Last updated on May 7th, 2026
Nestled in the northern part of Spain, Asturias is one of those parts of the country that still feels like traditional Spain. No beach clubs, no tourist menus, no queues stretching around the block. What you get instead is a dramatic coastline, serious mountains, medieval villages, and some of the best food and drink in the country.
So, is Asturias worth visiting? Well, it’s where mountains meet the sea, cider flows freely, and the pace of life is exactly what a good trip should feel like. If you’ve done the south and east and want something that feels more hidden, Asturias is where to go next.
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1. Stunning Natural Beauty
While much of Spain is known for its sun-drenched beaches and arid landscapes, Asturias stands out as a lush, green paradise. The region’s unique climate and geography have earned it the nickname “Green Spain,” and it’s a refreshing contrast to the rest of the country.
Asturias’ verdant landscape is a result of its location on the northern coast, where the Cantabrian Mountains trap moisture from the Atlantic Ocean, creating a humid and temperate environment. This abundance of rainfall and mild temperatures have given rise to forests, hills, and meadows that remain green throughout the year.
One standout place is the Picos de Europa National Park. Here, you’ll find rugged mountains, lush valleys, and diverse wildlife. It’s perfect for hiking and offers some incredible views.
You can’t miss the beaches either. Playa del Silencio to the west and Playa de Torimbia to the east are two of the best. They offer crystal-clear waters and peaceful sands. Near Llanes, Playa de Gulpiyuri is widely considered the smallest beach in the world – just 40 meters of white sand sitting in a grassy meadow with no sea in sight. Seawater travels underground through limestone tunnels to fill it, creating real tides and actual waves. It’s a genuinely bizarre and beautiful thing to stumble across, and it’s been declared a Natural Monument for good reason.
Another great route to explore is the Senda del Oso. This former railway line is now a path for hikers and cyclists. It winds through lovely countryside and picturesque villages. Keep an eye out for the bears – they’re part of what makes this trail special.
What makes Asturias unique is the variety of things to do in a small area. Find out what those are in our detailed guide. Also see how to make Asturias a part of a 10-day road trip to northern Spain.
2. Rich Cultural Heritage
Asturias boasts an impressive cultural heritage that you will love exploring. One notable highlight is the Pre-Romanesque architecture. Make sure to visit Oviedo and its surroundings for structures that showcase amazing artistry and are breathtaking in their simplicity. Oviedo also has a beautiful cathedral in the Gothic style.
Avilés is worth adding to your itinerary just for the Centro Niemeyer. Sitting on the estuary, it’s the only building in Spain designed by legendary Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer, and the bold white curves with pops of red and yellow look like nothing else in the region. The centre runs a full programme of music, theatre, cinema, and art, but even between events, the architecture alone makes it worth the stop. The medieval old quarter is a five-minute walk away, so it’s an easy day to put together.
Smaller towns are well worth exploring too. The charming coastal town of Llanes is known for its historical center, which features a mix of medieval and modernist architecture. Potes and Cangas de Onís are small towns with rich histories.
Asturias is also home to vibrant festivals. The Descenso del Sella, or International Canoe Festival, is an exciting event where participants race down the Sella River. Ribadesella hosts the only horse race in northern Spain on the Santa Marina beach every spring. Another unique event is La Fiesta de La Sidra, where you can sample a variety of delicious local ciders and engage with local culture easily.
Most people don’t realise that Asturias is where the Camino de Santiago actually started. In the 9th century, King Alfonso II walked from Oviedo to Santiago de Compostela after the tomb of Saint James was discovered, creating the very first pilgrimage route. That route, the Camino Primitivo, still exists today and begins right at Oviedo’s cathedral. It’s the toughest of all the Camino routes, covering around 321 km across the Cantabrian Mountains, but even walking a stage or two through the Asturian interior is a brilliant way to see the region. The Camino del Norte is a gentler coastal alternative if that appeals more.
