Your Local Specialist Travel Advisors For Custom Tours in Spain & Portugal
Your Local Specialist Travel Advisors For Custom Tours in Spain & Portugal
Customer Reviews
JANA'S 5 STAR REVIEW: We are so happy to have found Belen and Totally Spain for our trip to Spain and Portugal! It was such a amazing time! With very little advanced notice of our plans Belen put together the perfect trip where all of the deta...
Jana Gruttner, PLymouth, WI, USA
2025-03-17
Gijon—historic, commercial, and industrial—is where the sea, gentle mountains, and the city converge to create one of the most attractive urban areas in northern Spain. The city is renowned for its beautiful San Lorenzo Beach, the scenic esplanade, and the bustling marina. The Semana Negra (Black Week) festival, an active social life, and a festive atmosphere all invite visitors to discover this charming city.
Gijon's attractions extend beyond these highlights. The city boasts a network of museums and a multiplicity of cultural offerings, including an international film festival and the Latin American Book Show. Some of the town’s museums are noteworthy for their originality, such as the Railroad Museum (Museo del Ferrocarril) and the International Bagpipe Museum. Others preserve its illustrious past, like the Birthplace of Jovellanos, the Nicanor Piñole Museum, and Revillagigedo Palace.
San Lorenzo Beach, with its golden sands and clear waters, is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll along the shore. The adjacent esplanade is lined with charming cafes and restaurants, offering delicious Asturian cuisine and spectacular views of the Bay of Biscay.
The marina in Gijón is another focal point of the city. It is a lively area filled with boats, from fishing vessels to luxury yachts, and is surrounded by trendy bars and eateries. The marina is also the starting point for various water sports and boat tours, providing an exciting way to explore the coastal beauty of Gijón.
The Semana Negra festival is a unique cultural event that combines literature, music, film, and art with a distinctive noir theme. Held every summer, it attracts artists and visitors from around the world, creating a vibrant and eclectic atmosphere. The festival's combination of workshops, readings, concerts, and exhibitions ensures there is something for everyone.
Gijon’s international film festival and the Latin American Book Show are also major cultural highlights. The film festival showcases a diverse range of international films, promoting new talents and celebrating cinematic excellence. The Latin American Book Show brings together authors, publishers, and readers to celebrate literature and foster cross-cultural dialogue.
For those interested in history and culture, Gijón offers several unique museums. The Railroad Museum (Museo del Ferrocarril) provides a fascinating insight into the history of rail transport in Spain, while the International Bagpipe Museum showcases a remarkable collection of bagpipes from around the world. The Birthplace of Jovellanos, dedicated to the famous Spanish Enlightenment thinker, and the Nicanor Piñole Museum, which houses the works of the renowned Asturian painter, offer a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage. The Revillagigedo Palace, with its impressive baroque architecture, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Additionally, Gijon’s parks and gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle. Isabel la Catolica Park is one of the largest green spaces in the city, featuring beautiful gardens, a small lake, and a variety of bird species. The Atlantic Botanical Garden, with its extensive collection of plants from the Atlantic regions, is another tranquil spot for nature lovers.
Let us plan your visit to this captivating city and experience its many charms firsthand.
YOUR PERFECT TAILOR MADE TRIP STARTS HERE!
Obligation free proposal.
Response within 48hrs
Playa de San Lorenzo: One of the most iconic beaches in Gijón, ideal for a leisurely walk, surfing, or enjoying the local seafood at Sidreria Casa Carmen. The beach offers a beautiful promenade, perfect for both day and night strolls.
Barrio de Cimadevilla: The old town of Gijón, filled with narrow streets, historic buildings, and charming plazas. It’s an excellent place to experience the local culture, with numerous sidrerías (cider houses) offering traditional Asturian cider.
Plaza Mayor: The heart of Gijón, where you can visit the Ayuntamiento (City Hall) and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The square is surrounded by cafes and restaurants, making it a great spot to relax and people-watch.
Casa Natal de Jovellanos: This museum is dedicated to Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos, a prominent figure in Spanish history. It showcases his life, works, and the history of Gijón through various exhibits and art collections.
Iglesia de San Pedro Apóstol: Located near the Playa de San Lorenzo, this historic church offers beautiful architecture and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s a great place for reflection and appreciating the religious heritage of the area.
Termas Romanas de Campo Valdés: These ancient Roman baths provide a fascinating glimpse into the past. The well-preserved ruins and informative displays make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Plazuela del Marqués: Home to the Monumento a Don Pelayo, this picturesque square is surrounded by historic buildings and offers a charming atmosphere. It’s a great place to start exploring the old town.
Parque del Cerro: This park features the famous Elogio del Horizonte sculpture by Eduardo Chillida, which offers stunning views of the city and the sea. The park itself is perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic.
Puerto Deportivo: The marina area is vibrant with activities, from sailing and boating to dining at waterfront restaurants. It’s an excellent spot to enjoy the maritime ambiance of Gijón.
Playa de Poniente: This artificial beach is a popular spot for families and offers various water activities. Nearby, you can visit the Museo del Ferrocarril (Railway Museum) to learn about the history of trains in the region.
Paseo de Begoña: A bustling area filled with shops, cafes, and the Teatro Jovellanos, a cultural hub for performances and events. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle.
Museo del Pueblo Asturiano: This museum showcases the traditional culture, crafts, and customs of Asturias. It’s located in a beautiful park, making it a pleasant and educational visit.
Jardín Botánico Atlántico: Covering over 25 hectares, this botanical garden features a diverse collection of plants from the Atlantic region. It’s perfect for nature lovers and offers various themed gardens and walking trails.
La Laboral: Known as the largest building in Spain, La Laboral is an architectural marvel. It houses cultural institutions, including a theatre, a university, and art galleries. Guided tours are available to explore its grand interiors and history.
INSPIRED BY THE DESTINATIONS SHOWN ABOVE?
Then contact us today and Totally Spain can customize a trip just for you.
Free Trip Quote