10 PLACES NOT TO MISS VISITING IN ASTURIAS.
Asturias, tucked between Cantabria and Galicia, has become one of our favourite regions to spend time in. Ever since I met a friend from Oviedo and heard her stories about Asturian food, wild landscapes, and local traditions, I’d been curious to see it for myself.
Since that first trip, we’ve walked both the Camino del Norte and the Camino Primitivo, routes that weave through lively coastal cities and quiet mountain towns. Along the way, we’ve developed a real affection for this green, rugged corner of Spain — a place where cider flows freely and life feels refreshingly unhurried.
In this post, I’ll share 10 of our favourite places to visit in Asturias — from the coast to the mountains, and a few spots in between.
1/ Oviedo
We finally visited the capital of Asturias recently and it was everything that we had expected. A tidy, elegant city, with colourful plazas and seemingly a really pleasant pace of life.
Top sights in Oviedo include the grand Cathedral of San Salvador, the Campo de San Francisco park, and the Mercado El Fontán, where you can pick up local cheeses and bottles of cider. Don’t miss the sculpture trail, dotted around the city.
One of the things Oviedo is known for is as the start point for the Camino Primitivo. If you’re not familiar, this is a pilgrimage route ending in Santiago de Compostela. You will no doubt see pilgrims milling about near the Cathedral, or walking with their backpacks following the arrows and shells that decorate the city.
2/ Llanes
When I think of Asturias, I think of Llanes. Partly because it is one of the first towns we visited in the region. But mostly, because it captures the Asturian spirit so well – it is a vibrant town, set around a gorgeous harbour.
The restaurants and lively sidrerías are the heart of the town, where locals and visitors alike gather for late-night meals and cider-pouring displays.
If you have time, visit the coast and walk the coastal paths in this area. Paseo de San Pedro is a pathway with excellent views.
3/ Aviles
I’ll be honest — when we first arrived in Avilés, we weren’t super keen. The outskirts feel a little industrial and, for this reason, the city doesn’t get as much attention as other Asturian spots.
That said, it’s absolutely worth a visit because Avilés is a proper, lived-in city. A visit here gives you an insight into everyday Asturian life — bakeries serving fresh bread in the morning, long lunches in the main plaza, and quiet drinks by night.
The old quarter is full of arcaded streets and traditional Asturian architecture, while the Teatro Palacio Valdés adds a touch of grandeur.
4/ Tapia de Casriego
Some of the best beaches in Asturias are found around Tapia de Casariego. This is a peaceful coastal town with a working harbour and a thriving food scene.
It’s a lovely place to stay overnight, or just stop by for a long lunch and a few glasses of wine. This isn’t a town to visit to see particular attractions, better to slow down and enjoy the pace and the smell of the sea air.
5/ Luarca
Luarca is one of Asturias’ classic fishing towns, with whitewashed houses stacked around a small harbour. There’s a lighthouse on the headland and narrow lanes to explore.
It has a slightly weathered feel — reminiscent of an old British seaside town. We loved the quirkiness of it.
6/ Gijón
Gijón is the largest city in Asturias and perhaps the most lively. I think to get the most out of a visit to this city, you have to look past the slightly unsightly architecture along the seafront.
Beyond that, the beaches are lovely sweeping stretches of sand. The Cimadevilla neighbourhood is full of life — narrow streets, local bars, and viewpoints over the coast.
Like much of Asturias, the food and wine scene here is thriving. We loved popping and and out of wine bars, trying local blends.
Top sights in Gijón include the San Lorenzo Beach, perfect for a morning walk or a swim in summer, and the Elogio del Horizonte, a striking sculpture by Eduardo Chillida that crowns the headland above the old town.
7/ Salas
Moving inland, Salas is one of those places that captures rural Asturias in miniature: stone houses, a central square, and friendly cafés. It’s not a place to spend a long time, but ideal to stop by for a little mooch around and a slow coffee.
Don’t miss the chance to try carajitos from La Casa del Profesor — crumbly hazelnut biscuits that have been made here for over a century. They’re a local specialty and the perfect sweet boost, before you continue exploring.
8/ Tineo
Tineo is an absolute gem. It’s big enough to have all the amenities you could want — shops, cafés, restaurants — but still feels unmistakably Asturian.
The historic centre is compact, yet atmospheric and colourful.
Wandering through the winding streets, you’ll find arcaded houses, quiet squares and a scattering of noble palaces that hint at Tineo’s former importance.
The Gothic church of San Pedro, with its later baroque façade, is the main landmark. We loved enjoying cider at Sidrería El Refugio – a casual family run place with views over the countryside.
You can find our detailed guide to Tineo here.
9/ Pola de Allande
Pola de Allande is one of the prettiest small towns in the interior, hidden in a valley and surrounded by thick forests. It’s peaceful and slightly remote, with traditional slate-roofed houses and friendly locals.
The Camino Primitivo passes through here too, climbing steeply out of town towards the high passes beyond. Even if you’re just driving through, it’s worth stopping for a walk and a meal — it’s Asturias at its most authentic.
10/ Ribadesella
If you’re looking for a classic Asturian beach town, Ribadesella is it. It’s set around a broad sandy bay, backed by hills and elegant old villas.
The river divides the town in two — the old quarter on one side, and the beach promenade on the other. In summer, it’s popular but rarely overcrowded.
From here, you can walk part of the coastal path towards Llanes or take a trip inland to see the prehistoric cave paintings at Tito Bustillo.
Ribadesella is also known for it’s food scene – Restaurante Ayalga is a seafront, fine dining extravaganza.
Written by Emma
Wine Lover. Yogi. Hiker. Writer.
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