Add plans to your travel guide Asturias
Click on "add plan" to expand your leisure options in your travel guide.
Tourist guide: what to do and see in Asturias
The green star of Spain's Cantabrian coast
Nature, art, and history are some of the top draws of this verdant region of northern Spain, its roots going back to the ancient Celts and its rolling landscapes and the majestic Picos de Europa mountain range.
Go to Asturias turism to find out more about this natural paradise. Its 10,600 square kilometres (some 4,100 square miles) are covered with a tremendous variety of allures, from ancient Romanesque churches, Celtic dolmens, and Roman roads, to secret beaches, caves, and rivers which draw the sports- and adventure-minded from all over the world. These bucolic areas alternate with hundreds of charming old villages and sophisticated cities offering marvellous cultural, historical, and dining options – not to mention some of Spain’s friendliest people. And speaking of dining, Asturias is known for its food – 42 kinds of cheese, for example, its inimitable apple cider, and hearty dishes like fabada bean stew.
How other travellers see it
Share your travel experience with #asturias, #oviedo, #InstantesIberia and @Iberia
- Sights
- Shopping
- Leisure
- Dining
- Open air
- Museum
- Sights
- Shopping
- Leisure
- Dining
- Open air
- Museum
Ribadesella Caves/Tito Bustillo Cave
An underground discovery of prehistoric cave painting that's a fascinating window into the earliest epoch of our species.
Art from the dawn of humanity.
There are just a few places in the world where you can experience prehistoric cave art in its natural setting, and they include northern Spain. The Ribadesella Caves are one reason why. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, they include Tito Bustillo Cave, almost completely painted (including a rare image of a whale); Cuevona de Ardines, whose dimensions will overwhelm you (its ceiling is 40 metres/131 feet high) and whose stairway will take you on a great tour through the cavern; and the Cuevona del Agua, intersected by the road itself, a monument created by nature which produces an odd sensation in whomever crosses it. Admittance to the caves is limited each day, so we recommend you reserve in advance to assure your spot, via www.centrodearterupestredetitobustillo.com.
Gijon Aquarium
Visiting this aquarium will not only have a good time for children, but you will all learn a lot about the underwater world.
A fun plan to learn.
In a region like Asturias, which depends so much on the sea, there is nothing better to spend a fun and educational day than admiring how the fish swim in this gigantic aquarium. Its innovative and enormous facilities allow visitors to enjoy more than 4,000 aquatic animals of up to 400 different species available. As it could not be otherwise, the turbot, the stars and the sea cucumbers are the local beings that attract the most attention. But here the little ones will also see how a seahorse moves or how it is and how a lobster or a lobster behaves in its natural habitat. Jellyfish, anglerfish, sardines, octopus, penguins, clown fish, puffer fish, cow fish, corals, sharks, turtles, rays, moray eels... They are just some of the species that we can admire up close in the aquarium, also separated by areas of the world for more information.
Club Out, Niemeyer Centre, Avilés
Besides its cultural offerings, the Niemeyer Centre in Avilés offers an amazing outdoor lounge experience.
Drinks amid a cool vibe against a spectacular backdrop.
Chill-out lounge meets outdoor café with nifty water views, all next to the car park at the spectacular Niemeyer Cultural Centre in Avilés. The feel is Ibiza-like, with pretty people hanging out on mod furniture, drinking and nibbling while DJs spin the best sounds in town. Open both day and night.
The knives of Taramundi
A picturesque small town known for its knifemaking tradition.
A town famous for its knives.
This picturesque small town in Asturias' far west has long been famous for its traditional knifemaking industry, and one of the key things that visitors do in Taramundi is stop by an artisan's workshop to learn about this ancient craft, which still produces blades highly prized throughout the world, which keep their sharpness for years. There's also a mighty sharp little museum (sorry) of traditional knifes and the history of the local industry. Naturally you can also pick up a blade or two (dinner cutlery, pocketknives, razors, hunting knives, etc.) of various ilks - large, small, decorated, inscribed, and so on.
Niemeyer International Cultural Centre of Avilés
An astonishing architectural vision on the edge of an estuary.
An avant-garde gift from the great architect Niemeyer.
On the shores of the Ría de Avilés estuary is a spectacular avant-garde structure that's the only work in Spain by the legendary Brazilian architect Óscar Niemeyer, who designed it in 2006 as a gift to the principality for the 25th anniversary of the Prince of Asturias Prizes (awarded to Niemeyer in 1989). The building's white, yellow, and red colours contrast with the blue of the sky and water, and its impressive curves and silhouettes leave visitors astounded. All sorts of cultural events are held here, including workshops, exhibitions, concerts, film series, and theatre works. It's an architectural masterpiece which has decisively changed not just the urban landscape of this city but also its cultural scene.
Salsipuedes Disco, Oviedo
Oviedo's top dance club for a surefire hot night on the town.
Good fun with a variety of vibes.
If you feel like you never quite find "your spot" when going out at night away on holiday, or if you are looking for different kinds of music at different times of night, check out this nightspot (the name, amusingly, means "get out if you can") in downtown Oviedo. Each of the floors of this renovated antique house has a bar and dance floor with a different vibe - from electronic to the latest on the pop charts; there's also an outdoor terrace for warmer nights. This great local nightlife stalwart won't lead you astray (unless you want to be led astray, of course, wink, wink), but it will have you happily partying till the wee hours.
Outdoor sculpture in Oviedo
In addition to architecture dating back centuries, a more recent spate of outdoor sculptures has been turning Oviedo into an open-air museum.
