Disclaimer:<\/strong> This post contains affiliate links to handpicked partners, including tours, gear and booking sites. If you click through or buy something via one of them, I may receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you and allows this site to keep running.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n <\/p>\n Colourful, monumental, beautiful Oviedo (Uvi\u00e9u) has been the capital of the Province of Asturias since the 8th century, yet this stately city of northern Spain remains relatively under the radar. Here are the best things to do in Oviedo \u2013 a lesser-known but legacy-laced city.<\/p>\n From a city established on a hill by two monks in the year 757 to its rise as the capital of the first Christian Kingdom of Asturias, founded in the middle of the Reconquista in 810, Oviedo was built to be symbolic in a time of conflict when the Muslims occupied most of the Iberian peninsula. Under King Alfonso II, Oviedo became a centre of the royal court and a sacred place for pilgrims who walk The Original Way of St James \u2013 the Northern Way of the Camino de Santiago.<\/p>\n Wander the historic city and get lost in this architectural wonderland of those who conquered, ruled, and left their legacy. Get lost in the beauty of the Old Quarter with its pretty plazas and heritage museums. Trace ancient times on its stately streets, churches and palaces and UNESCO sites, including the gothic Cathedral and pre-Romanesque treasures on the city\u2019s fringe \u2013 the artistic mark of the monarchy at the time. Spot the statues that honour people who shaped the city.<\/p>\n And if you don\u2019t accompany such exploration with sidra (cider) or sample the award-winning flavours of the region\u2019s protected gastronomic produce, did you even visit? Here\u2019s where to go in Oviedo to find it all.<\/p>\n Oviedo, Spain \u2013 The Monumental Capital of Asturias<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Here are the things to know from when to go, where to stay and what to see before planning a trip to Oviedo (pronounced Ov-ee-ay-doh).\u00a0<\/p>\n Oviedo combines natural landscapes with a millennium of historical and cultural heritage and renowned gastronomy, from stews to sidra (cider). While the regional capital is a natural starting point, the Asturian cities of Avil\u00e9s and Gij\u00f3n are also easily reachable within one hour, and the mountainous Picos de Europa National Park in two.<\/p>\n Other points of interest in Northern Spain include the neighbouring province of Castilla y Le\u00f3n, whose capital, Le\u00f3n<\/a> is an ideal city to culturally twin with Oviedo.\u00a0<\/p>\n Situated between oceanic and mountainous terrain, the temperature in Oviedo is comfortable year-round.\u00a0<\/p>\n It means summers are not overbearingly hot (20-30 degrees), and winters are not blisteringly cold (5-10 degrees). Spring and Autumn average 15 degrees, with Autumn the time for the highest rainfall. With coastal cities, village valleys and forested peaks nearby, there are areas of activity in all seasons.<\/p>\n Plaza de la Escandalera in Oviedo, with the \u2018Asturcones\u2019 horse sculptures.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n While many an Oviedo travel guide would tell you this is a day-trip city, I say to grant it more time. Give yourself at least two days to comfortably explore the city and plan for what Oviedo is famous for besides its statues \u2013 gastronomic indulgences. For example, you might not want to cram a big lunch and a cider house feast on the same day.<\/p>\n One day in Oviedo isn\u2019t enough. Especially if you spend longer in museums, you\u2019ll want that extra day.\u00a0<\/p>\n Street life in the classic and colourful Oviedo city.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n By air<\/strong><\/p>\n The cities of Asturias in northern Spain \u2013 Avil\u00e9s, Gij\u00f3n, and Oviedo\u00a0\u2013<\/em>\u00a0can be easily reached from Asturias Airport (OVD), the only international airport in the province with regular Iberia and Vueling flights.\u00a0<\/p>\n It takes 45 minutes \u2013 1 hour to reach Oviedo from the airport. Despite the airport code, Oviedo is the furthest city away and Avil\u00e9s the closest. However, regular buses run between the airport and all three cities. You can check departures on the Alsa bus website<\/a>.<\/p>\n By rail and bus<\/strong><\/p>\n The extensive Renfe rail service connects Spain, making travel between Asturias quick and easy and connecting to neighbouring provinces and Madrid. The train from Madrid to Oviedo takes around four hours and 30 minutes.