Things to Do in Asturias

Asturias sits along Spain’s rugged north coast, and it feels wonderfully wild. Green mountains tumble straight down to the Atlantic here, and cider houses outnumber tapas bars. Locals proudly call it “Paraíso Natural,” or natural paradise, and one visit shows you why. Unlike much of sun-baked Spain, this region stays green and cool for most of the year.

From soaring peaks to prehistoric caves, this region rewards curious travellers. The food alone justifies the trip, and the coastline rivals anywhere in Spain. Hikers, foodies, and beach lovers all find something here to enjoy. Below, you’ll find twelve brilliant things to do in Asturias. Each one captures a different side of this green, dramatic corner of the country.

Hike Picos de Europa National Park

First on the list, Picos de Europa National Park delivers some of Spain’s most jaw-dropping scenery. Jagged limestone peaks rise sharply above green valleys, creating trails for every fitness level. You can ride a cable car up to Fuente Dé for easy views, or tackle a full day’s hike instead. Serious hikers often tackle the Ruta del Cares, a dramatic gorge trail carved into the cliffside. Because weather changes fast in the mountains, always check conditions before setting off.

Cross the Roman Bridge in Cangas de Onís

Next, head to Cangas de Onís, the old capital of the Asturian kingdom. Its arched stone bridge, hung with a replica of the Cross of Victory, is the most photographed spot in town. Underneath, the river runs clear and cold, perfect for a summer paddle. The town also makes a great base for exploring the wider Picos de Europa region. Afterwards, browse the Sunday market for local cheese and honey.

Visit the Covadonga Lakes and Sanctuary

From Cangas de Onís, it’s a short drive to the Covadonga Sanctuary, tucked into a dramatic cliffside cave. This site marks where Christian forces first pushed back against Moorish rule in 722. Higher up, the Covadonga Lakes offer glassy water framed by mountain peaks, and wild horses often wander the surrounding meadows. Since private cars are restricted here in summer, you’ll need to catch a shuttle bus. Buy Tickets

Explore Oviedo’s Old Town

Meanwhile, Asturias’s capital, Oviedo, deserves a full day of wandering. Its cathedral anchors a maze of stone streets packed with cider bars and quirky statues. Look out for the bronze Woody Allen statue, placed there after the director praised the city publicly. Since Oviedo also marks the start of the Camino Primitivo, you’ll often spot pilgrims setting off from here too. The pre-Romanesque churches scattered around the city’s edge also earn Oviedo a spot on the UNESCO list.

Relax on San Lorenzo Beach in Gijón

Along the coast, Gijón boasts one of Spain’s best city beaches, San Lorenzo. A long promenade runs the full length of the sand, ideal for an evening stroll. Surfers ride the waves here even in winter, since the water rarely gets too cold to try. Nearby, the Cerro de Santa Catalina park offers brilliant sea views and a striking modern sculpture. Grab a bench, watch the sunset, and you’ll understand why locals love this spot so much.

Wander the Colourful Village of Cudillero

Further along the coast, the fishing village of Cudillero tumbles down a steep cliff in a rainbow of painted houses. Narrow lanes twist between them, all leading down to a tiny working harbour. Fishing boats still unload their catch here each morning, which lands straight on nearby restaurant menus. Climb up to the viewpoint above town for the best photo of the whole scene. Early risers can also watch the boats return with the day’s fresh sardines and hake.

See Prehistoric Art at Tito Bustillo Cave

Near Ribadesella, the Tito Bustillo Cave holds some of Europe’s finest prehistoric paintings. Ancient artists drew horses and deer on these walls over 20,000 years ago, using little more than charcoal and natural pigments. Because only a limited number of visitors are allowed inside each day, book your slot well ahead through the official site above. Afterwards, wander down to Ribadesella’s riverside old town for lunch by the water.

Discover the Beaches of Llanes

Over in Llanes, colourful painted “cubos” decorate the harbour wall, giving the town an instant postcard look. From there, a coastal path connects dozens of small beaches tucked between cliffs. Each cove has its own character, so it’s worth exploring a few rather than settling on the first one. The old town also hides a small medieval wall and a busy fishing port worth a wander. Bring good shoes, since some beaches require a short scramble down from the path.

Marvel at Playa de Gulpiyuri

Just outside Llanes, Playa de Gulpiyuri ranks among Spain’s strangest beaches. This tiny stretch of sand sits inland, cut off from the sea by a rocky headland. Seawater still reaches it, though, flowing in through hidden underground tunnels carved from the limestone. Because there’s no direct sea access, swimming happens in a calm, sheltered pool rather than open waves. The whole beach measures barely 50 metres across, which only adds to its charm.

Explore Avilés’ Historic Quarter

Often overlooked, Avilés hides a beautifully preserved old town behind its industrial reputation. Arcaded streets and grand old mansions recall its days as a busy medieval port. Meanwhile, the striking Niemeyer Centre adds a splash of modern architecture down by the river, hosting concerts and art exhibitions year-round. Visit during the Semana Santa festival, when the streets fill with processions and music.

Feast on Fabada and Cachopo

You can’t leave Asturias without trying its two signature dishes, both proudly listed on our guide to Asturian food. Fabada is a rich bean stew loaded with chorizo, morcilla, and pork, usually served bubbling hot in a clay pot. Cachopo, meanwhile, is a giant breaded cutlet stuffed with ham and cheese, easily big enough to share. Most restaurants serve both dishes in portions meant for sharing, so bring an appetite. Order either one at a local sidrería, and you’ll leave properly full.

Pour and Sip Asturian Cider

Finally, no trip here is complete without watching a waiter pour cider the traditional way. Escanciar involves holding the bottle high overhead and the glass low, splashing the cider to release its fizz. Head to any lively spot on Gijón’s cider street, where dozens of bars line up side by side. Each pour uses just a small splash, so you drink it quickly before it goes flat. Don’t worry about spilling a little, either, since locals do it too and simply pour another round.

Asturias rewards travellers who want mountains, coastline, and serious food all in one trip. From prehistoric caves to giant cachopos, this region never runs short of surprises. Every valley seems to hide its own village, its own cheese, and its own cider bar, so it’s worth taking things slowly. So pick a handful of stops from this list, pack good walking shoes, and let the Asturian coast do the rest. If you’d like a ready-made plan, check out our 7-day itinerary for Asturias to fit it all in.