What to see in Gijón in one day
Only got one day to visit Gijón? No need to worry. The itinerary we propose will give you a general sense of this gorgeous city and have you booking your next visit before you leave! Gijón offers a myriad of cultural and entertainment activities, but let’s head to the old town to explore the city’s DNA.
Here, you’ll discover the picturesque fishermen’s quarter of Cimadevilla, located on the Santa Catalina Headland, and also home to Eduardo Chillida’s monumental statue Eulogy to the Horizon. Afterwards, wander towards the gorgeous Playa de San Lorenzo Beach and the famous La Escalerona steps down to the beach. Read on to learn about the landmarks and sites not to be missed during your 24-hour trip.
Itinerary day 1
9:00-9.30
Church of San Pedro
The most iconic church of Gijón was practically destroyed during the Spanish Civil War, but was rebuilt following costly renovation work. Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos, one of the most important figures of the 18th-century Spanish Enlightment, was buried here. Located at one end of the main San Lorenzo beach, it stands not far from the Campo Valdés Roman Baths
10:00-11:00
Santa Catalina Headland and the sculpture Eulogy to the Horizon
Follow Camín de la Fontica to reach the headland of Santa Catalina. The pleasant walk crosses Cerro Park and affords breathtaking views of the sea and Eduardo Chillida’s towering concrete sculpture Eulogy to the Horizon.
11:30-12:15 h
Revillagigedo Palace
This magnificent turn-of-the-18th-century Baroque building stands out for its elaborate facade and twin crenellated towers. Adjacent to the collegiate Church of San Juan Bautista, the palace now houses the Cultural Centre of Cajastur.
12:30-13:30
The Marina of Gijón
Take a leisurely stroll along the marina and get a look at some of the fantastic sailing boats. The fishing port used to be located here before being relocated to El Musel. The marina has four docks and hosts several international regattas.
14:00-15:30
El Palacio Restaurant
This warm and friendly restaurant has more than 25 years of history and has seen patrons from all walks of life come through their front door. It is open throughout the day and part of the night. It’s great place to savour authentic Asturian cuisine. Don’t leave Gijón without having tried their fabada.
16:00-17:30
Museum of the Asturian People
The museum offers interesting exhibits on Asturian culture and heritage. Discover a typical country home with a cider press, windmill and grain store; the Casa de los González de la Vega, site of the International Bagpipe Museum; the Casa de los Vales, a temporary exhibition space; and the Asturian Pavilion from the 1992 Universal Exposition of Seville.
18:00-19:00
San Lorenzo Beach
You can’t visit Gijón and not spend some time on the vast 1.5-km beach. It is the ideal place to relax and go for a dip – in the summer months that is. There are 15 different access points along the promenade leading down to the beach. The most popular, La Escalerona, is located at access point no. 4.
19:30-20:30
Aquarium of Gijón
Located at one end of Playa de Poniente, the building houses aquatic species from across the world. There are 60 different freshwater and saltwater aquariums located in the 2,000m2 facility. There is also a bird observatory and viewpoints overlooking the bay.
21:00-23:00
Tierra Astur Poniente Restaurant
What better way to say goodbye to Gijón than with a delightful meal at this lovely restaurant? During the summer months, you can sit out on the gorgeous terrace and enjoy traditional Asturian dishes based on age-old recipes.