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There are an array of things to do in Spain, with Oviedo sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled among the lush mountains of northern Spain, Oviedo is a city that bursts with culture, charm, and history.
From strolling through picturesque streets lined with colourful buildings to indulging in delicious local cuisine, the city offers a plethora of experiences that are sure to captivate all who visit its enchanting corners.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Oviedo:
1. Old Town of Oviedo
The Old Town of Oviedo is the historic center of the city of Oviedo in northern Spain. It is known for its beautiful architecture, narrow streets, and historic landmarks.
What to see or do: – Visit the Cathedral of San Salvador, a stunning Gothic-style building that dates back to the 13th century.
Don’t miss: – The Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias, which has a large collection of paintings from Spanish artists, including El Greco and Goya.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the Fiesta de San Mateo in September for a lively and festive atmosphere.
2. Santa María del Naranco
Santa María del Naranco is a pre-Romanesque Asturian architecture masterpiece located on the slope of Mount Naranco, Oviedo, Spain.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the stunning interiors of the church, and marvel at the intricate design and details that date back to the 9th century.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the church’s ornate dome and impressive archways, which showcase the skill and craftsmanship of the talented Asturian architects.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit Santa María del Naranco during the early hours of the day, when it is less crowded and the natural light perfectly illuminates the beauty of the church.
Don’t forget to bring your camera, as the scenery and views of the surrounding mountains are absolutely breathtaking.
3. Plaza del Fontán
Plaza del Fontán is a bustling square located in the heart of Oviedo, Spain.
What to see or do: The square is renowned for its traditional market, which has been held here since the Middle Ages. Stroll through the market stalls selling fresh produce, cheese, wine, and other local specialties.
Don’t miss: Be sure to try the famous cider, Asturias’ signature drink, which is poured from above the head into a glass held at waist height.
Insider travel tips: Head to Plaza del Fontán early in the morning to experience the market at its liveliest. Don’t be afraid to haggle with vendors for the best deals on local goods.
And if you’re looking for a memorable meal, try one of the nearby restaurants serving traditional Asturian cuisine.
4. Oviedo Cathedral (Cathedral of San Salvador)
A magnificent Gothic cathedral located in the city of Oviedo, Spain, dedicated to San Salvador (Holy Savior).
What to see or do: Admire the intricate and stunning architecture of the cathedral, including the rose window, the altarpiece, and the Holy Chamber.
Explore the museum inside the cathedral that exhibits important religious relics, such as the Holy Ark, the Cross of the Angels and the Agate box.
Don’t miss: Visiting the Holy Chamber that takes you back to the time of the Asturian kingdom with pre-Romanesque art and architecture.
Observing the colorful stained-glass windows that graze the walls of the cathedral and taking a moment to sit and soak in the peaceful ambiance.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit during the off-season to avoid the crowds. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the beautiful details of the cathedral.
Consider hiring a guide to learn more about the rich history of the cathedral and its importance to the region.
5. Campoamor Theatre
Campoamor Theatre is a historic theater located in the center of Oviedo, Spain.
What to see or do: Visitors can tour the theater and experience the grandeur of its neoclassical architecture. The theater also hosts a variety of cultural events, including music performances, opera, theater productions, and dance shows.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to attend a performance in the stunning main hall, which boasts a capacity of over 1,200 seats.
The theater’s opulent interiors, adorned with rich velvet fabrics and ornate gold leaf, are sure to impress.
Insider travel tips: – Book your tickets in advance for popular shows, as Campoamor Theatre is a beloved cultural institution in Oviedo.
6. Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias
Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias is a renowned art museum in Oviedo, Spain.
What to see or do: The Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias houses an extensive collection of artwork belonging to the medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque periods.
The museum boasts an impressive collection of Spanish paintings, including works by Goya, El Greco, and Zurbarán. Visitors can also admire the museum’s collection of Flemish and Italian paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see some of the most stunning pieces of Spanish art like Virgin of the Battles, the Holy Family with St.
Anne, and many other artworks of great cultural significance.
Insider travel tips: – Entry to the museum is free on Wednesday afternoons and all day on Saturdays and Sundays.
7. Campo de San Francisco
Campo de San Francisco is a historic park located in the heart of Oviedo, Spain.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll around the tree-lined paths, relax on a bench or enjoy a picnic in the shady grassy areas. The park is adorned with beautiful fountains, monuments, and sculptures of famous personalities such as Woody Allen and Mafalda.
Don’t miss: Do not miss taking a look at the Statue of the Apostle which is an iconic landmark and one of the most photographed monuments in the city.
Insider travel tips: Visit the park during the weekend to watch the local street performers, musicians, and artists show off their skills. The park is also a popular spot for joggers, dog walkers, and families to spend quality time outdoors.
8. Plaza Porlier
A historic square located in the center of Oviedo, Asturias, Spain.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the beautiful square and admire the stunning buildings that surround it. Marvel at the statue of General Rafael de Riego, a Spanish military officer who fought for liberal reform and democracy.
