20 Incredible Things To Do in Oviedo Spain

Tucked into the green folds of northern Spain, Oviedo feels like a city dreamt into being—serene, cultured, and proudly noble.  As the capital of the Principality of Asturias, Oviedo is a different kind of Spanish destination—quietly majestic, elegantly preserved, and soaked in soul. 

Oviedo isn’t loud. It doesn’t clamor for attention. Instead, it will enchant you with its quiet nobility and layered stories. It’s a city of plazas and poetry, kings and saints, cider and sculpture — where every step brings you closer to something eternal and magical.

Here are 20 magical things to do in Oviedo that will transport you through time and awaken your sense of wonder.

Driving From Bilbao To Oviedo 

We started our north-of-Spain road trip from Bilbao. After spending two nights in Bilbao and visiting the Rioja wine region on a day trip, we picked up our rental car and drove to Oviedo. I booked the car via DiscoverCars, and we asked to pick it up from the offices near the train station, which are very central. If you are planning to rent a car, make sure that you have a valid international driving license.  

I have an older version of a Greek license, and although it is valid and accepted, some rental companies might require a newer version. This caused us a lot of stress as the rental company refused to give me the car, but we found a solution and got an international license on the spot through this website. You can pay extra to get it by email in approximately 15 minutes. Otherwise, you will need to wait up to two hours. But to avoid surprises, check beforehand to see that you have a valid and accepted license. 

The distance between Oviedo and Bilbao is approximately 280 kilometers (174 miles) by road, and driving time is about 2 hours and 46 minutes under normal traffic conditions. This was my first time driving outside Greece; we rented an automatic car (I usually drive a stick).  At first, I was a little worried about driving in a foreign country, but the roads in Spain are in excellent condition, and the drivers are very respectful. Compared to driving in Greece, it was paradise.  

20 Incredible Things To Do in Oviedo, Spain

Brief History of Oviedo 

Oviedo was founded in 761 by two monks, Máximo and Fromestano, who built a small church dedicated to Saint Vincent on a quiet hillside. From that humble beginning, a royal city was born. In the early 8th century, the nobleman Pelagius led a Christian revolt against Muslim rule and laid the foundations for the Kingdom of Asturias.

King Alfonso I later established his dynasty in Oviedo, making it the kingdom’s capital for over three centuries. Unlike much of Spain, the Moors never conquered Oviedo—its mountainous surroundings kept it safe, allowing a unique architectural and cultural legacy to flourish. The city became a spiritual hub, attracting pilgrims along the original Camino de Santiago.

By the 9th century, Oviedo’s iconic churches, like Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo, were already standing. Over the centuries, the city expanded with majestic palaces, a university (founded in 1574), and elegant plazas. Today, Oviedo is a beautifully preserved blend of history, faith, and noble charm.

1. Explore the Gothic Majesty of the Cathedral of San Salvador

Standing tall since 1388, this soaring cathedral is the spiritual and architectural centerpiece of Oviedo. Inside, you’ll find the Cámara Santa (Holy Chamber), a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 802.

These relics gave the cathedral immense spiritual importance during the Middle Ages, making Oviedo an essential stop on the Camino de Santiago. Pilgrims would come here to pray, marvel, and gather strength before continuing their sacred journey westward. Even today, standing beneath its soaring tower and listening to the echo of its bells, you feel the heartbeat of centuries past still pulsing in the present. You might also like to take this Oviedo : Walking tour of the Historic Center.

Right next to the Cathedral is the beautiful Garden of the Caudillos Kings, adorned with statues.

2. Wander Through the Casco Antiguo (Old Town)

Lose yourself in Oviedo’s romantic old quarter, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, pastel façades, and graceful arcades. Here, you’ll stumble upon lively plazas, baroque churches, artisanal shops, and charming cafés where locals sip sidra under the whisper of history.

3. Experience Local Life at Plaza del Fontán

Plaza del Fontán is one of Oviedo’s most beloved and colorful corners. Once a medieval market built over a natural spring, today it’s a vibrant gathering place where history, tradition, and everyday life intertwine.

