Spend a Weekend in This Mexico Vacation Spot — And You’ll See Why It’s the “World’s Best City”

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Sure, Mexico’s beautiful beaches and all-inclusive resorts are great — but its central highlands may offer something, dare we say, even better. Specifically, San Miguel de Allende. The “Next-Generation Creative Capital” boasts an enchanting mix of quaint cobblestone streets, stunning Spanish colonial architecture, buzzy bars and restaurants, and a thriving arts scene. Plus, there are plenty of day trip opportunities — from exploring the region’s natural wineries to experiencing the hacienda-based ranch culture. No wonder Travel + Leisure named San Miguel de Allende its favorite city in the world last year.

🛏 While Casa Hoyos’s location makes it ideal for seeing the city (many top attractions are less than a 10-minute walk away), we don’t blame you if you don’t want to leave the 17th-century manor turned boutique hotel. Not only are the 16 rooms and suites cool and contemporary (think: a desert-esque color palette, terracotta-tiled bathrooms, decor made by Mexican artisans), but the cacti-dotted rooftop terrace also has a plunge pool and some of the city’s finest sunset views.

🌇 The best way to experience the city’s rich culture and history is by wandering. Start in its center, home to the iconic neo-Gothic church La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel (you can’t miss the pastel-pink, wedding cake-like towers) and the main plaza, Jardín Allende (aka “people-watching central”). From there, stop by some art galleries, including: Galería Nudo, which showcases contemporary pieces by Mexican artists; Galería Casa Diana, previously home to surrealist artist Pedro Friedeberg; and Fábrica La Aurora, a former textile factory that’s now an art and design complex. Along the way, make sure to pop in local boutiques like Mixta for Mexican fashion and home decor and Suki Palomina for a handmade hat.

🍴 Fuel up for a day of sightseeing and shopping with one of Lavanda Café’s signature lavender-infused drinks. When you’re ready for lunch, head to Raíces, which serves inventive twists on traditional favorites, like crispy tacos stuffed with hibiscus flower and tropical pico de gallo. For something just as creative, consider the Mexi-Thai cooking at popular dinner spot Zibu Allende (our picks: softshell crab tacos, ajillo-marinated octopus) and the seasonal, locally driven tasting menus at Áperi. And while a one-hour tequila tasting at Casa Dragones is a must, you should also get a nightcap at Bekeb, a renowned rooftop bar mixing up cocktails inspired by ancestral Mexican ingredients and traditions.