Things To Do
in Oviedo
Oviedo is the capital of Asturias in northern Spain, set among green hills and elegant, walkable streets. Its historic center combines medieval churches with a lively modern culture, and the city is famous for its sidra and Asturian cuisine. The cathedral and pre-Romanesque monuments anchor a compact, pedestrian-friendly core ideal for leisurely strolls.
Surrounded by lush countryside, Oviedo makes a convenient base for day trips to the Cantabrian coast and the Picos de Europa.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Cathedral of San Salvador, where the stunning Gothic architecture will leave you in awe. Take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets of the historic center, admiring the charming old buildings and vibrant bougainvillea. Stop by a local café for a typical Asturian breakfast of 'tortilla de patatas' and fresh orange juice.
After a fulfilling morning, head to the nearby Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias, where you can appreciate both classical and contemporary Spanish art. Spend some time exploring the bustling Parque de San Francisco, where you can relax under the shade of trees and enjoy the colorful flower beds. For lunch, indulge in a traditional Asturian meal at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like 'fabada asturiana'.
As the sun begins to set, wander through the atmospheric streets of Oviedo and discover its lively tapas bars. Enjoy a delightful dinner sampling various pintxos, paired with local cider, in the popular neighborhood of El Fontán. Cap off the night with a leisurely walk to the illuminated Cathedral, where its grandeur takes on a magical quality after dark.
Start your culinary adventure with a visit to the Mercado El Fontán, where you can browse fresh local produce and traditional Asturian ingredients. Engage with the vendors and perhaps pick up some cheese and chorizo to take home. Enjoy a breakfast of 'picos' (breadsticks) and local cheese paired with a cup of Asturian coffee.
Join a cooking class where a local chef will teach you how to prepare authentic Asturian dishes, including the famous 'fabada'. As you cook, learn about the history and culture behind the ingredients used in each dish. Afterward, enjoy the fruits of your labor with a communal lunch featuring the dishes you just created.
Spend your evening at a traditional Asturian cider house, known as a 'sidrería', where you can taste a variety of local ciders. Experience the unique ritual of pouring cider from a height, which enhances its flavor and aroma. Enjoy a light dinner of local tapas while soaking in the lively atmosphere and perhaps learning some traditional Asturian dances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $40-60 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-5 |
| 🚇Local transit ticket | $1-2 |
| 🍺Pint of cider or beer | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city center with rich medieval architecture
- Excellent Asturian cuisine and cidery culture
- Rainy days can be frequent; plan flexible outdoor time
- Some popular sites require advance reservations
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much is this?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Oviedo
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand Gothic–Romanesque cathedral at the heart of Oviedo with intricate facades and a tranquil interior.
Colorful arcade-lined square with lively markets, perfect for capturing daily life and architecture.
Lined with sidrerías and timbered facades, ideal for sunset shots and candid bar scenes.
A lush, palm-studded city park with paths, ponds, and viewpoints overlooking the old town.
Ridgeline views over Oviedo plus the nearby pre‑Romanesque monuments; great for sunrise or golden hour photography.
Food in Oviedo
Oviedo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow‑cooked bean and chorizo stew that is the region’s signature dish; find it in most Asturian restaurants, including traditional sidrerías.
Must-Try!
A large breaded beef fillet stuffed with ham and cheese, often served with fried potatoes and peppers.
A hearty bean and cabbage stew with sausage and pork, a comforting winter staple.
A blue cheese from the nearby Picos de Europa, delicious on tapas boards or melted into dishes.
Traditional apple cider; try the escanciado pour at cider houses for a authentic experience.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market inside a covered arcade offering fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies; great for tasting new items between shopping.
Vibrant wholesale-and-retail market where you can sample cheeses, hams, and seafood from nearby Asturias.
Casual bites around the old town: try grilled sardines, croquetas, and pintxos with a cold cider as a refreshing pairing.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite hola or buenos días is standard; maintain friendly, relaxed conversation in shops and restaurants.
Meals are often a social event; sobremesa (even after finishing) can be long; don’t rush hosts.
Punctuality is valued for business; social events are more flexible but not excessively late.
Safety
Tipping in Oviedo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is common in restaurants.
Credit and debit cards widely accepted; cash is still used in markets and small establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming trees; good for city walks and outdoor terraces, but expect some showers.
Warm days with Atlantic breezes; frequent light rain possible, so pack a light rain shell and sun protection.
Crisp air and colorful foliage; perfect for photography along the old town streets and in parks.
Cool but rarely freezing; crowds are smaller and festive lights brighten the evenings; carry a warm layer.
Oviedo at Night
Hiking in Oviedo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hike with panoramic city views and UNESCO‑listed pre‑Romanesque monuments nearby.
Forest trails just outside Oviedo offering varied difficulty and lush scenery.
Option for longer day trips into rugged green landscapes and mountain scenery east of Oviedo.
Airports
How to reach Oviedo by plane.
Located near Avilés, about 40–60 minutes from Oviedo by car or bus; serves international and domestic flights, with car rental and taxi options.
A larger option to the east with connections to major European cities; about 2 hours by car or rail.
A major hub in the region with frequent connections to Europe; about 2.5–3 hours by train and road from Oviedo.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A youthful demographic around the university and cultural institutes; plenty of cafes and nightlife options.
Family-friendly parks, museums, and safe streets; many residents participate in regional traditions.
Residents who celebrate regional cuisine and cider with a strong sense of local identity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Asturias; local clubs and national matches draw devoted crowds.
Cycling culture is strong, with scenic rides through green valleys and coastal routes nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oviedo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy plenty of vegetable dishes, mushrooms, and cheese; many places offer veggie versions of classics or simple salads—always good to ask for pote without meat or cachopo without filling.