What to see in Asturias in 5 days
The short distance between the main sights in Asturias will ensure you are able to enjoy them at leisure. With our suggested activities, you will explore the streets of Gijón and Oviedo, drink in the tranquillity of Playa del Silencio, and ponder the magical reflection of the mountains in the blue waters of the Lakes of Covadonga.
Are you ready to make the most of your five days in Asturias? Continue reading to reveal the full itinerary.
Itinerary day 1
2.30 PM-4.30 PM
La Corte de Pelayo restaurant
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. It’s best to book a table, as this restaurant is always in high demand.
5.00 PM-7.00 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. Sneak in some shopping or just soak up the atmosphere.
7.30 PM-9.00 PM
Sidrerías de la calle Gascona
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-1.30 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, La Palmera del Indiano, uses traditional local products to create dishes with a modern touch.
10.00 AM-11.00 AM
Santa María del Naranco
Begin your morning with a trip to the foothills of Mount Naranco, in Oviedo, where you will discover two prime examples of Asturian pre-Romanesque art: the churches of San Miguel de Lillo and Santa María del Naranco. The surroundings are quite sublime.
11.00 AM-1.00 PM
Oviedo old town
Begin your route through the old quarter of Oviedo at its impressive gothic cathedral. Make sure you also enter the Holy Chamber, declared a Unesco World Heritage Site. The old market square – Plaza del Fontán – and the Church of San Isidro el Real mark an end to your tour.
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.
Itinerary day 2
10.00 AM-12.00 PM
Luarca
This quaint whitewashed fishing village has a few surprises tucked away. Here you will have the opportunity to discover the botanical gardens of Fonte Baixa, the intriguing Puente del Beso (‘Bridge of the Kiss’) – with a fascinating local legend behind it, and the picturesque fishermen’s quarter.
12.30 PM-2.00 PM
Playa del Silencio
Located in remarkable natural surroundings, this beach is the perfect spot to start your discovery of Asturias’ spectacular coastline. Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in 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.
2.30 PM-4.30 PM
Sidrería El Remo
Make the most of your visit and grab some lunch in this little fishing village with its pretty coloured cottages. 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.
5.30 PM-9.00 PM
Avilés
Avilés is another of Asturias' great cities, and there is plenty to see and do in the old quarter. Take a walk through the city’s squares and visit its churches, explore the district of Sabugo, relax in Ferrara Park, and don't forget to take in the incredible Oscar Niemeyer International Cultural Centre.
21.30-23.30
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. This area is also perfect for some after-dinner drinks in one of its welcoming pubs.
Itinerary day 3
10.00 AM-11.30 AM
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 AM-12.30 PM
Aquarium of Gijón
If you are travelling with children, you may want to check out this exceptional aquarium, considered one of the best in Spain. It is located next to Poniente beach, and has 60 freshwater and saltwater tanks teeming with marine life. You can see everything from curious loggerhead sea turtles to formidable sand tiger sharks.
1.00 PM-2.00 PM
San Lorenzo beach
Located at the heart of the city, this Gijón beach is one of the most popular among 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. Whatever your intention, you will find its charm irresistible.
2.30 PM-4.30 PM
La Tropical restaurant
You’ll find this traditional family-run restaurant close to San Lorenzo beach. Sit back, relax and try the typical zamburriñas (scallops), or the many delicious Asturian cheeses.
5.30 PM-8.00 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 another highly recommended activity in Gijón.
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.
Itinerary day 4
10.00 AM-2.00 PM
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. There are several different routes to choose from.
2.30 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 5
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-7.30 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. And don't miss the majestic Basilica of Covadonga close to the lakes – you won’t be disappointed.
9.00 PM-11.30 PM
El Molín de la Pedrera
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.
21.30-23.30
El Molín de la Pedrera
Para tu última noche asturiana puedes darte un pequeño capricho en este recomendable restaurante de Cangas de Onís. Entre su fantástico recetario asturiano, prueba el crujiente de cabrales con avellanas, el rabo de toro o el pincho de queso de Gamoneu.