Oviedo Spain is the dynamic capital of the comunidad de Asturias. Its streets are filled with art, music, and the smells of world-class cuisine. Slow your pace and take in the details of this charming capital city.
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What is Oviedo known for?
Oviedo Spain is known for its extensive public art collection. The collection is spread out over the city’s many museums and plazas.
Additionally, Oviedo is known for its cuisine. The city is home to Michelin star chefs and many local siderías.
Is Oviedo worth visiting?
The metropolitan capital of Asturias is full of life, culture, art, and great food. While also being one of the quietest and cleanest capital cities of Spain.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Oviedo, It is beautiful and the perfect size to spend a couple of days exploring.
I loved to see the distinct changes in styles of architecture and design as you move outwards from the city center.
Oviedo Spain Population
The city and its surrounding area are home to 217,552 people. The majority of the population is between the ages of 18-64. Oviedo is also a large center for International students.
University of Oviedo
Every year the University of Oviedo welcomes over 1,000 students from Erasmus programs and universities in the United States. The university has received international awards in excellence for its Biomedical, health, and environmental studies programs.
Oviedo Spain Culture
Oviedo has seen the rise and fall of several empires and cultures within its limits. It has thrived under the Iberian-germanic tribes, Roman-Christian rule, and the Moors- Islamic leadership.
All of these cultures have flourished and left behind pieces of influence on Oviedo.
Oviedo Spain Weather
November to March is the cold season in Oviedo, with temperatures averaging highs of 58 F (14 C) and lows of 40 F (4 C). These months are also the wettest, rain is very common, while snow is a rarity.
Oviedo’s warm season is from June to September. In the warm months, temperatures average highs of 72 F (22C) and lows of 55 F (13C)
For an up-to-date weather forecast click here.
Travel to Oviedo Spain
Oviedo has historically been a stop on the pilgrimage of the Camino de Santiago.
It is a significant meeting point of multiple routes, so many people travel to Oviedo on foot.
Oviedo is highly accessible not only by foot but also by train, bus, and car.
Oviedo Spain Airport
The city of Oviedo does not have an airport. Its nearest airport is OVD- Asturias Airport. Transfer from Asturias Airport to Oviedo takes anywhere from 45 minutes to 30 minutes depending on the method of transportation.
Transportation options include ALSA Bus for about 9 euros or Taxi which will cost about 90-120 euros.
Rent a Car Oviedo, Spain
There are several car rental companies in Oviedo. Whenever I was renting in Spain, I always rented through SIXT. Everything with SIXT is very upfront and easy. I have always had a good experience renting with them. Their location in Oviedo is directly next to the Train Station.
Hotels in Oviedo, Spain
If you have read any of my other posts you probably already know that I will choose a hostel over a hotel every day of the week. So, my first few options are hostels that are perfect for your stay in Oviedo.
Green Hostel, Oviedo
Green Hostel offers a clean and modern space in the heart of historic Oviedo. It has perks such as free breakfast, an outdoor terrace, a beautiful kitchen, a common space, and laundry services.
It also includes all of the staple elements of a hostel, including community events, safety lockers, luggage storage, and a friendly staff. They also have both private rooms and dorms for your convenience!
HiHome Hostel
HiHome Hostel is located in a renovated historic building in the heart of the old town Oviedo. This hostel has glowing guest reviews for its extreme cleanliness and helpful staff. It prides itself on smaller dorm sizes (3-6 beds) and its vintage feel.
Soho Boutique Oviedo
If you are looking for a stay in a luxurious hotel then I would recommend Soho Boutique Oviedo. This hotel is in a stunning historic building and has all the luxury you could dream of.
It is also located just outside of the main square in Oviedo. The perfect location and stunning amenities make the Soho Boutique hotel a great place to spend your time.
Things to do in Oviedo, Spain
Oviedo is full of incredible things to do that focus on history, art, and gastronomy. This is how I would spend two days in the capital of Asturias.