Enjoying street art in the capital of Asturias.
Keep an eye out when you're strolling the streets of Oviedo, because at the turn of any corner, when you least expect it, you can come across a marvelous statue or sculpture to gaze at, touch, and get a photo of. For example, very close to Campoamor Theatre you'll find "The Thinker," by José Luis Fernández; nearby in the Plaza de la Escandalera is "Maternity" by Colombian Fernando Botero (nicknamed "The Fat Lady" both because of its size and because of Botero's propensity to portray fat people); and in the Plaza de Trascorrales, "The Milkmaid" with her cow. And if you listen very hard, who knows, you might be able to hear the notes being played by "The Violinist" near the Auditorio on Plaza Gesta. Snap a selfie with "The Market Ladies of the Fountain," with "The Traveller" (aka "The Return of Williams B. Arrensberg," by Eduardo Úrculo), or Úrculo's rather astounding "Culis Monumentalis," a four-metre (13-foot) representation of a, well, monumental set of buttocks. Other statuary includes books, giant doves in a rotonda, and even the American filmmaker Woody Allen.
The El Gaitero cider factory
Asturias is known for its cider, and its best-known manufacturer will give you the full tour.
The most famous producer of Asturias' famous apple brew.
Asturias is famous for its mostly dry, mildly alcoholic ciders (both carbonated and "natural"), which by the way are a bit different from the British version and quite different from the American. And El Gaitero is a brand famous throughout the Spanish-speaking world, especially popular at Christmas and New Year's. Here outside the coastal city of Villaviciosa is where the magic happens, and visitors are shown the entire process, from apple pressing to fermentation (up to 56,000 litres/14,800 gallons worth). There's also an exposition of products and memorabilia, as well as a tasting room for a little cider-sipping. Cheers!
Gijon's Cimadevilla district
Get lost amid the quiet byways of this old fishermen's district by day; drink, dine and perhaps party by night.
A historic Gijón neighbourhood not to miss.
If there's a place in Gijón where fishing retains its essence, it's in this wonderful historic neighbourhood of antique buildings and narrow lanes and byways. By day it's peaceful, as in the old days when the locals would either be away fishing or the artisans would shut themselves in their workshops; today you can stroll around the marina and admire the dramatic waves of the Cantabrian Sea. After dark things liven up, and this turns into the city's premier nightlife district for young and not-so-young alike, enjoying the bars, cafés, and restaurants that line the streets. Whatever your preference, there's something here for you - nibbling on tapas, a quiet supper or nightcap, or hanging out in a lively pub where the latest music bangs on till all hours. Good times...
Campoamor Theatre, Oviedo
The city's most prestigious theatre, famous for being the venue for Spain's Prince of Asturias prizes.
A Belle-Époque theatre that's Oviedo's cultural symbol.
Oviedo's most prestigious theatre, on downtown's Calle Pelayo, has undergone many technical changes since opening its doors in 1892 (the last great renovation being in 1986, inaugurated by performances from Plácido Domingo and Josefina Arregui). But the Teatro Campoamor has retained its Belle-Époque essence, with its grand orchestra section, wide aisles, and high illuminated ceilings which impart a warm feeling to the hall. In addition to its cultural programming, it houses the city's Centre of Modern Art. And last but certainly not least, some of the most illustrious and accomplished personages in Spain, Europe, and well beyond have come to this theatre annually since 1981 to accept their award of the Prince of Asturias Prize, Spain's equivalent of the Nobels.
Vetusta Jewelers, Oviedo
Jewelry is always a good purchase, and even more so when the pieces are as special as these.
Unique artisanal jewelry.
If you like special designer jewelry, this is the local spot you'll find that lovely piece you've been dreaming about - you won't find specific brand names here but you will see beauties that will take your breath away. Its owners hail from a dynasty of jewelers, headed by Pedro Álvarez del Río, which for generations has been doing world-class work in Asturias that has won national and international awards. This establishment on Galicia Avenue is more of a showroom for admiring his creations, than a regular shop.
Coalla Gourmet, Gijón
Food items make particularly appropriate souvenirs of Asturias, and this is one of the best places to buy them.
Bringing home some tasty Asturian memories.
The shop at Gijón's Munuza Street No. 7 is not large, but it carries all kinds of the delicious food specialties Asturias is famous for, including a surprisingly complete selection of wines and Asturian apple ciders. Also offered for sale and tasting are the very best sausages and other cold cuts, cabrales and many other cheeses, meats, and various other gourmet comestibles. If after you get home and you're nonplussed when your goodies run out, no worries - you can order more via Coalla's online shop www.coallagourmet.com.
Malosa Lula, an Avilés shop
Cool products, tasty refreshments, fun activities, all rolled into one experience.
A different kind of shop, and experience.
You'll find this boutique full of various kinds of cool products and organically made brands on González Abarca Street in downtown Avilés. Said products include shoes, clothing, items of décor, paper products, bowls and plates, and more. Craft workshops and classes are offered, and you can also decorate your own ceramics, for example painting a cup and taking it home, all the while with a cup of tea and a plate of cookies at your side. No pumped-up electronic music, just a laid-back atmosphere and attentive service from the owner.
Downtown Gijón
Some real boutique gems waiting to be uncovered and shopped.
Checking out the fashion in Gijón.
