A Leisurely Exploration of Oviedo, Spain: A Comprehensive Guide to a Relaxing Long Weekend
Nestled amidst the lush hills of Asturias in northern Spain, Oviedo beckons with its tranquil charm, earning its reputation as a serene and primarily pedestrianized city. Renowned as the cleanest city in Spain, Oviedo offers a perfect retreat for those seeking a relaxed city break with a blend of museums, distinctive culture, and exceptional gastronomy. From hearty regional stews to the Spanish capital of cider, Oviedo promises a delightful weekend getaway.
Day One: Arrival on Friday Night
Arriving on a Friday night sets the stage for a long weekend in Oviedo, with departure planned for Sunday or an extended stay for a side trip.
If you prefer a low-energy start to your weekend, consider exploring the cultural offerings at the Campoamor Theatre, home to Spain’s second-oldest opera. It sets the tone for a cultured beginning to your weekend.
Day One: Morning
Commence your Saturday with a leisurely breakfast featuring local specialties like Carbayones, a delightful egg and almond pasty. Dive into Spain’s art scene by visiting the Museo de Bellas Artes de Asturias, an impressive Fine Arts museum boasting a collection of around 15,000 pieces, including works by Goya, Picasso, and Dalí.
Day One: Lunch
Head to Plaza de El Fontán for lunch after exploring the museum. Take a stroll around Mercado El Fontán to witness a variety of Asturian cheeses and local specialties. Enjoy a typical lunch in the charming surroundings of El Fontán square, followed by a sweet treat from Rialto, where you can indulge in local biscuits called moscovitas.
Day One: Afternoon
Embark on a self-guided walking tour to explore Oviedo’s abundance of statues scattered throughout the city. Plaza de la Constitución, Plaza del Paraguas, and San Francisco Park are some notable stops, each offering a glimpse into the city’s vibrant culture and history.
Day One: Evening
Experience the local tradition of cider at Sidrería Tierra Astur, with its unique atmosphere and spectacle. Continue the cider exploration along Calle Gascona, famously known as the “Cider Boulevard,” where you can immerse yourself in the lively ambiance.
Day Two: Morning
Sunday is dedicated to stepping back in time and exploring Oviedo’s oldest UNESCO treasures. Begin your day at the Archaeological Museum of Asturias, housed in a former 16th-century monastery. Delve into Asturian archaeology and gain insights into the region’s rich history through interactive displays.
Day Two: Lunch
For a taste of Asturian cuisine, savor typical dishes at La Corte de Pelayo, a well-established and popular restaurant in the city. Indulge in the Fabada asturiana, a hearty stew featuring local beans, and the iconic cachopo, a dish comprising veal steaks stuffed with cheese and ham.
Day Two: Afternoon
Venture beyond the city limits to explore the pre-Romanesque monuments on the slopes of Mount Naranco. Visit Santa María la Real del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo, well-preserved Catholic temples that offer a glimpse into Oviedo’s over 1000-year-old history.
Day Three: Day Trips from Oviedo
Extend your exploration of Asturias with day trips:
The Coast – Gijón: Experience the seaside charm of Gijón, approximately 30 minutes from Oviedo. Admire Art Nouveau architecture, explore the old Roman Baths, or visit the Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura, Spain’s largest building.
Cider and Cheese – Cabrales: Discover the essence of Asturian gastronomy with a day trip to Cabrales. Explore the Cueva del Queso de Cabrales museum and indulge in a tasting of the region’s renowned blue cheese.
The Countryside – Las Ubiñas: Immerse yourself in the lush Asturian countryside with a getaway to Las Ubiñas. Enjoy pristine landscapes, hiking trails, and the opportunity to reconnect with nature.
When to Visit Oviedo:
Oviedo is a year-round destination, with spring, summer, and autumn offering pleasant weather. Summers are particularly enjoyable, avoiding the heat experienced in southern Spain. It is advisable to avoid winter due to increased showers and Oviedo’s outdoor appeal.
Where to Stay in Oviedo:
Choose from various accommodation options based on your preferences:
Budget(ish) – Duerming Longoria Plaza Hotel: Affordable and located in a prime spot for a private room.
Mid-range – Gran Hotel España: Exceptional value with modern rooms, a small lounge bar, and a convenient location.
Luxury – Barceló Oviedo Cervantes: A premium option known for great service and well-designed rooms.
How to Get to and Around Oviedo:
Explore Oviedo’s compact center on foot, taking advantage of its flat terrain. Public transport, including buses, is available for excursions beyond the city.
For travel to Oviedo, trains and buses from major cities like Madrid provide convenient connections. Book train tickets in advance via Renfe or explore alternative options such as ALSA buses. BlaBlaCar, a car-share service, is also popular for finding direct connections.
Oviedo, with its blend of cultural richness, gastronomic delights, and historical treasures, promises a rejuvenating long weekend. Whether strolling through its pedestrianized streets, indulging in local cuisine, or venturing into the green expanse beyond the city, Oviedo offers a captivating experience for every traveler.
By Air:
The closest airport to Oviedo is Asturias Airport, conveniently situated just a 40-minute bus ride from the city. Presently, flight options from this airport are somewhat limited, with routes primarily connecting to London. However, there has been a notable increase in flight schedules each passing year.
Flight-Free Travel from the UK to Oviedo:
For those seeking an eco-friendly and flight-free journey from the UK to Northern Spain, two viable options are available. It is recommended to plan for at least a 7-day stay in Spain to make the most of this alternative travel approach.
Eurostar and Train Route:
Commence your journey by taking the Eurostar to London.
From London, board a train bound for Bayonne.
To cross from France to Spain, opt for a two-bus connection via Bilbao, which is likely to be slightly more economical.
This route, if well-timed, is estimated to take approximately 16 hours.
Ferry Travel from the UK:
Utilize Brittany Ferries’ ferry service departing from either Portsmouth or Plymouth (note that some sailings are only available in summer).
Arrive at either Santander or Bilbao after spending two nights aboard the ferry.
Upon arrival, continue your journey by car, rental car, or ALSA bus, with travel times ranging between two and four hours.
Return Journey Consideration:
If you plan to return using the same route, consider incorporating a night in San Sebastian before embarking on your return ferry voyage. San Sebastian is another captivating coastal destination renowned for one of the best culinary scenes in the country.
Post-Oviedo Travel Options:
Following your enriching weekend in Oviedo, numerous travel opportunities await:
Gijon: Easily extend your journey along the Asturian coast by traveling to Gijon.
León: Head south to explore the architecture-studded city of León.
Train Connections: Utilize the train network to reach various other top destinations in Spain, expanding your exploration further.
