Gijón has something to offer everyone. As the largest city in the Comunidad de Asturias, you can find interesting places, museums, and historic sites. With so many things to do in Gijón, Asturias, it is a fantastic place to spend a day or two.
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What is Gijón known for?
Gijón is known for its beaches, history, and for its natural hard cider. It is located on the Northern Coast of Spain which explains why it is home to so many incredible soft, golden sand beaches.
It was also previously the site of a Roman village. You can still visit many of the surviving ruins.
Last but certainly not least, Gijón has some of the best sidra (natural hard cider) in the world. Their sidra has its own traditions and culture around it. Including unique pours and a massive celebratory festival!
Is Gijón, Asturias worth visiting
Absolutely! There are so many things to do in Gijón, Asturias. Gijón is an interesting and underrated city. You will not find many foreign tourists here and it is its own little haven.
I think it is a perfect place to spend several days If you are already in the area.
As part of a much longer trip through Northern Spain, I spent one day in Gijón and very much enjoyed it. However, if this was my only destination, I probably wouldn’t make the extra trek. Unless I was looking to spend some time relaxing on a beach.
Gijón travel guide
I hope the following post provides you with a comprehensive Gijón travel guide, which highlights everything you would want to do, see, or know about the city!
Gijón Weather
Summer is the ideal time to visit, and the weather typically stays in the mid-70s F (about 23 C). For me, this is the absolute perfect temperature!
However, their winter season brings a great deal of rain and usually is around 40 F (4C).
Where to stay in Gijón, Asturias
When I went to Gijón I stayed in a private room I rented from Airbnb, which honestly wasn’t great. If I were looking for accommodations now this is what I would choose.
Gijón Surf Hostel
Gijón Surf Hostel is so cute and appears to have a great shared kitchen and common spaces. It is only $27 a night which includes a free breakfast. The hostel is close to everything, including the beach!
If enjoying the beaches is your goal, this is the ideal place to stay, especially since they offer surf lessons for only 20euros (a steal!).
Boogalow Hostel
Boogalow Hostel is just 0.5km away from the city center and is newly remodeled. Their space is gorgeous and most of their dorms are nice 4-bed dorms! A space in the 4-bed dorm it will cost you 34$
Hotel San Miguel
If Hostels are not your cup of tea, try out Hotel San Miguel. For just 50$ you can score a room that is just a 2-minute walk to Playa de San Lorenzo. You really can’t beat that for the price!
Things to do in Gijón, Asturias
1. Try the famous hard cider (Sidra)
Asturias is the birthplace of Spanish cider. Since the 1st century BC, the Asturian countryside has been the perfect place to sustain lush apple orchards.
Spanish cider differs from other hard ciders because it ONLY uses the natural yeasts of the fruit. Most of the natural ciders appear cloudy.
Not only is the cider a perfect refreshment on a hot day, but a sidería also comes with the live entertainment of watching the dramatic pours.
Here it is custom to hold the cider bottle as high as you can and pour it into a glass that is held as low as possible. Watch the special pour here.
I found a local sidería to enjoy some tapas and delicious, locally made cider on the Plaza del Periodista. The restaurant is called El Lavaderu, and it has a great Terraza space to enjoy your time in.
If you are going to do anything off this list, please do this one. Trying the sidra is my ultimate thing to do in Gijón, Asturias.
Free things to do in Gijón, Asturias
Before I continue with a long list of paid activities in Gijón, I am going to give you the list of free ones first because I am a firm believer that the best activities are often free activities.
2. Enjoy the Cerro de Santa Catalina (Santa Catalina Hill)
Cerro de Santa Catalina is one of the most perfect parks I have ever seen. It is right on the water and is also home to many significant landmarks of Gíjon.
The first of which is the Elogio del Horizonte. This is a large sculpture that is the focal point of the park.
Cerro de Santa Catalina is also home to the historic Batería alta. This fort was originally part of the Roman settlement, then parts were added on and reinforced in both the 16th century and before World War Two. You can also still find some of the original Roman ruins.
