Located on the picturesque coast of northern Spain, Gijón is a charming city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. With its long stretches of sandy beaches, fascinating historical sites, and lively atmosphere, Gijón offers a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and adventure. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, or a nature seeker, Gijón has something to captivate every traveler.
History & Culture:
Gijón boasts a fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. The city was originally a Roman settlement known as Gigia, and remnants of its Roman past can still be seen in archaeological sites such as the Roman Baths. Over the centuries, Gijón has witnessed the influence of various cultures, including the Visigoths, Moors, and Asturian Kingdom. Its rich heritage is evident in the charming old town, Cimavilla, where narrow streets, ancient buildings, and quaint squares tell tales of the city’s past. Gijón is also a city of culture, hosting numerous festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions throughout the year, including the International Film Festival of Gijón and the Semana Grande festival.
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Gijón enjoys a maritime climate, characterized by mild temperatures and moderate rainfall. Summers are pleasantly warm, with average temperatures ranging from 19°C to 23°C (66°F to 73°F), making it an ideal time to enjoy the city’s beaches and outdoor activities. Spring and autumn offer mild weather, perfect for exploring the city’s attractions and cultural events. Winters are mild but can be wet, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F). The best time to visit Gijón is during the summer months from June to September when the weather is most favorable for outdoor activities.
How to Reach:
Gijón is well-connected to major cities in Spain and Europe. The nearest airport is Asturias Airport (OVD), located approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Gijón. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the city. Gijón is also accessible by train, with regular connections to other cities in Spain. If you prefer traveling by road, highways connect Gijón to the rest of Spain, making it easily accessible by car or bus.
Local Transportation:
Once in Gijón, getting around the city is convenient with its efficient local transportation system. The city has an extensive bus network operated by Empresa Municipal de Transportes Urbanos de Gijón (EMTUSA), providing easy access to various neighborhoods and attractions. Taxis are also readily available throughout the city. For those who prefer a more active mode of transportation, Gijón offers bicycle rental services, allowing visitors to explore the city on two wheels.
Must-Visit Tourist Attractions:
- Playa de San Lorenzo: Gijón’s most famous beach, Playa de San Lorenzo, stretches for kilometers along the city’s coastline, offering golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant promenade.
- Cimavilla: The old town of Gijón, Cimavilla, is a maze of narrow streets, colorful houses, and historic buildings. Take a stroll through its charming alleys and visit landmarks like Plaza Mayor and the Church of San Pedro.
- Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura: This architectural masterpiece houses a cultural center, theater, art gallery, and more. Admire the stunning facade and explore the cultural exhibits within.
- Jardín Botánico Atlántico:Located on the outskirts of Gijón, the Jardín Botánico Atlántico is a beautiful botanical garden showcasing a wide variety of plant species native to the Atlantic region. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through its well-manicured paths and discover the diverse flora.
- Museo del Ferrocarril de Asturias: Train enthusiasts will delight in the Museo del Ferrocarril de Asturias, a railway museum displaying a collection of vintage locomotives, carriages, and historical artifacts.
- Acuario de Gijón: Dive into the underwater world at the Acuario de Gijón, where you can observe a diverse range of marine life, including sharks, stingrays, and colorful tropical fish.
- Universidad Laboral: This sprawling complex, originally built as a workers’ university, now serves as a cultural and educational center. Explore its impressive architecture, visit its art gallery, and catch a performance at the Laboral Theater.
- Cerro Santa Catalina: Perched on a hill overlooking the city, Cerro Santa Catalina offers panoramic views of Gijón’s coastline. It is also home to the iconic sculpture “Elogio del Horizonte” by Eduardo Chillida.
- Museo de la Ciudad: Learn about Gijón’s history and heritage at the Museo de la Ciudad, which showcases artifacts, documents, and interactive exhibits depicting the city’s evolution over time.
- Gijón Aquarium: This small but fascinating aquarium focuses on marine life found in the Cantabrian Sea, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the local marine ecosystem.
- Iglesia de San Pedro: Located in Cimavilla, the Iglesia de San Pedro is a historic church dating back to the 14th century. Admire its Gothic architecture and ornate interior.
- Parque Arqueológico-Natural de la Campa Torres: Explore the ancient Roman settlement of Gigia at the Parque Arqueológico-Natural de la Campa Torres, where you can see archaeological remains and learn about the city’s Roman past.