Don’t miss: Plaza Porlier is surrounded by some of Oviedo’s most famous buildings, including the Casas del Cuitu and the Palacio de Camposagrado.
Be sure to take a close look at the intricate architecture of these stunning buildings.
Insider travel tips: Visiting Plaza Porlier during the day is a must, but it’s even more magical at night when the buildings are illuminated.
Don’t be afraid to stop at one of the nearby cafes for a cup of coffee and people-watching.
9. University of Oviedo Historical Building
The University of Oviedo’s Historical Building is a neoclassical structure built in the 16th century.
What to see or do: The building houses several faculties, including philosophy and letters, law, and economics and business. Visitors can take guided tours of the building to discover its architectural and historical significance.
Don’t miss: The University of Oviedo’s Historical Building is home to several beautiful halls, including the Paraninfo, which is used for official university ceremonies.
The Paraninfo boasts magnificent frescoes and ornate ceilings that are not to be missed.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should take note that the guided tours are only available on certain days and at certain times, so it is worth checking ahead to ensure availability.
Additionally, photography is not permitted inside the building, so visitors should be sure to take in the beauty of the building without their cameras.
10. San Julián de los Prados
Historical church in Oviedo, Spain.
What to see or do: Admire the pre-Romanesque architecture of the church, including its unique decorative elements like animal figures and intricate carvings. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of San Julián de los Prados.
Don’t miss: The beautiful frescoes inside the church, which are some of the finest examples of early medieval art in Spain.
Insider travel tips: San Julián de los Prados can get crowded during peak tourist season, so plan to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes as there is a fair amount of walking involved, and bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and art.
11. Fontán Market
Fontán Market is a bustling indoor market in the heart of the historic center of Oviedo that has been operating since the 19th century.
What to see or do: Visitors to Fontán Market can browse stalls selling fresh local produce, including meat, fish, fruits, and vegetables. You can also find regional specialities such as Asturian cider, cheeses, and pastries.
The market is loved by both locals and visitors, making it a great place to experience the local food culture of Oviedo.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to try the local Asturian cider, which is served in a unique way called “escanciar.” Also, try the sliced meats such as ham, the local cheeses, and the “casadielles,” a delicious local dessert.
Insider travel tips: Visit the market in the morning when it’s at its busiest, and grab a quick “café con leche” at one of the bars inside the market.
Also, be sure to bring cash, as some vendors may not accept credit cards.
Finally, haggle with vendors to get the best prices, as it’s part of the market culture and can be quite fun.
12. Palace of Camposagrado
A grand palace located in the heart of Oviedo, Asturias in Spain.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens, ornate fountains, and impressive architecture of the palace. The interiors are rich with exquisite artworks, antique furniture, and historical artifacts.
The museum inside the palace displays a wide collection of paintings, sculptures, and other items from various artists.
Don’t miss: The impressive stained glass ornamented chapel, the beautiful ballroom, and the medieval kitchen designed in a unique and beautiful way.
Insider travel tips: The Palace of Camposagrado is open year-round and guided tours are available. It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
The palace can be easily reached on foot from the city center or by using public transportation. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture some incredible images.
13. Plazuela del Marqués
Plazuela del Marqués is a small square in the historic center of Oviedo, Spain.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll around the square, admire the traditional Asturian architecture, and stop by the cafes and restaurants that surround it.
It’s also a popular spot for locals to gather and enjoy a drink or a chat.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the sculpture of Marqués de San Feliz, which stands in the middle of the square. It’s a tribute to a famous local nobleman who contributed to the development of the city.
Insider travel tips: If you visit Plazuela del Marqués on a Saturday morning, you’ll find a small farmers’ market where you can buy fresh local produce and some souvenirs to take home.
Also, don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with locals – they’re usually eager to share their love for Oviedo and its culture.
14. Convent of Las Pelayas
The Convent of Las Pelayas in Oviedo is a beautiful religious building that dates back to the 15th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the stunning architecture of the convent, including the impressive Gothic-style cloister and church. The convent also houses a museum with exhibits of religious art and artifacts.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the beautiful stained glass windows in the church, as well as the intricate carvings on the choir stalls.
Additionally, take time to appreciate the peaceful and serene atmosphere of the convent.
Insider travel tips: – The convent is still home to a community of nuns, so visitors should be respectful of their peaceful lifestyle and keep noise to a minimum.
15. Museum of the Asturian People
Museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Asturian people.
What to see or do: Admire the extensive collection of regional artifacts, from tools used in traditional industries like mining and farming, to folk art and clothing.
Wander through recreated traditional houses and workshops to gain insight into the daily lives of Asturians throughout the ages.
Don’t miss: The permanent exhibition on the ancient Asturian Kingdom, one of the first to resist Roman invasion in Spain. Be sure to also check out the temporary exhibitions, which often highlight contemporary artists and cultural events in Asturias.
Insider travel tips: The museum can get quite busy during peak tourist season, so consider visiting during the quieter hours in the morning or late afternoon.
Make sure to also check out the outdoor gardens surrounding the museum, which feature sculptures and a beautiful view of the historic city of Oviedo.
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