Strolling around downtown Gijón streets such as Los Moros, La Merced, Corrida, Covadonga, Asturias, and others nearby, you'll come across plenty of retailers selling good products at good prices. But keep an eye out, because scattered among them you can find particularly cute little shops offering lovely items that are a little more special. We especially recommend JaneB (www.janeb.es) on Calle Los Moros, whose outfits are wonderfully romantic, and Kings Road (www.kingsroad.es) on Calle Instituto, where the clothes - for both women and men - are of a more classic cut but very pretty, and the accessories amazing. Definitely take the time to roam these streets a bit, because there are some real shopping gems in here.
Gijón's Organic and Artisan Market
The central square of Gijón's old town becomes a lively street market with great local products and several hours' worth of fun activities.
A delicious monthly street market.
The second weekend of each month, Gijón's main square, the Plaza Mayor, becomes a huge open-air market crammed with stands hawking all manner of goods oriented not just toward locals but also with a lot to offer visitors. Examples include Asturia handicrafts sold by individuals and small companies from all over the principality who come into town to sell wares such as handmade puppets, airbrushed prints, soaps, pottery and ceramics, glassware, jewelry, fruit preserves, cheese, honey, and more. You'll also come across street concerts, food stands, and activities for both kids and grownups to make this a fun morning or afternoon outside. With all the great merchandise on offer here, it's likely you'll come away with a prize or two - as well as the satisfaction of supporting small local entrepreneurs.
Craft shops and typical products in the villages
Unique and special little shops that you will find in towns that you cannot miss.
The local and craft market.
To take a real piece of Asturias with you in your suitcase, stroll through the streets of its small towns and discover its small shops and workshops: wood products from Cangas de Onís, ceramics and leather from Luarca, carpets and textiles from Taramundi, typical costumes Asturians in Llanes, ceramics in Ribadesella... Look for the local shops in each of the towns you visit and enjoy and discover the wonders they create with their own hands. In many of these establishments the products are unique and what you finally choose and take home will most likely be a real treasure. Of course, in any of its councils you can also buy the famous madreñas either as a shoe, as a key ring, on a t-shirt drawn or to scale as simple decoration.
Gijón's Vintage & Chic boutique
Unique items of décor - but you have to make an appointment online first!
A charming online shop gone brick-and-mortar showroom.
Are you into objects of vintage and/or designer décor? This singular shop, which began solely online, offers a novel shopping experience - you contact the owner online and arrange a visit to her "secret storeroom," filled with unique pieces and sundry treasures including furniture, paintings and frames, mirrors, and lamps. And again, quite funky and unusual stuff! If you're a shopper and décor fan, Vintage & Chic will make a very cool addition to your Gijón visit.
Oviedo's Modoo Shopping Centre
In addition to the shops, it's a chance to marvel at an architectural tour de force from Santiago Calatrava.
More than just shopping.
This full-blown complex built a bit west of downtown in 2008 houses dozens of retailers with any product you could expect to find in a modern European shopping centre, but even if you aren't in the market for anything, it's worth a visit because of the beautiful and surprising structure itself, built by the firm of Spain's best known contemporary architect, Santiago Calatrava; take in its bold, futuristic, and now already famous swoops and curves while strolling around its landscaped outdoor area. Modoo also has much more to offer than shopping and a handful of places to grab a bite; there's an exposition hall and luxury hotel out here, as well.
Around Oviedo's Uria Street.
Head away from the high street and usual brands for some lovely and unique local shopping.
Small shops, big charm.
If you want to look at something other than the usual commercial clothing brands you see all over the country and the world these days, check out streets parallel to high street Uria, such as Marqués de Pidal, where you'll find shops with merchandise that's marvelous and quite unique, Campoamor with various fashion boutiques, and the same on Doctor Casal (where both prices and quality tend to go a bit higher). Other streets worth trolling for fashion include Palacio Valdés, Gil de Jaz, González del Valle, and above all Cimadevilla and Fruela, where you'll find small shops selling beautiful artisanal fashion and accessories at affordable prices. And of course there's nothing like supporting small local businesses!
Oviedo's Uria Street
Oviedo's high street par excellence, with some of its top shopping, architecture, and sights.
Gracious high street cafés, shops, and more.
Oviedo's principal high street (which also runs along one side of lovely, leafy Campo de San Francisco park) is home to many of the city's main fashion retailers, as well as restaurants, bars, cafés, pastry shops, and a Corte Inglés department store. Apart from the eating, drinking, shopping, and window shopping, Calle Uria is a great strolling street, thanks to its wide pavements and gracious architecture, much of it from the 19th century. And wait, that statue looks familiar - why, it's none other than Woody Allen, what's up with that? (He's a recipient of Spain's prestigious Prince of Asturias prize.) Paralleling Uria is Marqués de Pidal, also with many shops but tending less toward standard brands and more toward classic and unique boutiques with amazing finds that you nonetheless won't spot anyone else wearing.
Cape Peñas
Spectacular bluffs and views of the Cantabrian Sea, as well as a lighthouse and a hiking path to take it all in.
Asturias' northernmost point.
The northernmost point of Asturias, Peñas Cape has nothing surrounding it except sea and nature, allowing you to lose yourself totally in the gorgeous natural landscapes and infinite views all around you. The dramatic cliffs here are just magnificent, and you can also visit a picturesque 1852 lighthouse, the ground floor of which houses a small museum that explains the history of the area as well as tales of the sea, ocean tempests, and lighthouses of the world. If you like to hike, there's a path leading along some 16 kilometres (10 miles) of coast to let you get the most out of the scenic splendour of this area.
