Free walking tours in Gijón and what to see

Must-sees

Gijón faces the sea and is best understood by walking along its coast. Start in Cimadevilla, the old fishermen’s quarter, with steep streets and cider houses. Climb Santa Catalina hill to see the Elogio del Horizonte, Chillida’s sculpture. Below are Plaza Mayor, the Revillagigedo palace and the Roman baths of Campo Valdés, next to San Lorenzo beach.

The Muro promenade runs the whole length of San Lorenzo beach and is the city’s great walk. On the other side of Cimadevilla is the marina, with terraces and a lively atmosphere. A little further away, the Universidad Laboral is a huge building that is now a cultural centre. Nearby are the Atlantic Botanical Garden and the Museum of the People of Asturias.

Free tours and guided visits

Gijón’s pay-what-you-like free walking tours usually cover Cimadevilla, Santa Catalina hill, Plaza Mayor and the Muro. They explain the city’s Roman origins, its industrial past and its cider culture. There are also night walks around the upper quarter. Among the paid visits, the Universidad Laboral tour with a climb up the tower is worthwhile. Trips leave Gijón for Covadonga and its lakes, Oviedo and its pre-Romanesque churches, and coastal villages such as Cudillero.

How long to spend

Two days are about right. Spend the first on Cimadevilla, Santa Catalina, the Muro and dinner at a cider house. The second on the Universidad Laboral, the Botanical Garden or the museums. If you are travelling in summer, book the cider house ahead. With three or four days you can use Gijón as a base for Oviedo, Covadonga and the coast.

Where to stay

The centre, between Plaza del Carmen and Plaza Mayor, is the most practical area. Everything is close and there are plenty of restaurants. If you prefer sea views, look for somewhere on the seafront of the Muro de San Lorenzo. Cimadevilla has atmosphere and character, although at weekends it can be noisy at night.