Things To Do
in Gijón
Gijón is a vibrant coastal city in Asturias on Spain's Cantabrian Sea, blending a working‑class heritage with a modern, laid‑back atmosphere. The Cimavilla old town climbs from the harbor, offering panoramic viewpoints over the Atlantic and a maze of narrow lanes. The long urban beach of San Lorenzo and the bustling marina anchor a city that pairs seafood taverns with contemporary culture.
Surrounded by green hills and cider houses, Gijón serves as a gateway to Asturias’ dramatic coast and verdant countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Plaza Mayor, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sipping on a delicious cup of Asturian cider. Stroll through the charming cobbled streets, admiring the historic architecture of the 18th-century buildings surrounding you. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the nearby Jovellanos Museum, showcasing the works of Gijón's famed philosopher and writer.
After lunch at a traditional Asturian restaurant, spend your afternoon wandering through the vibrant neighborhood of Cimavilla, the oldest part of Gijón. Explore the quaint shops and art galleries, and perhaps stop by the Evaristo Valle Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection of modern art. Take a moment to relax at the scenic viewpoint over the harbor, soaking in the picturesque coastal views.
As the sun sets, make your way to the waterfront promenade for a leisurely walk along the beach, enjoying the refreshing sea breeze. Treat yourself to a dinner of local seafood specialties at a seaside restaurant, savoring the flavors of the region. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local bar for a taste of the famous Asturian cider and some live music.
Kick off your beach day with breakfast at a beachside café, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee while overlooking San Lorenzo Beach. Spend your morning sunbathing on the golden sands or taking a refreshing dip in the Atlantic Ocean. If you're feeling adventurous, consider trying your hand at surfing or paddleboarding with a local rental shop.
After some fun in the water, grab a casual lunch at one of the beach bars, where you can indulge in local seafood dishes like calamares or grilled sardines. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby Playa de Poniente, where you can take a stroll along the boardwalk or participate in beach volleyball games. For a more laid-back vibe, find a quiet spot to read or simply enjoy the sound of the waves crashing.
As evening approaches, head back to San Lorenzo Beach to witness the stunning sunset over the ocean. Enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where you can savor a variety of Asturian tapas paired with refreshing local wines. End your day with a leisurely walk along the shore, feeling the sand between your toes as the stars begin to twinkle in the night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $2-4 |
| 🛏️1 night in a mid-range hotel | $70-120 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 🚌Public transportation day pass | $4-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal beauty with easy access to beaches and viewpoints
- Rich cider and seafood culture with welcoming locals
- Compact, walkable city center and vibrant old town
- Hilly terrain in parts of the city; can be tiring for some visitors
- Weather can be variable and rainy outside peak summer
- Tourist services concentrated in summer; some smaller venues close in off-season
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Una sidra, por favor" - One cider, please
- "Quisiera una mesa para dos" - I would like a table for two
Places to Visit in Gijón
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic Chillida sculpture perched on the hillside with sweeping Atlantic views; dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Long urban beach with golden sand and a lively promenade, ideal for wide beach portraits and surfers.
Historic quarter with narrow alleys, colorful facades, and vantage points over the harbor—the perfect neighborhood for atmospheric shots.
expansive garden with ocean glimpses, blending botanical color with architectural features.
Docklands scenery at dusk with boats reflected in the water and city lights coming on.
Food in Gijón
Gijón Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich white bean stew with chorizo and morcilla, best enjoyed slowly in a traditional sidrería.
Must-Try!
Two beef fillets stuffed with cheese and ham, breaded and fried; a classic, indulgent dish worth sharing.
A filling bean and potato stew with chorizo and other pork accents, perfect for cooler days.
Bread rolls stuffed with spiced chorizo, a convenient and tasty snack on the go.
The local cider, poured with theatrical flair; pairing with meals is a must in Asturian dining.
A pungent blue cheese from the region; enjoy with bread or apples as a bold finishing bite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic indoor market in Cimavilla offering fresh seafood, produce, and ready-to-eat bites.
Casual cider houses along the harbor offering small plates and quick bites to accompany your cider.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Lunch typically starts around 2–3 pm and dinner after 8 pm; tipping is modest and service is often included in more touristy spots.
Greet with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek among friends; maintain a relaxed, friendly conversational tone; personal space is respected but warmth is common.
Safety
Tipping in Gijón
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is common in bars and restaurants.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash remains common in markets and smaller taverns; many places also accept mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with ocean breezes; expect crowds at San Lorenzo and lively terrace culture. Sea temperatures are comfortable for swimming, and many outdoor events take place along the promenade.
Mild but variable weather; great light for photography and fewer tourists. Coastal walks can be windy and misty, with seasonal produce at markets.
Cool and often rainy with strong Atlantic winds; indoor dining and cider houses are common refuges. Daylight hours are shorter, but the city feels cozy and authentic.
Rising temperatures and blooming coastal flora; ideal for outdoor exploring, hiking to Cabo Peñas, and enjoying alfresco meals as terraces reopen.
Gijón at Night
Hiking in Gijón
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dramatic cliffside route north of Gijón with lighthouse views and sweeping sea panoramas.
Long coastal path linking beaches and small coves with picturesque seascapes and photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Gijón by plane.
The closest international airport, located near Avilés; 30–50 minutes by car to Gijón, with regular domestic and international flights.
A larger regional airport about 2.5–3 hours by car, serving northern Spain and international connections.
A major international hub about 3–4 hours by road/rail from Gijón, with extensive European connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, long-time locals, university students nearby, and professionals; a relatively aging population with strong cultural roots.
Seasonal visitors drawn to seafood, cider, and coastal scenery, mainly in summer months.
Small but growing presence in university districts and cultural centers, contributing to a cosmopolitan vibe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local passion centers on Sporting de Gijón; matches draw crowds and lively atmosphere.
The Cantabrian coast offers accessible surfing opportunities near urban beaches.
Volleyball and running along the promenade are common on sunny days.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gijón.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer veggie plates based on potatoes, beans, and vegetables; specify cheese or egg options, and ask for meat-free versions of local dishes.