\u00a0<\/p>\n The train from Gij\u00f3n to Oviedo takes around 25 minutes. There is no direct railway connection between Avil\u00e9s and Oviedo \u2013 you\u2019ll have to take an Alsa bus for the 45-minute journey.<\/p>\n Check out my\u00a0Renfe AVE guide<\/a>\u00a0to train travel in Spain, with information on how and where to book tickets and route tips for city hopping adventures.<\/p>\n There are dozens of hotels in Oviedo, encouraging longer stays in the city and making a convenient base to explore the nature surrounding it.<\/p>\n My accommodation was Gran Hotel Espa\u00f1a<\/a> \u2013 a centrally located, modern, mid-budget hotel in Oviedo city close to the Cathedral, Archaeological museum and Cider Boulevard, and a short walk to San Francisco Park. From \u20ac60 a night for a double room, including breakfast. Soho Boutique Oviedo<\/a> has a similar offering, located 300 m from Plaza de la Constituci\u00f3n. Prices start from \u20ac80.\u00a0<\/p>\n A budget option with style is Green Hostel<\/a> \u2013 a modern and minimalist space right in the city, with six-bed dorm rooms and private rooms with ensuite bathrooms. Some rooms have a city view, so it\u2019s worth asking which are available, although you may pay a small premium. Dorm room bed from \u20ac20 per night, and a private double from \u20ac60. Breakfast is also included.\u00a0<\/p>\n Oviedo \u2013 Origen of the Camino.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n A monumental medieval town. Tiled streets with chromatic charm. Treasuries of art and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Oviedo is an urban wonderland for the curious. One of the first cities in Spain to be mostly pedestrianised, it\u2019s a city best explored on foot, and the Old Quarter is where you\u2019ll find most Oviedo attractions.<\/p>\n This stone archway leads to Oviedo\u2019s Plaza de Feijoo.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Plaza Daoiz y Velarde<\/strong><\/p>\n This rectangular enclosure next to Plaza del Font\u00e1n and its covered market, El Font\u00e1n, is known for its outdoor market. Still, one of the most photogenic features of Plaza Daoiz y Velarde\u00a0<\/strong>is the building arcades and, most notably, the bright blue and yellow painted building of the Casa Ram\u00f3n restaurant \u2013 a striking picture next to the pastel hues of its neighbours.\u00a0<\/p>\n The most beautiful building on Plaza Daoiz y Velarde.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Plaza de la Constituci\u00f3n<\/strong><\/p>\n The official and most important square in the city, Plaza de la Constituci\u00f3n is where you\u2019ll also find Ayuntamiento de Oviedo (Oviedo\u2019s Town Hall) and the Iglesia de San Isidoro el Real (Church of San Isidoro El Real). The central arch of the Town Hall building \u2013 built in 1622 using parts of the old medieval wall \u2013 marks the boundary between the old and new sectors of the city. Walk through the arch on the Calle Cimadevilla, and you\u2019ll enter the Old Quarter.<\/p>\n Ayuntamiento de Oviedo (Oviedo\u2019s Town Hall), incorporates parts of the old Roman wall.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Iglesia de San Isidoro el Real stands out amongst more modern buildings in Plaza de la Constituci\u00f3n.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Plaza de la Catedral<\/strong><\/p>\n Plaza de la Catedral is where you\u2019ll find the city\u2019s architectural masterpiece. The square\u2019s original name, Plaza Alfonso II el Casto, is named after the King who ordered the construction of the San Salvador Cathedral in 812. It\u2019s a symbolic square at the heart of the Original Way of St. James pilgrim route as people continue to pass through today on their journey. It\u2019s also where you\u2019ll find the \u201cLa Regenta\u201d statue and Museum of Fine Arts.<\/p>\n The city\u2019s masterpiece is the Basilica del Salvador of Oviedo.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Plaza Trascorrales<\/strong><\/p>\n Hidden behind a cluster of buildings, you\u2019ll know when you\u2019ve stumbled upon Plaza Trascorrales when you enter this compact square filled with colour and al fresco caf\u00e9 culture. Here you\u2019ll find one of Oviedo\u2019s best statues of a milkmaid and her donkey.\u00a0<\/p>\n The pantones of Plaza Trascorrales.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Plaza del Paraguas<\/strong><\/p>\n In a more edgy, bohemian corner of Oviedo, I was drawn to Plaza del Paraguas\u00a0<\/strong>for the giant metal umbrella \u2013 a popular meeting spot in the city lined with bars. In the morning, it\u2019s a blissfully quiet corner of the city, bathed in a golden glow.