Things to Do in Oviedo

Oviedo is a city that quietly steals your heart. Woody Allen called it a fairy tale, and honestly, he wasn’t wrong. Cobbled squares, grand cathedrals, and cider bars fill this Asturian capital. Plus, it never feels overrun with tourists. So, whether you love history, food, or just a good wander, here’s our pick of the best things to do in Oviedo.

Catedral de San Salvador

This Gothic cathedral dominates Oviedo’s old town, and it’s been the city’s spiritual heart for centuries. Inside, the Catedral de San Salvador houses the Cámara Santa, a pre-Romanesque chamber holding priceless royal relics. UNESCO listed it as a World Heritage Site back in 1998. Meanwhile, the cathedral also marks the start of the Camino Primitivo, the oldest pilgrim route to Santiago. Because the site gets busy in peak season, it’s worth booking your visit through the official website in advance. Give yourself at least an hour to explore the cloister and museum too.

Santa María del Naranco

Perched on a hillside above the city, this striking building started life as a royal palace in 848 AD. Later, it became a church, though the original structure barely changed. Today, Santa María del Naranco is one of the finest examples of Asturian pre-Romanesque architecture anywhere in Spain. A short walk uphill brings you to its sister church, San Miguel de Lillo. Tickets cover both buildings, so plan for a combined visit. Since access is guided only, booking ahead avoids disappointment. The views back over Oviedo make the climb well worth it.

Calle Gascona

Nicknamed the Boulevard of Cider, this lively street is where Oviedo comes to eat and drink. Over thirty sidrerías line Calle Gascona, each pouring Asturian cider the traditional way. Servers hold the bottle high above their head, splashing a thin stream into the glass below. It’s a skill called escanciar, and it’s genuinely fun to watch. Afterwards, order a plate of fabada asturiana or grilled chorizo to soak it all up. Evenings here buzz with locals and visitors alike. For more ideas on what to order, check our guide to 3 foods to try in Oviedo.

Cachopo

If you try one dish in Oviedo, make it cachopo. This hearty Asturian classic consists of two beef steaks, stuffed with cheese and ham, then breaded and fried. It’s rich, filling, and usually enormous, so sharing is common. Most sidrerías and traditional restaurants serve their own version, often with a side of chips. Because portions are so generous, it pairs perfectly with a light salad beforehand. Locals argue endlessly over who makes the best one, so don’t be afraid to try a few. Either way, it’s a proper taste of Asturian comfort food.

Plaza del Fontán and Mercado El Fontán

This elegant arcaded square sits right in the heart of the old town. Colourful buildings wrap around a lively plaza, filled with cafés and outdoor tables. Underneath, the Mercado El Fontán has traded fresh produce since the 19th century. Stallholders sell everything from local cheeses to seasonal fruit and fish. Sundays bring an antiques and flea market to the square too, adding even more buzz. Consequently, it’s a great spot to soak up daily life away from the main sights. Grab a coffee and watch the world go by for a while.

Woody Allen Statue

Yes, there really is a bronze statue of Woody Allen in Oviedo. The city honoured him after he called Oviedo “a fairy tale” while accepting the Prince of Asturias Award in 2002. Sculptor Vicente Santarúa created the lifelike figure, which now stands on Calle Milicias Nacionales. Many visitors pose alongside it, mimicking his thoughtful walking stance. It’s quirky, a little unexpected, and a fun photo stop between the cathedral and Gascona. Because it sits so centrally, you’ll likely pass it without even trying.

Teatro Campoamor

This grand 19th-century theatre hosts Spain’s prestigious Princesa de Asturias Awards each autumn. Even outside awards season, the building’s ornate façade is worth a look. Inside, red velvet seats and gilded balconies recall the theatre’s belle époque origins. Throughout the year, it stages opera, concerts, and touring productions. Because Oviedo’s cultural calendar centres around this venue, checking upcoming performances is worthwhile before your trip. Even a quick photo outside adds real charm to a stroll through the old town.

Parque de San Francisco

After all that sightseeing, this leafy park offers a welcome break. Towering trees, quiet paths, and a small pond make it a peaceful spot in the city centre. Squirrels and peacocks wander freely, which delights younger visitors especially. Locals jog, read, or simply relax on benches throughout the day. Because it sits so close to the cathedral, it’s easy to combine both in one visit. Bring a coffee from a nearby café and enjoy a slower pace for half an hour.

Fabada Asturiana

This hearty bean stew is Asturias’ most famous dish, and Oviedo is a brilliant place to try it. Fabada asturiana combines large white beans with chorizo, morcilla, and pork belly, slow-cooked until tender. It’s rich, warming, and best enjoyed on a cooler day. Most traditional restaurants serve it as a main course, often with bread on the side. Because it’s such a filling dish, many locals treat it as a proper Sunday lunch. For more on where to find the best version in town, see our guide to where to eat in Oviedo.

Museo de Bellas Artes de Asturias

Art lovers shouldn’t skip this excellent regional gallery. Housed across several connected buildings in the old town, the museum displays works by Goya, El Greco, and Picasso. Meanwhile, Asturian artists get plenty of space too, offering a strong sense of local heritage. Entry is free, which makes it an easy addition to any itinerary. Rooms are well laid out and rarely crowded, so you can take your time. Afterwards, the surrounding streets are perfect for continuing your wander through the historic centre.

Day Trips from Oviedo

Once you’ve explored the city, Asturias’ dramatic coastline and mountains are within easy reach. Fishing villages, waterfalls, and the Picos de Europa all make brilliant additions to a longer stay. For inspiration, take a look at our full guide to the best day trips from Oviedo, or our 3-day itinerary for Oviedo if you’re planning a longer visit.

Closing Thoughts

Oviedo rewards visitors who take things slowly. Wander its cobbled streets, sample cider the proper way, and let the history sink in. Between the pre-Romanesque churches, hearty Asturian food, and quirky city charm, there’s plenty to fill a memorable trip. So take your time, order another plate of cachopo, and see why this fairy tale city keeps drawing people back.