Things to do in Santiago del Monte

With golden sand and a beautiful seaside outlook, San Lorenzo Beach is a favorite for tourists and residents of Gijón alike. Make the short walk down from the town center to discover this beloved urban beach.

Oviedo Cathedral is a distinctive basilica with an eclectic array of architectural styles. including Baroque, Gothic, Renaissance and Romanesque. Inspect the marvelous array of artworks and religious relics found in every corner of this fine cathedral.

The Calle Uria is considered the main artery of Oviedo’s old quarter in the heart of the city. Partly running alongside the edge of the Campo de San Francisco park, the street comprises a wide avenue flanked by restaurants, bars and the main commercial outlets of the city. Snap photos of some of the most impressive buildings that line this iconic street.

Centro Niemeyer, or the Oscar Niemeyer International Cultural Centre, is recognizable by its tower, dome and bright colors. The center is a hub for the arts, education and film among other themes.

Dive deep into the world beneath the seas at the Aquarium of Gijón (Acuario de Gijón), which houses thousands of specimens in its extensive collection of underwater flora and fauna. Follow the aquarium’s tour through some 60 tanks, which are organized to represent the world’s major aquatic environments ranging from local rivers to reefs, seas and oceans. Turtles, bull sharks and otters are just a few of the highlights along the way.

While you are exploring Oviedo’s Old Town, stop for a while at Oviedo Town Hall, a monumental 17th-century building that serves as the official offices of the local government. The beautiful building sits on the Plaza de la Constitucion and was constructed in the 1620s from a design by the architect Juan de Naveda. He was responsible for numerous buildings in several Spanish cities including Burgos and Pamplona.

As the old town district of the city, Cimadevilla (Cimavilla in English) contains many of Gijón’s most fascinating and spectacular sights. It is known for its well-preserved Roman ruins and the hilltop Elogio del Horizonte sculpture that overlooks the Bay of Biscay. Stroll through this charming neighborhood on foot for a glimpse into the traditions and history of Gijón.