\u00a0<\/p>\n Finding the giant umbrella structure in Plaza del Paraguas.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n The umbrella is a popular meeting spot in Oviedo.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Oviedo is full of statues and sculptures, turning the city into an open-air museum with over 100 works of art in its streets, squares, and parks. Here\u2019s a pick of 10 well-known statues to seek out on your city walk.<\/p>\n El Regreso de Williams B. Arrensberg <\/strong>(The Return of Williams B. Arrensberg) is also known as \u2018The Traveller\u2019 \u2013 a man in a long coat leaning against his suitcase and looking toward the Cathedral. By Eduardo \u00darcula, Plaza de Porlier.<\/p>\n El Regreso de Williams B. Arrensberg.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n La Regenta<\/strong>\u00a0is a tribute to the heroine of an Oviedo based novel by writer Leopoldo Alas-Clarin. By Mauro \u00c1lvarez Fern\u00e1ndez, Plaza de la Catedral.<\/p>\n La Regenta.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Culis Monumentalibus<\/strong>\u00a0is a 4-metre high, black tarnished bronze disproportioned pair of buttocks. You can\u2019t miss it. By Eduardo \u00darcula, Calle Alonso de Quintanilla outside Teatro Campoamor.<\/p>\n Culis Monumentalibus.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n La Lechera <\/strong>shows a milkmaid with her donkey honours the women who would come to Oviedo to sell milk. By Manuel Garc\u00eda Linares, Plaza Trascorrales.<\/p>\n La Lechera.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Las Vendedoras del Font\u00e1n<\/strong>\u00a0(the sellers of Font\u00e1n) represents the market history of this square. By Amado Gonz\u00e1lez Hevia, Plaza Daoiz y Velarde.<\/p>\n Las Vendedoras del Font\u00e1n.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n La Bella Lola <\/strong>(the beautiful sorrow)\u00a0shows a lady on the bench looking towards the sea, watching loved ones leave after saying goodbye. By Carmen Fraile, Plaza del Font\u00e1n.<\/p>\n La Bella Lola.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n El Vendedor de Pescado<\/strong>\u00a0(the fish seller) shows a squatting man with his catch as he awaits a sale. By Jos\u00e9 Antonio Garc\u00eda Prieto, Plaza Trascorrales.<\/p>\n El Vendedor de Pescado.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Mafalda<\/strong>\u00a0is an Argentine satirical cartoon character popular in Spain, and this statue on a bench in San Francisco Park honours the creator, Quino, for his contribution to the arts.<\/p>\n Mafalda sitting on the bench in San Francisco Park.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n La<\/strong> Maternidad<\/strong> (Maternity), also known as \u2018La Gorda\u2019, represents motherhood and shows an oversized and disproportionately shaped woman and her child. By Fernando Botero, Plaza de la Escandalera.<\/p>\n La Maternidad.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Casal<\/strong>\u00a0is life sized statue of Asturian singer and 80s pop icon, Tino Casal. By Anselmo Iglesias Poli, Calle Palacio Vald\u00e9s.<\/p>\n Casal.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n The 13th-century single-towered Gothic structure of the Basilica del Salvador<\/a> took 300 years to perfect and is one of the foundational Oviedo and Asturias tourist attractions. The original cathedral site was founded by King Fruela I of Asturias in 781, and his son, Alfonso II of Asturias, enlarged it in tribute to his pilgrimage. Legend has it that the tomb of St. James was found in Iria Flavia (Padr\u00f3n, Galicia) in 813, and King Alfonso II travelled from Oviedo to see it for himself \u2013 making him the first-ever pilgrim.<\/p>\n It was the start of a journey that came to be known as The Original Way of St James (The Primitive Way) that today begins in Oviedo \u2013 a 320km journey considered the oldest pilgrimage route. Following a similar trail, the Northern Way of the Camino de Santiago passes through Oviedo \u2013 an 800km journey through the Basque region, Asturias and Galicia.\u00a0<\/p>\n Visit Oviedo Cathedral, with its gothic altarpiece, vaulted ceilings and intricate carvings \u2013 it\u2019s considered the third most beautiful cathedral in Spain. The pre-Romanesque structure was the Chapel of King Alfonso II, known as the Holy Chamber \u2013 home to the King\u2019s collection of prized Christian relics, including the Holy Shroud of Jesus Christ.\u00a0<\/p>\n The magnificent entrance of the Basilica del Salvador.