Attractions and Places To See around Oviède - Top 20

Oviedo is rich in history, featuring several UNESCO World Heritage sites. You can explore the impressive Cathedral of San Salvador in Oviedo, which houses the Cámara Santa with significant Christian relics. Don't miss the unique Asturian Pre-Romanesque architecture at sites like Saint Mary of Naranco and Church of San Miguel de Lillo, both originally royal palaces or chapels from the 9th century. The city's Old Town also offers medieval charm with historic buildings.

Yes, the area around Oviedo offers stunning natural beauty. The Route of the Xanas is a spectacular gorge with a path carved into rock, often compared to the Ruta del Cares. Monte Naranco, where Saint Mary of Naranco is located, provides panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. You can also explore the Nora River Meanders and the Guanga or Buanga Waterfalls for scenic hiking.

For families, the Saint Mary of Naranco and Church of San Miguel de Lillo are historical sites that can be enjoyed by all ages. The Campo de San Francisco, Oviedo's central park, is perfect for relaxing strolls, with ancient trees, sculptures, and duck ponds. The Ponte de Galiñeiro, a 13th-century bridge, is also noted as family-friendly.

To immerse yourself in local life, visit the Mercado El Fontán, a vibrant covered market where you can find Asturian products like cheeses and cider. The surrounding Plaza del Fontán is also very picturesque. For a taste of Asturian cider culture, head to Calle Gascona, known as 'El Bulevar de la Sidra,' where you can experience the unique tradition of 'escanciado' (pouring cider from a height).

Oviedo is a great base for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for mountain biking, gravel biking, and cycling. For example, explore the 'Oviedo and Nalón River Loop' for MTB or the 'Oviedo to Fuso de la Reina on the Via Verde' for cycling. You can find more details on these and other routes in the MTB Trails around Oviède, Gravel biking around Oviède, and Cycling around Oviède guides.

Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. The Route of the Xanas is a popular and comfortable hiking route through a gorge. Monte Naranco also offers walking paths with beautiful views. For more extensive hiking, consider day trips to the Lakes of Covadonga and Picos de Europa National Park, approximately 1.5 hours from Oviedo, which feature stunning landscapes and scenic trails.

Oviedo and its surroundings are famous for their Asturian Pre-Romanesque architecture from the 9th century, a unique style that significantly influenced religious architecture on the Iberian Peninsula. Key examples like Santa María del Naranco, San Miguel de Lillo, and San Julián de los Prados are UNESCO World Heritage sites. These structures, originally royal palaces or churches, showcase early medieval architectural innovation.

Absolutely. Oviedo is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Cámara Santa within the Cathedral of San Salvador is one. Additionally, the Asturian Pre-Romanesque monuments, including Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo, are part of this prestigious list. You can find more information about these sites on the UNESCO website.

Oviedo is known for its clean, pedestrian-friendly streets and its numerous extraordinary statues, which create an open-air museum. You can find notable examples like 'La Maternidad' by Fernando Botero in Plaza de la Escandalera and a bronze statue of film director Woody Allen. The city's Old Town is characterized by narrow, charming streets and architecturally splendid buildings.

Oviedo offers several notable museums. The Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias, housed in two palaces, boasts one of Spain's best art collections, featuring works by artists like Dalí, Ribera, Miró, Picasso, El Greco, and Goya. The Archaeological Museum of Asturias, located in the former Convent of San Vicente, provides an extensive journey through the history of Asturias, from prehistory to the Middle Ages.

Visitors frequently praise the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The Route of the Xanas is highly regarded for its spectacular gorge and comfortable path. The Cathedral of San Salvador and the Pre-Romanesque sites like Saint Mary of Naranco are appreciated for their unique architecture and historical depth. The city's clean, pedestrian-friendly environment and vibrant local culture also receive positive feedback.

Yes, Oviedo offers various amenities. The lively Calle Gascona, known as the 'Cider District,' is lined with traditional cider houses and is a great place for drinks and local food. The Mercado El Fontán and its surrounding square also provide opportunities to sample local products and enjoy cafes. Many attractions within the city center are close to dining options.