Pedestrianised streets, leafy public parks and a vibrant culinary scene give Gijon a cosmopolitan feel. The city has industrial roots but has emerged a hub for arts, culture and entertainment. Enjoy evening strolls along the seafront promenade, shop at independent boutiques and visit a string of excellent museums and galleries.
Things to do in Gijón
You could easily spend hours strolling around Cimadevilla, the city’s captivating historic district. It occupies a headland and is cross-crossed with narrow streets lined with brightly painted townhouses. Exploring the neighbourhood, you’ll come across gems like the Árbol de la Sidra art installation made from thousands of green glass bottles and the Stairway to Heaven passageway dedicated to iconic rock albums.
Gold sand and a bustling foreshore make crescent-shaped Playa de Poniente one of the most popular beaches in Gijon. Relax on the sand and make a splash in the Bay of Biscay. Playa de San Lorenzo has an urban feel, with spectacular views of the city skyline and San Pedro Church.
Parque del Cerro Santa Catalina is perched on a clifftop and commands sweeping views over the Bay of Biscay. Explore the ruins of centuries-old sea fortifications and admire the abstract Elogio del Horizonte concrete sculpture designed by Spanish artist, Eduardo Chillida. Jardín Botánico Atlántico is another beautiful place to stretch your legs and is home to more than 2,000 species of trees and plants.
Discover the city’s blue-collar past at Museo del Ferrocarril de Asturias. The engaging railway museum occupies a 19th-century train station and showcases dozens of historic carriages and engines.
Getting around Gijón
Gijon is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot, while bicycles are a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city. Trains run between Bilbao and Oviedo in around four hours. From here, it’s a 30-minute drive or train ride to Gijon. Asturias Airport is a 30-minute drive away.