Oviedo, Spain Guide
Oviedo often feels like a beautifully preserved secret, nestled in the heart of Spain's lush Asturias region. It's an elegant, remarkably clean city where ancient history breathes through every cobblestone, making it a dream for culture vultures and foodies alike. Wander through its pedestrian-friendly Old Town, and you’ll discover stunning pre-Romanesque churches, some of them UNESCO World Heritage sites, that offer a glimpse into a truly unique historical period. But it's not just about the past; Oviedo is vibrant with its strong Asturian identity, especially evident in its lively *sidrerías* (cider houses). Here, you'll be immersed in the ritualistic pouring of natural cider and delight in hearty, distinctive Asturian cuisine like *fabada* and *cachopo*. Beyond its urban charm, Oviedo serves as an excellent base for exploring the wilder side of Asturias. The iconic Monte Naranco, just a stone's throw away, offers fantastic hiking trails and panoramic views of the city and surrounding green valleys – a perfect escape for those needing a breath of fresh air. From here, day trips to the dramatic Picos de Europa mountain range are absolutely doable, offering incredible opportunities for more serious outdoor adventures. However, it's worth noting that Asturias is famed for its verdant landscapes for a reason; expect a fair share of rain, especially outside the summer months, which means packing layers and perhaps a good umbrella is always a smart move. Also, while friendly locals are abundant, having a few Spanish phrases up your sleeve will significantly enhance your experience, especially when navigating the authentic *sidrería* scene where English isn't always widely spoken. Oviedo offers a wonderfully authentic Spanish experience, just be prepared for its unique climate and embrace the local way of life.
Food & Cuisine
Asturian cuisine is hearty and flavorful, and Oviedo is the perfect place to experience it. Fabada Asturiana, a rich bean stew with chorizo, morcilla (blood sausage), and pork, is a must-try. Seafood is also abundant, with fresh catches from the Cantabrian Sea featuring prominently on menus. Sidra (cider) is the traditional drink, poured from a height to aerate it. For a taste of local specialties, visit the Mercado El Fontán, a bustling market with fresh produce, seafood, and local products. Casa Fermín is a renowned restaurant known for its traditional Asturian dishes, while El Gato Negro offers a more modern take on regional cuisine. Don't forget to try arroz con leche (rice pudding) for dessert!
Nightlife
Oviedo's nightlife is lively and diverse, catering to a range of tastes. The historic center, particularly around Calle Mon and Calle Manuel Pedregal, is packed with bars and pubs offering everything from traditional sidra to craft beers and cocktails. For a more student-oriented atmosphere, head to the area around the University of Oviedo. Many bars stay open late, and live music venues can be found throughout the city.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Oviedo is during the spring (April-June) or fall (September-October). The weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for exploring the city and surrounding countryside. Summer (July-August) can be crowded and hotter, while winter (November-March) can be rainy and chilly.
Transportation
Oviedo offers a comprehensive public transportation system. The city is primarily served by an extensive bus network (TUA) that connects all major areas and surrounding towns. While Oviedo doesn't have a tram or subway/metro system, the bus network is efficient and reliable. Taxis are readily available throughout the city. Walking is also a great way to explore the historic center, as many areas are pedestrianized.
Airport
Asturias Airport (OVD) is located approximately 47 kilometers (29 miles) from Oviedo. The easiest way to get from the airport to Oviedo is by bus. ALSA operates a regular bus service that connects the airport to the Oviedo bus station. Taxis are also available, but they are a more expensive option.
Attractions
Plaza del Fontan
Plaza del Fontan is a lively square in Oviedo, known for its outdoor cafes, market stalls, and historic buildings. The square is a popular meeting spot for locals and visitors, offering a vibrant atmosphere and a taste of traditional Asturian culture. Visitors can explore the market and sample local specialties.
Campo de San Francisco
Campo de San Francisco is a central park in Oviedo, known for its beautiful gardens, sculptures, and fountains. The park is a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy nature, with walking paths, benches, and a pond. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll and admire the park's beauty.
San Miguel de Lillo
San Miguel de Lillo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Santa Maria del Naranco. This pre-Romanesque church dates back to the 9th century and features intricate carvings and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the church and learn about its history.
Santa Maria del Naranco
Santa Maria del Naranco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on a hill overlooking Oviedo. This pre-Romanesque church dates back to the 9th century and features intricate carvings and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the church and learn about its history.