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n If you visit on the weekend, you might hear the skirl of bagpipes reverberating throughout Oviedo\u2019s old town. Follow the sound, and you\u2019ll be lucky to stumble upon a unique tradition. During a visit to the Plaza de la Catedral,\u00a0<\/strong>we came across a band in folk dress performing with drums and Gaita Asturiana. This type of bagpipe is native to Asturias, and its pitch is a little different to what you might know from Scotland since it only has two pipes instead of five.<\/p>\n Hear the sounds of Gaita Asturiana on the weekends in Oviedo.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n The former 13th century San Francisco Convent garden, Campo de San Francisco (San Francisco Park), is a botanical hideaway just outside of the old town in Calle Ur\u00eda \u2013 the commercial area of Oviedo. It\u2019s filled with pathways, ponds and peaceful corners, statues, and the Romanesque stone archway ruins of the old San Isidoro Church. I enjoyed my 8 AM morning walk through this shaded haven just as much as I enjoyed visiting during the day when people queue to get their nostalgic photos with Mafalda and fill the park with childlike happiness.<\/p>\n The foliage of Campo de San Francisco grows around the Romanesque stone archway of the old San Isidoro Church.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n The La Torera statue in San Francisco Park of photographer, Josefa Carril, who lived in Oviedo.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Oviedo\u2019s rich heritage is curated within its archaeological and art museums \u2013 the Archaeological Museum and Fine Arts Museum are considered the most renowned. Not only are the collections contained within of significance, but the structures themselves are of historical value.<\/p>\n Museo Arqueol\u00f3gico de Asturias<\/strong>. The archaeological museum of Asturias<\/a> houses collections that take you through the timeline of Asturian heritage and Oviedo\u2019s history from the prehistoric to the Roman and Middle Ages eras. Even if you don\u2019t spend long browsing the exhibitions, walk through the impressive Renaissance cloister \u2013 this structure was once the original Benedictine convent of Saint Vincente from the 8th<\/sup> century.<\/p>\n The stone-walled, vaulted ceilings of the cloister inside the Museo Arqueol\u00f3gico de Asturias.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Museo de Bellas Artes de Austurias. <\/strong>Oviedo\u2019s Museum of Fine Art<\/a> is one of the leading art galleries in Spain, housing an extensive collection of around 10,000 works of art from the past 700 years that include Asturian artists alongside priceless Goyas, Picassos and Dalis. The building has great architectural value, comprised of the 17th-century Portal House, 18th-century Velarde Palace and a 2015 extension that granted it the \u2018RIBA Award for International Excellence\u2019.<\/p>\n While there are 15 preserved Pre-Romanesque\u00a0<\/strong>structures in Asturias, only six make up a collection given UNESCO World Heritage Site distinction in 1985. You can find five in Oviedo. A medieval design style influenced by the detailed frescos and sculpture styles of Christianity, these buildings are seen as the rare art of the Asturian monarchy \u2013 an architectural characteristic that flourished during the 200 years of the monarchy (722-910).\u00a0<\/p>\n Inside the city is\u00a0The Holy Chamber de Oviedo<\/strong>\u00a0and the\u00a0Fuente de Foncalada\u00a0<\/strong>(Foncalada Fountain). Just 3 kilometres on foot from the centre of the city, on the gentle slopes of Mount Naranco, you can visit three other significant 9th-century monuments.<\/p>\n Iglesia de Santa Maria del Naranco<\/strong>\u00a0is a palace, on southern slope of Naranco, built 842.\u00a0<\/p>\n See Iglesia de Santa Maria del Naranco, three kilometres form the centre of Oviedo.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n San Juli\u00e1n de los Prados<\/strong>\u00a0is the oldest and largest of the churches, but\u00a0San Miguel de Lillo<\/strong> was part of the palace complex. New features of its construction in the 11th century were made by incorporating old elements, which you can spot on the exterior walls. The Frescos inside of acrobats symbolise those not conforming and therefore being sinful.\u00a0<\/p>\n Visit San Miguel de Lillo, once part of the palace complex on the hill.