Travel guide: What to see and do in Oviedo

The best way to see and visit Oviedo: Take a free tour

What to see in Oviedo in 1 - 3 days?

Oviedo is located in the heart of Asturias. In addition, it is an important stop on the pilgrimage route: the Camino de Santiago.

Every corner of this dream city will make you fall in love. On this walk you will discover everything it has to offer you. We invite you to discover the capital of Asturias with us!

How to plan my visit to Oviedo?

At Yoorney we have local tour guides who offer you the best selection of guided tours, free tours and excursions in Oviedo and in other cities around the world.

A different and fun way to discover a city.

Hey Yoorner! Do you want to live adventures? Visit the city in a different way with our tours of Oviedo!

Why visit Oviedo?

If you have in mind going to the capital of Asturias, do you want to know the essential places to visit in Oviedo?

The Principality of Asturias is known for its spectacular landscapes, often painted in an unmistakable green colour. Also for its delicious gastronomy, its famous cider, a sign of its identity and its picturesque towns that seem to be taken from a story.

You will love it and you will never want to leave! So that you don't miss a single detail of its emblematic corners, these are the essential places to see and visit in Oviedo in 3 days (or a weekend getaway)! Take note!

The complicated thing about traveling is knowing everything you want from the chosen destination. We take care of that and show you the place so you don't feel like a simple tourist. Yoorney tours teach you the local culture as if you were a local.

12 essential places to see and do in Oviedo

1. Historic Center of Oviedo

A place that you should visit is the historic center of Oviedo. It has ancient monuments that evoke the Middle Ages or the time of the Roman invasion. Today remains are preserved in the streets Paradise, Jovellanos and in the Irrigation Square.

It is located in the center of the city and presided over by the most important architectural, cultural and historical building: the Cathedral.

2. Museum of Fine Arts

In the historic center is the Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias, one of the best museums in Spain. Collections made up of around 15.000 pieces that cover the period between the 14th and 21st centuries. It occupies three historic buildings in the city of Oviedo: the Velarde Palace, the House of Oviedo-Portal and the extension to the House of Solis-Carbajal, on the streets of Rua and Saint Ana.

Within the art catalogue, it has works by disparate authors such as Francisco de Goya, El Greco, Pablo Picasso, Carreño Miranda, Jose de Ribera, various altarpieces of Flemish and Italian painting and contemporary artists.

3. Gascona and its cider houses

The Gascona street is located in the heart of the city. It is mandatory to make a stop to enjoy one of the most traditional hotels in the capital of the Principality and, without a doubt, the longest cider tradition, a symbol par excellence of Asturian identity. It is nicknamed Cider Boulevard, a small street in the center of Oviedo that houses the largest concentration of cider houses in the world, thirteen in total!

In it you can enjoy not only this Asturian drink, but also its gastronomy, with dishes as recognizable as Asturian fabada, cachopo or frixuelos, among a wide variety.

4. Cathedral of Oviedo

The Cathedral of San Salvador de Oviedo, also known as Sancta Ovetensis, is one of the symbols of the city. The construction of this Gothic temple was built between the 13th and 16th centuries. In addition, they are the most important cathedral complexes in Spain. It has more than 1.200 years of history.

Thus, it houses some of the most precious treasures of the Principality, both at an architectural level due to the structures that make it up, such as the Holy Chamber, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for the value of its treasures and the Romanesque sculptures around it. Inside which are some religious relics, so that you can see the Holy Ark, the Cross of the Angels, the Holy Shroud, the Ark of the Agates and the Victory Cross, while in the lower part there is the Crypt of Santa Leocadia.

Its façade consists of three doors that lead to each of the interior naves. The largest nave is 10 meters wide and 67 meters long and 20 meters high.

PRICES

General rates: 7€

Seniors over 65: 6€

Schoolchildren from 13 to 17 years old and university students up to 25 years old: 5€

Children under 12 years: Free

Pilgrims, large families and the unemployed: 4€.

Schedules

January, February, November and December: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

March, April, May and October: Monday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

June: Monday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. July and August: Monday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Saturday from 10:00 to 17:00

hours.

September: Monday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

5. The Field of San Francisco

The Field of San Francisco is an essential thing to see in Oviedo. It is an urban park located in the very center of the city. It has a surface area of 90,000 square meters, of which 55,000 are green areas. We will be able to enjoy nature, architecture, art and peace just a few meters from the hustle and bustle that often takes place in the streets of the Asturian capital. More than 9 hectares and 127 different species at the foot of the old town of Oviedo that make the San Francisco countryside a true haven of peace in which to enjoy the tranquility and calm that it exudes.

6. The Basilica of Saint John Royal

Another recommendation to see in Oviedo more than essential. The Basilica of Saint John Royal, located in the historic center of Oviedo, was built on a small pre-Romanesque church, one of the first in the city. This temple stands out for its magnitude, because it has a considerable size for the space in which it is located. Due to its imposing appearance, it is popularly known as the Ensanche Cathedral.

