Things To Do
in Grado
Grado, a charming coastal town in Asturias, sits along the Nalón estuary where river and sea meet. Its historic casco antiguo preserves medieval streets, colorful houses, and the impressive Colegiata de San Pedro. The town is known for fresh Cantabrian seafood, traditional sidra, and a relaxed, seaside atmosphere.
With easy access to beaches, dunes, and scenic coastal walks, Grado offers a soothing blend of maritime heritage and rural Spanish charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey in Grado by exploring the picturesque old town, where you can admire the charming architecture and vibrant colors of the buildings. Stroll along the narrow cobblestone streets, stopping by local shops and cafes for a taste of traditional cuisine. Don't forget to visit the stunning Church of San Pedro, known for its beautiful interior and historical significance.
After lunch, venture to the nearby El Rañadero Natural Park for an afternoon immersed in nature. Enjoy hiking along the trails that offer stunning views of the landscape and the surrounding mountains. Bring your binoculars to spot local wildlife and experience the tranquility of the untouched wilderness.
As the sun sets, head back to the town center for a delightful dinner at one of Grado's renowned restaurants. Sample regional specialties like fabada asturiana or fresh seafood, paired with local cider or wine. Spend the evening at a cozy bar, enjoying live music and mingling with locals to immerse yourself in the vibrant community atmosphere.
Dedicate your morning to visiting the Interpretive Center of the Asturian Cider, where you can learn about the fascinating history and production of this iconic beverage. Participate in a guided tour that includes tastings of different varieties and a chance to see the traditional cider-making process. This experience not only educates but also delights the senses.
In the afternoon, visit the local market to experience a taste of everyday life in Grado. Engage with vendors and sample fresh produce, cheeses, and other regional delicacies. This vibrant atmosphere is perfect for picking up unique souvenirs and enjoying the local culinary offerings.
As the day winds down, enjoy a leisurely walk along the banks of the Narcea River. The riverside promenade offers picturesque views and a perfect backdrop for a relaxing evening. Choose a riverside tapas bar to unwind, savoring small dishes as the sun sets over the tranquil water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚌One-way public transport ticket | $1.5-3 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $60-110 |
| 🧺Grocery basket for a week | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and easy access to beaches
- Rich seafood and cider traditions in a relaxed town
- Smaller nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Occasional rain or windier days outside peak summer
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está la playa?" - Where is the beach?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Grado
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful boats, calm water, and warm light make for classic coastal photography.
Narrow lanes, stone balconies, and flower boxes provide charming street photography backdrops.
Architectural details and a striking facade offer urban photography opportunities.
Expansive estuary views where river meets sea, ideal for wide landscape shots and wildlife.
Shifting dunes with sea horizons and beach grasses—great for texture and horizon shots.
Food in Grado
Grado Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich bean stew with chorizo and morcilla. Commonly found in most local restaurants.
Must-Try!
A breaded beef fillet stuffed with cheese and ham, often served with potatoes and peppers.
Seafood rice with lobster or large prawns; a hallmark of Cantabrian coastal cuisine.
Local cider poured from a height in traditional sidrerías; great with seafood and tapas.
A strong blue cheese from nearby mountains; enjoyed on its own or with bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market where you can buy fresh seafood, cheeses, bread, and regional produce; ideal for tasting snacks and picking up picnic items.
Seasonal street food and small bites near the dunes and beach, offering quick tastings of seafood and grilled items.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin with a friendly greeting like Buenos días. Use the usted form with strangers and elders, and say gracias for courtesy.
In cider houses, pour cider with both hands when serving others; keep voices moderate in public spaces and on religious or quiet sites.
When visiting churches and historic sites, dress modestly and behave quietly out of respect.
Safety
Tipping in Grado
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Spain is appreciated but not mandatory. In Grado, rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants; many places include service in the bill.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days, blooming countryside, and comfortable coastal walks. Great for photography and outdoor dining without peak crowds.
Warm days with long daylight hours; ideal for beach time, markets, and seaside dining. Expect more visitors on weekends.
Cooler and often breezy with fewer crowds; harvest flavors at markets and fewer lineups at sights.
Milder than inland areas but can be windy and rainy; indoor culture, cider houses, and coastal walks when weather allows.
Grado at Night
Hiking in Grado
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trail along cliffs and dunes offering sea views and opportunities to spot shorebirds.
Scenic estuary route with water vistas, ideal for easy day hikes and photography.
Boardwalk and sandy paths through dune ecosystems, great for nature walks and birdwatching.
Airports
How to reach Grado by plane.
Also called Avilés airport, about an hour by car from Grado; primary gateway to the region with national and some international connections.
Approximately 1.5–2 hours by car; useful alternative for northern Spain routes and connections.
A larger international hub about 2.5–3 hours by car; broader flight options and train connections to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, retirees, and seasonal workers; strong community ties and local festivals.
Seasonal visitors concentrate in summer and during local events, contributing to a lively but relaxed atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed in the region; local clubs and regional matches provide seasonal excitement.
Cantabrian coast offers accessible waves and rental shops for beginners and experienced riders.
Coastal and rural routes are popular for recreational cyclists and weekend rides.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Grado.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetable-based dishes, grilled vegetables, and salads. When ordering fabada or cachopo, request meat-free options or substitute with a legume-based stew or grilled vegetables.