Beaches of Asturias
The coast is dotted with various pristine coves with spectacular views.
Sandy stretches of peace and beauty.
In a country famous for its beaches, Asturias may not be exactly celebrated for its own strands on the chilly Cantabrian Sea, but if you're up here in the summer, they do definitely merit a visit as lovely, uncrowded, and authentic oases of tranquility with some absolutely stunning views. In Colunga, northeast of Oviedo and east of Gijón, head for Playa La Griega at the mouth of the Libardón River, which affords marvelous views of the town of Lastres as well as a look at fossilised tracks dating back to the Jurassic, or for Playa La Isla. In Ribadesella, go to Playa de Vega; over in Cudillero, time stands still in Playa del Silencio; next to Cudillero, in Muros de Nalón, try Playa de Aguilar. And even back in the big city of Gijón, it seems unlikely that a beach right in the centre of town could seem idyllic, but though it's quite popular during summer holidays, there's still plenty of room along Playa San Lorenzo's 1,500-metre (4,920-foot) length. You can pretty much cruise this beautiful coast and choose the beach which most appeals to you.
Castro de Coaña Iron-Age settlement
Explore remnants of streets, squares, and houses dating back to the 4th century BC.
A particularly well-preserved example of a pre-Roman village.
"Castros" are ancient settlements in Asturias, Galicia and Cantabria dating back before the Roman conquest, and situated atop a hill, Coaña is a particularly large and spectacular one, surrounded by a wall with a trench in front of it. And unlike other castros in the region, it's extraordinarily well preserved, considering it dates back to the 4th century BC. During your guided tour you'll see what is thought to have been the town square, as well as villagers' stone huts (including even some household items), a pair of structures thought to have been saunas, and points where sentries were posted. The orderliness and urban organisation of this little village's lanes and squares is truly remakable.
Naranco Hill
Lovely scenery and views over the city combine with a chance to discover some of Spain's oldest Pre-Romanesque monuments.
A hill just above Oviedo with some of its most precious historic monuments.
Head up Naranco Hill's gentle slopes until you have all of Oviedo at your feet. Crowned by a 30-metre (98-foot) sculpture of Christ with arms outspread, it includes recreational areas and an overlook, but most notably two of the finest pre-Romanesque monuments in Europe, the pair of 9th-century churches of Santa María del Naranco (originally built as a recreational royal palace) and San Miguel de Lillo. The road up is pretty but narrow, past restaurants, riding clubs, and cider pubs. Wear comfortable shoes and lose yourself a little up here (it's a great spot for biking, too, if you happen to have rented wheels).
Os Teixois ethnographic ensemble
A small village that lives as before and they invite you to visit it.
Sustainability is possible.
If there are those who say that sustainability is a current fashion, it is that they have not visited this curious town surrounded by an incredible green landscape, just 4 kilometers from Taramundi, where its inhabitants were self-sufficient with the power of water to carry out their work iron crafts. You will be able to see the ingenious mill to grind cereals, the stone for sharpening tools, the dam that uses all the water from the river and even the power station! With whose power they could light some light bulbs and which are still in operation today so that visitors can enjoy them and get to know them. Come here and ask for a local guide to walk you through its cobbled streets and among its old stone houses and explain perfectly how this ingenious village works.
The Cares Route/Xanas Route
A hiking magnet for Europe and the world for a good reason.
Asturias hiking routes.
Hiking enthusiasts will be in their element in Asturias when in comes to enjoying the magnificence of nature. In the Picos of Europa National Park alone there's an awesome 12-kilometre (7 1/2 mile) route which will take you between the rocks and along the channel of the River Cares between Caín in the province of León and Poncebos in central eastern Asturias. Also dubbed the garganta divina ("divine throat"), it's one of the most famous hikes not just in Spain but in Europe; folks flock here from the world over to enjoy its incredible views and become "dwarves" amid the grandiose mountain landscapes of the Picos de Europa (just watch out, because some of those passes can be tight). If you don't want to trek quite so much, you have the option of a shorter stretch between Vilanueva the Xanas Pass to Pedroveya, a shorter, less trafficked route but one with views as spectacular as any in spectacular Asturias.
The sea bluffs of the Cudillero coast and Cape Vidio
You and your camera will never forget this bit of Asturian coast.
An iconic swath of seacoast with unforgettable sunsets.
Just 25 minutes from Avilés, outside the town of Cudillero around Cape Vidio, here's a spot that's magical thanks to its singular colours and perspectives. There's a lighthouse out here which is of fairly recent vintage (1948) but seems to "fly" over the cliff, and if you're subject to vertigo you might want to be careful around here. At low tide, you can - carefully - visit the "Inglesona," a sea-carved cavern with spectacular views.
Picos de Europa National Park
Fabulous for lovers of nature and the great outdoors.
A day of landscapes and nature.
Asturias as a whole is one of Spain's most pristine natural landscapes, and there are few better spots to appreciate this than in this central slice of the Cantabrian Mountain Range, the Picos de Europa National Park. It's a gorgeous 647 square kilometres (250 square miles) which can change drastically in climate from one valley and day to the next, so it's best to go prepared. Different access routes are available, and the Fuente Dé cablecar will get you up 1,800 metres (5,900 feet). If you're an experienced climber, you'll have no trouble getting yourself to almost any of the park's highest corners, but if you're after something a little gentler, make sure you get a weather report before arrival. Either way, it's an amazing experience, and one where you shouldn't forget your camera (or at least cameraphone)!