- Palacio Revillagigedo: Visit the Palacio Revillagigedo, a majestic 18th-century palace that now houses a cultural center and art exhibitions. Marvel at its elegant facade and explore its interior spaces.
- Elogio del Horizonte: Standing atop Cerro Santa Catalina, the Elogio del Horizonte is a sculptural monument by Eduardo Chillida, offering a contemplative space and panoramic views of the city.
- Museo del Pueblo de Asturias: Immerse yourself in Asturian culture and tradition at the Museo del Pueblo de Asturias, an open-air museum showcasing rural buildings, traditional crafts, and customs of the region.
- Gijón Railway Museum: Step back in time at the Gijón Railway Museum, where you can discover the history of railways in Asturias through a collection of vintage locomotives and historical exhibits.
- Talasoponiente: Indulge in relaxation and wellness at Talasoponiente, a thalassotherapy center offering spa treatments, pools, and hydrotherapy sessions overlooking the sea.
- Museum of the Asturian People: Learn about the history, traditions, and daily life of the Asturian people at this museum, which showcases artifacts, costumes, and interactive displays.
- Revillagigedo Palace Gardens: Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque gardens surrounding the Revillagigedo Palace, enjoying the beautifully landscaped greenery and peaceful ambiance.
- Molinón Stadium: For football enthusiasts, a visit to Molinón Stadium is a must. Cheer on thelocal team, Sporting Gijón, and experience the excitement of a live football match.
Must-Do Activities:
- Explore the Beaches: Gijón is blessed with stunning beaches, so make sure to spend time soaking up the sun, swimming, and enjoying water sports at Playa de San Lorenzo, Playa de Poniente, and Playa de El Arbeyal.
- Walk along the Paseo de la Playa: Take a leisurely stroll along the Paseo de la Playa, a promenade that runs parallel to Playa de San Lorenzo, offering beautiful views of the sea and the city skyline.
- Visit the Local Markets: Immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the bustling markets of Gijón, such as Mercado del Sur and Mercado de Abastos, where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and traditional crafts.
- Enjoy Water Activities: Experience the thrill of kayaking, paddleboarding, or surfing along the coast of Gijón. Several water sports centers offer equipment rental and lessons for all skill levels.
- Attend a Festival: Gijón is known for its vibrant festival scene. Join in the festivities during the Semana Grande, a week-long celebration in August featuring parades, concerts, and fireworks.
- Take a Boat Trip: Embark on a boat trip along the coast of Gijón to admire the stunning cliffs, hidden coves, and marine wildlife. Some tours even offer the chance to spot dolphins and whales.
- Explore the Parks: Gijón is home to several beautiful parks, such as Isabel la Católica Park and Los Pericones Park, where you can relax, have a picnic, or go for a leisurely bike ride.
- Discover Local Art: Visit the LABoral Centro de Arte y Creación Industrial, a contemporary art center showcasing exhibitions, installations, and multimedia art projects by local and international artists.
- Attend a Concert or Performance: Gijón boasts a lively cultural scene, with concerts, theater performances, and dance shows taking place throughout the year. Check the schedules of venues like Teatro Jovellanos and Centro Cultural Antiguo Instituto for upcoming events.
- Take a Day Trip to Covadonga: Venture outside of Gijón and visit the picturesque village of Covadonga, located in the Picos de Europa National Park. Explore its stunning lakes, the famous Covadonga Basilica, and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.
- Experience Asturian Gastronomy: Indulge in Asturian cuisine by sampling traditional dishes such as fabada asturiana (bean stew), cachopo (breaded and stuffed meat), and sidra (Asturian cider). Visit local cider houses and traditional sidrerías for an authentic culinary experience.
- Hike the Camino de Santiago: Gijón is a starting point for the Camino de Santiago coastal route. Lace up your hiking boots and embark on a scenic journey, following the iconic yellow arrows and shell symbols.
- Attend a Traditional Asturian Dance: Immerse yourself in the traditional culture of Asturias by attending a folk dance performance, where dancers in traditional costumes showcase the region’s vibrant heritage.
- Take a Segway Tour: Discover the city in a fun and eco-friendly way by taking a guided segway tour. Cruise through Gijón’s streets, parks, and waterfront, learning about its history and landmarks.
- Visit the Gijón Aquarium: Dive into the depths of the Cantabrian Sea at the Gijón Aquarium, where you can witness a variety of marine species up close and learn about their habitats and conservation.
