What to see in Oviedo in one day
Oviedo, the capital of the Principality of Asturias, is a treasure trove of alluring attractions and activities. There’s a little something for everyone: art history aficionados, gourmets, night crawlers and handicraft lovers. But, with one day, where to start? Follow our guide to make sure you discover the city’s top attractions.
The best way to explore Oviedo and soak in its essence is by strolling through the pedestrian streets in the old town where most of the artistic heritage is located. The Prince of Asturias Award winner and film maker Woody Allen described Oviedo as ‘A delicious, clean and pleasant […] city. Oviedo is like a fairy-tale.’ The city honoured he Annie Hall director with a bronze statue, one of the many statues dotted around the old town.
Read on to discover how to make the most of your 1-day trip. It’s a pleasant combination of cultural, artistic and architectural sights you can discover as you enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city. It even makes time for a pit stop at some of the city’s fantastic restaurants and cider houses.
Itinerary day 1
9:00 – 10:30
The Cathedral of Oviedo
Built between the 14th and 16th centuries, the majestic cathedral is located in the city centre and is one of the city’s most emblematic landmarks. While there, be sure to visit the Chapel of Santa Bárbara and its stunning 1663 altarpiece; the Chapel of Nuestra Señora del Rey Casto; and the 1739 Santa Teresa altarpiece.
11:00-13:00
Market and the Plaza del Fontán
The food market is one of the most popular places in Oviedo and makes the perfect place to discover local Asturian products and get a feel of the city. The market square also hosts one of the most popular flea markets in Asturias on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday mornings.
13:30-15:00
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.
15:30-17:30
Campo de San Francisco
Campo de San Francisco is not only one of Oviedo’s largest green spaces, but also one of the largest urban parks in Asturias. The park was built on an old vegetable plot belonging to the San Francisco Convent. The park houses a large pond and several popular statues.
18:00-19:30
Santa María la Real del Naranco
A gem of pre-Romanesque art, this building is a must-see for art lovers. It was built in 848 as a palace royal hall and later became a temple in the 12th century. It is located 4 km from Oviedo so you’ll need to take a taxi to get there. If you have time, pay a visit to the palatine church of San Miguel de Lillo.
20:00-22:00
The Cider Boulevard
No one can leave Oviedo without having a glass of authentic Asturian cider. Calle Gascona was dubbed ‘The Cider Boulevard’ because it is home to at least 13 sidrerías, or cider houses. Enjoy a glass of perfectly-poured cider and traditional Asturian fare, such as fabada, cachopo, bollos preñaos, frixuelos and Cabrales cheese, to name but a few delicacies.