Roman bridge and hermitage of Santa Cruz de Cangas de Onís
A famous bridge in an idyllic town to spend a perfect day of sightseeing.
The walk of Don Pelayo.
One of the 'eyes' under which the mythical Sella River crosses is this Roman bridge with five arches whose foundations date from Roman times. Mythical for being one of the only passes that crossed over the river and through which both Don Pelayo and kings regularly crossed when the town was the capital of the Kingdom of Asturias. In the center, in fact, hangs a replica of the Victoria Cross. Taking a walk through the beautiful Cangas de Onís, you will find, although currently rebuilt after being lost during the Civil War, the hermitage of Santa Cruz built in his time by King Favila to house the Cruz de Pelayo. Inside it is a dolmen, a funerary monument that dates back to 4,000 BC.
Lakes of Covadonga, La Santina Cave and the Sanctuary
In the surroundings of the Picos de Europa, you cannot miss seeing La Santina and discovering its legends.
Essential visit in Asturias.
Wonderful and idyllic is the visit to the Lakes and the Sanctuary of Covadonga, very close to Soto de Cangas. Among the lush vegetation of the mountain, on the way to the Lakes, the Sanctuary appears majestic, a place full of legends and where you can visit the Cueva de la Santina, the patron saint of the region, the statue of Don Pelayo and a curious museum goldsmith. After traveling 12 kilometers you will find yourself, weather permitting, with the stupendous views offered by the Lakes, located in the peaceful and serene setting of the Picos de Europa. During the summer and high season we recommend that you go up by public transport, since the hours to access by private car are limited.
Lastres
A fishing village with a market where you can see the just caught fish you'll shortly be dining upon.
A very photogenic seaside town.
Five minutes from Colunga, this quiet, charming fishing town of pretty white houses still very much makes its living on the sea, its port filled with boats, netting, and rigs dedicated to catching hake, sardines, bonito, and more. Its market is another point of interest, as here you can see the just-off-the-boat fish and shellfish that you'll soon be dining on in one of the great little local restaurants. During your stroll through the lanes and byways of the old town you'll find plenty of these spots, which of course also serve tasty local specialties like bean-based stews. Our mouths water just to think of it!
El Cenador Azul (Mieres)
Very high-quality and affordable Asturian cooking in a pleasant little city not far from Oviedo.
A fine restaurant in a coal-mining capital.
To enjoy fine Asturian cuisine without sticker shock when the bill arrives, head to the Cenador Azul in the small city of Mieres, 22 kilometres (14 miles) south of Oviedo, where you can't go wrong with a wide variety of dishes on the menu here, from the fish of the day to exquisite meat dishes like sirloin steak, entrecôte, and pigs' trotters. Still, though, here it's best when possible to go with the recommendations of the chef and you'll likely be rewarded with a scrumptious example of the seasonal specialties for which Asturias is famed. The house desserts are very much worth leaving room for, as well. And if you can, leave some time before or after your meal for a spin and maybe a museum visit in this pleasant city, capital of this region's reknowned coal mining industry.
Cabo Vidio Hotel and Restaurant (Cudillero)
Good cooking and good ingredients make this restaurant the perfect place for a stop.
The sea, right on your plate.
If you happen to be near the Asturian coast's beautiful Cabo Vidio around mealtime, don't miss out on the scrumptious menu of this pretty hotel restaurant in the town of Oviaña, very near Cudillero. The fish doesn't get any fresher or tastier (we especially love the fabes con kokotxas caseras, homestyle beans with hake cheeks), but you also can't go wrong with its beef stew or paletilla de cordero (shoulder of lamb) - all washed down with local wines, of course. There's also a seasonal mushroom menu that's out of this world!
Restaurante del Arco (Oviedo)
A must-stop to grab a drink, check out the building and its patrons, and enjoy great tapas.
A place for tapas, or a sit-down meal.
Whether you come for the succulent menu or to admire the venue and sample the tapas, this comfy tavern is a legendary Oviedo spot you should definitely not miss. The food is excellent and if you let your waiter guide you, you will leave with a happy and very full stomach. There's also a magnificent wine list with more than 90 top names to choose from. Prices vary, but if you if you try some of the offerings at the tavern (generous portions of provolone cheese, veal or ribs, for example), you won't regret it.
Peñalba Bonbons (Oviedo)
Warning: those with a sweet tooth will not be able to leave until they've sampled everything.
Hand-crafted chocolate candy.
Located on the famous Milicias Nacionales Avenue, this legendary and historical establishment is the descendant of a cafeteria opened in 1928 on downtown's Calle Uria with the same name, and whose owner decided in 1930 to dedicate his talents to the production of hand-crafted chocolates. The interior décor as well as the intensely sweet smell in the air will make you think you've stepped back in time, as if you were buying chocolates at the beginning of the twentieth century. Just walking past the front door, in fact, you'll think it's a fancy shop selling exclusive products before you think it's the Asturian chocolate paradise. If you have a sweet tooth, don't hesitate to go in, though, and try its bonbons and 'carbayones', a local, very typical and utterly delicious pastry.
Casa Marcial (Arriondas)
The chef has not wanted to stray from the essence of Asturian cooking, and it's reflected in his dishes.
Home cooking with Michelin stars.