Its construction took place between 1912 and 1915, replacing the old Romanesque church that had been demolished at the end of the 19th century.

Once inside, it is worth looking at its impressive Gothic-inspired stained glass windows.

7. The Umbrella Square

The Umbrella Square is a meeting point for its inhabitants. It is located on Calle de San Isidoro, in the place where the old Romanesque church of San Isidoro was located, demolished in 1922. At this time is when the need to build a roof to protect the milkmaids from the usual rain, before which it was decided to raise a gigantic umbrella, today the symbol of Oviedo par excellence. During the summer period different concerts are organized in the square organized by the restaurateurs of the area.

In addition, it is the epicenter of nightlife in the city, a very lively place, full of bars and restaurants.

8. Mount Naranco

About three kilometers outside of Oviedo, is Mount Naranco. There we will discover two of the most important historical jewels in all of Asturias. These are two of the most important Asturian pre-Romanesque buildings in the world: the church of San Miguel de Lillo and the church of Santa Maria of Naranco. Both were built by King Ramiro I, one of the first monarchs of the kingdom of Asturias. Today they are considered an architectural masterpiece.

El Naranco is in the universal history of art thanks to these two monuments, declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.

From above we will find extraordinary views of the entire city. From this hill, more than 600 meters high, we will enjoy a complete panoramic view from which we can see Oviedo and almost the entire municipality, as well as those of Llanera and Las Regueras.

9. The Fontan

The Fontan Square is one of the most typical spaces in Oviedo. It is a rectangular square located in the old town. Its name comes from the source that filled the primitive lagoon that was in that area, since in its beginnings it was outside the city and was part of a natural lagoon. Later, in the first half of the 17th century, it became a comedy theater. At the end of the 20th century it was transformed into the square we know today, being one of the points of the so-called Fontán market and hotel area.

10. Constitution Square

Without a doubt, you cannot miss a visit to the Constitution Square. It is located in the heart of the old town and in one of the busiest places in the entire Asturian city. We are in one of the most outstanding spaces from a monumental point of view.

The jewel of this square is the church of Saint Isidore the Royal, which began to be built in the 16th century and which shares space with the Town Hall building, a beautiful and elegant Baroque-style palace.

One of the best remaining representations of the wall is located on Weight Street, which begins in the Constitution Square itself, and owes its name to the fact that it was the street where the merchandise that arrived was weighed before being introduced into the wall.

11. Oviedo statues

Did you know that there are more than 100 statues scattered throughout Oviedo? Thus, it has a large number of important statues that we can visit. They have the particularity of not being very separated. This allows you to make an itinerary through its streets to visit them. Mafalda, who awaits us on a central bench in Saint Francis Field with a smiling face, Woody Allen or The Regent are some of the most popular.

12. Pre-Romanesque churches

One of the best things to see is to get close to the Pre-Romanesque churches. You will love it! We are talking about the Church of Santa Maria of Naranco, that of San Miguel de Lillo and the Church of San Julian de los Prados. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as one of the best examples of pre-Romanesque architecture in all of Europe.

From Yoorney we are sure that if you visit all these places, you will fall in love with Bilbao! It will be a crush at first sight. Don't worry though, if you feel like you want to see more, that's normal! We recommend you go through:

Campoamor Theater
Archaeological Museum of Asturias
Palace of Exhibitions and Congress
Las Caldas Spa
The Forest Zoo

Where to eat in Oviedo?

The Oviedo's gastronomy stands out for having spectacular and high-quality dishes. We give you some recommendations to taste the typical foods of the area.

4 places to eat in Oviedo

Cider house Alternating: Are you looking for a place to try the cachopo? It is one of the best in the city that is usually ordered to share. Some starters such as Taramundi cheese, scorpion fish cake and fabada are also recommended.
Cider house The Black Cat: A typical place to eat traditional dishes. Do not stay without eating the fabada, the cachopo, the scallops and any of their fish dishes.
Ca' Suso: A kitchen full of flavor and good products! The croquettes, the ajoblanco, the cuttlefish, the rice, the cod and the Iberian pork stand out.
Rialto Confectionery: It is a must to ask for the carbayones and the muscovites!

4 typical dishes of Oviedo

The gastronomy and typical cuisine of Oviedo is incredible! They are often based on a dish where the main element is fish or pork.

The stew. A very popular spoon dish! It is made mainly with fabes, smoked chorizo, smoked black pudding and pork.

Puppy. It is a recommendation that you do not have to miss! It is another emblematic dish of Asturian cuisine. It consists of two large veal fillets that are stuffed with serrano ham and cheese, then fried in a mixture of egg, flour and breadcrumbs.
Pregnant bun: It is a piece of bread that is filled with chorizo or bacon.
Escalopes with cabrales. It consists of some meat fillets that are accompanied by an exquisite cabrales cheese sauce.