Surrounded by charming 18th-century buildings with wooden balconies painted in bright hues, this plaza pulses with local soul. Here, you’ll find open-air cafés buzzing with conversation, market stalls brimming with Asturian delicacies, and the gentle rhythm of daily life unfolding in the sun.

You will also spot the fountain, which is surrounded by a gate. It was the water source back then, and that is how the square got its name. On Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays mornings, you will come across street vendors selling their goods.

4. Taste Local Flavors at El Fontán Market

Right next to Plaza del Fontán and the Church of San Isidoro, you’ll find El Fontán Market—a lively covered marketplace that captures the true flavor of Oviedo.

Built between 1882 and 1885 in the elegant iron-and-glass style of the era, the market feels like a light-filled palace of aromas and colors. Inside, local vendors offer fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and Asturian specialties, while cozy food stalls serve up regional bites full of authenticity. Though it shares space with centuries of tradition, the market itself feels timeless

5. Admire the Beauty of Plaza Daoiz y Velarde

From Plaza del Fontán, you will directly reach Plaza Daoiz y Velarde, a square rich in history and notable landmarks. It is named after Luis Daoiz and Pedro Velarde, heroes of the 1808 uprising against French forces.

A prominent feature of the square is the Baroque-style Palacio del Duque del Parque, also known as Palacio del Marqués de San Feliz, designed by Francisco de la Riva Ladrón de Guevara in the early 18th century.

Adjacent to the palace is the Caño del Fontán, a public fountain and washhouse dating back to 1657. This fountain, located about two meters below the plaza’s surface, was buried in the early 20th century and later restored in 1988.

Its low spouts require visitors to bend down to drink, inspiring verses by poet Luis de Tapia that humorously comment on its design. On the square, you will also come across the bronze sculpture “Vendedoras del Fontán” by Amado González Hevia (“Favila”), unveiled in 1996. The sculpture depicts women from Faro selling traditional pottery, reflecting the area’s historical market activities.

The surrounding colorful, traditional Asturian houses with wooden balconies and arcades add to the square’s charming atmosphere.

6. Visit the Palacio de Valdecarzana-Heredia

Step into a noble past at this quietly majestic palace near the Cathedral. Built-in the 17th century and later reimagined by the Heredia family, the palace’s mix of early Baroque and academic classicism reflects Oviedo’s aristocratic legacy. Don’t miss the coat of arms featuring Hercules battling the Nemean lion.

7. Step into Centuries of Creativity at the Fine Arts Museum of Asturias

Tucked in the historic heart of Oviedo, just a stone’s throw from the cathedral, the Museo de Bellas Artes de Asturias is a cultural treasure that invites you on a journey through time, told in brushstrokes and sculpture. The museum spans four beautifully distinct buildings, each adding its own character to the collection.

The 18th-century Palacio de Velarde holds masterpieces from the 14th to 19th centuries—classic, timeless, and rich with European grandeur. Next door, the Casa de Oviedo-Portal (17th century) is entirely dedicated to the art of the 19th century, a golden age of romanticism and realism. The sleek, light-filled Modern Wing brings you into the 20th and 21st centuries, showcasing bold, contemporary works that challenge and inspire. Rounding out the complex is a mid-20th-century building that houses the museum’s behind-the-scenes operations. Entrance to the museum is free. Please check the official website for the updated opening hours.

8. Stop at the Plaza del Carbayón

Located in Oviedo’s historic center, Plaza del Carbayón is named after the legendary Asturian oak tree (el carbayón) that once stood on this site and became a city symbol.

Over the years, the square has had several names, including Campo de la Lana, Huerta de Santa Clara, Plaza Progreso, Plaza de la Reina María Cristina, Plaza de los Estudiantes, and Plaza Galicia, before adopting its current name.

One of the main highlights of the square is the Monumento a la Concordia, a sculpture by Esperanza D’Ors inaugurated in 1997. It features three pairs of nude male and female figures, symbolizing unity, cooperation, and harmony. The plaza also includes a stone marker commemorating the location of the original oak tree.

