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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Asturias, Spain

Accommodation Types

Types of Stays

  • Hostels:

    Budget-friendly options with dorm beds and private rooms. Good for solo travelers.

  • Guesthouses (Pensiones):

    Small, family-run establishments offering basic private rooms for a local feel.

  • Hotels:

    From budget 1-2 stars to luxurious 4-5 stars, many in renovated historic buildings.

  • Paradores:

    Luxury hotels in historic buildings. Nearest is Parador de Cangas de Onís, an hour away.

Independent & Outdoor

  • Vacation Rentals:

    Apartments in Oviedo, suitable for families or longer stays, often with kitchens.

  • Extended Stay:

    Ideal for weekly or monthly visits, these options provide a home-like experience.

  • Homestay Options:

    Some private room rentals offer a personal experience, more common in rural areas.

  • Outdoor Camping:

    No city campsites, but nearby coastal and park areas offer well-equipped sites.

Neighborhood Guide

Oviedo’s neighborhoods each offer a distinct character, influencing your stay. Consider proximity to attractions, ambiance, and budget when choosing your area.

Casco Antiguo Old Town

Pros
  • Historic heart, narrow cobbled streets, medieval buildings.
  • Home to the Cathedral and traditional sidrerías.
  • Largely pedestrianized, authentic, atmospheric charm.
  • Ideal for history and culture immersion.
Cons
  • Can be noisy at night due to active social scene.
  • Limited vehicle access, more walking with luggage.
  • Older buildings may have fewer modern amenities.
  • Lively and bustling, especially on weekends and evenings.

City Center Calle Uría & Gascona

Pros
  • Central location, excellent shopping opportunities.
  • Easy access to main train and bus stations.
  • Lively dining and social scene, including "Bulevar de la Sidra".
  • Good for convenience and modern amenities.
Cons
  • Can be busy with vehicle traffic on main thoroughfares.
  • Some areas might be noisy during peak times.
  • Parking can be challenging.
  • Busier atmosphere than residential areas.

La Argañosa/El Cristo

Pros
  • Quieter neighborhoods, a more local experience.
  • Accommodation often more affordable than the center.
  • Suitable for longer stays or a tranquil environment.
  • Home to the university campus and hospital.
Cons
  • Further from main tourist attractions.
  • Requires longer walk or short bus ride to Old Town/center.
  • Fewer immediate dining and entertainment options.
  • Less direct access to central nightlife.

Considerations

Safety:

All listed areas are very safe for visitors.

Proximity:

Old Town is directly within the historical core but needs walking to main transport hubs. City Center has excellent access to shopping, parks, and stations. Argañosa/El Cristo requires bus or walk to central areas.

Booking Strategies

Always check the deposit requirements and cancellation terms before finalizing your reservation.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (July-August): Book at least 3-6 months ahead. Essential for popular hotels, vacation rentals, and festival dates.
  • Shoulder Season (May-June, September-October): Booking 1-3 months ahead secures options and good rates.
  • Low Season (November-April): More flexibility. 2-4 weeks ahead usually enough for good options and prices.
  • Seasonal Prices: Accommodation prices are highest in summer and around major holidays. Prices decrease during low season.

Platforms and Policies

  • International Platforms: Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com, and Airbnb are widely used and reliable.
  • Local Reservations: Many independent properties offer direct booking on their websites for special deals.
  • Negotiation Customs: Negotiating walk-in rates is not a common custom. Prices are generally fixed. Online booking often secures the best rates.
  • Cancellation Policies: Policies vary. Flexible cancellation allows no-charge cancellation up to a date. Non-refundable rates offer discounts but no flexibility.

General Advice

Online Booking Advantage:
  • Online platforms often feature competitive pricing and guest reviews.
  • Use filters to narrow down options by price, location, and amenities.
  • Read recent reviews for current traveler experiences.
  • Look for properties with a "free cancellation" option for flexibility.
Direct Booking Benefits:
  • Some hotels offer exclusive deals or added value for direct bookings.
  • Direct communication with the property for special requests.
  • Supports local businesses directly.
  • Check both online platforms and direct websites for the best fit.