Day One
Monte Naranco
I traveled to Oviedo by rental car, and the day of my arrival was the last day of my rental. Before I turned the car in, I made sure to stop by Monte Naranco.
Which is home to two of Oviedo’s most significant archeological sights: Iglesia de Santa María del Naranco and the Iglesia de San Miguel de Lillo.
Monte Naranco has fantastic views and historical significance. This combined with its location on the outskirts of the city makes it a great first stop.
Iglesia de Santa María del Naranco
Iglesia de Santa María del Naranco is a church that was formerly part of a roman palace complex that was constructed in 842.
UNESCO has recognized Iglesia de Santa María del Naranco and it’s counterpart, Iglesía de San Miguel de Lillo as a World Heritage Sites in 1985.
After visiting the sights of Monte Naranco I would highly recommend turning in your rental car. Parking in the city may be more complicated than just returning the rental early.
Breakfast/Lunch: Quemedas
This London-themed restaurant has all types of delicious food that is perfect for the morning or early afternoon.
Quemedas offers breakfast options like Eggs benedict, Parfaits, and bagels. However, it also has lunch options. You really can’t go wrong here!
Campo San Francisco
Campo San Francisco is a beautiful municipal park located in the center of the city. This green space is filled with fountains, sculptures, and most importantly, shade.
Enjoy the relief from the sun in the early afternoon!
“La Maternidad” de Botero
“La Maternidad” is a sculpture that depicts a mother holding her child. It is a famous work of art created by Fernando Botero. La Maternidad sits in the well known Plaza de la Escandalera.
Museo Belles Artes de Asturias
Next, you will continue into the Casco de Histórico where you can find the Museo Belles Artes de Asturias.
Here you can admire the works of El Greco, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and many more.
It is very easy to spend hours here.
Calle Cimadevilla
When you finish at the Museo de Belles Artes, be sure to meander down the historic street, Calle Cimadevilla. Along this street, you can find all types of cute shops. If you follow the road it will take you through the archway of the Ayuntamiento de Oviedo and into Plaza de la Constitucion.
Plaza de la Constitution
Plaza de la Constitucion is the main town square of the city. On one end is the Ayuntamiento de Oviedo (town hall) and on the other is the Iglesia de San Isidro.
Built in 1200, this stunning parish is filled with art and beautiful architecture.
If you chose to stay at the Green Hostel you will practically be at your front door. I would recommend getting freshened up for dinner and checking out what evening activities they are hosting at your hostel.
Dinner: Salazogue Bistronomie
Salazogue Bistronomie is a Michelin-bibbed restaurant located in Oviedo. If you are looking for a true culinary experience, this is the perfect place to visit. The quality of the food is so worth the money. Entrees typically cost around 20 euros with appetizers and desserts costing less.
While it may be more expensive than other options, for the status and quality of this restaurant the price is extremely reasonable. Be sure to reserve a table in advance!
Sidería El Gato Negro
While we all dream of a Michelin star meal, There are much more affordable options that are still excellent. Sidería El Gato Negro is a great and affordable option. They serve tapas and traditional Asturian Cuisine, as well as classic Asturian Cider.
Nightlife: Casco Historico
Oviedo has a very active nightlife, sign up for your hostel bar crawl, or make one of your own.
The historic city center is home to many bars and clubs that will lend themselves to a memorable night out!
Day Two
Grab a free breakfast from your hostel or hotel and then get your day of exploring started.
Catedral Metropolitina de El Salvador de Oviedo
Towering over the Plaza de Alfonso Il el Castro you cannot miss the Catedral Metropolitina de El Salvador de Oviedo.
This 13th-century gothic-style cathedral is an important part of the Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage.
Museo Arqueológico de Asturias
At the back of the main cathedral, you can find the Museo Arqueológico de Asturias. It is located in a former monastery and is home to ancient artifacts that date back to the neolithic times.
There is no better place to learn about the history of this region.