Additionally, the Cerro de Santa Catalina has many recreational spaces, including sports fields, skate parks, and walking trails that take you down and around the sparkling coastline.
3. Go for a swim in the Cantabrian Sea
While the Real Club Astur de Regatas Gijón is only open to members, many locals use this calm inlet of the Cantabrian Sea to take a swim. You will see swimmers entering the water from a ramp nearby.
4. Visit Parroquia San Pedro
While wandering by the seaside you can easily spot the spire of Parroquia San Pedro. If you are lucky enough, the bells of this 15th-century church will greet you.
It is free to visit and is picturesque both inside and out. The inside is covered with beautiful mosaics and religious artwork.
5. Termas Romanas de Campo Valdés
Termas Romanas de Campo Valdés is a site of ancient roman baths. They were discovered beneath the Cimavilla neighborhood in 1903.
It is free to enter and is directly next to the Parroquia de San Pedro. Look for a ramp leading below street level. The ancient roman structures are truly a sight to be seen.
6. Relax at Playa de San Lorenzo
Playa de San Lorenzo is the larger and busier of the two beaches in downtown Gijón. It stretches for about 2km and also has a very nice promenade that allows you to walk along the beach without getting all sandy.
Here, you can enjoy the soft sand, the crystal blue water, and beach sports if you wish.
In the summer months be sure to arrive early if you want a prime spot in the sand.
7. Spread out at Playa de Poniente
Playa de Poniente is the smaller counterpart to Playa de San Lorenzo.
From what I could tell there is no remarkable difference in quality between the two beaches. They are both sunny, clean, and ideal for swimming.
However, Playa de Poniente is much less crowded. So, if you are trying to avoid crowds, this might be a better beach for you.
8. Visit the Gijón Marina
I find nothing more tranquil than a charming marina. Also, from the harbor, you can get a really great view of the oldest part of Gijón.
Additionally, they do watersport rentals out of the harbor.
9. Pose near Las Letronas
Directly outside of the marina, you can find the Las Letronas sculpture. It is a perfect place to grab a photo!
Nearby there is another sculpture made entirely out of old cider bottles, called the Árbol de la Sidra. It is unlike anything I have ever seen before!
10. Palacio de Revillagigedo
The Palacio de Revillagigedo is a historic palace, its towers were constructed in the 15th century and the remainder was completed in the 18th century. In the present day, it is used as a museum for rotating special exhibitions. It has hosted exhibitions including a Harry Potter exhibition and lego exhibitions.
The exhibits are constantly changing, but consistently interesting. Lucky for us, admission is free!
11. Find the Dragon of Gijón, Asturias
If you head into the historic part of the city towards the Antigua Torre Aislada you can find my favorite sculpture in the city.
Peaking out of the historic walls and you can find the Dragon of Gijón.
12. Museo Casa Natal de Jovellanos
Admission is Free to the Museo Casa Natal de Jovellanos. This was the birthplace of Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos. He was one of the major leaders of the Spanish enlightenment. The museum and Gallery are dedicated to his work and enlightenment ideas.
13. Explore the Cimavilla neighborhood
Cimavilla is the oldest area of Gijón, and arguably the prettiest area. It is a captivating place to wander around. Admire the architecture, find sweet hidden details, and enjoy the hum of conversation on the old streets.
This area is also home to most museums and historical landmarks in the city.
14. Muséu del Pueblu d’Asturies / Museum of the Asturian People
If you are looking for a portal into the past, then the best place for you to visit is the Museum of the Asturian people.
Here you can find artifacts from all aspects of historic Asturian life. You can see authentic Asturian bagpipes, and reconstructions of hórreos: traditional homes on stilts.
If I were to pick one museum in this city to visit. It would be this one.
15. Nicanor Piñole Museum
Created in a unique building, The museum is home to Nicanor Piñole’s most notable works of art. He was a citizen of Gijón from 1878 to 1978.