- Explore Gijón’s Street Art: Gijón is renowned for its vibrant street art scene. Take a walking tour to discover impressive murals and graffiti art adorning the city’s walls, showcasing local and international talent.
- Attend a Flamenco Show: Experience the passion and intensity of flamenco by attending a live performance at one of Gijón’s flamenco venues. Immerse yourself in the captivating rhythms and soulful melodies of this traditional Spanish art form.
- Visit the Botanical Garden: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by exploring the beautiful Botanical Garden of Gijón. Stroll through its lush gardens, admire the diverse plant species, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
- Play Golf: Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf at one of Gijón’s golf courses, such as La Llorea Golf or Castiello Golf. These scenic courses offer a challenging game amidst beautiful natural surroundings.
- Attend a Local Market or Fair: Throughout the year, Gijón hosts various markets and fairs that showcase local products, crafts, and traditions. Explore events like Mercaplana, a popular cultural festival featuring music, performances, and artisanal goods.
Fun & Entertainment Parks and Adventure Parks:
- Atlantic Park: Located in nearby Avilés, Atlantic Park is a water park offering thrilling slides, wave pools, and water attractions, perfect for a day of family fun.
- The Room: Challenge yourself and your friends at The Room, an escape room experience where you must solve puzzles and unravel mysteries to escape within a given time frame.
- Karting Gijón: Put your driving skills to the test at Karting Gijón, an outdoor go-kart track where you can race against friends and family.
- Casino de Asturias: Try your luck at Casino de Asturias, where you can enjoy various games, including roulette, blackjack, and poker, in a sophisticated setting.
- Gijón Bowling: Have a friendly competition with friends or family at Gijón Bowling, a bowling alley offering multiple lanes and a fun atmosphere.
Popular Food and Drinks:
- Sidra: Asturian cider, known as sidra, is a must-try beverage in Gijón. Visit a sidrería and experience the traditional pouring technique and the refreshing taste of this iconic drink.
- Fabada Asturiana: Indulge in a hearty bowl of fabada asturiana, a traditional Asturian bean stew made with white beans, chorizo, black pudding, and other flavorful ingredients.
- Asturian Cheese: Sample the delicious varieties of Asturian cheese, such as Cabrales, Gamoneu, and Afuega’l Pitu, known for their distinct flavors and textures.
- Cachopo: Sink your teeth into a generous portion of cachopo, a traditional Asturian dish consisting of two large veal fillets stuffed with ham and cheese, breaded, and fried to perfection.
- Marañuelas: Treat your sweet tooth to marañuelas, a local pastry made with almonds, sugar, and egg whites. These delicate cookies are a popular treat in Gijón.
- Asturian Octopus: Delight in tender and flavorful Asturian-style octopus, prepared with paprika, olive oil, and sea salt. This dish showcases the region’s love for seafood.
- Asturian Pitu Chicken: Experience the unique flavors of Asturian pitu chicken, a traditional dish featuring free-range chicken cooked with local ingredients and spices.
- Asturian Beans: Asturian cuisine is known for its excellent beans. Try the locally grown fabe beans in dishes like fabada asturiana or verdinas con marisco (green beans withshellfish), and savor their creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Pixín: Discover the flavors of Asturian cuisine with pixín, also known as monkfish. This delicate fish is often prepared in a variety of delicious ways, such as grilled, baked, or served in a flavorful sauce.
- Pastel de Cabracho: Sample the unique pastel de cabracho, a traditional Asturian dish made with cabracho, a local fish, mixed with breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices. It is often served as a pâté or in slices.
- Sidrerías and Cider Bars: Experience the lively atmosphere of traditional sidrerías and cider bars, where you can enjoy a glass of cider alongside a variety of Asturian dishes. Participate in the traditional cider pouring ceremony known as “escanciar.”
- Tapas: Explore the vibrant culinary scene of Gijón by hopping from one tapas bar to another. Try an array of small bites, including local specialties like croquetas, pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus), and tortilla española (Spanish omelet).
- Gijón Craft Beer: Sample the craft beers brewed in Gijón and the Asturias region. Visit local breweries and bars that specialize in serving a wide selection of artisanal beers.
Nightlife and Popular Nightclubs:
- Plaza Mayor: Located in the heart of Gijón’s old town, Plaza Mayor is a bustling square lined with bars and clubs. It offers a vibrant nightlife scene, particularly during weekends and holidays.
- La Calle de los Vinos: Known as the “Wine Street,” this lively area is dotted with bars and taverns where you can enjoy a variety of drinks, tapas, and live music.
