This coastal city in northern Spain has Roman ruins, art nouveau buildings, and lively cider bars. Visitors can relax on San Lorenzo Beach or explore the old fishermen's quarter.
Gijón, the largest city in Spain's Asturias region, stretches along the Bay of Biscay. This former industrial center has evolved into an active urban hub. You can explore the old fishermen's quarter of Cimadevilla, relax on the expansive San Lorenzo Beach, examine Roman ruins, admire art nouveau buildings, and experience the lively atmosphere of local cider bars.
Gijón's Beaches and Coastal Areas
Gijón's coastline draws both locals and tourists. The crescent-shaped San Lorenzo Beach extends for 1.5 kilometers, giving you plenty of room to sunbathe and swim. You can walk along the promenade, observe surfers, or participate in a beach volleyball game. For a calmer experience, visit Poniente Beach, which has gentle waters and a family-friendly environment. At the edge of the old town, climb the Cerro de Santa Catalina, a hilltop park with wide views of the bay and Eduardo Chillida's large sculpture "Elogio del Horizonte".
Exploring Gijón's History
The Cimadevilla quarter, Gijón's oldest neighborhood, reveals much of the city's past. As you walk through narrow streets lined with colorful houses, you'll encounter remnants of Roman times. Visit the Campo Valdés Roman Baths, dating back to the 1st century AD, to see well-preserved ruins and learn about ancient bathing practices. The 18th-century Revillagigedo Palace, now an international art center, showcases the city's baroque architecture. To learn more about local history, visit the Museum of the Asturian People, which displays exhibits on traditional Asturian life, including a collection of bagpipes.
Asturian Food and Cider in Gijón
Gijón's food reflects its coastal location and Asturian roots. You can try local dishes like fabada (a hearty bean stew) or cachopo (breaded veal or beef stuffed with ham and cheese). Seafood is plentiful, with fresh catches served in restaurants around the marina. Gijón has a strong cider culture. Visit a traditional sidrería to see the unique pouring of cider from a height, a technique that aerates the drink. If you're in Gijón during August, you can attend the Natural Cider Festival, where you can taste various ciders and learn about how they're made.
Day Trips from Gijón
While Gijón has much to offer, it's also a good starting point for exploring the Asturian countryside. You can take a day trip to the Picos de Europa National Park, about an hour's drive away, for hiking and mountain views. The nearby city of Oviedo, Asturias' capital, has an old town and cathedral you might want to explore. If you're interested in prehistoric art, you can visit the Tito Bustillo Cave with its Paleolithic paintings, which is accessible from Gijón.
Practical Information for Visiting Gijón
You can reach Gijón through Asturias Airport, located about 40 kilometers from the city center. Regular bus services connect the airport to Gijón. The city itself is compact and easy to walk around, with a bus network for longer distances. Summer (June to August) is when most people visit, with warm weather and many festivals. However, you might prefer spring and early autumn for milder temperatures and fewer crowds, which can be better for exploring the city and its surroundings.