One portion of the museum displays over 5,000 sketches and drawings from Piñole himself. Which provides visitors with invaluable insight into his artistic process.
The museum also keeps over 300 of his portraits, as well as many of his personal items.
16. Barjola Museum
Spanish painter Juan Barjola’s large collection of work calls the Barjola Museum home. After the artist’s death, his Asturian-born wife donated his work to the museum. He studied and created art inspired by many of the great Spanish artists of the time.
In addition, the museum also has rotating exhibits and often showcases art in other mediums.
Paid Things to Do in Gijón, Asturias
17. Museo del ferrocarril de Asturias / Asturias Railway Museum
Gijón was a major port and was vital in supplying Asturias and the rest of Spain with objects fresh from the sea. The railroad made this industry boom possible and also brought people to the city.
You can learn more about the history and importance of the railroad to Gijón at the Asturias Railway Museum. This old train station converted into a museum also has many historic artifacts as well as historic trains.
Admission is only 2.50 euros per person
18. Atlantic Botanical Gardens of Gijón
The Atlantic Botanical Gardens of Gijón is one of the most remarkable botanical gardens that I have ever been to. Cantabrian Environment, Plant Factory, Garden of La Isla Estate, and Atlantic route are the four distinct areas that dominate the park. All while still being linked by the overarching theme of the Atlantic Ocean.
Beautifully curated and cultivated the botanical gardens are a perfect place to spend time, especially if you are a plant lover or photographer.
Admission for Adults only costs 2.90 euro
19. Gijón Aquarium / BIOPARC Acuario de Gijón
Aquatic life from all over the world can be seen at the Acuario de Gijón. The aquarium has 60 tanks that hold 410 different species of both saltwater and freshwater marine life.
Their animals include a wide variety of fish, octopuses, turtles, and even sharks! If you are looking to eat next to the sharks, you can. There is a really cool tank-side dining experience.
It is the perfect place to spend a rainy day!
General Admission is 16 Euros and Admission for Students is 8 Euros. It is recommended to purchase your ticket in advance. You can purchase your tickets here.
20. Go shopping!
Gijón has many opportunities for shopping, whether you are looking for unique clothing or local artisan goods, there is a store for it!
Shopping Gijón, Asturias
Since Gijón is one of the larger cities in Northern, Spain not only is there a lot to do, but there are also a lot of places to shop!
Asturian Goods
Goods that Asturias is known for include leather, Sidra (hard cider), cheese, meat products, and honey. Gijón is a great place to buy these goods.
La Quesería Gijón
This is the best place to buy authentic Asturian cheese. La Quesería Gijón offers a selection of 30 local kinds of cheese and other types of cheeses from around the world. Their prices are incredibly reasonable. If you don’t get enough while you are there you can also purchase from their website.
La Esquina de Gijón
La Esquina de Gijón is a small grocery store that sells fresh fruit but also locally made cheeses, wines, and meats. You can also buy the infamous Asturian Cider here and so much more!
Clothing
Rastro de Gijón
El Rastro de Gijón is a large flea market that takes place every Sunday. Here is where you can find the best vintage clothing, furniture, and artwork. Definitely don’t pass this opportunity up!
Bendita Lluvia
Bendita Lluvia is a small boutique that has plenty of unique clothing and adorable accessories. This would be a great place to grab a piece that is unique to Gijón.
ARPEL
ARPEL Is a store that sells affordable but still quality pieces. They carry both men’s and women’s Spanish fashion. Additionally, they also sell shoes, bags, and accessories.
Marrara
Marrara is a men’s shoe shop that specializes in handmade Italian-style shoes. Not only are the shoes incredibly chic, but they are also carefully crafted by master cobblers.
Mercado Artesano y Ecológico
Mercado Artesano y Ecológico is open on Saturdays and Sundays in Plaza Mayor. The Market runs from 11 am-3 pm and re-opens from 5 pm-8 pm. For the most updated schedule be sure to check their website.
At this market, you can find anything from locally grown produce to hand-crafted jewelry. There is a wide range of goods, and shopping here is a great way to support locals.
