Overlooking the Cantabrian Sea in northern Spain, the city of Gijón is the “queen” of the Asturias region. Less known than cities like Madrid, Barcelona, or Seville, Gijón nevertheless captivates visitors with its authentic character, urban beaches, gastronomy, and lively atmosphere year-round. Above all, it captivates with its “double heart”, its old town divided into two neighborhoods, each more charming than the other! It is the perfect city for those who want to discover a different side of Spain, far from the crowded tourist routes yet authentically authentic.
How to get to Gijón
Gijón is located on the northern coast of Spain and is the most populous city in the region of Asturias. It is one of the region’s main cultural, economic, and tourist centers, enhanced, among other things, by its splendid seaside location—one of the elements that most define its tourist appeal. The landscape alternates long beaches, cliffs, and scenic walks, with a generally cooler and more humid climate than that of Mediterranean locations, a characteristic that contributes to the region’s extraordinary vegetation.
To reach Gijón, the nearest airport—40 km away—is Asturias Oviedo (OVD), but you can also land at Bilbao Airport (BIO), which is about a two-hour and forty-minute drive by car, bus, or private transfer.
What to see in Gijón
The best way to discover Gijón is to start from the historic town and head toward the sea. But remember, there are actually two “old towns”, here! The oldest part of Gijón’s heart is divided into the “upper” part – the panoramic Santa Catalina hill dominated by the monument “Elogio del Horizonte” by Basque sculptor Eduardo Chillida, and the “lower” part – Cimadevilla, a fishing neighborhood that still retains a distinctive atmosphere, with narrow streets, traditional houses, small squares, and restaurants serving Asturian cuisine.
Moving from one part of the city to the other, you can admire various monuments, buildings, and characteristic corners that convey a sense of its ancient and glorious history. Everything revolves around the Plaza Mayor, the monumental heart of Gijón. From there, you shall easily reach the streets of the Cimadevilla neighborhood and the marina, one of the most pleasant areas for strolling. Among the most important historic buildings are the Roman Baths of Campo Valdés, evidence of the Roman presence in the city. The archaeological site offers insight into Gijón’s ancient history and is also an interesting stop for archaeology enthusiasts.
Other symbolic places in the city centre include the Town Hall (Ayuntamiento), the Casa Natal de Jovellanos (where one of the most famous Asturian writers of the 19th century lived), the Ethnographic Museum, the Gaita Museum, the Collegiate Church of San Juan Bautista and the Romanesque churches of San Pedro, San Lorenzo and the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Which is the most beautiful beach in Gijón?
One of the great advantages of visiting Gijón is the ability to combine cultural tourism with the seaside. The most famous beach is undoubtedly Playa de San Lorenzo, a long stretch of golden sand that extends along the city coast, just a short distance from the lower old town, with many amenities within easy reach. The beach is flanked by an elegant promenade, ideal for walking, outdoor activities, or simply admiring the scenery. The Cantabrian sea waves also make San Lorenzo a favorite among surfers.
Smaller and more secluded is Playa de Poniente, located near the port. It’s a good option for those who want to stay close to the city center and have a beach easily accessible on foot. Among the most beautiful, the wild Serantes beach and Penarrubia beach – this second one surrounded by a sandstone rocky “embrace”. This beach is also a special paradise for nude naturists!
The city’s beaches make Gijón an attractive destination both during the summer months and during other seasons, when the coastline takes on a more tranquil and picturesque appearance.
Asturian cuisine
A trip to Gijón is a must-try. Asturian cuisine is famous for its bold flavors and use of local products.
One of the most iconic dishes is fabada asturiana, a hearty soup traditionally prepared with white beans and various types of meat. It’s especially ideal on cooler days.
Among the typical products are the numerous Asturian cheeses, some of which have very distinctive characteristics. And let’s not forget the Cantabrian fish and seafood, often featured on the menus of city restaurants.
In Gijón, tasting Asturian cider is almost a must. The drink is deeply rooted in local culture and is traditionally served with a special gesture, called escanciado, which allows the drink to breathe as it is poured. Cider houses are therefore one of the best places to experience the city’s gastronomic atmosphere.
Gijón is culture… but not only that
Gijón also offers much in terms of culture. One of the most important sites is the Universidad Laboral de Gijón, an impressive architectural complex located in the eastern part of the city. Built in the 20th century, it is considered one of the most striking buildings in Asturias. The complex now houses several cultural and creative spaces and is an interesting destination for those who want to experience a Gijón less tied to beach tourism. The city also offers cultural centers, events, concerts, and demonstrations throughout the year. In summer, in particular, the city calendar comes alive with cultural initiatives and events related to Asturian music and tradition.
But if you enjoy exploring nature, Gijón is within easy reach of many fascinating green destinations: the Atlantic Botanical Garden , for example, located not far from the city center, or the Monte Deva trail, or the Monteana trail, where you shall admire ancient stone dolmens among the hills and forests.
Gijón can also be used as a base for exploring Asturias. Other interesting places are within easy reach, such as Oviedo, the capital of the Principality of Asturias, and Avilés, a city with a significant historical and cultural heritage. One of Gijón’s strengths is precisely this combination: in a single holiday, you can combine sea, culture, gastronomy, and nature without having to travel great distances.
A destination to discover
Gijón is a city capable of surprising those seeking an original Spanish destination. The city’s beaches, the historic Cimavilla neighborhood, Cerro de Santa Catalina, Asturian cuisine, and cider culture are just some of the elements that make this city special.
Choosing Gijón means discovering the green, Atlantic side of Spain, made up of spectacular landscapes, gastronomic traditions, architecture, sea, and a strong local identity. It’s a destination suitable for both a short city break and a longer journey to discover Asturias.
For those looking for things to see in Gijón, the answer isn’t limited to its main monuments: the city’s true charm lies in the overall experience. A destination still relatively untouched by mass tourism, yet precisely for this reason, it offers an authentic experience of northern Spain.
