Travel Tips in Oviedo
- Make sure to wear comfortable shoes. Oviedo has lots of cobblestone streets and hilly terrain.
- Bring a jacket, even in the summer. The weather can be unpredictable, and Oviedo can get chilly at night.
- Be prepared for siesta time. Many shops and restaurants close in the afternoon, so plan your schedule accordingly.
- Learn a few words of Spanish. While many people in Oviedo speak English, it’s always helpful to know some basic phrases.
- Check the official tourism website of the city of Oviedo here for updated information on events, activities, and attractions.
What to See in Oviedo
Oviedo is a compact city, so you can easily see the most important places in three days. Here are some of the must-see sights:
- Cathedral of San Salvador: This Gothic cathedral is the heart of Oviedo. Admire the stunning stained glass windows and visit the Holy Chamber, where you can see the famous Sudarium of Oviedo.
- Plaza del Fontán: This bustling square is home to a lively market where you can buy fresh produce and local specialties.
- Plaza de la Constitución: This picturesque square is surrounded by colorful buildings and is a great place to people-watch and soak up the atmosphere.
- Monastery of San Pelayo: This historic monastery dates back to the 9th century and is home to the Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias.
- Archaeological Museum of Asturias: This museum showcases the history and culture of Asturias, from prehistoric times to the present day.
- San Miguel de Lillo: This 9th-century church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its stunning pre-Romanesque architecture.
- Santa María del Naranco: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 9th-century palace was originally built as a royal residence and later became a church.
Of course, this is just a small sample of the many sights to see in Oviedo. Make sure to leave plenty of time to explore and discover the city’s hidden gems.
Routes in Oviedo
Oviedo is a great city for walking, and there are plenty of routes to take that will show you the best of the city. Here are a few suggestions:
- The Old Town Route: This route takes you through the historic center of Oviedo, with stops at the cathedral, Plaza del Fontán, and other landmarks.
- The Pre-Romanesque Route: This route takes you to San Miguel de Lillo and Santa María del Naranco, two of Oviedo’s most important pre-Romanesque buildings.
- The Parks and Gardens Route: This route takes you to some of Oviedo’s beautiful green spaces, including the Campo de San Francisco and the Los Pericones Park.
Of course, you can also create your own route based on your interests and preferences. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring a map or use a navigation app on your phone.
Where to Sleep in Oviedo
Oviedo has plenty of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are a few suggestions:
- Hotel Nature Oviedo: This eco-friendly hotel is located in a quiet residential area and has a beautiful garden and terrace.
- Hotel Blue Longoria Plaza: This centrally located hotel has stylish rooms and a rooftop terrace with great views.
- Hostal Arcos: This budget-friendly guesthouse is located in the heart of the old town and offers basic but comfortable rooms.
- Airbnb: If you prefer to stay in a local apartment or house, Airbnb has plenty of options in Oviedo.
Make sure to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season or for popular events.
Where to Eat in Oviedo
Oviedo is known for its delicious food, especially its hearty Asturian cuisine. Here are a few places to try:
- Casa Ramón: This cozy restaurant serves traditional Asturian dishes, including fabada asturiana (bean stew) and cachopo (a breaded meat dish).
- Sidrería Tierra Astur: This lively cider house is a great place to try Asturian cider and enjoy some local tapas.
- La Corte de Pelayo: This elegant restaurant offers creative takes on Asturian cuisine and has a great wine selection.
- Campoamor: This popular restaurant has a large terrace and serves a mix of Asturian and international dishes.
Make sure to try some of the local specialties, such as cider, cheese, and seafood. And don’t forget to leave room for dessert – Asturias is known for its delicious desserts, such as arroz con leche (rice pudding) and casadielles (pastry filled with sweetened walnuts).
Free Tours in Oviedo
If you’re on a budget or just want to learn more about Oviedo from a local perspective, there are several free walking tours available. Here are a few options:
- Free Walking Tour Oviedo: This tour takes you through the historic center of Oviedo and covers the city’s history, architecture, and culture.
- Green Walks Oviedo: This tour takes you through some of Oviedo’s green spaces, including the Campo de San Francisco and the Naranco Hill.
- Oviedo Legends Tour: This tour focuses on the spooky and mysterious side of Oviedo’s history, with tales of ghosts, witches, and other supernatural beings.
Make sure to check the schedule and book in advance, as these tours can fill up quickly. And don’t forget to tip your guide if you enjoyed the tour!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Oviedo?
Oviedo is a great destination year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The summer months (June-August) are the most popular, with warm weather and plenty of festivals and events. However, the city can be crowded and prices can be higher during this time. Spring and fall are also great times to visit, with milder weather and fewer crowds. Winter can be chilly and rainy, but the city is less crowded and there are some fun holiday events to enjoy.
Do I need a car to explore Oviedo?
No, Oviedo is a compact city that can easily be explored on foot or by public transportation. However, if you want to explore the surrounding countryside or visit other towns in Asturias, a car can be useful.
What is Asturian cuisine like?
Asturian cuisine is known for its hearty, rustic dishes and use of local ingredients such as seafood, cheese, and cider. Some popular dishes include fabada asturiana (bean stew), cachopo (breaded meat dish), and arroz con leche (rice pudding). Asturian cider is also a must-try – it is served in a unique way, with the bottle held above the head and the cider poured into a glass held at waist level. Many restaurants and cider houses offer tasting menus that showcase the best of Asturian cuisine.
What are some other things to do in Asturias?
Asturias is a beautiful region with plenty of things to see and do. Some popular attractions include:
- The Picos de Europa National Park, which offers stunning mountain scenery and hiking opportunities.
- The seaside town of Gijón, which has a lively cultural scene and beautiful beaches.
- The pre-Romanesque churches of Oviedo and the surrounding area, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- The town of Cangas de Onís, which has a famous Roman bridge and is the gateway to the Picos de Europa.
There are also many outdoor activities available in Asturias, such as surfing, kayaking, and horseback riding. Check out the official tourism website of Asturias for more information.
For more information and to plan your trip, visit the official tourism website of the city of Oviedo: https://www.oviedo.es/en/
