Getting Around: Oviedo

Public Transportation

TUA (Transportes Urbanos de Oviedo) operates the city's bus network. These buses cover the entire city, connecting major neighborhoods with the city center, the train station, the bus station, and the Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias (HUCA). The bus system provides a reliable and affordable way to travel beyond the immediate pedestrianized zones.

Bus route maps are available at major bus stops and on the TUA website. Hubs for bus connections include the area around the train and bus stations, and central streets like Uría, where many routes converge. Each bus stop clearly indicates the routes it serves and often includes a map.

Bus Services & Fares

Single Ticket: Approximately €1.20, purchased directly from the driver (cash preferred, have exact change).
Bono Bus (Bus Card): Rechargeable card for discounted fares (€0.70-€0.85 per trip). Purchase and top up at kiosks and Estancos.
Hours & Frequency: Generally 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM/midnight. Main lines run every 10-20 minutes during peak hours. Reduced service on Sundays/holidays.
Accessibility: Newer buses are wheelchair accessible with ramps. Historic center with cobbled streets can be challenging for mobility issues.

Route Planning

Use Google Maps or the Moovit app for real-time bus information and route planning.

Cost Savings

Consider purchasing a Bono Bus card if you plan more than a few bus trips to save money.

Local Knowledge

Learn the names of bus stops or landmarks near your destination for easier navigation.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxi Services

Identification: White vehicles with a diagonal red stripe, green light on the roof (available). All licensed taxis use meters.
Hailing: Hail on the street if light is on, or find at designated taxi stands (train station, bus station, central plazas).
Fares: Metered fares apply. Supplements for night service, weekends, holidays, airport trips, and luggage. Approx. minimum fare: €4-€5.

Ride-Sharing & Payment

Recommended App: Free Now (formerly MyTaxi) is the most widely used app for booking licensed taxis.
Uber/Cabify: Limited or non-existent presence in Oviedo for ride-hailing services.
Payment: Cash preferred by many drivers. Increasing number accept card payments (confirm first).

Safety Considerations for Taxis

Licensed & Regulated

Licensed taxis are regulated and considered safe.

Meter Usage

Always ensure the taxi meter is on at the start of your journey.

App Tracking

If using the Free Now app, your journey is tracked, adding security.

Driver Details

Driver details are available via the Free Now app.

Rental Options

For those who wish to explore beyond Oviedo, or prefer independent travel within the city, various rental options are available.

Car Rental

Requirements: Valid national driving license. Non-EU citizens need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Credit card in main driver's name for deposit.
Companies: Major international companies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt) at Asturias Airport and in Oviedo city.
Booking: Recommended in advance, especially during high season, for better rates and availability.
Driving Laws: Drive on the right. Seatbelts mandatory. Strict alcohol limit. Speed limits: 120 km/h (motorways), 90 km/h (national), 50 km/h (urban).

Roads, Parking & Bikes

Road Conditions: Generally good. Winding roads with ascents/descents in Asturian countryside.
Parking: Challenging/expensive in city center. Numerous underground garages are a paid option.
Bicycle Rentals: Several shops offer Bicycle rentals for daily/weekly fees, including electric bikes.
Low Emission Zones (ZBE): Oviedo has/is implementing ZBE. Check regulations for vehicle access based on environmental label.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas: Oviedo's historic Old Town (Casco Antiguo) is largely pedestrianized and ideal for walking.
Walking Tours: Numerous guided tours cover history, architecture, food culture. Self-guided tours with maps/guidebooks.
No-Go Areas: Generally safe for pedestrians and cyclists. Use caution on busy roads, and designated bike lanes.

Bicycle Infrastructure: Growing network of dedicated bike lanes (Carriles bici) and urban routes.
Greenways (Vías Verdes): Access to scenic cycling/walking paths on disused railway lines, like the Senda del Oso.
Motorcycle/Scooter Rentals: Less common in city center; more for specific tours on winding roads.

Specialized Transportation & Accessibility

Tour Buses

Not typically available within Oviedo itself due to its compact and walkable nature. Used for organized excursions to nearby attractions.

Water Transport

Oviedo is an inland city, so boat taxis or other water transportation options are not applicable.

Accessibility Services

City council has improved accessibility, including accessible bus routes and renovated sidewalks. Historic center can be challenging.

Driving Laws & Road Safety

Spanish roads are generally in good condition. Be aware of varying speed limits.

Driving Regulations

Drive on the right side of the road.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
Speed limits: 120 km/h (motorways), 90 km/h (national roads), 50 km/h (urban areas, or 30/20 km/h in specific zones).
The alcohol limit for drivers is strict.

Road Conditions & Parking

Be prepared for winding roads and elevation changes when venturing into the Asturian countryside.
Parking in Oviedo city center can be difficult and is often paid (blue zone parking meters apply).
Numerous underground parking garages are a convenient, though paid, option.
Check current regulations for Low Emission Zones (ZBE) if driving, as these restrict access for certain vehicles.

Public Transportation Costs

Single Bus Ticket

Approximately €1.20.

Purchase on board.

Bono Bus Fare

Between €0.70 to €0.85 per trip.

Rechargeable card for savings.

Taxi within City

Approximate minimum fare of €4-€5.

Fares are metered.

Local Insights on Getting Around

City Walkability

Oviedo's historic Old Town (Casco Antiguo) is largely pedestrianized and ideal for walking.
The city center is compact and easy to navigate on foot.
Allows you to discover charming streets, plazas, and hidden corners at a leisurely pace.

Cycling Opportunities

Oviedo has a growing network of dedicated bike lanes (Carriles bici) and urban routes.
The city also offers access to Vías Verdes (Greenways), which are disused railway lines converted into scenic paths.
The Senda del Oso is a prime example of a greenway accessible from Oviedo, offering picturesque routes.

Important Considerations for Driving

Challenges

Driving in Oviedo city center can be challenging due to narrow streets and traffic.
Parking is difficult to find and can be expensive.
Older vehicles may face restrictions in Low Emission Zones (ZBE).

Safety Precautions

Spanish drivers may be more assertive; drive defensively.
Pay close attention to road signs, which vary from other countries.
Always have your valid driving license and IDP on hand.

Concluding Thoughts:

Oviedo provides a rich and authentic Spanish experience for travelers seeking history, culture, and nature. By planning your transportation and being aware of local customs, your visit to this Asturian gem will be a memorable one.

Embrace the local pace, savor the cuisine, and explore its charming streets on foot to truly discover the heart of Oviedo.

Getting Around Oviedo