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Itinerary Suggestions

Itinerary Suggestions

Asturias, Spain

Time-Based Itineraries: 24-Hour Layover Highlights

For a very short stay, focus on Oviedo's core historical and cultural experience. Efficient planning allows you to absorb the city's essence, from its magnificent cathedral to its culinary scene, even with limited time.

Start your morning with a visit to the city's landmarks, followed by an authentic local lunch. Dedicate your afternoon to a leisurely stroll through the charming Old Town, concluding your day with a taste of local nightlife and cuisine.

Activities for a Day Trip

  • Explore Oviedo Cathedral and its Holy Chamber in the morning.
  • Visit the Fine Arts Museum of Asturias, located nearby.
  • Enjoy a traditional Menú del Día for lunch in the city center.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

A weekend trip allows for a dive into Oviedo and a taste of the surrounding region, blending city exploration with local excursions.

Day 1: Arrival & Old Town Exploration

Arrive in Oviedo and settle into your accommodation. Dedicate your afternoon to exploring the historic heart of the city.

Afternoon & Evening Activities

  • Wander through Oviedo Old Town's pedestrianized streets.
  • Explore Oviedo Cathedral and the Fine Arts Museum.
  • Enjoy dinner and traditional Asturian cider on Calle Gascona.
  • For detailed activities, Explore bookable experiences on GetYourGuide.
Consider early arrival to maximize your first day's exploration.

Day 2: Pre-Romanesque & City Vibes

Dedicate your morning to historical sites outside the city center, followed by an afternoon exploring Oviedo's modern side and diverse dining.

Morning & Afternoon Itinerary

  • Visit UNESCO Pre-Romanesque sites on Monte Naranco.
  • Explore the modern city center and shopping on Calle Uría.
  • Discover exhibits at the Archaeological Museum.

Day 3: Coastal Excursion from Oviedo

Conclude your weekend with a convenient day trip to a nearby coastal city, easily reachable by train or bus, offering diverse coastal experiences.

Trip Options & Activities

  • Visit Gijón for San Lorenzo beach and Cimavilla (Old Fishing Quarter).
  • Explore Avilés' historic center and the futuristic Niemeyer Centre.
  • Utilize convenient train or bus connections for travel.
  • Depart from Oviedo in the afternoon or evening.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience

A full week provides ample time to thoroughly explore Oviedo and embark on several excursions into Asturias' diverse natural and cultural landscapes.

Extended Exploration Ideas

  • Follow the Weekend Getaway itinerary for initial days.
  • Dedicate a full day to Lagos de Covadonga in Picos de Europa.
  • Explore charming coastal fishing villages like Cudillero or Lastres.
  • Consider outdoor activities like cycling the Senda del Oso or hiking in Redes Natural Park.

Long-Term Stay Recommendations

For stays longer than a week, renting an apartment enhances comfort and local immersion. This approach allows a leisurely pace for exploration, language learning, and discovering truly local spots.

Apartment Rental

Offers comfort and a sense of local living.

Language Classes

Consider enrolling for a richer cultural engagement.

Local Discoveries

Uncover hidden gems beyond typical tourist recommendations.

Itinerary Flexibility: Tailor Your Journey

These suggestions are adaptable to your pace and interests, allowing you to craft your ideal Oviedo adventure.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your Oviedo itinerary to your specific interests, ensuring a journey that resonates with your preferences.

Historical & Heritage Focus

Dedicate ample time to Oviedo Cathedral, its Holy Chamber, the Archaeological Museum, and the pre-Romanesque churches on Monte Naranco. Wander through the medieval streets of the Old Town to absorb the atmosphere.

Sites & Experiences

A required day trip: Covadonga Sanctuary and Roman Bridge of Cangas de Onís.

Food & Culinary Experiences

Focus evenings on Calle Gascona for Sidrerías (cider houses). Explore Mercado El Fontán during the day for fresh produce. Consider taking a cooking class to prepare Asturian dishes.

Gastronomic Journey Highlights

  • Experience lively Sidrerías on Calle Gascona.
  • Visit Queserías (cheese shops) for local cheese tastings.
  • Take day trips to Lagares (cider mills) in areas like Nava.
  • Explore the "Ruta de los Vinos" for diverse tapas and bar experiences.

Adventure & Outdoor Activities

Plan day trips to the Picos de Europa National Park for challenging hikes or easier walks around the lakes. Cycle a section of the Senda del Oso (Bear Trail) for an accessible outdoor experience.

Active Pursuits in Asturias

  • Hiking in Picos de Europa National Park.
  • Cycling the Senda del Oso greenway.
  • Coastal activities like surfing or kayaking.
  • Explore different natural parks for diverse trails.
Consider specialized operators for coastal adventures like canyoning or surfing.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

Oviedo offers city fun with parks and child-friendly museums.

Fun for All Ages

  • Enjoy Parque San Francisco with its peacocks and Mafalda statue.
  • A day trip to the Jurassic Museum of Asturias (MUJA).
  • A beach day in Gijón for sand and sea activities.
  • Easy walks on the Senda del Oso for all ages.

Art & Architecture Emphasis

Explore the Fine Arts Museum of Asturias, visit the unique pre-Romanesque sites on Naranco, and admire the elegant Modernista architecture around Calle Uría.

Aesthetic Exploration

  • Discover the collections at the Fine Arts Museum.
  • Admire the unique pre-Romanesque architecture on Naranco.
  • Stroll through areas with elegant Modernista buildings.
  • Check schedules for performances at Teatro Campoamor or Auditorium Príncipe Felipe.