Archaeological Museum of Asturias
The Archaeological Museum of Asturias showcases the history and culture of the region through a collection of artifacts, including prehistoric tools, Roman coins, and medieval ceramics. The museum is housed in a historic building and offers insight into Asturias' rich archaeological heritage.
San Francisco Park
San Francisco Park is a peaceful green space in the heart of Oviedo, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. The park features lush gardens, fountains, and sculptures, as well as a playground for children. Visitors can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
Plaza de la Constitucion
Plaza de la Constitucion is a charming square in the historic center of Oviedo, surrounded by colorful buildings and outdoor cafes. The square is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a vibrant atmosphere and stunning views of the city's architecture.
Campoamor Theater
The Campoamor Theater is a historic theater in Oviedo known for its beautiful Neo-Baroque architecture. It is home to the Prince of Asturias Awards ceremony and hosts various cultural events throughout the year. Visitors can admire the ornate interior and catch a performance during their visit.
Plaza de Trascorrales
Plaza de Trascorrales is a historic square in Oviedo, surrounded by traditional Asturian buildings and cobblestone streets. The square is home to cultural events, markets, and festivals throughout the year, offering a glimpse into the city's vibrant heritage. Visitors can explore the square and soak up the local atmosphere.
Plaza del Paraguas
Plaza del Paraguas is a charming square in Oviedo, known for its colorful umbrellas hanging overhead. The square is a popular meeting spot for locals and visitors, offering a lively atmosphere and a taste of traditional Asturian culture. Visitors can relax and enjoy the unique ambiance.
Plaza de la Catedral
Plaza de la Catedral is a picturesque square in front of the Cathedral of San Salvador, offering stunning views of the historic church. The square is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors, with outdoor cafes and street performers adding to the lively atmosphere. Visitors can admire the cathedral's architecture and soak up the ambiance.
Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias
The Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias is a must-visit for art lovers, showcasing a collection of Spanish paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The museum is housed in a beautiful 16th-century building and features works by renowned artists such as Goya, El Greco, and Picasso.
Culis Monumentalibus
Culis Monumentalibus is a unique sculpture in Oviedo, depicting a giant pair of buttocks. The sculpture is a playful and irreverent addition to the city's public art scene, attracting curious visitors and sparking conversation. It is a fun and quirky photo opportunity for tourists exploring Oviedo.
Fontan Market
Fontan Market is a bustling food market in Oviedo, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and seafood. Visitors can sample local delicacies, shop for ingredients to cook at home, or enjoy a meal at one of the market's eateries. The market is a vibrant hub of culinary activity in the city.
Plaza de Porlier
Plaza de Porlier is a charming square in Oviedo, surrounded by historic buildings and outdoor cafes. The square is a popular meeting spot for locals and visitors, offering a peaceful atmosphere and a taste of traditional Asturian culture. Visitors can relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Plaza del Paraguas
Plaza del Paraguas is a charming square in Oviedo, known for its colorful umbrellas hanging overhead. The square is a popular meeting spot for locals and visitors, offering a lively atmosphere and a taste of traditional Asturian culture. Visitors can relax and enjoy the unique ambiance.
Plaza de la Gesta
Plaza de la Gesta is a historic square in Oviedo, known for its statue of King Pelayo and the Battle of Covadonga. The square is a popular meeting spot for locals and visitors, offering a glimpse into Asturias' medieval past. Visitors can explore the square and learn about its significance in Spanish history.
Cathedral of San Salvador
The Cathedral of San Salvador is a stunning Gothic-style cathedral dating back to the 8th century. It is known for its beautiful architecture, including the Holy Chamber with relics and the Altarpiece of the Transfiguration. Visitors can also climb the tower for panoramic views of Oviedo.
Plaza de la Escandalera
Plaza de la Escandalera is a bustling square in Oviedo, lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. The square is a popular meeting spot for locals and visitors, offering a lively atmosphere and a taste of urban life in Asturias. Visitors can explore the shops and enjoy the vibrant street scene.
Oviedo Cathedral
Marvel at the architectural grandeur of Oviedo Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Explore its intricate facade, climb the tower for panoramic city views, and discover the Holy Chamber, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing precious relics. Immerse yourself in the history and artistry of this iconic landmark, a symbol of Oviedo's rich cultural heritage.
