Things To Do
in Avilés
Avilés is a charming coastal city located in the Asturias region of northern Spain. It boasts a historic old town with well-preserved medieval architecture and beautiful squares. The city is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with art galleries, museums, and theaters scattered throughout.
Visitors can also enjoy fresh seafood at the local restaurants and relax on the nearby beaches.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the beautiful old town of Avilés, taking in the historic architecture. Don’t miss the stunning Plaza de España, a perfect spot for a morning coffee.
Visit the Oscar Niemeyer Centre to appreciate modern architecture and engaging exhibitions. Afterwards, take a leisurely lunch at a local café, sampling traditional Asturian dishes.
Spend your evening along the Avilés estuary, enjoying the sunset views. Dine at a waterfront restaurant for fresh seafood paired with local cider.
Begin with a visit to the Church of Saint Thomas Becket, a perfect example of the town's rich history. Explore nearby boutiques and artisan shops.
Head to the local market, Mercado de Avilés, to experience the vibrant atmosphere and taste local products. Enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the nearby parks.
Attend a cultural event or performance at the Teatro Palacio Valdés. Enjoy dinner at a tapas bar, sampling different local delicacies.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich industrial history and cultural heritage
- Close proximity to beautiful natural landscapes and the Atlantic coast
- Vibrant local gastronomy featuring Asturian cuisine
- Active community with various cultural events and festivals
- Good public transport connections and accessibility to nearby cities
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors due to its industrial focus
- Occasional rainy weather may deter outdoor activities
- Smaller city with less nightlife compared to larger urban centers
- Public services may not be as extensive as in larger cities
- Higher reliance on automotive transport due to urban layout
Best Activities in Avilés
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the cultural complex designed by renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer.
Tours
Uncover the best of Avilés with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Avilés
Visit one of these nice places.
Located in Salinas, it offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding area.
This historic lighthouse provides a beautiful vantage point to capture coastal landscapes.
A charming square in the historic part of Avilés, perfect for capturing the city's architectural beauty.
Food in Avilés
Avilés Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty bean stew made with large white beans, sausage, and pork. It's a signature dish of Asturias and can be savored at restaurants like Casa Lin or La Farola.
Must-Try!
A flavorful fish stew made with a variety of local fish, potatoes, and saffron. To indulge in this delightful dish, head over to Casa Tataguyo or Casa Adela.
A delectable hazelnut cake that is a popular dessert in Avilés. You can satisfy your sweet tooth with a slice at Confitería Paredes.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Avilés better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant food market offers a wide array of local produce, fresh seafood, and traditional Asturian goods. Visitors can indulge in an authentic street food experience by sampling delectable treats like pinchos and churros from the various stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone for the first time or in a formal setting, use formal greetings such as 'Buenos días' (good morning), 'Buenas tardes' (good afternoon), or 'Buenas noches' (good evening) followed by the person's title and last name.
In Avilés, meal times are an important part of the day. Lunch is typically the main meal, and dinner is often served late in the evening. It's respectful to arrive on time for meals and to take your time to enjoy the food and company.
While conversing, it's important to maintain a comfortable distance and avoid standing too close to others. Personal space is valued, and it's respectful to maintain physical distance during interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Avilés with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Avilés
Ensure a smooth experience
In Avilés, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants, cafes, and for exceptional service. A common practice is to round up the bill or leave a small amount as a gesture of appreciation.
Cash is widely accepted in Avilés, especially in smaller establishments. However, credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payment. It's advisable to check with the specific establishment regarding accepted payment methods before making a purchase.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Avilés.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit Avilés. The weather is mild and pleasant, with blooming flowers and greenery around the city. It's also a great time to explore outdoor activities and enjoy local festivals and events.
Summer (June to August) is high tourist season in Avilés. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for beach trips and outdoor activities. However, it can be crowded, so be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices.
Autumn (September to November) in Avilés brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage. It's a quieter time to visit, with the opportunity to enjoy cultural events, food festivals, and the harvest season.
Winter (December to February) can be chilly in Avilés, with occasional rainfall. It's a great time to experience traditional Christmas markets, enjoy local cuisine, and explore the festive atmosphere in the city.
Avilés at Night
Hiking in Avilés
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning natural park located about 30 km from Avilés, offering various trails and beautiful landscapes ideal for hiking.
A popular hiking destination with well-marked trails and breathtaking views, approximately 25 km from Avilés.
A coastal spot providing pleasant hiking routes along the cliffs and beaches, located just 15 km from Avilés.
One of the highest peaks in the Basque Country with challenging trails and stunning views, around 50 km from Avilés.
A shorter hike with a rewarding view of the city of Avilés and its surrounding areas, suitable for a quick escape into nature, located within the city limits.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Avilés through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Avilés by plane.
The nearest international airport to Avilés, located approximately 13 km away, serving both domestic and international flights.
Located approximately 130 km from Avilés, it is one of the largest airports in the Basque Country, offering a wide range of international flights.
Situated about 170 km from Avilés, this airport serves the region of Galicia and offers various international connections.
Located approximately 190 km away, this airport provides international and domestic services, primarily focusing on flights to major cities.
About 200 km from Avilés, it serves both international and domestic destinations, mostly within Europe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Avilés, consisting primarily of individuals who identify as Spanish by nationality and cultural heritage.
A demographic group native to the Asturias region, which includes Avilés. This group shares a distinct cultural and linguistic heritage.
Includes various groups from Latin America, Eastern Europe, North Africa, and other regions, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the city.
A significant portion of the demographic, often characterized by a higher percentage of individuals aged 65 and older.
Individuals typically ranging from birth to the age of 24, representing a vital segment of the community.
The Soul of Avilés
Discover the essence of Avilés through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Avilés, with a strong following for local teams, particularly Real Avilés.
A widely played sport in schools and local clubs, with several teams competing in regional leagues.
Handball enjoys popularity in Avilés, with local teams participating in various competitions.
Rugby has a growing community in Avilés, with clubs focused on youth development and local competitions.
Athletics is encouraged in schools and clubs, with events regularly taking place in the area.
Given its coastal location, surfing is a popular activity among locals, particularly at nearby beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Avilés.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Asturian cuisine predominantly features meat and seafood, many restaurants in Avilés offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, including creative salads, vegetable-based tapas, and plant-based alternatives to traditional dishes.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable dining options in Avilés, with several restaurants and cafes offering gluten-free menus or accommodating special dietary requests.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Avilés with these cultural adventures.