Chef Nacho Manzano's two Michelin stars are evidence of the great quality of the dishes served in this pretty restaurant in Arriondas, which happens to be his childhood home, where his parents ran a small restaurant offering home cooking. His take on local cookery is well worth trying, as he has transformed typical Asturian dishes into a modern cuisine in which the ingredients and the technique are the very best in the area. Don't miss the Cantabrian anchovies and the fish of the day, which the waiters will recommend according to what has been caught in the nearby ports of Tazones, Ribadesella or Avilés. If you'd prefer to sample a variety of dishes, pick any one of the chef's set menus, which will allow you to experience the full range of his talent.
San Antonio Cider Pub (Cangas de Onís)
Your only problem will be to decide what to eat, as it's all excellent and in large portions.
Home cooking in a typical cider pub.
To eat in Asturias is to feast on delicious food until you nearly burst — and what could be better than to do it for little money and in an agreeable setting? Make sure to arrive hungry at this cider pub in the heart of town, as portions are enormous and the food is of the finest quality. The veal and mushrooms are superb, and all the more so when the locally produced cider is poured by the best masters of the art. You'll find tourists as much as locals, all of whom come for the home-cooked fare on the menu. Bon appétit!
Auga Restaurant (Gijón)
Exquisite dishes, great quality and awesome views define this eatery, along with one Michelin star.
Masterful cooking, to end the day on a good note.
Outside Gijón, in Mareo, you'll find this fine dining restaurant designed for the most refined palates. Boasting one Michelin star and a downtown location, along with mod décor and views out to the marina, it's a place where you must eat at least once in your life. Each dish is literally a masterpiece, so much so that you will not want to dig in with your fork. We suggest you try the vieiras (scallops) and artisanal cheeses, the lamb shoulder, and of course the great selection of freshly caught fish of the day. Also, do check with the waiter for seasonal dishes, and the daily specials are out of this world. And for dessert, what could be better than a selection of Asturian cheeses?
Cider pubs of Oviedo
How about a lively street full of cider pubs? It exists, and it's in Oviedo.
Explore one cider pub after another. Literally.
If there's one place in the city where you'll be able to sample all the local apple ciders and where the smell of cider is intense, it's in calle Gascona, also known as the 'Cider Boulevard' in downtown Oviedo. Here's you'll be able to eat as well, but prepare your stomach for much more, as you'll be trying many versions of Asturias' golden elixir. You can have a glass in each pub, or just stay in the first one you walk into, as it's a very popular destination, especially at certain times of the day. Make sure not to miss the Asturias or La Noceda pubs, on one of the street corners.
Tazones
Apart from the views, you'll enjoy an excellent meal with fresh products.
A fishing village.
Tazones is the quintessential Asturian fishing village. Despite having become a touristy area, the bars and little houses look as if time had stood still in this idyllic setting next to the mouth of the river by Villaviciosa. Go to the port, sit for a spell and watch how the fish are unloaded. Among its colourful houses, one in particular stands out, totally covered by seashells, as a symbol of the perennial relationship between the town and the sea. To eat here, in any of its pubs or restaurants, is a true delight. Try the spider-crabs or some fresh-caught fish, and wash it down with a glass or two of local apple cider. Wrap up your visit with a stroll along the beach to enjoy this unique waterfront setting.
Roman Baths of Campo Valdés (Gijón)
Yes, the Romans made it here, too.
Roman ruins in the heart of the city.
It's unusual indeed to find the remains of Roman baths so close to the coast, and in the heart of the city as well. The silence and peace that you will feel upon entering this archaeological site will only be enhanced by the guided tour, where you will learn the stories and legends of these ancient Roman ruins. There is even an exact reproduction of how these baths were in their heyday, so that you can let your fancy soar and envision how the Romans enjoyed this corner of the city, well before Gijón was Gijón, or even a part of Spain.
Oviedo Fine Arts Museum
A trip through the history of art and trends, from various viewpoints
Local, national and international art.
Surprisingly, since 1980 this corner of the city houses more than 10,000 works of art from the 14th to the 21st centuries, showcasing national artists, with a special focus on local Asturian art (though you'll find foreign masters as well, especially Italian and Flemish). Not all, of course, are exhibited at the same time, as it's a small museum, but its artistic gems are well curated and displayed in such a way that you can visit the entire museum in little time, enjoying works by the likes of Sorolla, Goya, Rubens, Tàpies, Barceló, Juan Carreño de Miranda, and many others. Best of all perhaps: admission is free.
Museum of the Asturian People (Gijon)
A must for anyone who wants to understand Asturias and its people.
Asturian culture and its secrets.
Discover the tradition, folklore and true essence of the Principality of Asturias in this museum, where a great many photographs, documents, and even musical instruments will bring you face to face with its culture. You'll also hear the stories of its people, including the many who emigrated to the far corners of Spain's empire, in old letters donated by local families. In the Bagpipe Museum you'll see this instrument in all its splendour, tracing its evolution from the most ancient to the most recent, and not just in Asturias but in the rest of the world. But not only the bagpipes are typical of Asturias: you'll find many of the other instruments played in this corner of Spain as well, such as flutes, horns and castanets.
Jurassic Museum of Asturias
Both you and the kids will learn all about dinosaurs.
A great place to go with kids.
Between the towns of Colunga and Lastres, you'll find a most unusual place to learn about the lost world of the dinosaurs. Especially if you're travelling with children, you simply cannot miss the opportunity to see the dinosaur reproductions, from the oldest to the most recent recreations. A guided visit is highly recommended, covering everything from the evolution of the first fossils and how they first appeared 3.5 billion years ago, to what a camarasaurus was like and the footprints of the plateosaurus. One thing is certain: neither adults nor children will ever be bored here.
