is sprawling, and it was hard to choose our top picks! Here are some alternatives if you’re staying longer or want to swap something out.
Eat dinner at The Restaurant
Grab some Peruvian food at La Parada
Taste tequila at Casa Dragones
Take a day trip to see ancient ruins at la Canada de la Virgen
If you love San Miguel, you’ll also love
Santa Fe, New Mexico. Jaunt coming soon!
Nearby places to visit
Mexico City. About a 3.5 hour car ride away.