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Gastronomy is a big deal in Asturias. So much so that its regional food and drink produce is as revered, celebrated, awarded, and protected as its historical landmarks and environmental spaces. The latter provides the perfect terrain and fertile lands between the Cantabrian sea and the mountainous meadows to farm and cultivate such delicacies.<\/p>\n Six products of the Principality have received the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) stamp: Asturian cider, Cangas wine and the four kinds of cheese: Cabrales, Gamon\u00e9u, Cas\u00edn and Afeuga\u2019l pitu. Asturian beef, Chosco de Tineo (smoked preserved sausage) and the Faba de Asturias (white fava bean) have Protected Geographical Indication (PGI).<\/p>\n Ready to work up an appetite on your Oviedo visit? Here\u2019s where to try the famed foods of Asturias.\u00a0<\/p>\n The medieval market morphed into a covered food market over the centuries, remaining a fixture of the city. Mercado El Font\u00e1n is where the locals stock up<\/a> on cured meats (like Jamon), dairy (especially cheese), fresh fish, seafood, fruits and vegetables. Browse 2,000 square metres of stalls showcasing local delicacies \u2013 it\u2019s hard to leave empty-handed. The busiest days are Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, when the region\u2019s farmers come to sell the latest products.<\/p>\n Mercado El Font\u00e1n is where you can shop for fresh Asturian food products.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Mercado El Font\u00e1n is full of regional cheese and cured meats.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n The holy trinity of Asturian dishes is Fabada Asturiana (fava bean and pork stew), Cachopo (layered veal, cheese, and ham in breadcrumbs), and Arroz con Leche (creamy rice pudding).<\/p>\n We sampled these in a three-course indulgence at one of the best restaurants in Oviedo, La Corte De Pelayo restaurant<\/a> \u2013 champions of the Cachopo using a 1947 recipe. Gloria<\/a> is another popular choice, run by Asturian chef, Nacho Manzano.<\/p>\n The famed Asturian dishes of Fabada Asturiana, Cachopo and Arroz con Leche.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Asturias is an artisan cheese paradise, with its prime mountain pastures and long-standing production traditions like cave maturation. So much so that Asturias is known as \u2018El Pais de Los 40 Quesos\u2019 (the land of 40 cheeses) and the most prominent cheese area in the European Union.<\/p>\n The strong, blue Cabrales cheese develops its intense taste during the cave maturation process (in the region of the same name). Gamon\u00e9u (made in On\u00eds and Cangas de Oni) is like a softer, slightly saltier parmesan. Los Beyos is like a strong, creamy cheddar, and the orange Afuega\u2019 l Pitu is close to feta, with a subtle tinge of spice.<\/p>\n Asturias is known as \u2018El Pais de Los 40 Quesos\u2019 (the land of 40 cheeses).<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Head to Rialto for the best handmade confectionery<\/a> in the city. The Carbayones (\u00e9clair-like pastries filled with almond and egg yolk and glazed with sugar) and Moscovitas (thin chocolate and almond biscuits) fill the window display to lure you in. Both have secret recipes, and they cite their products as having \u201ca taste of happiness\u201d, which I can confirm after devouring an entire box.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n Inside Rialto, the best handmade confectionery in the city.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n It\u2019s near impossible to come to Oviedo and not visit a Sidrer\u00eda (cider bar). Cider is a symbol of the region and is uniquely poured with pride.\u00a0<\/strong>And while there\u2019s a lot to choose from with the \u201cSidrer\u00edas de Asturias\u201d quality seal, Cascona Street is where you\u2019ll find around a dozen of them \u2013 its nicknamed \u201cCider Boulevard\u201d for that reason.<\/p>\n One of the best is Tierra Astur<\/a>, a funky space with wooden seating in the shape of barrels and fresh bottles of cider submerged in cool water pools.\u00a0<\/p>\n One of the tastiest things to do in Oviedo is to visit the Tierra Astur Sidrer\u00eda.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Thousands of green glass coder bottles hang from the interior of the Tierra Astur cider bar in Oviedo.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n When at a Sidrer\u00eda, you typically enjoy cheese tasting and tapas alongside small fresh pours of chilled cider. An Escanciador (cider pourer) will demonstrate the perfect Culete (small pour), which flows from a height to create bubbles for a hint of fizz, best enjoyed immediately in a single gulp.