· ES

Gijón

Gijon, Asturias, Spain

Gijón: Where the Green Coast Meets Urban Cool Nestled on Spain's northern coast, Gijón is a vibrant city that effortlessly blends its industrial past with a modern, cosmopolitan edge. Framed by the majestic Cantabrian Se…

#coastal city#beaches#Asturias region#cultural heritage#tourist destination

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Gijón.

Top Hotels in Gijón

Top Flights to Gijón

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Gijón.

Tours

Gijón Old Town Exploration

Explore the historic streets of Gijón’s old town, known as Cimavilla, a charming area with colorful buildings, narrow alleys, and stunning views of the sea.

Laboral City of Culture

Visit the Laboral City of Culture, a unique complex with cultural and educational attractions.

Jovellanos Birthplace Museum

A museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos, a renowned Spanish writer and philosopher.

Gijón Aquarium

An extensive display of marine life from the Atlantic and local Asturian ecosystems.

Shopping

San Lorenzo Shopping District

Experience the vibrant shopping scene with numerous local boutiques and mainstream stores.

Outdoor

Gijón Beaches and Promenades

Enjoy the sandy beaches and beautiful promenades along the coast of Gijón.

Cerro de Santa Catalina Park

A lovely green park situated on a hill with views of Gijón's coastline.

Atlantic Botanical Garden

A beautiful botanical garden showcasing diverse plant species from the Atlantic regions.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Gijón.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

275,000

Languages

Asturian, Spanish, Asturian

Average weather

Gijón

Jan

13°6°

Feb

14°6°

Mar

15°7°

Apr

16°8°

May

18°11°

Jun

21°14°

Jul

23°16°

Aug

23°16°

Sep

22°15°

Oct

19°12°

Nov

15°9°

Dec

13°7°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Gijón.

What people love

Gijón, located in Asturias, Spain, offers a variety of attractions and experiences that make it a popular destination for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Gijón include:

Beaches: Gijón is known for its beautiful beaches, such as San Lorenzo Beach, which offers golden sands and crystal-clear waters perfect for relaxing and sunbathing.
Cultural heritage: Gijón has a rich history and cultural heritage, with attractions such as the Roman Baths, the Revillagigedo Palace, and the Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura complex, providing visitors with insights into the city's past.
Gastronomy: Asturias is famous for its delicious cuisine, and Gijón is no exception. Visitors can enjoy traditional Asturian dishes such as fabada (bean stew), cider, and a variety of seafood dishes in the city's many restaurants and cider houses.
Outdoor activities: Gijón's location on the northern coast of Spain makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking in the nearby mountains, surfing or kayaking along the coast, or simply strolling along the city's picturesque waterfront.
Festivals and events: Gijón hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Semana Grande de Gijón, a week-long celebration with concerts, parades, and fireworks, as well as the International Film Festival of Gijón, showcasing a selection of independent and international films.

Overall, Gijón offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, delicious food, and outdoor activities that make it a great destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Asturias.

What to know

Traveling to Gijón in Asturias, Spain is generally a wonderful experience, but there are a few potential cons to consider:

Weather: Asturias is known for its mild and wet climate, so visitors to Gijón should be prepared for rain and cooler temperatures, especially if visiting in the fall or winter months.
Crowds: During peak tourist season, Gijón can become quite crowded, particularly in popular areas such as the beaches and historic sites. This may result in longer wait times and difficulty finding accommodations.
Language Barrier: While many people in Gijón speak English, it is not as widely spoken as in other tourist destinations in Spain. Some knowledge of Spanish may be helpful for navigating the city and communicating with locals.
Limited Public Transportation: Gijón's public transportation system is not as extensive as in larger cities, so getting around may require more walking or reliance on taxis. Renting a car could be a good option for exploring the surrounding areas.
Cost: Like many tourist destinations in Spain, prices in Gijón can be higher, especially during peak season. Dining out, accommodations, and attractions may be more expensive than in other parts of the country.

Overall, these cons should not deter you from visiting Gijón, as it is a beautiful and culturally rich city with much to offer travelers.

Gijón, situated on the northern coast of Spain in the autonomous community of Asturias, boasts a rich and varied history that dates back several millennia.

Ancient and Medieval History

Pre-Roman and Roman Era: Gijón's history can be traced back to prehistoric times, with evidence of human settlement in the area. During the Roman period, the city was known as "Gigia." The Romans established a settlement here due to its strategic coastal location.
Middle Ages: As the Roman Empire declined, Gijón became a part of the Kingdom of Asturias. The city played a crucial role during the Reconquista, when Christian states sought to reclaim territory from Muslim rule. The medieval town experienced periods of growth and decline and was fortified with walls to protect against Viking raids and other threats.

Early Modern Period

16th to 18th Century: Gijón was a small fishing village until the 16th century, when it began to grow as a port town. During the 18th century, significant urban development occurred, and the construction of the Revillagigedo Palace marked an important architectural milestone.

Industrial Era

19th Century: The industrial revolution brought significant changes to Gijón, transforming it into an industrial hub. The expansion of the coal industry and the development of the El Musel port facilitated trade and commerce, boosting the city's economy.
20th Century: Gijón continued to grow industrially but faced challenges during the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939). The city was a Republican stronghold and suffered damage during the conflict. Post-war, Gijón regained its industrial prominence, becoming a key player in the steel and shipbuilding industries.

Contemporary History

Late 20th and 21st Century: In recent decades, Gijón has undergone significant urban renewal and cultural development. The decline of traditional industries led to economic diversification, with a focus on tourism, culture, and services.

Notable Historical Figures

Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos: An influential statesman and writer from Gijón, Jovellanos was a key figure in the Spanish Enlightenment. His work and ideas significantly impacted Spanish politics and society.

Important Landmarks

Revillagigedo Palace: A baroque palace dating back to the 18th century, it is now a cultural center hosting various exhibitions.
Cimavilla: The oldest part of Gijón, this neighborhood is rich in history and character, with narrow streets and traditional Asturian architecture.
San Lorenzo Beach: One of the city's main attractions, it is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura: Originally built as a university, this complex is now a cultural center and an architectural landmark.
El Musel Port: A crucial component of Gijón's economic history, it remains one of Spain's major ports.

Gijón continues to be a vibrant city that blends its rich historical legacy with modern development, making it a significant cultural and economic center in northern Spain.