9. Experience Elegance at Teatro Campoamor

In the heart of Oviedo, the Teatro Campoamor is a cultural landmark and one of Spain’s most iconic opera houses. Opened in 1892, this neoclassical gem has hosted world-class operas, concerts, and theatrical performances for over a century. It is best known today as the prestigious venue for the annual Princess of Asturias Awards, which honor global achievements in arts, science, and humanities. Despite suffering damage during the 1934 revolution, the theater was beautifully restored and continues to dazzle audiences with its grandeur and rich programming.

With its timeless elegance and cultural significance, Teatro Campoamor is a must-visit for lovers of the performing arts. Next to the theater, you will also spot the bronze statue of ‘La Pensadora’ The Thinker.

10. Admire the Elegance of Plaza de la Escandalera

Located at the crossroads of Oviedo’s historic and commercial districts, Plaza de la Escandalera is a vibrant hub where the city’s past and present converge. Flanked by notable landmarks such as the Teatro Campoamor and the lush Campo de San Francisco, this bustling square is one of the prettiest in the city.

The plaza is adorned with remarkable sculptures, including Fernando Botero’s “La Maternidad,” depicting a robust mother and child, and Manuel Valdés’ “Asturcones,” showcasing three life-sized bronze horses that pay homage to the region’s native breed. It is surrounded by architectural gems like the French-inspired Casa Conde and the iconic Edificio de la Caja de Ahorros de Asturias.

A short stroll from the plaza, along the Paseo de los Álamos in the adjacent Campo de San Francisco, stands Sebastián Miranda’s evocative sculpture, La Encarna con Chiquilín. This bronze piece portrays a seated woman tenderly holding a child on her lap, celebrating the universal theme of motherhood. Originally created in 1955, the sculpture was reintroduced to the public in a larger format on September 21, 2005, coinciding with Oviedo’s local festivities.

11. Stop by Monument to José Tartiere

As you make your way towards Campo de San Francisco, stop at the Monument to José Tartiere, which is a tribute to one of Asturias’ pivotal industrial pioneers. Unveiled in 1933, this impressive ensemble was crafted by sculptors Víctor Hevia Granda and Manuel Álvarez Laviada.

At its center, a bronze figure of José Tartiere is depicted seated, embodying his enduring influence on the region’s industrial evolution. Flanking him, stone sculptures of workers represent the various industries he championed, symbolizing the collective progress he fostered.

12. Stroll through the Campo de San Francisco

Step into the green heart of Oviedo with a walk through the Campo de San Francisco, the city’s most beloved urban park. Once part of a Franciscan monastery’s grounds, today it’s a peaceful retreat filled with leafy paths, shaded benches, and tranquil fountains—perfect for slowing down and savoring the rhythm of local life.

Statues and sculptures add an artistic touch throughout, from the “Maternidad’, a statue by Felix Alonso Arena, to Sabino Fernandez Campo, to the whimsical Woody Allen figure, which you will find just outside the park, to the dignified Monument to José Tartiere, a tribute to one of Asturias’ great industrial visionaries. Locals come here to read, reflect, and reconnect with nature amid centuries-old trees and colorful flowerbeds.

13. Take A Photo With Mafalda Statue

Inside the Campo de San Francisco park, you’ll find a life-sized statue of Mafalda, the beloved Argentine comic strip character created by Quino. This charming sculpture, crafted by artist Pablo Irrgang, was inaugurated in 2014 to honor Quino upon receiving the Prince of Asturias Award for Communication and Humanities that same year.

Positioned on a bench near the duck pond, the statue invites visitors of all ages to sit beside Mafalda and capture a memorable photo. Her thoughtful expression and iconic bobbed hair make for a delightful keepsake of your time in Oviedo.

14. Hunt for Bronze Sculptures Around the City

Oviedo is filled with delightful sculptures—more than 100 of them—each with its own character. There’s La Regenta, inspired by the famous 19th-century novel, gazing dreamily toward the cathedral. And on a quiet street corner, you’ll spot Woody Allen, immortalized in bronze, sunglasses and all.