\u00a0<\/p>\n The unique demonstration of the perfect small pour of Asturian cider.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Asturias isn\u2019t known as a prominent wine-producing region, but it does have Cangas \u2013 the only wine appellation in the area, from its terraced mountain vineyards.<\/p>\n Campoamor, Manuel Pedregal, Frey Ceferino, and Avenue de Santander form a block of streets known as \u2018Ruta de Los Vinos\u2019 (Route of the wines). It showcases over ten wine and tapas bars, where you can sample Asturian vino and varieties from neighbouring regions.<\/p>\n Is Oviedo your starting point? Here are some ideas on what else to see in Asturias if you have some extra days.<\/p>\n Oviedo, Avil\u00e9s and Gij\u00f3n are the largest urban areas in a region blanketed by green pastures and verdant valleys and cradled by the Picos de Europa mountains and the Cantabrian sea.\u00a0<\/p>\n More than a third of Asturias\u2019 landmass is declared protected areas, which is why the region labels itself a Natural Paradise. A city with access to nature, Oviedo \u2013 the most southern of the Asturian cities \u2013 is a good starting point from which to access some of the UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserves, nature reserves, national monuments, and protected landscapes. Most notably, the Picos de Europa National Park to the west that\u2019s famed for its high peaks, glacial lakes, and accessible hiking trails.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n Mountain backed Oviedo \u2013 a city surrounded by nature.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Gij\u00f3n is a charming city by the Cantabrian sea. Walk along Muro de San Lorenzo for sandy coastline and artistic sculptures on the western peninsula split by the R\u00edo Piles (River Piles), including the Monumento a la Madre del Emigrante.<\/p>\n The coastline and old town of Gij\u00f3n.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n The centre is in two parts. First, check out Centro \u2013 with its Modernist (Art Nouveau) style architecture when the city grew as a commercial centre in the late 19th century. Some of the best examples are along the main street of Calle Corrida, such as Jovellanos Theatre and connecting caf\u00e9 Dindurra. The other area is Cimadevilla \u2013 the oldest area of the city \u2013 where you can wander amongst the remains of the Roman settlement of Gigia and see the ruins of the Roman Baths and step through the colourful historic neighbourhoods that have been home to fishermen, craftsmen, and the military.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t miss the view from Santa Catalina Hill on the old town\u2019s peninsula tip. Its landmark is the Elogio del Horizonte sculpture perched on the highest point. It was designed by Spanish artist Eduardo Chillida to amplify the sounds of the sea (it\u2019s also affectionately known as King Kong\u2019s Toilet).<\/p>\n Complete your trip around all three Asturian cities with a trip to Avil\u00e9s \u2013 a city that blends its medieval past and modern industrial heritage. Wander through the winding streets that take you past dozens of preserved medieval monuments, including churches, palaces, and merchant homes. Cross the R\u00eda de Avil\u00e9s (Aviles River) to the Modernist and futuristic structure of the Oscar Niemeyer International Cultural Centre \u2013 a juxtaposition to the old stone urban centre.<\/p>\n There\u2019s plenty of nature to be found in Asturian villages and small towns, but the region is also home to a vast chunk of Spain\u2019s first national park \u2013 Picos de Europa National Park<\/a>. Alfonso XII declared the then named Monta\u00f1a de Covadonga a national Park in 1918.<\/p>\n The mountainous terrain of Picos de Europa National Park in Asturias.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n If you want to visit and pick up a hiking trail, the Asturian entrance to the park is in Cangas de On\u00eds, not far from the two glacial Lakes of Covadonga. Venture further for access to the hiking trail of the Ruta del Cares (a 12-km gorge route) and the Ruta del Alba (a 7-km trail on a former shepherd\u2019s path that runs parallel to the Alba river).<\/p>\n You can also hike to the base of Picu Urriellu (Naranjo de Bulnes) \u2013 the highest peak in the Asturian section of the park, at 2,519 metres. The highest peak in Picos de Europa is Torre de Cerredo \u2013 but its 2,650-metre summit is technically in the neighbouring province of Castilla y Le\u00f3n.<\/p>\n My deep dive into the Asturias capital was part of a trip exploring all the places to visit and things to do in Northern Spain by train, in partnership with Spanish Tourism<\/a>. Thoughts, insights and opinions remain my own.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Things-to-do-in-Oviedo-Spain.jpg\"\/)
