Overlooking the Cantabrian Sea in the Bay of Biscay, Gijon City Centre lies at the heart of this sprawling coastal city. It’s clustered with fascinating museums, seafood restaurants and lively cider bars and encompasses the historic Cimadevilla neighbourhood that’s built on the remains of a Roman settlement.
Things to do in Gijon City Centre
One of Gijon City Centre’s most attractive neighbourhoods is Cimadevilla, which has a fascinating maritime and fishing history. From Plaza Mayor, stop by the monument to Don Pelayo and admire the 18th-century Palace of Revillagigedo, which is now home to the International Contemporary Arts Centre. Also not to miss is the 17th-century Capilla de la Soledad, the headquarters of the Gijon Fishermen's Guild.
Dominating the seafront of Gijon is the “Elogio del Horizonto”, a large concrete sculpture created in 1990 by the Basque artist Eduardo Chillida and is known locally as the “King Kong Toilet”. It has become a symbol of the city and dominates the grassy Parque del Cerro de Santa Catalina, which offers magnificent views across the Cantabrian Sea.
If you’re interested in Asturias’ transport history, pay a visit to the Museo Ferrocarril, which boasts one of the largest collections of historic railroad artefacts in Europe. It occupies a beautiful old railway station in the Delicias barrio where vintage steam locomotives and rolling stock are on display, with guests welcome to climb aboard many of them. Coincide your visit with the running of the heritage “Strawberry Train”, which connects to Aranjuez.
Getting around Gijon City Centre
Asturias Airport is a 30-minute drive from Gijon City Centre and has flights to destinations across Spain. Trains come and go from the Gijon railway station and buses travel throughout the city centre. Most of Gijon City Centre’s attractions are accessible on foot.