Prehistory Park (Teverga)
A fun and very interesting visit to discover all about our ancestors.
Go back in time.
Go underground to learn all about our ancestors' lives, admiring their paintings of horses, bison, goats, and others, all original. Walk through their caves, where you'll see both reproductions and original elements as old as 23,000 years ago, and up to the most recent, dating from about 13,000 years ago. Don't miss the exhibition of prehistoric utensils and ritual objects, neatly explained through drawings, maps, images and videos. It's incredible to witness the passage of time expressed in art!
Railroad Museum of Gijon
A form of transportation that over the years has adapted itself to changing times and technologies.
A look at history from a train.
All aboard! How many times have we heard this phrase? Nowadays, it's a recorded voice that announces stops and destinations, but how was it years ago? At this museum you'll be able to discover the true history of locomotives, how they've advanced over the years, and how rail travel has turned into one of the most used means of transportation — carrying not only passengers, but also new ways of thinking, new ideas, dreams, cultures... and here you'll see everything from steam locomotives to a train conductor simulation, in short, the full and complete history of this means of travel.
The Asturias Vaqueiro (Cattle Herders') Museum
Discover how Asturias' cattle herders lived until very recently, and visit a most unusual museum.
A way of life gone forever.
A very different take on the romantic cowboys of Hollywood lore, in Asturias, the word 'vaqueiro' describes not just the men, but entire families who until just recently lived a semi-nomadic existence, traveling with their animals and their few possessions from the coast to the mountains and vice-versa, according to the season. In honor of this lost way of life, a museum was opened in Naraval in 2001, a 30-minute ride from Luarca. Here you will see what a humble vaqueiro house was like, as well as a house of a more well-to-do family. You will learn not only how they lived, but also who they were and how they interacted with their relatives despite living largely isolated from the rest of society, as well as the typical folklore of the vaqueiro culture. More information: http://www.muvas.es
Apple Cider Musuem in Nava
Asturias is cider country, and Nava's museum covers it all.
One of the treasures of Asturias.
Locals will tell you there is no better cider in the world than that made in Asturias, and there's no better place to learn how it is made and consumed than in Nava, 30 kilometres from Oviedo. Here you will learn from the masters how this exquisite beverage is created, from the pollination of the apple trees, to the selection of the fruit, right on up to its conservation in cellars. Naturally, you will see what a cider pub is like, as well as a great bottle collection. If you come during the month of July, don't miss the Cider Festival, a grand celebration in honor of this drink so typical of Asturias. More information: www.museodelasidra.com
Samuño Valley Mining Eco-museum
Asturias is also coal country, and here's a mine visit to learn what it's all about.
Learn first-hand how miners work.
One of Asturias' claims to fame in Spain is as the centre of the country's coal mining industry. Here in Langreo you can get a taste of this dangerous but fascinating world on board a train which will take you to the very heart of a coal mine, along the same route that 19th-century miners once took. On board the mining train you will go 30 metres (98 feet) underground to learn first-hand what it felt like to enter this dark world where men worked for hours to extract the precious coal. Wind up your visit by returning to the surface on a lift that recalls the cages with which miners returned from a day in darkness out into the sunlight. Information about hours and prices: www.ecomuseominero.es.
The Cabrales cheese cave
Asturias' characteristic Cabrales cheese - a guided visit and tasting.
A very special flavour.
You simply must not leave Asturias without trying its magnificent Cabrales cheese, but what exactly is this unusual and delicious dairy delight? In this exhibition in Arenas de Cabrales, just a half hour from Llanes and Cangas de Onís, you'll learn not just how the cheese is made, but also all about the historical and technological advances that have made it what it is today. During a guided visit in a natural cave, you'll discover the history of cheese, how it is made and how local shepherds care for their animals in the Picos de Europa mountains, thereby making this cheese possible. At the end of the tour you'll enjoy a very tasty sampling, and you'll leave with a whole new perspective on cheese (not to mention Cabrales' characteristic aroma clinging to your body). Admission 4.50 euros. More information: www.fundacioncabrales.com
Labor City of Culture of Gijón
A plance from which to observe the city and see exhibitions.
Gijón's more cultural side.
If the outside of this magnificent building which once housed the Labour University of Gijón is impressive with its high tower, inside it's even more so, with its soaring ceilings and exhibitions, theatre, auditorium and café, all part of the Industrial Arts and Creation Centre... Still, this beautiful edifice is best known for its tower; make sure to climb to the top for the view over Gijón. Afterward, go down to the church to admire its marvellous dome, take in the surprising and immense theatre, lose yourself in the glass-covered Corinthian courtyard, and stroll around its ample green gardens. More information: www.laboralciudaddelacultura.com.
Church of St. James of Gobiendes (Colunga)
The little-known sights of Asturias, such as this pre-Romanesque church, will capture your attention.
A historic monument by the sea.
The views from this church located under Mount Sueve are nothing short of spectacular. In fact, it's noteworthy that such an architectural gem should appear in such a rural setting. Even though it was rebuilt between 1985 and 1987, the foundations of this Asturian pre-Romanesque church date from the 10th century. Inside you'll find column capitals decorated with typical Asturian motifs such as acanthus leaves. Interestingly, the lateral naves have wooden roofs, while the main nave has a stone vault. In the 19th century, a gallery of wooden columns was built around the façade, and in the most recent renovation, an attempt was made to salvage the original floors. Despite all this, the church, which was declared a Historic Artistic Monument in 1931, still embodies the essence of late pre-Romanesque architecture in Asturias.
