Day Trips & Excursions: Oviedo

Day Trip Destinations from Oviedo

Asturias presents a variety of easily reachable locations from Oviedo. Coastal cities like Gijón and Avilés are a short train or bus journey away, ideal for independent exploration. The mountainous beauty of Lagos de Covadonga and the historical significance of Cangas de Onís are also popular choices.

Picturesque fishing villages like Lastres and the cider-producing region around Villaviciosa offer unique local charm and cultural insights. Travel times range from 20 minutes to approximately 2 hours, making most destinations suitable for a half or full-day visit. For Lagos de Covadonga, a full day is recommended due to travel time and restricted vehicle access during peak seasons.

Gijón Highlights

Stroll along Playa de San Lorenzo, the city's main beach.
Wander through Cimavilla, the historic fishing quarter.
Ascend Santa Catalina Hill for panoramic views and the "Elogio del Horizonte."
Consider a relaxing visit to Talasoponiente Spa near the beach.

Natural Escapes

Asturias offers abundant natural beauty, from towering mountains to pristine coastlines, awaiting exploration.

Picos de Europa National Park

Spain's first national park, approximately 1.5-2 hours drive from Oviedo. It boasts stunning limestone mountains, deep gorges, and glacial lakes, including the renowned Lagos de Covadonga.

Park Activities

Extensive opportunities for hiking and climbing.
Prime location for wildlife spotting.
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic mountain views.

Redes Natural Park

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve located approximately 50 km east of Oviedo. Known for its pristine forests, clear rivers, and traditional villages, it is a serene destination for nature lovers.

Reserve Experiences

An excellent destination for hiking through untouched nature.
Opportunities for tranquil wildlife observation.
Discover traditional villages amidst lush landscapes.

Diverse Landscapes & Activities

Coastal Beauty & Beaches

Nearest beaches are easily accessible from Oviedo.
Popular choices: Playa de San Lorenzo (Gijón) and Playa de Salinas.
Playa de Rodiles near Villaviciosa offers natural beauty.
The Costa Verde presents dramatic cliffs and sandy shores.

Mountain & Rural Charms

The Picos de Europa are the most famous mountain range.
Sierra del Aramo offers accessible hiking near Oviedo.
Senda del Oso (Bear Trail) presents a flat route for walking and cycling.
Explore small villages for authentic rural experiences.

Seasonal Natural Phenomena

Spring Wildflowersblooms across meadows and mountain slopes.
Autumn FoliageForests display rich colors of changing leaves.
Winter SnowfallHigher elevations experience snowy landscapes.
Summer FloraLush greenery and diverse plant life.

Coastal BreezesRefreshing winds along the Green Coast in warmer months.
Rivers and WaterfallsFull and flowing throughout the year, especially after rain.
Clear Mountain AirCrisp, clean air during all seasons, ideal for outdoor pursuits.
Bird MigrationsObserve various bird species during migratory periods.

Travel Tip: Explore Responsibly

Responsible exploration preserves Asturias' natural beauty. Adhere to park rules, stay on marked trails, and dispose of all waste properly.

Cultural Excursions

Step back in time and discover more of Asturias' rich cultural heritage beyond Oviedo, from ancient sanctuaries to charming rural villages.

Covadonga Sanctuary

A deeply significant pilgrimage site, home to a grand basilica and the Santa Cueva, marking the beginning of the Reconquista.

Roman Bridge of Cangas de Onís

An iconic medieval bridge, a picturesque symbol of the early Asturian kingdom and a popular photo opportunity.

Rural Village Experiences

Discover charming villages like Tazones, a colorful fishing village, or Nava, known for its cider heritage and traditional Lagares.

Historical Sites Beyond Oviedo

Historical Destinations

Covadonga Sanctuary and Holy Cave.
The Roman Bridge of Cangas de Onís.
Ancient sites reflecting early Asturian kingdom.

Rural Life & Traditions

Experience authentic Asturian life by exploring its rural areas, characterized by unique architecture and local practices.

Authentic Experiences

Visit Tazones, a charming fishing village.
Explore Nava, a town famous for its cider heritage.
Observe traditional Asturian Hórreos (granaries).

Pilgrimage & Local Culture

Camino Primitivo (from Oviedo)Walk a section for a spiritual journey.

Cathedral Holy ChamberA significant spiritual connection in Oviedo.

Nava Cider MillsExplore Lagares for tours and tastings.

Mercado El FontánDiscover local produce and artisan goods.

Traditional Asturian HórreosUnique granaries dotting the rural landscape.

Local Farming PracticesInsights into traditional Asturian agricultural life.

Cultural Note: Local Traditions

Engage with local traditions respectfully to enrich your visit.
Support local crafts and music performances.
Participate in festivals with an open mind.
Learn about the Asturian language, Bable.
Purchase directly from local artisans at markets.

Multi-Day Extensions

Consider extending your trip to explore more of Asturias or neighboring regions, deepening your experience of Northern Spain.

Recommendations for Longer Stays

1

Eastern Asturias Coast & Picos

Dedicate 2-3 days to explore charming coastal towns like Llanes and Ribadesella, then move inland to the Picos de Europa for hiking.

2

Western Asturias & Coast

Explore the lesser-known western coast, with its rugged beauty and towns like Cudillero or Luarca. Venture into the Oscos region for a rural escape.

3

Camino Primitivo Section Hike

For an immersive experience, start a multi-day hike on the Camino de Santiago (Primitivo route) directly from Oviedo for a blend of challenge and reflection.

Logical Next Destinations

Galicia, the neighboring region to the west.
Santiago de Compostela, the ultimate destination of the Camino.
Cantabria, the neighboring region to the east.
Santander, a major city in Cantabria with stunning beaches.
Altamira caves (reproductions are open to the public).
Further exploration into other regions of Northern Spain.

Transportation Connections

Oviedo features excellent train connections via Renfe.
Alsa bus services connect to all neighboring regions.
Direct links to major Spanish cities are widely available.
Easy to combine your Oviedo visit with further travel.
Seamless travel within Northern Spain or beyond.
Well-connected network for regional and national travel.

Suggested Routes for Longer Regional Travel

Asturias Circular Route

Begin in Oviedo, head north to Gijón and Avilés, then east along the coast to towns like Villaviciosa and Llanes. Turn inland to explore the Picos de Europa, then return to Oviedo.

Coastline Immersion

Focus on the Asturian Green Coast, visiting multiple charming fishing villages, extensive beaches, and dramatic cliffs for a maritime-focused adventure.

Mountainous Exploration

Deepen your Picos de Europa experience with more challenging treks, exploring remote valleys, and visiting mountain refuges for multi-day hiking.

Planning Ahead: Extended Exploration

Extend your adventure by exploring beyond Oviedo's immediate vicinity. Find and book day trips and excursions to maximize your regional discovery.

Day Trips & Excursions