It came as no surprise to us to learn that San Miguel was recently ranked Readers’ Choice Awards’ “#1 City in the World.”

With its architectural charm, thriving culture, and endless culinary cuisine, San Miguel is truly “un regalo de México para el mundo” (a gift from Mexico to the world). We are so excited to share this special city with you and we hope you find the same wonder in San Miguel as you explore.

You can spend your entire trip wandering around town, marveling at the colorful architecture and hopping from café to café (or bar to bar, no judgment). However, if you are looking for some recommendations, you can see a list of ideas below:

Things to do:

Visit Fabrica La Aurora

Fabrica is one of the city’s coolest attractions. It is a renovated textile mill that now houses endless galleries, studios, and shops where local vendors sell art of all kinds.

Stroll the galleries and shops in the city center

Throughout San Miguel, you will find endless shops in and around the city center (including hidden gems in the more tucked-away neighborhoods). Some of our favorites include Roma Quince (for beautiful textiles and pottery), Doce 18 Concept House (for high-end fashion), and Arte Zapoteco (for more textiles). You also can’t go wrong with the Mercado de Artesanias, an artist’s market that spans multiple blocks and offers a variety of handcrafted goodies.

Visit La Parroquia

This Rosy-pink, 17th-century church is the backdrop of almost every photo of San Miguel. You can visit the inside during normal business hours so long as there is no mass occurring.

Consider booking an experience:

Taquila tasting at Casa Dragones

(Tristan’s #1 recommendation)

If you are a tequila lover like Tristan, visiting the Casa Dragones tasting room is a must. Because it is the self-proclaimed “smallest tequila bar in the world,” you should book your tasting in advance to play it safe.

Mixology class at Bekeb Rooftop

Take a cocktail crafting class from one of Mexico’s leading mixologists (while you enjoy an exclusive view from one of San Miguel’s coolest rooftops)

Vineyard tour

San Miguel is nestled in proximity to various vineyards (some of which are several centuries old). If you are interested in visiting a vineyard, you can talk to Alexa for more recommendations or look online for one of several guided tours.

Historical, Cultural, and/or Food walking tours

Viator offers tons of options if you want to take a guided walking tour. If you want to get to know the city all while enjoying its best cuisine, we recommend this ‘Tacos and Tequila’ tour.

Horseback riding

Several tours are available online, but here is one option.

Hot air balloon

Hot air ballooning is one of the city’s most popular attractions. If this interests you, this company is the most highly recommended by locals.

Places to eat:

Luna Tapas Bar

For great tapas, amazing drinks, and an unbeatable view. We love going here for a snack and drink in the afternoon.

La Única 

Great spot for a lively and upscale dinner. Reserve in advance for rooftop seating.

Café Rama

Delicious breakfast within one minute walking from the Rosewood.

La Posadita

Amazing Mexican food and views, right next to the Parroquia.

Quince

Voted the best rooftop in the world, Quince is great for tapas and drinks during sunset!

The Restaurant

Wonderful for a more formal dinner.

Los Milagros

For a more casual, authentic Mexican cuisine, try Los Milagros! There are two locations, and you can’t go wrong with either. Come hungry because these plates are HUGE!

Rosewood brunch

Every Sunday, the Rosewood hosts the most extensive brunch we have ever seen in our lives. Literally, the brunch stations span the entire perimeter of the hotel and boast every possible brunch food you could ever imagine. Brunch enthusiasts, you CAN’T miss this one!