Grado
,Grado is a picturesque town located in the province of Asturias in northern Spain. It is known for its charming historic quarter, with narrow streets and traditional architecture. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.
Grado also has a rich cultural heritage, with landmarks like the Church of San Pedro and the Palace of Miranda.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Sunny Exploration
morning
:Start your day with a stroll along the beautiful Grado river. Grab a coffee at a local café while enjoying the scenic views.
afternoon
:Visit the charming Old Town to admire its historic architecture. Stop for a traditional Spanish lunch at a tapas bar.
evening
:Relax in the city park and watch the sunset. Enjoy some local cuisine at a restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk.
Nature Adventure
morning
:Hike through the beautiful surrounding hills for fresh air and stunning views. Bring along a packed breakfast to enjoy at a scenic spot.
afternoon
:Explore one of the local nature reserves and observe the diverse wildlife. Have lunch at a nearby restaurant featuring local produce.
evening
:Return to Grado for a relaxed evening at a local brewery. Try the regional beers and enjoy some live music.
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including mountains and rivers
- Calm and peaceful environment suitable for relaxation
- Friendly and welcoming local community
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling
- Local gastronomy featuring traditional Asturian dishes
Bad
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Less access to large shopping centers or entertainment options compared to bigger cities
- Public transport may be less frequent or limited
- Potentially harsh weather conditions during winter months
- Fewer healthcare facilities compared to larger urban areas
- Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Beach Relaxation
Spend a day lounging on the beautiful sandy beaches of Grado, enjoying the sun, sea, and local beachside amenities.
Water Sports
Engage in various water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, or jet skiing to explore the coastal waters.
Biking Trails
Explore the scenic biking trails around Grado, taking in the natural beauty and local landscapes.
Fishing
Try your luck at fishing in the Atlantic waters or at local rivers, which offer a great variety of fish.
Hiking
Discover hiking trails in the nearby mountains or nature parks, perfect for all skill levels and offering stunning views.
Bird Watching
Visit nature reserves and estuaries around Grado for excellent bird-watching opportunities, especially during migratory seasons.
Guided Tours
Join guided tours that showcase the local flora, fauna, and historical sites, providing insight into the region's culture and natural history.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Grado with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Calle de la Tolerancia
A picturesque street in Grado known for its colorful buildings and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for capturing the charm of the town.
Parque de la Llama
A lush park offering scenic walking paths and beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes, ideal for nature photography.
Plaza de la Villa
The main square of Grado, surrounded by historical architecture and bustling with local life, providing great opportunities for candid shots.
Iglesia de San Pedro
A stunning church with impressive architecture and a beautiful bell tower, offering a great backdrop for photos.
Mirador del Acebo
A viewpoint located on the outskirts of Grado that provides sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, perfect for sunset photography.
Old Town (Casco Antiguo)
The charming old town with its narrow streets and traditional buildings, offering countless photo opportunities at every corner.
Río Nalón
The river that runs through Grado, providing scenic views along the banks and opportunities for beautiful reflections in the water.
Puente de los Templarios
An ancient bridge that enhances the scenic beauty of the landscape around Grado, a perfect spot for dramatic landscape shots.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fabada Asturiana
A hearty bean stew with chorizo, morcilla, and pork, often considered as the national dish of Spain. Best enjoyed at Casa Aladino, a renowned restaurant in Grado.
Must-Try!
Pulpo a la Gallega
Sliced boiled octopus drizzled with olive oil and paprika, a popular tapas dish. La Manduca de Azagra, a local tapas bar, serves a delicious version of this dish.
Arroz con Leche
Creamy rice pudding flavored with lemon and cinnamon. Visit Casa Gloria, a traditional eatery, to savor this delightful dessert.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Grado better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Mercado de Abastos
The central food market offering a wide variety of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Visitors can sample tasty street food like empanadas and churros from surrounding stalls.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
When meeting someone in Grado, it is customary to greet them with a handshake and maintain eye contact. If you know the person well, you may use a light kiss on both cheeks.