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<\/p>\nOviedo Guide \u2013 Things to Know<\/span><\/h2>\n
Is Oviedo Worth Visiting?<\/span><\/h3>\n
Best Time to Go to Oviedo<\/span><\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\nHow Many Days to Spend in Oviedo City<\/span><\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\nHow to Get to Oviedo<\/span><\/h3>\n
Where to Stay in Oviedo<\/span><\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\nThings to Do in Oviedo<\/span><\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Old-town-Oviedo-Asturias-capital-Spain.jpg\"\/)
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Old-town-Oviedo-Asturias-capital-Spain.jpg\")
<\/p>\nFind the Prettiest Plazas<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Casa-Ramon-Plaza-Daoiz-y-Velarde-Oviedo.jpg\"\/)
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Casa-Ramon-Plaza-Daoiz-y-Velarde-Oviedo.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Town-Hall-Plaza-de-la-Constitucion-Oviedo.jpg\"\/)
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Town-Hall-Plaza-de-la-Constitucion-Oviedo.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/San-Isidoro-El-Real-Oviedo-Plaza-de-la-Constitucion.jpg\"\/)
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/San-Isidoro-El-Real-Oviedo-Plaza-de-la-Constitucion.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Plaza-de-la-Catedral-Oviedo-Spain.jpg\"\/)
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Plaza-de-la-Catedral-Oviedo-Spain.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Orange,](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Plaza-Trascorrales-Oviedo-Spain.jpg\"\/)
![\"Orange,](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Plaza-Trascorrales-Oviedo-Spain.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Plaza-del-Paraguas-Oviedo-Spain.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Colourful](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Umbrella-Plaza-del-Paraguas-Oviedo.jpg\"\/)
![\"Colourful](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Umbrella-Plaza-del-Paraguas-Oviedo.jpg\")
<\/p>\nSee Why Oviedo is the City of Statues<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/El-Regreso-de-Williams-B-Arrensberg-statue-Oviedo.jpg\"\/)
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/El-Regreso-de-Williams-B-Arrensberg-statue-Oviedo.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/La-Regenta-statue-Oviedo-Spain.jpg\"\/)
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/La-Regenta-statue-Oviedo-Spain.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Oviedo-tourism-sites-Spain.jpg\"\/)
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Oviedo-tourism-sites-Spain.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Milkmaid-La-Lechera-statue-Oviedo.jpg\"\/)
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Milkmaid-La-Lechera-statue-Oviedo.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Las-Vendedoras-del-Fontan-statue-Oviedo-Asturias.jpg\"\/)
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Las-Vendedoras-del-Fontan-statue-Oviedo-Asturias.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/La-Bella-Lola-statue-Oviedo-Spain.jpg\"\/)
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/La-Bella-Lola-statue-Oviedo-Spain.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/El-Vendedor-de-Pescado-statue-Oviedo.jpg\"\/)
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/El-Vendedor-de-Pescado-statue-Oviedo.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Mafalda-San-Francisco-Park-Oviedo.jpg\"\/)
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Mafalda-San-Francisco-Park-Oviedo.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/La-Maternidad-statue-Oviedo-Spain.jpg\"\/)
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/La-Maternidad-statue-Oviedo-Spain.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Tino-Casal-statue-Oviedo-Spain.jpg\"\/)
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Tino-Casal-statue-Oviedo-Spain.jpg\")
<\/p>\nAdmire the UNESCO Pilgrim Cathedral \u2013 Basilica del Salvador<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Pilgrim-Cathedral-of-San-Salvador-Oviedo-Spain.jpg\"\/)
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Pilgrim-Cathedral-of-San-Salvador-Oviedo-Spain.jpg\")