Oviedo with children

Are you going to travel to Oviedo with the little ones? All the cultural offer that this city provides is perfect for a family trip. Virtually all tourist visits have an area dedicated to children so they will not get bored at any time.

A getaway in Oviedo with children can be a lot of fun! Take a look at the best plans for adults and children in Oviedo. You sign up?

Route through the statues of Oviedo

There are many family plans to do in Oviedo. The city has a huge number of statues along its streets. There are some such as Mafalda, located in St. Francis Field and the figure of Woody Allen, located on Milicias Nacionales street. We suggest you play to find these statues with your children. In this way, in addition to getting to know the city, they will have guaranteed fun.

The Forest Zoo

Just 3.5 km from Oviedo, in The mills, is the Forest Zoo. It is one of the best plans to enjoy with children. You can tour its facilities and observe more than 70 animal species, some of them exotic. In addition, you will discover about 250 types of plants that populate the place.

This private initiative has been carried out by an animal-loving family that has managed to bring together a wide variety of animal and botanical species.

Pet-friendly Oviedo

Are you passionate about animals and looking for a different plan? A getaway with your pet is always a good idea. But surely you think, where can they enjoy to their heart's content?

Tourism and pet-friendly getaways have grown in Oviedo in recent years. More and more hotels, restaurants and attractions have hung the Pet Friendly sign on their doors. A getaway with your dog is one of the most unforgettable adventures you can have.

Oviedo is a very #petfriendly city and that is how we have experienced it. We have been able to do a lot of activities with our dogs!

Green spaces in Oviedo

In Oviedo there are areas for dogs where animals can walk, such as the Winter Park.

Restaurants in Oviedo to go with dogs

When you go with your pet on a trip, you have to take into account where to go to eat. Sign up for these sites, they won't let you down! The quintessential bar for dogs is Per Se. In addition, we recommend the Salazogue Bistronomie, the perfect combination between a small restaurant, where they serve coffees and meals at affordable prices, and haute cuisine, which is more innovative and surprising. If you fancy a good vermouth, head over to Urban Vermouth.

When the weather is good, you can be on any terrace without any problem with your pet.

Pet Friendly Hotels in Oviedo

This is one of the most important points when choosing a travel destination, there are more and more hotels that allow pets.

Accessible Oviedo

Adapted tourism is not a pending issue in Oviedo.

We were able to experience it first hand and here are some of our favorite adapted and accessible sites:

Monuments and museums: The Cathedral, Museum of Fine Arts, Archaeological Museum of Asturias, San Miguel de Lillo and Santa Maria of Naranco and the Trascorrales Exhibition Hall.

Nocturnal Oviedo

Enjoy the night life of Oviedo. The city hides a multitude of corners with a special charm to have a good time in good company and where you can walk, have a drink and toast.

These are some of our favorite places to party in Oviedo!

Beer lovers in Oviedo

If you like to go for beers in Oviedo, you cannot leave the city without trying the Cimmeria Brewery. It's beer lovers heaven! It has a selection of craft beers.

Cocktails in Oviedo

For those who prefer cocktails, in this city there are many places where you can have a drink. Some of these places are: Bad Sana. With a drinks menu that changes every season, both classic cocktails and their own creations are served, among which we must highlight the attractive homemade soft drinks, lemonades and non-alcoholic cocktails that they make.

Live music in Oviedo

Oviedo has a number of venues where you can enjoy the best live music. If you like live music, you have to go to The Wild. It is a place with two rooms and a retro air, being one of the references of the city. Live music performances, open mic nights, ticketed concerts, comedy shows and DJ sets are held here.

Oviedo nightclubs

The Oviedo's nightlife stands out as one of the main leisure activities. To get out of the day-to-day routine, we recommend Salsipuedes, also known as “salsi”.

The best nightlife in Oviedo. Perfect for having the first or last drink of the night.

How to get to Oviedo?

Whenever you have a destination in mind, one of the biggest concerns is getting to the city. The main ways to travel to Oviedo are by car, by bus, by plane and by train.

How to get to Oviedo by plane

The Asturias Airport is located very close to the town of Aviles, in the council of Castrillon. This airport is located 47 km from Oviedo. It currently has 14 destinations: Madrid, Barcelona, Menorca, Ibiza, Alicante-Elche, Valencia, Lanzarote, Lisbon, London, Malaga, Palma de Mallorca, Paris, Seville and Tenerife.

How to get to Oviedo by car

To get to Oviedo, from Madrid you have to take the A-6 towards La Coruña. At the height of Leon, you have to continue along the AP-66, a toll road that will take you to the asturian capital. On the other hand, from other parts of the North, the A-8 connects the Bay of Biscay, facilitating communications with Galicia, Cantabria and the Basque Country.

How to get to Oviedo by train

From Madrid, there is an Alvia train with a duration of only four hours. In addition, the AVE reaches the city of León, from where you can change so that the trip is even shorter. There are also rail connections with Barcelona.

How to get around Oviedo