Casco Histórico
One of my favorite things to do in any city is to wander through the historic neighborhoods. I love to admire the small details and the grand architectural feats.
The Casco Histórico of Oviedo is no exception.
One of the gems I came across was the Muralla Medieval de Oviedo. This was the original city wall of Oviedo, constructed in 1261.
Escultura “La Lechera”
While wandering the Casco Histórico you will come across many intricate statues depicting everyday life in early Oviedo.
Escultura “La Lechera” is a homage to the women and donkeys that would carry and distribute milk to the city.
If you are looking to find all these beautiful works of art, be sure to follow the Ruta de las estatuas
Gascona. El Bulevar de la Sidra
This giant barrel of Cider marks the entrance to Gascona. El Bulevar de la Sidra.
This cute pedestrian-only street is lined with siderías.
It is the perfect place to have a true Asturian Sidería experience.
Dinner: Que Te Vaya Bonito
Also on El Bulevar de la Sidra you can find a delicious Mexican restaurant : Que Te Vaya Bonito.
After two weeks of eating Asturian cuisine almost exclusively, I was craving some nachos.
The nachos and margaritas at Que Te Vaya Bonito hit the spot.
Oviedo, Spain Food
Oviedo is home to six Michelin-recognized restaurants.
Many of which modernize traditional Asturian cuisine.
Asturian cuisine highlights the plentiful seafood from Asturias’s coast and rivers. Additionally, it typically includes fresh beef that is raised locally.
Oviedo is a food city, be sure to take advantage of it!
Oviedo Spain Festivals
While Oviedo is famous for the Fiestas de San Mateo and the Fería de la Ascención, it participates and celebrates many holidays, city wide.
Fiesta de San Mateo
Fiesta de San Mateo is celebrated from the 9th through the 21st of September. Since the 15th century, the people of Oviedo have celebrated the forgiveness of their sins. This absolution was granted to the Christians who visited the Oviedo Cathedral, during the celebration of the Holy Cross.
The 21st of September is known as the día de San Mateo, which was formerly the last day for Christian pilgrims to absolve their sins. In modern days this marks the peak of the celebrations.
Fiestas de San Mateo is honored by special foods, traditions, parades, fireworks, dancing, and an extensive musical lineup.
Click here to stay up to date, and view the program for this year’s festivities.
Fería de la Ascención
The Fería de la Ascención began as a celebration of the countryside, livestock, and farmers of Asturias. Beginning in the 16th century, the fería has always taken place around 40 days after Holy Week (Samana Santa).
To celebrate they cook special Asturian dishes, proudly play “Musica Folklorico,” and participate in their traditional dances. During this time they often set up craft and livestock markets.
How far is Oviedo Spain from the beach?
While Oviedo itself is landlocked, luckily it is only a 30-minute drive to the nearest beach. However if you are looking to go to one of Spain’s most impressive beaches, la playa de catedrales, that trip with take you about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car.
Towns near Oviedo Spain
Covadonga
Covadonga is a town unlike any other. It is located in the Picos de Europa range and has several unique attractions. Including the towering pink facade of the Basilica de Santa Maria La Real de Covadonga.
You can also visit the sanctuary of Covadonga, which is built into a cave.
Finally, its most famous attraction is the lakes of Covadonga, which are the most pristine alpine lakes surrounded by lush green meadows.
Cudillero
Cudillero is the most adorable coastal town to exist. The vibrant homes and businesses appear to almost be stacked on top of one another, due to the geography of the inlet.
This is a perfect place to stop and stretch your legs or grab an ice cream if you are making your way across the Northern coast of Spain.
Gijón
Also in Asturias, Gijón is a larger city but it still has the Asturian coastal charm. Here you can swim, enjoy their beautiful parks, walk through their historic city center, and try the local hard cider.
It is a great place to spend a day or evening on your way to other areas. I also know that near Gijón there are several sea caves to explore if you are feeling adventurous.
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