- Sala Acapulco: Located in the Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura, Sala Acapulco is a popular music venue hosting concerts and DJ performances.
- Casino de Asturias: Experience an elegant evening at Casino de Asturias, where you can enjoy live music, entertainment, and the thrill of casino games.
- Puerto Deportivo: The marina area of Gijón comes alive at night, with a range of bars and clubs offering waterfront views, live music, and dancing.
- Bulevar de la Sidra: This street is lined with cider bars and taverns, offering a lively atmosphere and the chance to taste a variety of ciders.
- Paseo de Begoña: Explore the Paseo de Begoña, a lively street filled with bars and terraces, where locals and visitors gather for drinks and socializing.
Shopping Centers and Markets:
- Centro Comercial Los Fresnos: This modern shopping center offers a wide range of retail stores, including clothing, electronics, and beauty outlets.
- Centro Comercial Intu Asturias: Located just outside of Gijón, Intu Asturias is a large shopping mall with a vast selection of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- Mercado de Gijón: Explore the Mercado de Gijón, a traditional market where you can find fresh produce, local products, and gourmet delicacies.
- Calle Corrida: Wander along Calle Corrida, Gijón’s main shopping street, lined with a mix of popular high street brands, local boutiques, and specialty stores.
- Antiques Market: Visit the weekly antiques market in Plaza Mayor, where you can browse through a variety of vintage items, collectibles, and unique treasures.
Museums and Educational Institutions:
- Museo del Ferrocarril de Asturias: Learn about thefascinating history of railways in Asturias at the Museo del Ferrocarril de Asturias. Discover vintage locomotives, carriages, and historical artifacts that showcase the evolution of the railway industry.
- Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura: Explore the Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura, a cultural complex housed in a former labor university. It features art exhibitions, theaters, music halls, and educational programs.
- Universidad de Oviedo: Visit the Universidad de Oviedo, one of Spain’s oldest universities, which has a campus in Gijón. Admire its historic buildings and enjoy the vibrant academic atmosphere.
- Museo del Pueblo de Asturias: Immerse yourself in the traditional culture of Asturias at the Museo del Pueblo de Asturias. Discover artifacts, tools, and exhibits that depict the daily life and customs of the region.
- EPI Gijón: The Escuela Politécnica de Ingeniería de Gijón (EPI Gijón) is a renowned institution for engineering and technology education. Explore its campus and learn about its academic programs and research initiatives.
Safety for Tourists and Do’s & Don’ts:
Gijón is generally a safe city for tourists, but it’s always important to take common-sense precautions. Here are a few tips:
- Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- Use licensed taxis or reputable transportation services.
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially in religious sites and during festivals.
- Follow any safety instructions and regulations provided at adventure parks or when engaging in outdoor activities.
- Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and protect yourself from excessive sun exposure, especially during the summer months.
Environment and Sustainable Tourism:
Gijón is committed to sustainable tourism practices and environmental conservation. The city promotes recycling and waste management programs, encourages the use of public transportation and cycling, and supports eco-friendly initiatives. Visitors can contribute to sustainable tourism by using reusable water bottles, reducing waste, and respecting natural areas and wildlife habitats.
General Information:
- Language: The official language is Spanish. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
- Religion: The predominant religion is Catholicism, but Gijón is a diverse and tolerant city welcoming people of various faiths.
- Population: Gijón has a population of approximately 275,000 people.
- Holidays: Major holidays in Gijón include New Year’s Day, Easter, Labor Day (May 1st), and Christmas.
- Water: Tap water in Gijón is safe to drink.
- Electricity: The standard voltage is 220-240V, and the frequency is 50Hz. Type C and F plugs are used.
- Mobile and Internet: Mobile coverage and high-speed internet are widely available in Gijón.
- Health Services: Gijón has well-equipped medical facilities and hospitals that provide quality healthcare services.
- Postal Service: Postal services are available throughout the city, with post offices conveniently located.
- Suitable Clothing: Gijón has a moderate climate, so pack clothing suitable for the season. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the city and its attractions.
Banks:
- Banco Santander
- BBVA
- CaixaBank
- Banco Sabadell
- Bankia
With its rich history, vibrant culture, beautiful coastline, and warm hospitality, Gijón offers a delightful experience for every traveler. Explore its attractions, indulge in its cuisine, and immerse yourself in its unique blend of tradition and modernity. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, Gijón will leave you with unforgettable memories.
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