What to see in Asturias in 4 days
If you have four days to explore Asturias, you have ample time to visit its main attractions. The short distance between the different sights will ensure your break is fulfilling, but unhurried. Oviedo, Llanes and the Lakes of Covadonga are just waiting to be discovered, and the memories are there to be created. You will want to return time and time again.
Itinerary day 1
10.00 AM-11.00 PM
Oviedo city centre
Your route through the old quarter of Oviedo begins at its impressive gothic cathedral. Make sure you also enter the Holy Chamber, declared a Unesco World Heritage Site. Make sure the old market square Plaza del Fontán and the Church of San Isidro el Real are also on your list.
11.00 AM-1.00 PM
Calle Uría
This bustling street in Oviedo is a hive of activity. There are shops and beautiful historic buildings at every turn, including Spanish colonial-style houses. Calle Uría really is a must-see for your day out in the capital of the Principality. Sneak in a little shopping while you soak up the atmosphere of the city.
1.00 PM-2.15 PM
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.
2.30 PM-4.30 PM
Restaurante La Corte de Pelayo
It’s time to recuperate some of that spent energy. Take the weight off your feet 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. It’s best to book a table, as this restaurant is always in high demand.
5.00 PM-7.00 PM
Santa María del Naranco
It’s time to make your way to the foothills of Mount Naranco and discover two prime examples of Asturian pre-Romanesque art: the churches of San Miguel de Lillo and Santa María del Naranco. These majestic buildings stand in truly magical surroundings.
7.30 PM-9.00 PM
Sidrería La Pumarada
Before dinner, stop off in Calle Gascona to try some of the local cider. This street is famous for its sidrerías, or cider houses, so it’s hard to go wrong. Two of the most popular are Tierra Astur and La Pumarada.
9.30 PM-11.30 PM
La Palmera del Indiano Restaurant
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 uses traditional local products to create dishes with a modern touch.
Itinerary day 2
10.00 AM-11.30 AM
Playa del Silencio
This beach located in natural surroundings near Cudillero is the perfect spot to start your discovery of Asturias’ spectacular coastline. Considered one of the most beautiful beaches of Asturias, Playa del Silencio is a protected enclave with a beach of smooth round pebbles. It is well worth taking the time to reach this little corner of paradise.
12.30 PM-2.00 PM
Gijón city centre
Strategically situated on the shores of the Cantabrian Sea, Gijón is full of surprises. You will love the Cimadevilla district, Revillagigedo Palace and San Lorenzo beach with its famous flight of steps. Playa San Lorenzo one of the most popular beaches in Asturias and is located right at the heart of the city. The giant red letters on the quayside that spell out ‘Gijón’ make for a great photo opportunity.
2.30 PM-4.30 PM
La Tropical restaurant
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, before continuing your tour of Gijón.
5.30 PM-9.00 PM
Eulogy to the Horizon by Eduardo Chillida
Climbing the headland of Santa Catalina to contemplate the sunset framed by this awe-inspiring sculpture is one of the most magical experiences Gijón has to offer.
9.30 PM-11.30 PM
Auga restaurant
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 the market. Whether you choose the taster menu or opt to dine à la carte, the dishes are a true delight for the palate.
Itinerary day 3
10.00 AM-12.00 AM
Descent of the Sella River
One of the most popular and exciting experiences in Asturias is canoeing down the Sella River. It is a unique and original activity that is suitable for all ages. There are different routes and durations to choose from.
12.30 PM-6.30 PM
Llanes
The town of Llanes has a wide variety of 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.
7.00 PM-9.00 PM
San Pedro coastal path
Don’t leave Llanes without taking a stroll along this charming clifftop path. The views afforded are spectacular – a sweeping panorama of the Cantabrian Sea and the medieval town with the Picos de Europa mountain range in the background.
9.30 PM-11.30 PM
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 4
10.00 AM-11.30 AM
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. The visit is a great opportunity to learn a little about Asturias’ fascinating past.
12.00 PM-4.00 PM
Cares Trail
The Cares Trail is arguably one of the best hiking trails in existence. Stretching between the villages of Caín and Poncebos, the path crosses the river canyon known as ‘Garganta Divina’, or the Divine Gorge. At 11 kilometres long, with fairly moderate changes in elevation, it is suitable for all ages.
5.30 PM-8.30 PM
Lagos de Covadonga
Before you leave the Picos de Europa National Park, take the bus to the stunning Lakes of Covadonga – the views are truly out of this world. Make sure you also visit either the Basilica of Covadonga, or the Holy Cave of Covadonga.
9.00 PM-11.30 PM
El Molín de la Pedrera restaurant
For your last night in Asturias, treat yourself to dinner at this highly recommended restaurant in Cangas de Onís. All the dishes on the traditional Asturian menu are outstanding, but the crispy Cabrales cheese parcels, the oxtail, and the Gamoneu cheese tapa are to die for.