The best of asturias: your 7-day itinerary
Our suggested itinerary provides a wide range of activities, including adventuring into the region’s main cities on foot, relaxing on its spectacular beaches and exploring its magnificent verdant landscapes. With a whole week to get to know Asturias inside out, you can explore all its hidden charms at your leisure. Take time to immerse yourself in its traditions, get to know its people, savour its unique cuisine, and discover its picture-postcard villages steeped in history and culture. You will have plenty of time to delve in depth into your favourite places. There will always be other destinations to explore, but you will definitely want to repeat this experience time and time again.
Itinerary day 1
10.00-11.00
Oviedo Cathedral
Begin your route through the old quarter of Oviedo at its impressive gothic cathedral. Make sure you enter the Holy Chamber, declared a Unesco World Heritage Site.
11.00-13.00
Sculptures in Oviedo
One of the most original and entertaining ways to get to know Oviedo is through the sculptures dotted around the city centre. Statues of fictional and real characters, including Woody Allen, will accompany you on your journey of discovery through the city.
13.00-14.15
Calle Uría
This bustling street in Oviedo is a hive of activity and a must-see. There are shops and beautiful historic buildings at every turn, including Spanish colonial-style houses. Sneak in some shopping, or just soak up the atmosphere.
14.30-16.30
Restaurante La Corte de Pelayo
It’s time to recuperate some of that spent energy. Sit back and enjoy some of the classic Asturian dishes prepared by this popular restaurant. Famed for its cachopo (juicy fillets of young beef stuffed with ham and cheese) and fresh fish, La Corte del Pelayo is a traditional restaurant, so you are well advised to accompany your meal with some refreshing ‘shots’ of zingy cider. Make sure you book a table in advance.
17.00-19.00
Santa María del Naranco
Now you need to make your way to the foothills of Mount Naranco, in Oviedo, to discover two prime examples of Asturian pre-Romanesque art: the churches of San Miguel de Lillo and Santa María del Naranco. The beauty of the magical setting is astounding.
19.30-21.00
Calle Gascona Sidrerias
When you get back to town, stop off in Calle Gascona to try some of the local cider at one of the many sidrerías, or cider houses. Two of the most popular are Tierra Astur and La Pumarada.
21.30-23.30
La palmera del indiano
This restaurant comes highly recommended, and is found in the exclusive Hotel Barceló Oviedo Cervantes, located in the city centre. The building dates back to the early 20th-century, and is a striking former townhouse that has been fully refurbished. The restaurant, La palmera del indiano, uses traditional local products to create dishes with a modern touch.
Itinerary day 2
10.00-14.00
Cudillero
A morning in Cudillero provides an excellent introduction to the Asturian coastline. Just a short distance from the village, its idyllic beach is well worth a visit. Considered one of the most beautiful beaches of Asturias, Playa del Silencio is a protected enclave with a beach of smooth round pebbles. It truly is a little corner of paradise.
14.30-16.30
Sidrería El Remo
Stopping for lunch in Cudillero will give you the opportunity to explore this fishing village and its pretty homes painted in an array of attractive colours. Try the catch of the day in Plaza de la Marina. Sidrería El Remo and Casa Julio are just two of the fantastic restaurants you can choose from in the square.
17.30-21.00
Avilés
Avilés is another of Asturias' great cities, and there is plenty to see and do in its old quarter. Meander through the city’s streets and squares, visit its ancient churches, explore Sabugo – the old fishing quarter, relax in Ferrara Park, and make sure to take in the incredible Oscar Niemeyer International Cultural Centre.
21.30-23.30
Restaurante Apiñón Bistro
Calle Galiana, dating back to the 17th century, is one of the most unique streets in Avilés. A pedestrian street, it is one of the busiest in the city, boasting excellent restaurants. Apiñón Bistro and Casa Tataguyo are just two of the popular traditional inns that serve a hearty dinner. The area is also perfect for some after-dinner drinks in one of its welcoming pubs.
Itinerary day 3
10.00-11.30
Gijón city centre
Discover Gijón, another of the essential cities to visit in Asturias. You will love the Cimadevilla district, Revillagigedo Palace and San Lorenzo beach with its famous flight of steps. The giant red letters on the quayside that spell out ‘Gijón’ make for a great photo opportunity.
11.30-13.00
Aquarium of Gijón
If you are travelling with children, you may want to check out this exceptional aquarium, considered one of the best on the whole of the Iberian Peninsula. Located next to Poniente beach, it has 60 freshwater and saltwater tanks teeming with marine life, including curious loggerhead turtles and formidable sand tiger sharks.
13.00-14.30
Playa de San Lorenzo
You will find this beach right at the heart of the city, and it is one of the most popular among the locals. The expansive golden sands make it perfect for a short rest or a relaxing walk. You may even be tempted to take a bracing dip in the sea. No trip to Gijón is complete without a visit to San Lorenzo.
14.30-16.30
Restaurante La Tropical
You’ll find this traditional family-run restaurant close to the beach. Sit back, relax and try the typical zamburriñas (scallops), or the many delicious Asturian cheeses,
17.00-19.00
Jardín Botánico Atlántico de Gijón
This garden museum covering an area of more than 4,000 m2 is the perfect place to while away the afternoon. If you have green fingers, you will be fascinated to learn about the native species of this Atlantic coastal region.