Cortes de Ingles
Cortes de Ingles is the standard shopping mall in Spain. If you are looking for chain stores like Zara, Desigual, Stradivarius, and others, this is where you should head.
Day trips from Gijón, Spain
Estaño Beach
If you have your own car, Estaño Beach is just a 20-minute drive away from Gijón. If you are relying on public transportation it will take you an hour by bus and a few transfers. However, the transit time is so worth it.
If you are a fan of swimming but like to be away from critters and waves then this is the perfect place for you because there is a gorgeous natural pool. Of course, there are soft-sand beaches and the beautiful blue water of the Bay of Biscay.
La Cagonera Beach and Serín Beach
Playas de Serín y la Cagonera is just a 14 minute drive from Gijón and takes about 46 minutes by public transportation. If you are looking for a quiet beach to enjoy the waves and nature this is the perfect place. It is located in a secluded cove that you have to walk down into in order to reach the beach. Clothing is optional at this nude-friendly beach.
Peñarrubia Beach
Playa de Peñarrubia is the closest of these three beaches to Gijón. It is only a 10-minute drive, 1-hour walk, or a 42-minute ride using public transportation. This is a nude beach and is ideal for sunbathing. However, there also are cliffs, tide pools, and crystal-blue water calm enough to swim in.
Roman Villa of Veranes Museum
Villa Romana de Veranes is an interesting archeological site that allows you to explore the former site of a 4th-century Roman villa. Here you can see the excavated original mosaic flooring and historic artifacts. You can also wander around the ruins of the entire complex where the villa once stood.
From Gijón, the complex is only a 15-minute drive and 30-minute ride by public transportation. It is really a great place to spend your day!
Gijón Cider Festival
The Gijón Cider Festival is one of the largest events that occur in Gijón every year. Annually people come together to reset the world record for the most simultaneous pours of cider.
For 2022 the festival is scheduled to be held July 8th-July 10th.
Not only is the cider flowing but there are also many events that take place. Some activities include a large market, cider pour competition, and live musical entertainment and I’m sure there will be at least someone playing the Asturian-style bagpipes.
What is Special about Asturias?
Asturias is genuinely such a special region of Spain, and not what people commonly think of when they think of the geography of Spain.
Asturias has miles and miles of gorgeous coastal cliffs and stunning beaches, but it is also home to the Picos de Europa. The Picos de Europa is a dramatic mountain range that hosts high alpine lakes, grassy meadows, and towering peaks.
In one day you can easily travel from the mountains to the sunny beach. That geographical diversity is what makes Asturias so special.
What to do in Asturias, Spain
Asturias is a great place for hikers, sunbathers, swimmers, and water sports athletes. It is incredibly beautiful with a variety of intriguing places that have something to offer everyone.
If you run out of things to do in Gijón, the following are some of my favorite places in Asturias…
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.
Picos de Europa
Picos de Europa is a mountain range and national park stretching 12 miles across three autonomous communities of Northern Spain: Asturias, Cantabria, and Castilla y Leon.
Within the Picos de Europa, you can find sparkling alpine lakes, dramatic peaks, great hiking, and beautiful views.
Covadonga
Going to the Picos de Europa? You must visit 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.
Oviedo
Oviedo is the Asturian capital city and the most metropolitan area of Asturias.
I enjoyed walking around Oviedo and seeing the different layers, and distinct style changes of the architecture as the city grew outward. It kept every turn exciting.
Playa de las Catedrales
Technically La Playa de las Catedrales is in Galicia, however, it is very close to the Asturian border.
It would also be a shame if I wrote a blog post about the gems of northern Spain and left this diamond out.
If you are interested in learning more about this show-stopper of a beach, please visit my blog post about it! There you can find all the nuanced details you need to know to make your visit great!
Gijón Art
Have you been to Gijón and are looking for a souvenir to keep those memories alive? Please check out my red bubble page to purchase stickers, postcards, magnets, etc.
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