Outside the Basilica of St. John, you will find D. Luis Riera Posada, a lawyer and once the Mayor of Oviedo, sitting on a bench. At the top end of La Gascon (Boulevard of Cider) you will see the sculpture of ‘La Gitana’ – The Gypsy.

There is also a statue in tribute to Jose Celestino Casal Alvarez, known as Tino Casal, a Spanish singer-songwriter born in Oviedo. There is even a statue called Rufo, which is dedicated to a homeless dog in Oviedo that used to be looked after by the locals.

On our walk through the center, we spotted Berrocal’s El Diestro, a bronze sculpture of a bullfighter’s torso. Directly in front of the theatre is Esperanza Caminando by Julio Lopez Hernandez, a lovely bronze sculpture depicting a student engaged in her book.

Then there is the Culis Monumentalibus, a voluptuously sculpted pair of buttocks and legs rendered in bronze by Eduardo Úrculo, which has become one of Oviedo’s iconic open-air artworks since its installation in 2001. Nearby, you will also come across the ‘La Bailarina’, an eloquent bronze sculpture of a dancer on pointe.

15. Savor Traditional Sidra the Asturian Way

In Oviedo, drinking cider—sidra—is more than a refreshment; it’s a cultural ritual. Head to Calle Gascona, famously known as “La Ruta de la Sidra” (The Cider Boulevard), where sidrerías line the street, filling the air with laughter, clinking glasses, and the crisp scent of fresh apples.

Here, you can witness the art of the pour, or escanciado—a time-honored technique where the waiter lifts the green bottle high above their head and lets the golden liquid cascade into a tilted glass below. The dramatic motion aerates the cider, awakening its natural sparkle and flavor. It’s rustic, theatrical, and entirely delicious.

Pair your glass with traditional Asturian tapas like chorizo a la sidra or local cheeses, and you’ll experience not just a drink—but a moment of true regional pride and tradition. Our favorite place that we visited twice during our stay in Oviedo is Tierra Astur, which you will find at the end of the street on the corner. They also have a wonderful cheese menu.

Just as you leave Tierra Astur on your left, you will see the ‘Guisandera’ statue, which is dedicated to the mothers and housewives of Oviedo. It depicts a lady cooking and a child on tiptoe staring on expectantly.

16. Taste the Richness of Asturian Beef

Asturian beef (ternera asturiana) is among the finest in Spain and possibly Europe. Raised in the green mountain pastures of Asturias, these cattle enjoy a natural, free-range lifestyle that results in meat with remarkable tenderness, deep flavor, and a clean, buttery finish. With its protected designation of origin (PGI), Asturian beef is more than a local specialty—it’s a point of pride.

We had the unforgettable pleasure of trying a skirt steak at Tierra Astur, one of the region’s most iconic restaurants—and it was, hands down, the best meat we’ve ever tasted. Juicy, perfectly grilled, and bursting with flavor, it was a dish that truly captured the essence of Asturias. The best part? The prices were excellent for the quality. I would return to Oviedo for the meat alone—it was that good.

17. Visit the Basilica of St. John the Real

The Basilica of St. John the Real (San Juan el Real) is an early 20th-century church located in central Oviedo. Built between 1912 and 1915 in a historicist style by architect Luis Bellido, it blends Neo-Romanesque and Byzantine elements with a striking red-tiled dome and ornate stone façade.

The interior is known for its stained-glass windows by the Maumejean firm and a golden altarpiece dedicated to St. John the Baptist. The church is also historically notable as the wedding site of Francisco Franco in 1923. In 2014, it was elevated to the status of a minor basilica.

18. See the Casa Consistorial – Oviedo’s Town Hall

The Casa Consistorial de Oviedo, or Oviedo Town Hall, has been the center of the city’s government since the 17th century. Before that, town officials held their meetings inside the Church of San Tirso. As Oviedo grew, the need for a proper government building led to the construction of the current town hall, designed by architect Juan de Naveda in 1622.

The building was built on the old city walls and the former Puerta de Cimadevilla gate, which still serves as a passage under the central clock tower. The construction was completed in 1671, and it was renovated for the first time in 1780.

The building was badly damaged during the Spanish Civil War in the 1930s. In 1940, architect Gabriel de la Torriente rebuilt it, adding the current clock tower. Today, the town hall is known for its beautiful façade with 13 stone arches and elegant decorations, and it remains one of Oviedo’s most important historic landmarks.

19. Admire Oviedo’s Architectural Harmony

Oviedo’s architecture is a rich blend of historical styles that reflect the city’s long and noble past. From its unique pre-Romanesque churches—such as Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo—to its Gothic cathedral and elegant Baroque palaces, the city offers a visual journey through centuries of design.

Neoclassical façades, 19th-century French-inspired buildings, and colorful townhouses give the city center a graceful, cohesive charm. The use of stone, iron, and glass adds both tradition and lightness to many public buildings and markets.

Even modern structures are thoughtfully integrated, preserving the city’s character while embracing new ideas. Oviedo feels refined, harmonious, and human-scale.

20. Walk the Ancient Camino Primitivo

Oviedo—known in Asturian as Uviéu—holds a sacred distinction in the tapestry of European pilgrimage: it is the birthplace, the kilometre zero, of the Camino de Santiago. It was from the very steps of Oviedo’s cathedral that King Alfonso II the Chaste set out in the early 9th century upon hearing of the miraculous discovery of Saint James’ tomb in Galicia. His journey became the first recorded pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, giving rise to what we now call the Camino Primitivo—the Original Way.

While not all pilgrimage routes began in Oviedo, it is here that the spiritual heartbeat of the Camino was first felt. A bronze plaque at the cathedral gates quietly commemorates this momentous beginning. For centuries, Oviedo welcomed weary travelers seeking divine connection and inner transformation. With the Camino Primitivo now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage route, the city is experiencing a profound revival of this legacy—a joyful reconnection to its identity as the starting point of one of the most meaningful journeys in human history.

Where to Stay in Oviedo

Finding the right place to stay can greatly enhance your experience in Oviedo. Here are some top hotel recommendations to suit various preferences:

Nuvó Hotel Boutique

During our visit, we stayed at the Nuvó Hotel Boutique, a newly established hotel offering modern comforts in a prime location. Situated above the Gran Bulevar El Vasco shopping center, the hotel provides convenient underground parking with direct access to the reception area.

The rooms are fresh and simple, with good views from the upper floors over the city to the misty surrounding hills. Its central position allows easy exploration of Oviedo’s main attractions. The combination of contemporary amenities, ample parking, and strategic location made our stay exceptionally comfortable.

Hotel Fruela

If boutique accommodations appeal to you, consider Hotel Fruela. Situated in a 19th-century building in the heart of Oviedo, this hotel offers 30 smart, contemporary rooms designed for both business and leisure travelers. Across the street, guests have access to a spa, providing an opportunity to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Its central location ensures that many of Oviedo’s landmarks and dining options are within walking distance.

Barceló Oviedo Cervantes

For those seeking a blend of historic charm and modern luxury, the Barceló Oviedo Cervantes is an excellent choice. This stylish hotel is housed in a restored early 20th-century mansion, seamlessly integrating classic architecture with contemporary design. Located in the city center, it offers easy access to Oviedo’s cultural sites and shopping areas. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, an on-site restaurant serving creative local cuisine, and a cozy bar for evening relaxation.

Why Oviedo Will Steal Your Heart

Oviedo is not a city that tries to dazzle with flashy lights or tourist crowds. Instead, it charms you slowly—with sincerity, grace, and stories carved into its stones. It is a place where time walks quietly beside you, where culture and nature embrace, and where every corner echoes something eternal. If you’re seeking a Spanish destination that blends beauty, depth, and authenticity, Oviedo is your chance to experience something truly special.

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