19.30-21.00
El Elogio del Horizonte
Climbing the headland of Santa Catalina to contemplate the sunset framed by this awe-inspiring sculpture is another highly recommended activity in Gijón.
21.30-23.30
Restaurante Auga
Why not dine out in style at one of Gijón’s Michelin star restaurants? Overlooking the harbour, Auga boasts stunning views. The restaurant offers traditional dishes with a modern twist; all prepared using the freshest ingredients from local markets.
Itinerary day 4
10.00-11.30
Museo del Jurásico de Asturias
This interactive museum in the shape of a dinosaur footprint is located in Colunga and provides a truly fascinating insight into prehistoric times in the region. It is perfect for a family outing, and you can top off your visit with a trip to the nearby Playa de la Griega to see real dinosaur footprints.
12.00-14.00
Lastres
Claimed to be one of the prettiest villages in Asturias, this little fishing community with its enchanting, fairytale harbour is a must-see. Visit the clock tower, or take a walk up to San Roque lookout for a fantastic panoramic view of Lastres nestled between the towering cliffs and the sea.
14.30-16.30
Restaurante La Rula
Lastres has long had close ties to the sea. Embrace the local culture and try some of the traditional fish and shellfish dishes served by this fabulous restaurant on the quayside.
17.00-19.00
Cueva de Tito Bustillo
Start your afternoon with a journey back in time. Penetrate the depths of this prehistoric cave and gaze in awe at the impressive cave paintings. It is certainly a star attraction in Ribadesella.
19.30-21.00
Playa de La Atalaya
Take a stroll along the most famous beach in Ribadesella to wind down at the end of a busy day. Enjoy the views from the lookout as you reflect on the tranquillity of the place.
21.30-23.30
Sidrería Casa Gaspar
A simple walk through the streets of Ribadesella will reveal plenty of restaurants offering appetising dishes – and Sidrería Casa Gaspar is one of them. Order a seafood platter and a bottle of traditional cider for a perfect pairing.
Itinerary day 5
10.00-14.00
Descent of the Sella River
One of the most popular experiences in Asturias is canoeing down the Sella River. It is an exciting activity that is suitable for all ages, and there are several different routes and durations to choose from.
14.30-18.30
Llanes
The town of Llanes has a wide variety of surprising tourist attractions, including the breathtaking Ballota and Gulpiyuri beaches; the fascinating medieval old quarter; the symbolic Cubos de la Memoria – where the breakwater has been converted into an art installation; and the spectacular Pría blowholes.
19.00-21.00
Paseo de San Pedro
Don’t leave Llanes without taking a stroll along this charming clifftop path. It has sweeping panoramic views of the Cantabrian Sea and medieval town, with the Picos de Europa mountain range in the background.
21.30-23.30
Casa del Mar
Llanes comes alive at night, and the numerous bars and restaurants will guarantee a good night out. Casa del Mar and Sidrería El Antoju are just two of the most popular. The delectable dishes will ensure you vow to return.
Itinerary day 6
10.00-11.30
Cangas de Onís
The gateway to the Picos de Europa National Park, this town is well worth exploring. History buffs will love the Roman bridge and the Iglesia de la Santa Cruz (Church of the Holy Cross), where King Favila, son of Pelagius of Asturias, is buried. It provides a great opportunity to learn a little about Asturias’ fascinating past.
12.00-16.00
Lakes of Covadonga
Located at the very heart of the Picos de Europa National Park, the Lakes of Covadonga provide one of the most stunning landscapes in Asturias. The views are truly out of this world, and there are plenty of hiking trails you can take to immerse yourself fully in the beauty of the area. Don't miss the majestic Basilica of Covadonga close to the lakes – you won’t be disappointed.
18.00-21.00
Tazones
Making your way back down to the coast after a trip into the rural interior is a great way to relax and unwind – and there is no better way to do this than by visiting Tazones, one of the most beautiful villages in the region. The tiny village has its own special charm, and its lighthouse and harbour are captivating.
21.30-23.30
Restaurante La Playa
Dining out in Tazones is a fantastic way to end a busy day. This restaurant will surprise you with its classic fish dishes. Delight in the subtle flavours as you contemplate the majesty of the Cantabrian Sea.
Itinerary day 7
10.00-14.00
Somiedo Nature Park
The exceptional natural surroundings of this protected landscape offer many possibilities for a day out. Explore the lakes of Saliencia and El Valle, and take time to appreciate this spectacular Biosphere Reserve, home to the endangered Cantabrian brown bear.
14.30-16.30
Sidrería Parrilla Carrión
Pola de Somiedo is one of the small villages found in the midst of the park. You will find a variety of excellent restaurant options for a hearty lunch, including Sidrería Parrilla Carrión. While there, you can visit the interpretation centre to learn a bit more about the Somiedo Nature Park.
18.00-21.00
Oviedo
If there is anything you still want to see in the city before you leave, make the most of this last afternoon. Check out the Church of San Julián de los Prados – a sublime example of Asturian art, or just do a spot of shopping in the old quarter.
21.30-23.30
Restaurante Ca’Suso
To top off a wonderful holiday, book a table at the Ca'Suso restaurant for a truly unforgettable evening. Their innovative twist on Asturian cuisine will ensure you fall completely in love with this unique region.