Check-in and Check-out

Standard Times:

Check-in is typically mid-afternoon (e.g., 3:00 PM), and check-out is in the late morning (e.g., 11:00 AM).

Late Arrivals:

If arriving late, inform your accommodation in advance to arrange collection or late check-in procedures.

Luggage Storage:

Most hotels and some hostels offer luggage storage for early arrivals or late departures.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some recommended accommodation options in Oviedo, catering to various budgets and travel styles. Prices are indicative and vary with season and demand.

Budget & Mid-Range Stays

Alda Albergue Oviedo Hostel

Location: City Center. Price Range: €25-€45 (dorm bed).

  • Clean, communal areas, social atmosphere.
  • Best for: Solo travelers, Backpackers.
  • View on Booking.com
Hotel Fruela 3-star

Location: Old Town/Gascona. Price Range: €80-€130.

  • Modern, central, spa services, close to cider street.
  • Best for: Couples, Culture-seekers.
  • View on Booking.com

Mid-Range & Luxury

Hotel & Spa Princesa de Asturias 4-star

Location: City Center. Price Range: €90-€150.

  • Elegant, good amenities, spa, close to shopping.
  • Best for: Couples, Business, Comfort.
  • View on Booking.com
Hotel de la Reconquista 5-star

Location: City Center. Price Range: €150-€300+.

  • Historic building, grand, premium services, iconic.
  • Best for: Luxury, Special Occasions.
  • View on Booking.com

Independent & Family Options

  • Apartamentos Oviedo Centro:

    Location: City Center. Price Range: €70-€140. Kitchenette, living space, independent stay. Best for: Families, Longer Stays. View on Booking.com

  • Family-Friendly Options:

    Vacation rentals offer more space, separate bedrooms, and kitchens, very useful for families. Hotels with family rooms or pools cater to children. Silken Monumental Naranco (mid-range, pool) features family options.

  • Search Tips:

    Search for "family-friendly apartments Oviedo" on booking platforms for tailored results.

  • Large Rooms:

    Look for properties explicitly mentioning connecting rooms or suites.

Traveler Specific Recommendations

  • Solo Travelers:

    Hostels like Alda Albergue Oviedo for social atmosphere. Guesthouses for privacy at an affordable price.

  • Longer Stays:

    Vacation Rentals (Apartments) are the best choice for longer stays (a week or more). Home-like amenities like kitchens and laundry facilities.

  • Cultural & Historical Significance:

    Hotel de la Reconquista (5-star) for an unique and grand experience. Boutique Hotels in the Old Town for character and an immersive stay.

  • Location Considerations:

    Choose based on proximity to attractions, desired ambiance, and budget. The Old Town provides atmosphere, City Center offers convenience.

Choosing Your Stay

Budget Considerations

Oviedo has options for every budget, from hostels to luxury hotels. Plan your accommodation spend early, especially during peak seasons.

  • Hostels and guesthouses for cost savings.
  • Mid-range hotels offer a good balance of comfort and value.
  • Luxury hotels for special occasions or indulgent stays.
  • Vacation rentals reduce food costs with kitchen access.
Travel Style Match

Your preferred travel style dictates the best accommodation. Social travelers might prefer hostels, while families benefit from apartments.

  • Solo adventurers can find social hostels or private guesthouses.
  • Couples might prefer boutique hotels in historic areas.
  • Families often appreciate the space of vacation rentals.
  • Business travelers look for convenience and amenities in city center hotels.

Accommodation Insights

Local Charm

Many boutique hotels and guesthouses in the Old Town are in renovated historic buildings, offering character and immersion.

Strategic Location

The City Center provides excellent access to shopping, parks, and both train and bus stations, ideal for convenience.

Quiet Retreats

Residential areas like La Argañosa offer tranquil environments and typically more affordable accommodation, for a local experience.