Whether you're exploring ancient Roman baths or taking in panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay, the best Gijón, Spain shore excursions highlight the city’s charm and the rugged beauty of Spain’s green coast.
Here are some top experiences to enjoy on a visit to Gijón.
Stroll Through Gijón’s Historic Heart
For a leisurely introduction to the city, start with a guided walking tour through Cimavilla, Gijón’s historic Old Town.
- Walk along cobbled lanes lined with colorful homes and traditional taverns.
- Visit the Plaza Mayor and stop by Revillagigedo Palace, a baroque jewel near the marina.
- Explore the Campo Valdés Roman Baths, one of the city’s oldest landmarks, with original ruins and museum displays.
This relaxed excursion is ideal for travelers who enjoy exploring culture on foot and getting a taste of everyday life.
Take in Coastal Views on a Panoramic Drive
Gijón’s clifftop roads and oceanfront promenades make it a perfect city for scenic drives.
- Head up to Santa Catalina Hill and pose for a photo at the Elogio del Horizonte, a dramatic sculpture overlooking the sea.
- Pass by the bustling fishing port and the elegant San Lorenzo Beach, a local favorite for sunbathing and surfing.
- Cruise through Gijón’s modern and residential districts while your guide shares stories about the city’s transformation over the centuries.
It’s one of the best ways to soak in the natural beauty of Asturias without breaking a sweat.
Experience Asturian Flavors at a Traditional Sidrería
In Asturias, cider isn’t just a drink—it’s a cultural ritual. A food and drink tour is a great way to dive into local flavor.
- Visit a local sidrería (cider house) to watch a traditional cider pour, where the drink is expertly streamed from above to aerate each glass.
- Sample regional dishes like fabada asturiana (a rich bean stew) and cabrales cheese, a blue cheese known for its bold flavor.
- Learn how food and drink are deeply connected to Asturian identity.
This excursion is a must-do for culinary travelers or anyone curious about Spain’s lesser-known but delicious traditions.
Venture into Nature in the Picos de Europa
Just a couple of hours from Gijón, the Picos de Europa mountain range offers a complete change of scenery and a dose of fresh alpine air.
- Drive through green valleys and charming villages to reach the Covadonga Sanctuary, a dramatic site built into the mountainside.
- Stop at the Lakes of Covadonga, glacial lakes surrounded by rugged peaks.
- Enjoy free time to hike, take photos or simply breathe in the mountain views.
This shore excursion is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a deeper look at Asturias beyond the coast.
Discover Oviedo: Asturias’ Elegant Capital
For a different side of the region, head to Oviedo, the capital of Asturias and a cultural hub filled with charm.
- Walk through the historic city center and see the Cathedral of San Salvador, an important pilgrimage stop along the Camino de Santiago.
- Admire the elegant streets, public art and ornate buildings that give the city a stately feel.
- Enjoy time to shop, sip coffee or sample Asturian sweets like carbayones or casadiellas.
Combining Gijón’s seafront energy with Oviedo’s old-world grace makes for a well-rounded day trip.
Relax by the Sea at San Lorenzo Beach
If your idea of a perfect shore excursion is a day at the beach, San Lorenzo delivers.
- Lounge on soft golden sand or take a dip in the refreshing waters of the Cantabrian Sea.
- Grab a seaside snack or a drink at one of the cafés along the Paseo del Muro, a beachfront promenade.
- People-watch, paddleboard or just unwind under the Asturian sun.
It’s the ideal plan for those craving a low-key beach day with local flavor.
Plan Your Gijón, Spain Shore Excursions
Whether you’re sipping cider, climbing scenic hills or discovering ancient history, Gijón, Spain shore excursions offer a rich mix of culture, cuisine and natural beauty. This northern Spanish port city its authentic character and warm hospitality make it a standout destination on any Iberian itinerary.