Dining Etiquette
During meals in Grado, it is polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin. Additionally, keep your hands on the table, but do not place elbows on it.
Punctuality
Being on time is appreciated, but there is some flexibility in social settings. However, for business meetings, it is best to arrive punctually.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Grado with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Grado, as in many parts of Spain, tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated. It is common to leave small change or round up the bill in restaurants and cafes. In bars, it is customary to leave a few coins after ordering drinks. Tipping in taxis is also appreciated but not necessary.
Payment
Payment methods in Grado typically include cash and credit/debit cards. While many establishments accept cards, smaller shops and local markets may prefer cash. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting rural areas or smaller businesses.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Grado.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring in Grado is pleasant, with mild temperatures averaging around 15-20°C. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the local flora. Additionally, you can experience local festivals that celebrate the blooming season.
Summer
Summer is the peak tourist season in Grado, with warm temperatures ranging from 25-30°C. Expect vibrant beaches, lively events, and a bustling atmosphere. The days are long, perfect for beach activities and evening strolls.
Autumn
Autumn brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 15-20°C, and beautiful fall foliage. It's a quieter time to visit, with fewer crowds, making it perfect for sightseeing. Autumn also features local harvest festivals showcasing the region's culinary delights.
Winter
Winter in Grado is mild, with temperatures averaging around 5-10°C. It’s a peaceful time to visit as tourist numbers dwindle. You can experience local winter traditions and enjoy a more intimate exploration of the town and its history.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park
A beautiful coastal park featuring diverse landscapes, rich biodiversity, and numerous hiking trails along cliffs and beaches.
Sierra de Alhamilla
A mountain range offering various hiking routes with stunning views, diverse flora and fauna, and opportunities for birdwatching.
Sierra de los Filabres
Known for its scenic trails, this area features higher elevations and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Sierra de Baza Natural Park
A vast natural park with a range of trails through forests and mountains, ideal for hiking and experiencing local wildlife.
Cerro Gordo Cliffs
A remarkable coastal area with cliffs and secluded beaches, offering hiking paths that provide breathtaking sea views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Grado through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Grado by plane.
Valencia Airport (VLC)
Valencia Airport is the main airport serving Valencia, Spain and is approximately 130 km from Grado.
Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC)
Alicante-Elche Airport serves the city of Alicante and is around 160 km from Grado.
Murcia-San Javier Airport (MJV)
Murcia-San Javier Airport is located about 175 km from Grado and serves the region of Murcia.
Malaga Airport (AGP)
Malaga Airport is situated in Malaga and is approximately 245 km from Grado, serving as a major international hub.
Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN)
Barcelona-El Prat Airport is located in Barcelona and is around 320 km from Grado, providing extensive international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Spanish Citizens
The majority of the population in Grado consists of Spanish citizens, who are primarily of Asturian heritage.
Immigrant Communities
A smaller portion of the population includes immigrant communities from various countries, contributing to the cultural diversity in Grado.
Elderly Population
A significant demographic group is the elderly, as Grado has a substantial number of senior residents.
Youth and Young Adults
The youth and young adult demographic is also present, though they may be less numerous compared to older age groups.
The Soul of Grado
Discover the essence of Grado through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is the most popular sport in Grado, with numerous local teams and a strong following among fans.
Basketball
Basketball enjoys significant popularity, with local clubs and schools promoting the sport among youth.
Handball
Handball is widely played in Grado, with several teams competing at various levels, both amateur and professional.
Athletics
Athletics is popular, with local events and competitions attracting participants and spectators.
Cycling
Cycling is a favored activity in Grado, taking advantage of the scenic routes available in the surrounding areas.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Many restaurants and cafes in Grado offer diverse vegetarian and vegan dishes, ranging from tapas to gourmet meals. Look out for options like patatas bravas, grilled vegetables, and vegan paella.
Gluten-Free Options
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy a range of gluten-free dishes such as seafood paella, Spanish tortilla, and gluten-free baked goods available at several eateries in Grado.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Grado with these cultural adventures.