Spiritual & Wellness Journey

Use Oviedo as a starting point for a section of the Camino Primitivo. Visit the Oviedo Cathedral and Covadonga Sanctuary for their spiritual significance. Explore peaceful natural parks for contemplation.

Inner Harmony & Reflection

  • Embark on a section of the Camino Primitivo.
  • Seek tranquility in nature retreats like Redes Natural Park.
  • Visit the Oviedo Cathedral and Covadonga Sanctuary.
  • Engage in reflective experiences at historical pilgrimage sites.

Personalized Discovery: Craft Your Adventure

Design your visit around what inspires you most, from historical sites to culinary delights, creating an unique Oviedo journey.

Budget-Based Plans

Adjust your travel style to align with your budget, whether seeking economical options or a luxurious experience.

Backpacker's Guide: Economical Travel

For budget-conscious travelers, focus on hostels or basic guesthouses. Utilize supermarkets for meals and rely on public transport to reduce costs.

Economical Travel Strategies

  • Stay in hostels or affordable guesthouses.
  • Shop at supermarkets for breakfast and snacks.
  • Rely on walking and public transport (Bono Bus card is a valuable approach).
  • Focus on free attractions like museums and parks.
Enjoy cider and Raciones on Calle Gascona for an affordable and social evening meal.

Mid-Range Traveler: Balanced Choices

Mid-range travelers find comfortable experiences through 3-star hotels or apartments. Mix dining styles and utilize a blend of public transport and occasional taxis for convenience.

Balanced Travel Approach

  • Stay in comfortable 3-star hotels or apartments.
  • Combine "Menú del Día" with dining at mid-range restaurants.
  • Use public transport alongside occasional taxis or ride-shares.
  • Include both free and paid attractions or guided tours.

Luxury Experience: Indulgent Journey

For a luxurious experience, choose 4-5 star hotels or boutique properties. Indulge in fine dining, utilize private transfers, and opt for exclusive tours.

Premium Travel Choices

  • Stay in 4-5 star hotels or luxurious boutique properties.
  • Utilize private transfers or taxis for most journeys.
  • Indulge in fine dining experiences.
  • Opt for private guided tours and bespoke excursions.

Value-Focused Recommendations: Smart Savings

Maximize value by visiting during shoulder or low season for better prices. Book accommodations in advance and consider apartments with kitchens.

Strategies for Smart Savings

  • Travel during shoulder or low season for better prices.
  • Book accommodations in advance for potential discounts.
  • Take advantage of the "Menú del Día" for lunch.
  • Focus on Oviedo's numerous free museums and parks.

Optimal Value Strategies

Off-Season Travel

Lower prices on flights and accommodation are common.

Early Bookings

Secure potential discounts by booking accommodations ahead of time.

Local Dining

Embrace the value and authenticity of the "Menú del Día" for lunch.

Smart Spending: Tailored Experiences

Your budget choices shape your Oviedo experience, from accommodation to dining and activities.

Seasonal Specialties

Oviedo offers distinct experiences depending on the time of year, from summer vibrancy to winter charm.

Summer Highlights June-August

Longer daylight hours and outdoor terraces mark the summer season. Easy access to Asturian coastal beaches for day trips and a variety of local summer festivals enhance the experience.

Warm Season Charms

  • Enjoy extended daylight hours.
  • Outdoor terraces are a popular choice for dining and drinks.
  • Easy access to the Asturian coastal beaches for day trips.
  • Experience various local summer festivals and events.
Summer presents a lively atmosphere with many outdoor activities and celebrations.

Winter Highlights November-March

Winter brings a cozier atmosphere with fewer crowds and lower prices. It is ideal for enjoying hearty Asturian stews and experiencing Christmas markets.

Cozy Season Comforts

  • Enjoy a cozier atmosphere with fewer crowds.
  • Benefit from lower prices on accommodation and activities.
  • Perfect for savoring hearty Asturian stews.
  • Experience Christmas markets and festive lights.

Festival & Event Focused Visits

Plan your visit around festivals to immerse yourself in Oviedo's cultural scene and unique traditions.

San Mateo Fiestas

  • Held in mid-September.
  • A lively and comprehensive cultural experience.
  • Features music, parades, and traditional events.

Cultural Events

  • Cider Festival in Nava (July).
  • International Cheese Fair in Arenas de Cabrales (August).
  • Various local markets and smaller town celebrations.

Off-Season Exploration Strategies

Embrace cooler, potentially wetter weather during the off-season. Focus on indoor attractions like museums, art galleries, and the rich culinary scene.

Peaceful Discovery & Focus

  • Prepare for cooler weather with potential rain.
  • Focus on indoor attractions like museums and galleries.
  • Savor the rich culinary scene, especially warming dishes.
  • Explore wellness experiences at indoor spas.

Authentic Interactions & Benefits

Fewer tourists during the off-season result in a more peaceful atmosphere, allowing for intimate local interactions and easier access to popular sites.

Local Connections & Advantages

  • Enjoy the peacefulness of fewer visitors.
  • Opportunities for more intimate local interactions.
  • Benefit from lower prices on accommodation and activities.
  • Experience easier access to popular sites.

Seasonal Travel Considerations

Peak Season Crowds

Summer months and major festivals experience higher visitor numbers, impacting queues and availability.

Winter Weather Prep

Pack layers for cooler temperatures and possible rain, especially from November to March.

Timing Your Visit: Seasonal Match

Choose the season that best matches your desired Oviedo experience, ensuring maximum enjoyment and suitability for your plans.