Hermitage of Saint Cristina of Lena (Pola de Lena)
A small church built for royalty in a lovely valley.
A lesser-known saint.
Despite its rough architecture, this small religious edifice built on a hill overlooking the grand valley of the Lena River barely 30 km (18 miles) from Oviedo, is certainly a sight to behold. This church was built for royalty, and yet it doesn't follow tradition "royal" guidelines, having but one main nave with small side "rooms", surprising in light of the fact that kings usually had their own chapel. There are very few extant documents that chronicle the history of this marvel, but once inside, surrounded by the peace that emanates from its walls and the light that filters in through a small window, one can easily imagine what religious life was like in this hermitage, back in the days when Asturian kings rode through the verdant valleys of their countryside.
Church of St. Stephen, Ciaño
The little town's church is impressive indeed, as are many of its other charms.
A stroll around Ciaño.
On a stroll around any Asturian town, you'll find true architectural and cultural treasures, along with friendly locals happy to tell you all about them. This is certainly the case in Ciaño, in Langreo. Its magnificent Church of St. Stephen, dating from the end of the 12th century and reconstructed most recently in the twentieth, still features beautiful column capitals with plant and animal motifs, as well as scenes of the stoning of St. Stephen which entrance all those who see them. Almost touching the sky, a great sculpture of the Sacred Heart puts the finishing touch on this impressive structure. This church has been declared a national monument as well as a cultural asset. In your stroll around the Ciaño area, you will also discover such architectural marvels as the 14th-century Quintana Tower or the hermitage of Carbayu, where the patron Virgin of Langreo resides. Details: www.langreo.as
Church of the Franciscan Fathers and Sabugo de Avilés
Of great historical importance, we recommend that you come here to discover its interiors.
Two temples to see in Avilés.
In the center of the city is the church of the Franciscan Fathers, an old building from the 12th century, the oldest in the city, whose façade corresponds to the Romanesque style and from which you can breathe the aroma of the nearby sea. Inside you can visit some beautiful chapels as well as its impressive rose window through which the light adopts other colors. To one side of the altar there is also a mausoleum in which the remains of Pedro Menéndez, founder of the first Spanish settlement in the United States, rest. The church of Sabugo, which takes its name from the neighborhood in which it is located, is an impressive construction, which is currently used as a cultural building, in a Gothic style although with Romanesque influences. Information: http://www.ayto-aviles.es/
Basilica of St. John of Pravia
A unique style and historical character define this basilica.
The beginning of Asturian art.
Despite several reconstructions, this small but historic church built by King Silo in the year 780 dates back to the pre-Romanesque era. The basilica once housed the Royal Pantheon, as the court moved from Cangas de Onís to Pravia, barely 25 minutes from Avilés. Thanks to extant records, we know tha the original structure was very similar to the present one, even though it was decorated with Visigothic-style stone carvings and a baptismal font discovered in one of the more recent restorations. This basilica is historically quite significant as the birthplace of Asturian art in all its glory, being the most ancient of all temples to conserve this style.
San Salvador de Valdediós Monastery (Villaviciosa)
Only in such a fantastic environment could there be an equally beautiful monastery, be sure to visit it
Medieval monastery in the middle of nature.
In the middle of nature, surrounded by the perfect green landscape so characteristic of the region and next to the banks of the Asta river, you will find this monastery that has all the characteristics of Asturian medieval art. In addition to the Monastery, the Conventín is also located here, which was the Royal Chapel, in a pre-Romanesque style completed during the reign of Alfonso III. As in all ancient constructions, legends and black stories revolve around this place, since during the Civil War, the place was turned into a psychiatric hospital, although later it continued to be used as a seminary for various religious orders. After several restorations, it is currently possible to visit it, and admire what Cistercian architecture really was like, since the original structure of the monastery has remained standing since then, as well as the decoration that continues to be simple as it was at the time. Visiting hours: http://www.monasteriovaldedios.com
Church of St. Isidoro the Royal (Oviedo)
Even though it is only half of what was originally planned, it's well worth your while to visit this parrish.
The solitary tower.
Amongst so many pre-Romanesque buildings throughout the region, it is unusual to find this Baroque edifice. Construction started in 1578 on what was to become a Jesuit college; after their expulsion it went on to become a parrish church, which it has remained to this day. Located on Constitution Square, originally it was larger, but currently part of its structure has been taken over by the market. Like the nearby cathedral, it boasts only one tower even though, according to historical records, the initial plan was to have two. Since 2004, an image of Saint Isidoro found in the church's attic has been on display.
Church of Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo
Two places to admire in a natural environment and very close to the city.
Two monuments in Monte Naranco
Barely three kilometers from Oviedo, imposing on Monte Naranco is this pre-Romanesque style church without the appearance of a religious temple since it was the private residence of King Ramiro I. All the monuments and churches in the area reveal history through their pores. Although it underwent several changes during the Gothic period, at the beginning of the 20th century these were removed to recover its previous appearance and structure. Divided into two floors, on the upper floor there are wonderful viewpoints where you will be entranced by the green views it offers of the landscape in which it is integrated. On the lower floor there is a completely blind crypt. Very close you will find the church of San Miguel de Lillo that, although what we see is only a part of what it was, a walk through its interior transports you to the Asturian medieval era.
Find your trip to Asturias
Documents for travelling as a tourist to Asturias
Check the documents you need for your trip.