Things To Do
in Avilés

Avilés is a charming coastal city in northern Spain, nestled along the estuary of the River Avilés. Known for its rich industrial heritage, it features a blend of historic architecture and modern design, including the stunning Niemeyer Center. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene with numerous festivals and events throughout the year.

With picturesque streets and friendly locals, Avilés is a delightful destination for travelers seeking an authentic Spanish experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Avilés
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the historic Old Town, where you can stroll through the cobblestone streets and admire the beautiful Plaza de España.

afternoon
:

Visit the Centro Cultural Oscar Niemeyer, an architectural marvel, and enjoy lunch at a nearby café. Spend the afternoon exploring the local shops and artisan boutiques.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Asturian restaurant and then take a leisurely evening walk along the Avilés riverfront.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Church of Santo Tomás de Canterbury, followed by a coffee in one of the local bakeries.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby beach of San Juan de Nieva for some relaxation and sunbathing, followed by a seafood lunch at a beachside chiringuito.

evening
:

Return to the city for a night out at a local bar or pub, enjoying live music and the vibrant atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍺Beer$3
🚌Public transport ticket$1.50
🏨Hotel night$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Delicious local cuisine
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Frequent rainfall can disrupt outdoor plans
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Some areas may be less accessible without a car
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Avilés

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza de España

The main square of Avilés, surrounded by beautiful architecture and perfect for capturing the essence of the city.

Niemeyer Center

An iconic modern architectural site that offers stunning views and unique angles for photography.

Old Town Streets

The narrow, winding streets of the Old Town are picturesque and provide countless opportunities for charming photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Avilés

Avilés is a gastronomic delight, offering a variety of local dishes that showcase the region's rich culinary heritage.

Avilés Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fabada Asturiana

A hearty bean stew made with faba beans, chorizo, and morcilla, perfect for a filling meal.

Must-Try!

Cachopo

A traditional dish of two large breaded meat fillets, typically filled with cheese and ham.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de Avilés

A vibrant market where you can find fresh local produce, cheeses, and meats, ideal for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Avilés has a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and cool summers. Average temperatures range from 8°C (46°F) in winter to 22°C (72°F) in summer. Rainfall is frequent throughout the year, particularly in autumn and winter, so visitors should be prepared for wet weather. Spring and summer are the best times to visit for pleasant temperatures and outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, followed by a kiss on both cheeks among friends.

Dining Etiquette

It's customary to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat and to say 'Buen provecho' (Enjoy your meal).

Punctuality

Being slightly late is acceptable in social situations, but punctuality is appreciated for business meetings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Avilés is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and English-speaking assistance is usually available.

Tipping in Avilés

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is common practice.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time to explore the city's parks and gardens.

Summer

Summer brings warmer weather, perfect for beach outings, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, making it a lovely time for outdoor activities.

Winter

Winters are cool and damp, but the festive atmosphere during Christmas adds a magical touch to the city.

Nightlife Guide

Avilés at Night

Avilés offers a lively nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs catering to different tastes. The Old Town is particularly bustling in the evenings, where you can find tapas bars filled with locals enjoying drinks and conversation. Live music is popular, and many venues feature performances ranging from traditional Spanish guitar to modern bands. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to mingle and enjoy the local culture.

Hiking in Avilés

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sierra del Sueve

A stunning hiking area offering various trails with breathtaking views of the Picos de Europa and the coastline.

Pico de las Tres Marías

A moderate trail leading to a peak with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Airports

How to reach Avilés by plane.

Asturias Airport (OVD)

Located about 15 km from Avilés, Asturias Airport offers domestic and international flights, making it the primary airport for the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Avilés is a highly walkable city, with compact streets and well-maintained sidewalks. The Old Town is particularly pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Most of the main attractions are within walking distance, allowing visitors to soak in the local atmosphere at a leisurely pace.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population is primarily made up of Spanish nationals, with a strong sense of community and local pride.

Tourists

Visitors come from various regions, especially during the summer and holiday seasons, adding to the diversity of the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Avilés, with local clubs drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Surfing

With nearby beaches, surfing has become increasingly popular among locals and tourists alike, especially in the summer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Avilés is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes buses that connect key areas of the city, and many locals prefer cycling or walking to avoid traffic congestion. Parking can be challenging in the Old Town, so using public transport or walking is recommended.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Avilés.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are becoming more available; however, it's best to inquire specifically at restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Avilés is of a high standard, with several public and private hospitals and clinics available. The public healthcare system is accessible to residents and EU visitors with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). For non-EU visitors, private healthcare is widely available, and many doctors speak English.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide