Asturias — the green heart of northern Spain — feels like a secret the rest of Spain quietly keeps. Rugged coastline, emerald mountains, ancient churches, and fishing villages that look hand-painted onto cliffs: Asturias is a pocket of dramatic landscapes, hearty cuisine (hello, cider and Cabrales cheese), and centuries of history. If you’re planning a trip, here are the Top 10 tourist attractions in Asturias with what to see, when to go, and practical travel tips.
Quick snapshot: Why visit Asturias?
Asturias blends outdoor adventure and cultural depth. You’ll find world-class hiking and dramatic viewpoints (Picos de Europa), spiritual and historical sites (Covadonga sanctuary, Oviedo’s pre-Romanesque heritage), and charming coastal towns where seafood rules the menu. Whether you’re a hiker, foodie, photographer or history lover, Asturias do have a lot of beautiful places that you all are going to love for sure.
1. Picos de Europa National Park — Mountains, trails, and dramatic ridgelines
The Picos de Europa form one of Spain’s most striking mountain ranges, with soaring limestone peaks, deep gorges and pastoral high meadows. It’s the playground for hikers and climbers — iconic trails include the Ruta del Cares (a spectacular gorge path) and numerous routes up to dramatic viewpoints across the range. The Picos are also where tiny traditional mountain villages (Bulnes, Sotres, Tresviso) cling to the slopes and serve as gateways for multi-day treks. Spain Guides
Why go: Alpine scenery without leaving Spain; excellent hiking for all levels.
Don’t miss: Ruta del Cares, cable-car or funicular rides to remote villages, panoramic viewpoints.
Practical: Spring–autumn is best for hiking; winter brings snow and limited access.
2. Lakes of Covadonga (Los Lagos) & Sanctuary of Covadonga — Spiritual and natural highlight
Nestled inside the Picos, the Lakes of Covadonga (Lago Enol and Lago Ercina) are glacial lakes set against jagged peaks — an iconic Asturian postcard. Nearby, the Sanctuary of Covadonga (with its basilica and the holy cave where the Christian reconquest began) binds nature and history into a powerful pilgrimage and tourist destination. The lakes are accessible by a short drive from Covadonga and by a range of well-marked trails for relaxed walks or tougher hikes. Wikipedia
Why go: Photo-perfect lakes, pastoral scenery, and deep cultural resonance.
Don’t miss: Sunrise at Lake Enol, the Covadonga basilica and cave, local mountain cheeses.
Practical: Summer weekends can be busy; some roads have seasonal vehicle restrictions — consider scheduled buses from nearby towns.
3. Oviedo — Capital city with pre-Romanesque treasures and lively plazas
Oviedo is a graceful city where medieval streets meet modern tapas culture. It’s famed for its pre-Romanesque churches and the Cámara Santa (part of the Cathedral of San Salvador complex), which form part of the UNESCO World Heritage group “Monuments of Oviedo and the Kingdom of the Asturias.” Wander the old town, sample cider in lively sidrerías, and take in the Cathedral’s Gothic tower and museums. UNESCO World Heritage Centre
Why go: History, architecture, excellent food scene and a walkable, elegant historic core.
Don’t miss: Oviedo Cathedral (and the Cámara Santa relics), Plaza del Fontán market, sidra pouring rituals.
Practical: Great base for city culture and for day trips to nearby nature.
4. Gijón & Cimavilla — Seafront city with a historic fishing quarter
Gijón combines broad sandy beaches and a convivial seafront promenade with the atmospheric old quarter Cimavilla, the city’s original fishing neighborhood perched on a headland. It’s lively, with maritime heritage, museums, and late-night tapas. Gijón is also a hub for coastal day trips and water sports. Ayuntamiento de Gijón
Why go: Beachtime + city culture. Great for families and for sampling polished Asturian seafood.
Don’t miss: Paseo de Begoña, the Roman baths (Termas), and sunset from the Cimavilla promenades.
Practical: Summer has the warmest sea temperatures; shoulder seasons are quieter and still pleasant.
5. Cudillero — A cliff amphitheater of colorful houses
Cudillero is a picture-perfect fishing village built amphitheatrically around a tiny harbor. Colored facades, narrow lanes, and seafood restaurants create an irresistible charm that photographers and food lovers adore. It’s a small place — arrive early to find parking, then lose yourself down winding stairways toward the water. Recent travel features have highlighted Cudillero as one of Spain’s most storybook villages. ElHuffPost
Why go: Classic coastal charm with outstanding seafood and photogenic streets.
Don’t miss: Harborfront dining, viewpoints above the town, and nearby beaches like Playa de la Cueva.
Practical: Narrow roads and limited parking — morning arrival recommended.
6. Playa del Silencio (Beach of Silence) — Dramatic cliffs and a secluded cove
If you want a dramatic, secluded coastal scene, Playa del Silencio delivers: a horseshoe cove with sheer cliffs, pebbly shore and glassy water on calm days. It’s an unspoiled natural spot more about scenery and photography than sunbathing (there are few amenities). The beach’s name captures its quiet, rugged beauty.
Why go: One of Asturias’ most photogenic beaches — dramatic cliffs, sublime views.
Don’t miss: The short cliff walk above the beach for panoramic shots, and local seafood afterward.
Practical: Limited facilities; bring water and sturdy footwear; parking is small and sometimes locally managed.
7. Lastres — Film-set pretty fishing village with cliff views
Lastres is a coastal village that gained fame as the filming location of the Spanish TV series Doctor Mateo. Perched along the coast with winding streets and sea vistas, Lastres is a tranquil spot for tasting local cuisine, walking the seafront promenade, and admiring sweeping views over the Cantabrian Sea. Telegraph
Why go: Charming coastal vibes, great seafood, and quiet harbor views.