La Foncalada
La Foncalada, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a remarkable pre-Romanesque fountain, a testament to Oviedo's rich history. Built in the 9th century during the reign of King Alfonso III, it's a rare example of civil engineering from that era. Admire the intricate carvings and the iconic Victory Cross, a symbol of the Asturian monarchy. A visit here is a step back in time, offering a glimpse into the city's fascinating past.
Plaza del Fontán
Plaza del Fontán is the heart of Oviedo's old town, a vibrant square brimming with life. Once a bustling marketplace, it's now lined with colorful buildings, traditional cider houses, and lively restaurants. Soak in the atmosphere, enjoy a glass of local cider, and perhaps browse the Sunday market for unique souvenirs. It's the perfect place to experience the authentic charm of Oviedo.
Parque de Invierno
Escape the urban bustle and immerse yourself in the tranquil embrace of Parque de Invierno, Oviedo's beloved 'Winter Park.' This sprawling green oasis offers a delightful mix of leisurely strolls along winding paths, vibrant flowerbeds bursting with color, and serene ponds reflecting the sky. Perfect for families, joggers, or anyone seeking a peaceful respite, the park also features playgrounds and open spaces for recreation. Don't miss the charming bridges and sculptures dotted throughout, adding a touch of artistry to the natural beauty.
Church of Santa Maria del Naranco
Perched atop Mount Naranco, just outside Oviedo, stands the Church of Santa Maria del Naranco, a jewel of pre-Romanesque architecture. Originally built as a palace for King Ramiro I around 848 AD, it was later converted into a church. Marvel at its harmonious proportions, intricate carvings, and the stunning views of the Asturian countryside. A visit here is a step back in time, offering a glimpse into the artistic and cultural achievements of the Kingdom of Asturias. Don't miss this UNESCO World Heritage site!
Day Trips
Cudillero is a picturesque fishing village clinging to the cliffs of the Asturian coast. Its colorful houses cascade down to the harbor, creating a stunning visual spectacle. Enjoy fresh seafood, explore the narrow streets, and soak in the authentic atmosphere of this charming village.
1 hour by car Ribadesella, a charming coastal town, is famous for its Sella River estuary and the Tito Bustillo Cave, home to prehistoric cave paintings. Enjoy the beautiful beach, explore the town's historic center, and learn about the region's rich history.
1 hour 15 minutes by car Gijón, a vibrant coastal city, offers a perfect blend of urban energy and seaside charm. Stroll along the San Lorenzo beach, explore the historic Cimadevilla district with its traditional cider houses, and visit the Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura, a stunning example of 20th-century architecture. Enjoy fresh seafood and the lively atmosphere of this Asturian gem.
30 minutes by train or car Luarca, known as the "White Town of the Green Coast," is a charming coastal town with a rich maritime history. Explore its picturesque harbor, visit the lighthouse for stunning views, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this hidden gem.
1 hour 30 minutes by car Lastres is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Perched on a hillside overlooking the sea, it offers stunning views and a charming atmosphere. Explore its narrow streets, enjoy fresh seafood, and soak in the beauty of the Asturian coast.
1 hour 15 minutes by car Tazones is a small, charming fishing village where Charles V first landed in Spain. It's known for its colorful houses, delicious seafood, and dinosaur footprints. It's a great place to relax, enjoy the coastal scenery, and imagine the past.
1 hour by car Escape to the stunning Picos de Europa National Park and visit the sacred Covadonga Sanctuary, nestled in a dramatic mountain setting. Explore the Santa Cueva (Holy Cave) and the Basilica of Covadonga. Continue to the breathtaking Covadonga Lakes (Enol and Ercina) for hiking and stunning views. This day trip offers a perfect blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty.
1 hour 30 minutes by car Avilés, a historic industrial city, has undergone a remarkable transformation. Discover its charming medieval quarter, Plaza de España, and the futuristic Niemeyer Center, a cultural complex designed by Oscar Niemeyer. The city offers a unique blend of old and new, making it a fascinating day trip.
30 minutes by train or car Cudillero
Travel Time
Activities
Ribadesella
Travel Time
Activities
Gijón
Travel Time
Activities
Luarca
Travel Time
Activities
Lastres
Travel Time
Activities
Tazones
Travel Time
Activities
Covadonga Lakes and Sanctuary
Travel Time
Activities
Avilés
Travel Time
Activities