<\/p>\nListen to Traditional Gaita Asturiana Bands<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Things-to-see-in-Oviedo-Gaita-Asturiana.jpg\"\/)
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Things-to-see-in-Oviedo-Gaita-Asturiana.jpg\")
<\/p>\nRelax in the Urban Park, Campo de San Francisco<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Ruins-San-Isidoro-Church-Campo-de-San-Francisco-Oviedo.jpg\"\/)
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Ruins-San-Isidoro-Church-Campo-de-San-Francisco-Oviedo.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/La-Torera-statue-Oviedo-Spain.jpg\"\/)
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/La-Torera-statue-Oviedo-Spain.jpg\")
<\/p>\nVisit Oviedo\u2019s Renowned Museums<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Cloister-Oviedo-archaeological-museum-of-Asturias.jpg\"\/)
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Cloister-Oviedo-archaeological-museum-of-Asturias.jpg\")
<\/p>\nMarvel Medieval UNESCO Pre-Romanesque Monuments<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Iglesia-de-Santa-Maria-del-Naranco-Oviedo.jpg\"\/)
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Iglesia-de-Santa-Maria-del-Naranco-Oviedo.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Pre-Romanesque-San-Miguel-de-Lillo-Oviedo.jpg\"\/)
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Pre-Romanesque-San-Miguel-de-Lillo-Oviedo.jpg\")
<\/p>\nGastronomy in Oviedo \u2013 Where to Eat and Drink<\/span><\/h2>\n
Shop Local at Mercado El Font\u00e1n<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"Two](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Plaza-del-Fontan-Market-Oviedo.jpg\"\/)
![\"Two](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Plaza-del-Fontan-Market-Oviedo.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Inside-Mercado-El-Fontan-Oviedo-Spain.jpg\"\/)
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Inside-Mercado-El-Fontan-Oviedo-Spain.jpg\")
<\/p>\nTry Asturian Dishes at Oviedo\u2019s Top Restaurants<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"Asturian](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Fababa-Asturiana-Cachopo-Arroz-Con-Leche.jpg\"\/)
![\"Asturian](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Fababa-Asturiana-Cachopo-Arroz-Con-Leche.jpg\")
<\/p>\nTaste Artisan Asturian Cheese\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Asturias-cheese-El-Pais-de-Los-40-Quesos.jpg\"\/)
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Asturias-cheese-El-Pais-de-Los-40-Quesos.jpg\")
<\/p>\nFind the Master Confectioners<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Moscovitas-Rialto-Oviedo-Asturias.jpg\"\/)
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Moscovitas-Rialto-Oviedo-Asturias.jpg\")
<\/p>\nVisit a Sidrer\u00eda and Enjoy Asturian Cider Culture<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"View](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Table-Tierra-Astur-Oviedo-Sidreri\u0301a.jpg\"\/)
![\"View](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Table-Tierra-Astur-Oviedo-Sidreri\u0301a.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Tierra-Astur-Oviedo-Sidreri\u0301a.jpg\"\/)
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Tierra-Astur-Oviedo-Sidreri\u0301a.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"An](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Escanciador-cider-pourer-Oviedo-Asturias.jpg\"\/)
![\"An](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Escanciador-cider-pourer-Oviedo-Asturias.jpg\")
<\/p>\nVisit the Wine Route \u2013 \u2018Ruta de Los Vinos\u2019<\/span><\/h3>\n
Trips From Oviedo<\/span><\/h2>\n
What is Asturias Known For?<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"View](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Oviedo-Asturias-nature-Spain.jpg\"\/)
![\"View](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Oviedo-Asturias-nature-Spain.jpg\")
<\/p>\nDay Trip to Gij\u00f3n for Coastal Time<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"Two](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Coast-of-Gijon-Asturias-Spain.jpg\"\/)
![\"Two](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Coast-of-Gijon-Asturias-Spain.jpg\")
<\/p>\nDay Trip to Avil\u00e9s<\/span><\/h3>\n
Go Hiking in the Picos de Europa National Park<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"Rolling](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Picos-de-Europa-National-Park-Asturias-Spain.jpg\"\/)
![\"Rolling](\"https:\/\/www.bordersofadventure.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Picos-de-Europa-National-Park-Asturias-Spain.jpg\")
<\/p>\n