How to Spend 3 Days in San Miguel de Allende

Start your first day off with breakfast at Lavanda Café. Tucked behind a lavender garden, it’s a local favorite with great coffee and chilaquiles. There’s often a line, but it’s worth the wait.

Wander around the historic center. Start at the iconic pink neo-Gothic church, Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel. Explore El Jardín (the main plaza) across the street. Stop into the Biblioteca Pública, a stunning library with a café and murals.

In the afternoon, head to Casa de Allende Museum. Learn about the city’s namesake, Ignacio Allende, and its role in Mexico’s independence. Stop by Fábrica La Aurora, a converted textile factory with art galleries, design studios, and boutiques. It’s great for a mix of browsing, culture, and shopping. If you’re an art lover, schedule a workshop or gallery tour in advance.

Have drinks at sunset at Luna Rooftop Bar at the Rosewood Hotel (the best view in the city!). Head to The Restaurant for a romantic courtyard dinner. Stroll back through the lit-up streets and enjoy some live music around El Jardín after dinner.

Grab breakfast at Panio for European-style pastries and great coffee.

Spend the morning browsing Mercado de Artesanías for handwoven textiles, tin art, handmade toys, and more. Explore the boutiques around Hernández Macías and Calle Zacateros.

Unwind with a trip to the spa. For something local, head to Sense at the Rosewood Hotel. For a break outside of town, head to La Gruta Hot Springs.

For dinner, head to Quince or Aperi for an intimate chef’s table–style dining experience. Top off the evening with a cocktail, rooftop views, and Mexican-Mediterranean vibes at Bekeb.

Grab breakfast at Ki’bok Coffee for house-roasted coffee and a breakfast menu that includes everything from huevos rancheros to smoothie bowls.

Head to Parque Benito Juárez, an urban park great for a slower morning walk and people-watching. You can also take a short cab ride to El Charco del Ingenio, a botanical garden and nature reserve with cactus-covered cliffs and sweeping views.

In the afternoon, take advantage of a cooking class at Sazón (complete with a market visit, hands-on cooking, and plenty of eating); a guided walking food tour (visit local mercados, street stalls, and hidden gems); or exploring the surrounding wine region with tastings at boutique vineyards like Viñedo Dos Búhos, Cuna de Tierra, or Santísima Trinidad.

For your final dinner, head to Bovine Brasserie for a moody, upscale vibe in a restored 18th-century building. Have drinks at Zumo Rooftop for a final drink under the stars.