Gijón is known for its rugged Atlantic coastline, traditional Asturian cider culture and a perfect blend of seaside charm and industrial soul. Located in the Asturias region of northern Spain, this coastal city offers a refreshing take on Spanish travel—less crowded, deeply authentic and full of green hills, historic quarters and salty sea air.
Whether you're walking along the bay, sipping cider with locals or exploring Roman ruins by the beach, here are 10 unforgettable experiences that show exactly what Gijón is known for.
1. Cimavilla Old Town
Cimavilla is Gijón’s historic heart—an atmospheric peninsula of stone streets, red-tiled rooftops and sea views at every turn. Once a fishermen’s quarter, this clifftop neighborhood is now filled with cafés, cider houses and artisan shops, yet still retains its working-class character.
Wander past laundry lines, chatty locals and murals that tell stories of the city’s maritime past. Don’t miss the colorful Plaza Mayor and the charming stair-stepped lanes that rise toward Gijón’s most iconic sculpture, Elogio del Horizonte.
2. Elogio del Horizonte
Perched at the top of Cimavilla in Cerro de Santa Catalina park, Elogio del Horizonte is a massive concrete sculpture by Eduardo Chillida—and one of Gijón’s most recognizable symbols. Shaped like a giant horseshoe, it’s positioned to frame the horizon over the Bay of Biscay.
When the wind is just right, the sea breeze whooshes through the sculpture’s curves, creating a subtle, echoing sound. It’s one of the most peaceful and poetic things to do in Gijón, especially at sunset when the light hits the ocean just right.
3. Playa de San Lorenzo
Gijón is known for its sweeping urban beach, Playa de San Lorenzo. Stretching over a mile along the city’s coastline, this golden-sand beach is a favorite spot for locals to swim, surf and stroll.
The beach is backed by a scenic promenade lined with cafés and art deco buildings, offering panoramic views of the sea. At low tide, the sand seems to stretch forever. Whether you’re sunbathing, taking a surf lesson or watching the waves crash over the seawall, San Lorenzo is the soul of Gijón’s waterfront.
4. Sidra Culture
No visit to Gijón is complete without experiencing traditional Asturian sidra (cider). Unlike other regions, cider here is poured with flair—from high above the head to aerate the drink and release its natural fizz. It’s a ritual, a performance and a social tradition all in one.
Head to a sidrería in Cimavilla or around Calle Gascona (known as “Cider Boulevard”) to try a bottle the local way—served in small amounts and drunk immediately. Pair it with fabada asturiana (a rich bean stew), grilled chorizo or queso cabrales (a pungent blue cheese from the nearby mountains).
5. Jardín Botánico Atlántico
Just outside the city center, the Atlantic Botanical Garden is a lush escape filled with more than 30 acres of native and exotic plant life. It focuses on the ecosystems of the Atlantic arc, from Ireland to northern Spain, with pathways winding through forests, ponds and themed gardens.
It’s not just about flowers—this peaceful space also highlights the region’s agricultural history and offers quiet corners to sit and reflect. A visit here is one of the most relaxing things to do in Gijón, especially on a sunny afternoon.
6. Roman Baths Museum
Located right under Cimavilla, the Museo de las Termas Romanas offers a look into the ancient roots of Gijón. These underground Roman baths, dating back to the 1st century, were discovered beneath the old town and have been beautifully preserved.
Interactive exhibits and projections help bring the site to life, showing how Romans used the space not only to bathe but also to socialize and relax. It’s a small but fascinating window into the city’s deep past.
7. Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura
On the eastern edge of Gijón stands Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura, a massive architectural complex that was originally built as a university and orphanage under Franco. Today, it’s a cultural hub with museums, workshops, theaters and art exhibits.
Climb the tower—the tallest building in Asturias—for sweeping views over the city and surrounding countryside. The space hosts everything from design festivals to dance performances and is one of the most dynamic places to experience modern culture in Gijón.
8. La Ruta del Norte
Gijón is a major stop on the Camino del Norte, the northern route of the Camino de Santiago. Hikers and pilgrims pass through the city on their way west toward Santiago de Compostela, adding a spiritual and international flavor to Gijón’s atmosphere.
Even if you’re not walking the full Camino, you can stroll a scenic portion of the trail as it hugs the coastline. It’s a peaceful way to explore nearby coves, villages and viewpoints.
9. Mercado del Sur
For a taste of local life, head to Gijón’s Mercado del Sur. This traditional market near the city center is packed with colorful stalls selling produce, meats, cheeses and fresh seafood. Upstairs, you’ll find flower vendors and cafés buzzing with locals.
It’s a great place to pick up snacks for a beach picnic or shop for edible souvenirs like morcilla (blood sausage), homemade honey or jars of pickled peppers. Markets like this give Gijón its lively, down-to-earth personality.
10. Green Mountains and Day Trips
Surrounded by green hills and jagged peaks, Gijón is perfectly positioned for exploring the natural beauty of Asturias. A short drive inland takes you to places like the Picos de Europa or the quaint town of Cangas de Onís, with its famous Roman bridge and outdoor adventure options.
Closer to home, you can explore hidden beaches, forest trails and clifftop viewpoints. Whether you’re mountain biking, hiking or taking a scenic coastal drive, the surrounding landscape is one of the reasons Gijón feels so wild and wonderful.
What is the Gijón Known For?
Gijón is known for its vibrant cider culture, Atlantic beaches and blend of ancient roots with modern energy. From soaking in the views at Elogio del Horizonte to sipping sidra in a seaside tavern or walking Roman ruins just steps from the beach, the best things to do in Gijón capture the spirit of northern Spain at its most authentic.
It’s a city that surprises—not with flash, but with depth, tradition and a deep connection to the sea and the mountains that surround it.
