Trip Report | Weekend in San Miguel de Allende

Welcome back, friends! I hope you had a wonderful long weekend, and a fun kick-off to summer! Today I’ve got your highly requested Trip Report on the charming town of San Miguel de Allende, a dreamy spot in central Mexico that’s sure to top your list!

When it comes to shooting our GLxHSP Collections, we love to find places that not only reflect the style and energy of the pieces, but also inspire your wanderlust! So when searching for a cool new spot to shoot our Summer Collection (available HERE!), we couldn’t think of a better spot than the dreamy town of San Miguel de Allende! The beautiful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, vibrant markets, and colorful decor make this trip an unforgettable destination, perfect for couples and girlfriend getaways.

Soleado Smocked Top (code SUGARPLUM10) | White Jean Shorts (size 25, size down) | Clear Sandals | Bangle Bracelets (code SUGARPLUM10) | Gold Bead Bracelets

Mr. Sugarplum and I visited over 20 years ago, and surprisingly, it looks exactly the same today! As a world UNESCO site, it’s perfectly preserved, and feels a bit like stepping back in time! Every nook, cranny, and corner is absolutely picturesque… as evidenced by my overload of photos in this post!

We stayed at a luxurious boutique hotel, Casa de Sierra Nevada, in the heart of the city center, which made it easy to explore. Our first day was dedicated to shooting the Endless Summer Collection (available HERE), with the rest of our time spent wandering around the town, or lounging poolside in their peaceful courtyard. We were there in mid-May, and the days were warm and sunny, and the nights just crisp enough for a light sweater.

Soleado Smocked Top (code SUGARPLUM10) | White Jeans | Clear Sandals | Straw Hat (code SUGARPLUM10) (The ribbon is from the Carillo Dress!) | Stretch Chain Bracelet

San Miguel is chock-full of sidewalk cafes, charming shops, bustling markets, and lush parks, but small enough to navigate on foot. It is best experienced by aimlessly wandering, although it’s impossible to get lost as the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, a stunning church that towers from the heart of the city, serves as a focal point, guiding you back.

San Miguel is all about the rooftops, with views looking over the town and surrounding hillside, and the doors, each more stunning than the next. Behind every door is a secret garden or courtyard, and you’ll want to explore them all!

Vista Smocked V-Neck Dress (XXS) (code SUGARPLUM10) | Leather Slide Sandals | Straw Hat | Bangle Bracelets (code SUGARPLUM10 for both)

Soleado Smocked Top (XXS) (code SUGARPLUM10) | White Jean Shorts (size 25, size down) | Clear Sandals | Bangle Bracelets (code SUGARPLUM10) | Gold Bead Bracelets

Isla Smocked Dress (XS) (code SUGARPLUM10)

Vista Smocked V-Neck Dress (XXS) (code SUGARPLUM10) | Rattan Wedges | Chain Coin Necklace (code SUGARPLUM10) | Stretch Chain Bracelet

The city’s artisan markets are overflowing with handmade crafts and textiles. Most accept American dollars and credit cards, but speak very little English.

Vista Smocked V-Neck Dress (XXS) (code SUGARPLUM10) | Leather Slide Sandals | Straw Hat | Bangle Bracelets (code SUGARPLUM10 for both)

Another highlight of San Miguel de Allende is the food! They have too many amazing restaurants to visit in a single trip, many with stunning rooftop views.

Cabana Trimmed V-Neck Top (XXS) (code SUGARPLUM10) | Ankle Jeans | Rattan Wedges | Stretch Chain Bracelet | Gold Hoop Earrings

Halter Maxi Dress (Small, Multi Stripe) | Clear Strappy Sandals (Size up half) | All-Weather Bangles | Small Hoop Earrings

WHERE WE STAYED //

Some properties are so special, they are worthy of a trip all their own, and Casa de Sierra Nevada is one of them! It’s a luxurious boutique hotel located in the heart of town, making it the perfect spot for exploring, and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.

The hotel is made up of a series of 16th to 18th-century colonial-style buildings, which have been beautifully restored and decorated with local art and antiques. The hotel’s 37 rooms and suites are spread across six separate buildings, each with its own unique character and style. (We preferred staying near the main lobby, rather than a building a few blocks away.)

Casa de Sierra Nevada is home to several acclaimed restaurants, a rooftop bar with incredible views of the sunset, an idyllic garden pool setting, and luxurious spa. It’s also steps away from the city’s best shops, restaurants, and the iconic Parroquia (a spectacular 17th-century gothic-style church, one of the most photographed in all of Mexico). I truly can’t imagine a better location, and I would return to San Miguel just to stay here again!

Exclusive Sugarplum Deal! Mention SUGARPLUM when booking, and you’ll receive a FREE three-course dinner at either of their gorgeous restaurants! Simply email the reservations team and they’ll set it up on your behalf. Enjoy!

Soleado Smocked Top (XXS) (code SUGARPLUM10) | White Jean Shorts | Bangle Bracelets (code SUGARPLUM10) | Gold Bead Bracelets

on Suzie: Tiered Maxi Dress (code SUGARPLUM10)
on Val: Decked Out Day Dress (code SUGARPLUM10)

Sugarplum Travel Tip: Comfy shoes are a must on the hilly, cobbled streets! Even when dressed for dinner on the town, you’ll want a flat sandal!

on Val: Isla Smocked Dress | Clear Sandals
on Suzie: Tiered Maxi Dress | Birkenstock Sandals
on me: Decked Out Day Dress | Leather Slide Sandals
(code SUGARPLUM10 for our dresses)

WHERE WE ATE //

San Miguel is known as much for its food as its culture and charm! You will run out of time before you’re able to try all the best spots!

Casa de Sierra Nevada // We enjoyed breakfast in their open courtyard each morning, and an incredible dinner one evening. The property is truly so magical, it’s hard to venture elsewhere… but even when we did, we always started our evening with cocktails in their rooftop bar. The view is amazing, and the cocktails the best I’ve ever had!

Quince // The most spectacular dinner spot!! Request a table on the rooftop’s lower level for an insane view of the cathedral and the tightrope show! The food and drinks are delicious as well.

Lavanda // Cute breakfast spot with live music

Panio Bakery & Coffee // Bustling with locals and chic shoppers, it’s a great spot for a quick coffee and pastry. It’s also connected to an incredible cluster of beautiful shops!

GETTING TO SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE //

We flew non-stop from Dallas to León/Guanajuato (BJX), then arranged for private transfer via the hotel for the 75-minute drive to the property. Querétaro Airport (QRO) is another nearby option, so check fares and times for each.

San Miguel is like a quiet little bubble, and we wandered the town day and night and never once felt unsafe or uncomfortable. I would not hesitate to recommend it to anyone!

Once in San Miguel, we walked or utilized the hotel’s car service, and had no need for a rental car.

Carillo Halter Dress (XXS) (code SUGARPLUM10) | Clear Sandals | Beaded Drop Earrings | All-Weather Bangles

on Val: Isla Smocked Dress (code SUGARPLUM10) | Clear Sandals
on me: Decked Out Day Dress (code SUGARPLUM10) | Leather Slide Sandals | Turquoise Bead Necklace | Straw Hat (code SUGARPLUM10 for both)
on Suzie: Tiered Maxi Dress (code SUGARPLUM10)

San Miguel de Allende is a true gem, with history, culture, incredible food and weather. The city’s charming character, warm people, and delicious cuisine make it a must-visit getaway! Have you been? Think you’ll add it to your list now?!