Don’t miss: The Mirador de Lastres viewpoint, coastal strolls, and local fish restaurants.
Practical: Combine Lastres with a day exploring the eastern Asturias coastline.
8. Cangas de Onís & Roman bridge — Gateway to the mountains
Cangas de Onís is the classic gateway town to the Covadonga and Picos area. Its medieval Roman bridge (actually medieval, built over Roman foundations) arching over the river is an iconic image and a convenient place to base yourself for mountain excursions. The town has shops, markets and excellent local eateries serving hearty mountain fare.
Why go: Easy access to Picos and Covadonga; photogenic central bridge and lively local market.
Don’t miss: The bridge at sunrise, local cheese shops, and riverfront cafés.
Practical: Well connected by road; many hiking tours depart from here.
9. Villages & cheese routes — Bulnes, Arenas de Cabrales, and Cabrales caves
Asturias’ mountains are dotted with traditional mountain villages famous for artisan products. Arenas de Cabrales is the access point for exploring the legendary Cabrales cheese caves where local cheeses mature in limestone clefts. Bulnes (reachable by funicular or footpath) feels timeless and is a favorite base for walkers. These villages are perfect for foodies and hikers who like cultural depth alongside natural beauty. El País
Why go: Taste traditional Asturias — raw mountain flavors, artisan cheeses, and authentic village life.
Don’t miss: Visiting a cheese cave or small local producer, short hikes from village centers.
Practical: Many villages are tiny with limited services; plan logistics ahead.
10. Coastal cliffs and lighthouses — Cabo Peñas & Asturias’ wild coast
From the dramatic cliffs of Cabo Peñas (one of Asturias’ northernmost capes) to scattered viewpoints along the Costa Verde, Asturias’ coastline is rugged and wild. Lighthouses, birdwatching points, and cliff-top walking routes make the coast an attractive counterbalance to mountain adventures. The region preserves dramatic vistas and relatively uncrowded coastal trails.
Why go: Wild coastal panoramas, birding, dramatic photography.
Don’t miss: Cape viewpoints at sunset, local seafood villages along the route.
Practical: Wind can be strong; dress in layers.
Suggested 4–5 day Asturias itinerary (fast and efficient)
This compact plan packs the highlights if you’re short on time.
Day 1 — Oviedo: Arrive, walk the old town, visit the cathedral, and enjoy sidra and tapas.
Day 2 — Cangas de Onís & Covadonga Lakes: Morning at Cangas de Onís and the Roman bridge; afternoon to Covadonga Sanctuary and Lakes.
Day 3 — Picos de Europa / Ruta del Cares: Hike the Cares gorge or take easier trails and mountain views.
Day 4 — Coast: Cudillero, Playa del Silencio, Gijón: Morning in Cudillero, lunch near Playa del Silencio, evening in Gijón’s Cimavilla.
Day 5 (optional) — Lastres & Cabrales: Visit Lastres then head into Cabrales cheese country, or extend with more hikes.
When to go: best time & weather tips
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Best overall: Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September) — milder weather, fewer crowds, blooming or golden landscapes.
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Summer: Warm and lively, best for beaches but also busiest at popular sites.
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Winter: Snow in the Picos; some roads and trails may be restricted but it’s a serene, low-crowd season for photographers.
Getting around
Asturias is best explored by car for flexibility — many villages and mountain roads are more accessible that way. Bus networks connect main towns and some scenic spots, and there are guided day tours from major centers like Oviedo and Gijón. If you prefer not to drive, plan transfers and tours in advance, especially for mountain excursions with limited public transport.
Practical travel tips
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Cider etiquette: In sidrerías, you’ll often see servers pouring cider from a height — catch the glass, sip, and place the glass down (don’t clink). It’s part of the ritual!
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Footwear: Bring sturdy walking shoes for beaches like Playa del Silencio and mountain trails.
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Cash: Many small mountain vendors prefer cash; banks are common in towns but ATMs may be scarce in tiny villages.
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Local food: Try fabada (Asturian bean stew), cachopo (breaded meat dish), Cabrales cheese, and fresh seafood along the coast.
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Parking: Coastal villages have limited parking; early arrival helps.
Safety & sustainability
Asturias treasures its landscapes. Stick to marked trails in the Picos, respect private land, and avoid leaving litter on beaches or picnic sites. Many small villages are ecologically sensitive — support local businesses and responsible guides.
Final tips — making the most of Asturias
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Mix it up: Combine at least one mountain day and one coastal day to experience Asturias’ full contrast.
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Slow travel: Don’t rush the villages — some of the best experiences are unplanned: a café in a plaza, a local market, or chatting with a cheese maker.
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Learn a few words: Simple Spanish or Asturian phrases go a long way; locals appreciate the effort.
Useful further reading & official info
For official advice about visiting Covadonga’s lakes and local access rules, regional tourism sites and national park pages are your most reliable sources. For local events and up-to-date travel details check the Principality of Asturias tourism pages and municipal websites for cities like Gijón and Oviedo. Ayuntamiento de Gijón
Top 5 references (for planning & facts)
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General top places & traveler reviews — TripAdvisor “Places to Visit in Asturias.” Tripadvisor
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Lakes of Covadonga (practical travel info) — Spain’s official tourism guidance.
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Picos de Europa overview & travel guide. Spain Guides
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Oviedo & UNESCO Monuments of the Kingdom of Asturias (Camara Santa / Cathedral). UNESCO World Heritage Centre
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Playa del Silencio & coastal highlights (visitor reviews and local guides). Tripadvisor
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