GIJON TRAVEL GUIDE

Why Travel to Gijón?

Gijón, the largest city in Asturias and the cultural and coastal heart of the region, combines centuries of history, an industrial legacy, vibrant green landscapes, and a rich gastronomic scene. Located along the rugged northern coast of Spain, right at the center of the Asturian “Costa Verde”. Gijón blends maritime tradition with a modern atmosphere. Once a Roman settlement and later a powerhouse of the steel industry, today Gijón is known for its relaxed pace, friendly locals, excellent cider (sidra), and some of the finest seafood in Spain.

Explore Gijón’s Historic Heart and Coastal Beauty

Begin in Cimadevilla, the city´s oldest neighborhood, located on the Santa Catalina hill. Originally a sailor´s quarter, it is now a lively district where old stone buildings, taverns, and modern art coexist. Here, you´ll find Chillida´s iconic sculpture "Elogio del Horizonte" standing against the breathtaking cliffs.

Just below lies Campo Valdés, home to the ruins of Roman thermal baths, an authentic example of Gijón´s ancient roots. Nearby, the Revillagigedo Palace and its International Art Center offer a striking contrast between Baroque architecture and contemporary exhibits.

Gijón´s beaches are integral to its identity. The San Lorenzo Beach, with its scenic promenade, is ideal for swimming and strolling. Poniente and Arbeyal, are more sheltered and great family-friendly option.

Gastronomy and Cider: Taste the Soul of Asturias

Asturian food is a reason to travel all on its own, and you can not go wrong visiting Gijón. The local specialty is fabada asturiana, a rich bean stew with chorizo, morcilla (blood sausage), and pancetta, best enjoyed with crusty bread and good company.

No meal in Gijón is complete without Asturian cider (sidra). Poured from a height by expert pourers called escanciadores, this dry, lightly fizzy drink is a regional obsession. Visit a traditional cider house (sidrería) for the full experience, often paired with grilled fish, cider-marinated chorizo (chorizo a la sidra), or tortilla.

Seafood lovers will find themselves in paradise: try grilled octopus (pulpo a la brasa), sea urchin (erizos) in season, or local hake. Markets like Mercado del Sur offer a chance to sample local cheeses like Cabrales, fresh produce, and gourmet delicacies from across Asturias.

For sweets, look for carbayones (almond pastries), casadielles (pastries filled with nuts and anise), and rice pudding (arroz con leche), which here is often brûléed.

Our food experts have chosen the best tour operators offering tours with food, wine, and walking holidays in Gijon. You can check our full list of things to do in Gijon: top food tours to Gijon and top boutique hotels in the sections of the travel guide to Gijon.

Population: 271,843 inhabitants