Things To Do
in Gijón
Gijón is a coastal city located in the northern region of Asturias, Spain. Known for its picturesque beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and delicious cuisine, Gijón attracts visitors from all over the world. The city has a rich history dating back to Roman times, with landmarks such as the Santa Catalina headland and the Revillagigedo Palace.
Gijón offers a perfect blend of traditional charm and modern amenities, making it a charming destination for travelers seeking a unique Spanish experience.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $2.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along the beautiful Cerro de Sta Catalina. Enjoy the scenic views and visit the iconic Evaristo Valle Museum.
Lunch at a traditional sidrería to taste authentic Asturian cider and local dishes. Wander through the historic neighborhood of Cimavilla and explore its charming streets.
Relax at San Lorenzo beach and watch the sunset. Dine at a seaside restaurant and savor more local specialties.
Visit the Museo de Bellas Artes de Asturias to admire Spanish art from the medieval period to the present. Enjoy a coffee at the museum's café.
Explore the nearby botanical garden and enjoy a leisurely walk amidst diverse flora. Take your time to relax in the natural setting.
Catch a performance at the Teatro Jovellanos. Enjoy dinner at a nearby eatery, indulging in some Asturian fabada.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches.
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Vibrant food scene, especially known for its cider and seafood.
- Pleasant climate with mild winters and warm summers.
- Well-connected with other cities in Spain via public transport.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Weather can be rainy and cloudy at times.
- Tourist traffic can increase during peak seasons.
- Higher cost of living compared to some other parts of Spain.
- Some areas may lack modern amenities and infrastructure.
Best Activities in Gijón
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the beautiful beaches such as Playa de San Lorenzo, Playa de Poniente, and Playa Arbeyal for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the waterfront promenades and cycling routes, taking in the stunning coastal views.
Explore the trails of Cerro de Santa Catalina, where you can hike and enjoy panoramic views of the city and coastline.
Experience the thrill of surfing at Playa de San Lorenzo, known for its good waves and surfing culture.
Tours
Uncover the best of Gijón with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Gijón
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Gijón's coastline and the iconic Eulogy to the Horizon sculpture.
Features a rooftop viewpoint providing stunning vistas of Gijón and its surroundings.
Provides picturesque views of the city and its coastline, including the marina and the beach.
Food in Gijón
Gijón Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty bean stew made with asturian white beans, chorizo, morcilla, and pork, typically found in traditional Asturian restaurants such as Tierra Astur.
Must-Try!
A popular dish featuring two large veal fillets with ham and cheese, breaded and fried. La Galana is a notable restaurant to savor this classic dish.
Lobster rice is a delectable seafood rice dish ideally enjoyed at establishments like Restaurante La Pondala.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Gijón better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience a lively market with a variety of fresh local produce, cheese, and seafood, offering a true taste of Gijón. Notable for its vibrant atmosphere and authentic local products.
The square is a hub for street food, with stalls offering a range of Asturian specialties such as chorizo a la sidra (cider-infused sausage), and pixin (monkfish).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Gijón, it's important to respect personal space, especially when interacting with locals or in crowded places.
When meeting someone in Gijón, it's polite to use formal greetings such as 'hola' (hello) and 'buenos días' (good morning) or 'buenas tardes' (good afternoon).
It's essential to respect local customs and traditions in Gijón, such as observing meal times and being mindful of local holidays and festivals.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Gijón with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Gijón
Ensure a smooth experience
In Gijón, tipping is not as common as in some other countries. It is generally not expected in restaurants and bars, as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, leaving a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated.
Payment in Gijón, Spain is commonly made with cash or credit/debit cards. Most establishments accept major credit and debit cards, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially for small purchases or in more traditional businesses.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Gijón.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Gijón as the weather is mild and the city starts to come alive with outdoor activities and events. The average temperature ranges from 13°C to 19°C, making it perfect for exploring the city and enjoying the beautiful beaches.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Gijón, with warm temperatures ranging from 18°C to 22°C. The beaches are bustling with activity, and there are numerous festivals and cultural events to enjoy.
Autumn is a lovely time to visit Gijón, as the crowds thin out and the weather remains pleasant with average temperatures ranging from 11°C to 17°C. The city is still lively with local events and the stunning fall foliage adds to the scenic beauty.
Winter in Gijón is relatively mild, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 12°C. While it may not be beach weather, the city offers a quieter and more authentic experience, and there are still plenty of indoor cultural activities to enjoy.
Gijón at Night
Hiking in Gijón
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination near Gijón, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
A natural reserve that features a variety of trails through lush forests and wildlife, perfect for experienced hikers.
A coastal pathway that provides scenic views of the Asturian coastline and is suitable for all hiking levels.
A beautiful trail following an old railway line, great for hiking and biking, with opportunities to see local fauna.
A tranquil forest area near Gijón with well-marked trails ideal for leisurely walks and family hikes.
Aiports
How to reach Gijón by plane.
Asturias Airport, also known as Aeropuerto de Asturias, is the closest international airport to Gijón, located approximately 40 kilometers to the northwest.
Bilbao Airport, or Aeropuerto de Bilbao, is located around 190 kilometers east of Gijón and serves as a major international gateway to northern Spain.
Santander Airport, known as Aeropuerto de Santander, is situated about 215 kilometers to the east of Gijón and offers international flights primarily to and from European destinations.
Leon Airport, or Aeropuerto de León, is approximately 120 kilometers south of Gijón. While smaller, it provides some international connections.
Vigo Airport, known as Aeropuerto de Vigo, is located about 230 kilometers to the southwest of Gijón and mainly serves domestic flights with some international options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of Gijón's population, comprising citizens of Spain, primarily from the Asturias region.
A diverse group of individuals from various countries, including Latin America, Europe, and Africa, residing in Gijón.
Includes students and young professionals, contributing to the vibrant culture and economy of the city.
An important demographic group in Gijón, representing a significant portion of the population and often engaged in community activities.
This group encompasses individuals in their prime working years, contributing to the local workforce and economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Gijón, with the local team Sporting de Gijón having a passionate fan base and a rich history.
Basketball enjoys significant popularity in Gijón, with several local clubs and a strong community support for the sport.
Handball is a well-followed sport in Gijón, with local teams competing in regional and national leagues.
Given the scenic landscapes around Gijón, cycling is a popular recreational activity, with many cyclists taking advantage of the roads and trails.
With nearby beaches, surfing is a favorite activity among locals and tourists, particularly in the summer months.
Athletics also has a strong presence in Gijón, with various clubs and competitions organized throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gijón.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Asturian cuisine leans heavily towards meat and seafood, many restaurants in Gijón offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of traditional dishes, with establishments like La Natural approaching vegetarian and vegan cuisine with creativity and flair.
Several restaurants and cafes in Gijón provide gluten-free alternatives, with Café Barquera notable for its gluten-free tapas and desserts.