Oviedo is one of the preferred destinations in Asturias for visitors due to its wide range of attractions that suit all tastes and its landscapes. It is a council area whose capital is the city of the same name, as well as being, of course, the capital of the Principality of Asturias.
The council area is made up of 30 parishes, including Oviedo itself, Naranco, Naves, Nora, Manzaneda, Manjoya, Latores, Loriana, Limanes, Lillo, Caces, Godos, Cruces, Agueria, Brañes, Box, Bendones, Olloniego, Pando, Pintoria, Pereda, Piedramuelle, Puerto, Priorio, Santianes, San Claudio, Sograndrio, Trubia, Udrión and Villapérez.
It’s one of the most accessible parts of Asturias, easily reached by car or public transport, including bus and train.You can also arrive by plane and get straight to the action, as there’s an airport shuttle bus which takes less than an hour to reach the city centre.
Whether you're coming for the day or staying for a short break - we recommend spending around 4 days here - there are a couple of things to do and to see that you can’t miss.
It makes sense to start at one of the most emblematic landmarks in the city of Oviedo: the cathedral. This historic building has gothic features that are best seen on the façade and the tower. Inside, a treasure trove of religious art, not to mention the beautiful Cámara Santa (also known as the chapel of St Michael), is waiting to be discovered.
Aside from the cathedral, the Plaza del Fontán is perhaps the most charming part of Oviedo. This square is one of the most lively places in the city and it is here where you’ll find one of the oldest markets in the whole of Asturias.
To immerse yourself still further in the culture and history of the city, you should also visit the two main museums, the Museum of Archaeology and the Museum of Fine Arts. When it comes to the dramatic arts, you can’t miss the Campoamor Theatre, a cultural hub which hosts a prestigious opera festival, featuring the biggest names in the field alongside exciting newcomers.
But we all need to spend time in green spaces too, so let’s head to the Campo de San Francisco, a park in the city centre that acts as the urban area’s lungs. If its fountains, trees and lawns aren’t enough for you, why not visit Monte Naranco? Standing outside the city limits, this World Heritage Site boasts some of the best examples of early mediaeval architecture in the country.
The number and variety of accommodation options is huge - and it’s getting bigger every year. When it comes to holiday cottages, you’ll find some top-shelf examples that boast installations such as jacuzzis and even swimming pools. A surefire way to enjoy your stay is to pick a traditional hotel in the city centre and live the life of city streets, wandering up and down the main commercial thoroughfares such as Uría Street.
However, you might just as well want to escape the hustle and bustle, in which case a holiday home in the countryside near Oviedo might be your best option - and the best bargain. Any money that you have left over can be put towards a meal that represents the gastronomic variety of the region.
Sampling the delights of Oviedo is a voyage of discovery that will surely include a rich fabada, some local meats and maybe a cachopo - a dish made up of layers of beef, ham and cheese. And, to wash it all down, a couple of glasses of local cider is the cherry on top!