You can even go way back and discover paleolithic cave art inside the Tito Bustillo cave. It’s the best example of its kind in Asturias and you can make your visit one of several caves if you continue on to Cantabria. Don’t have time to visit both regions? We can help you choose between Asturias and Cantabria.
3. Delectable Cuisine and Cider Culture
You can’t talk about Asturias without mentioning its amazing food and drink.
Start with Fabada Asturiana, a hearty bean stew with sausages and pork. This dish warms your soul and fills you up. It’s the perfect meal after exploring the mountains.
Cabrales cheese is another must-try. This strong, blue cheese comes from the Picos de Europa. Don’t be scared by its bold taste; it’s a local favorite.
Asturian cider is something special and there’s a unique pouring technique to witness. You’ll often see this at local gatherings and festivals. Visit a traditional cider house and see how cider is poured from a height to create bubbles, a practice called ‘escanciar.’ Locals are often happy to show you how it’s done.
Trying these foods and drinks is a great way to connect with the Asturian culture. But there’s more… check out out guide to the delicious cuisine of Asturias!
Head to a sidrería. These cider houses let you taste the cider right from the barrel. The experience is fun and authentic.
4. Outdoor Adventures
Asturias is perfect if you love outdoor adventures. Hiking and mountaineering in the Picos de Europa offer stunning views and challenging trails. You’ll find paths for all levels, from easy walks to tough climbs. Don’t forget to bring good boots and a camera for those breathtaking landscapes.
If Picos de Europa is the headline act, Somiedo is the one nature lovers end up raving about. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the south of Asturias covers five mountain valleys with glacial lakes, ancient forests, and traditional stone-roofed shepherd huts called teitos. The park is also home to the largest population of Cantabrian brown bears in Spain, and licensed local guides run small-group watching tours at dawn and dusk to give you the best shot at a sighting. Wolves, otters, chamois, and golden eagles are all in the mix too.
Surfing and water sports along the Cantabrian Coast are a must. The waves are great for both beginners and experts. You can try paddleboarding on calm days or take a surfing lesson from a local instructor. The water is cool, so a wetsuit might be a good idea, even in summer.
Canyoning in the Desfiladero de Los Beyos and Desfiladero de Las Xanas is an amazing experience. You’ll navigate through narrow canyons, jump into clear pools, and slide down natural rock slides. It’s an adventure that combines hiking, swimming, and a bit of climbing. Make sure to go with a guide for safety.
5. Charming Villages and Towns
Asturias is full of quaint and beautiful villages. Each one has its own charm and history.
Cudillero is a must-see in the western part of the province. This fishing village is known for its colorful houses that seem to tumble down the hillside to the sea. Walking through its narrow streets is like stepping into a postcard. Don’t forget to try some fresh seafood while you’re there. Lastres is similar, but in the eastern part.
In Llanes, you’ll find stunning beaches and a historic port town. The town comes alive in the summer with festivals, music, and lively crowds. The old town is great for a leisurely stroll and has many cozy cafes to relax in.
Cangas de Onís is another gem. It was the first capital of the Kingdom of Asturias and is home to the iconic Roman Bridge. The town is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is a great base for exploring the nearby Picos de Europa National Park. Check out our other picks for places to stay in Asturias.
6. Easy Accessibility
Asturias is a breeze to visit. You’ll find regular flights to Asturias Airport from major Spanish cities like Madrid and Barcelona. There’s even a new high speed line through the Cantabrian Mountains to Oviedo and Gijón from Madrid. Since May 2024, Renfe upgraded to full AVE services, bringing the Madrid to Oviedo journey down to around 3 hours 29 minutes, and a little longer for Madrid to Gijón – roughly an hour faster than before. It’s a genuinely easy way to get there from Madrid, and takes the pressure off flying.
Check prices and book your train tickets on Omio. You get live journey updates and offline tickets stored on your phone.
Once you’re there, you’ll notice that the region’s towns are is well-connected by train and bus. You can easily travel to other parts of Spain. The bus and train system is reliable and comfortable, but the system and timetables are designed for locals getting to work and school. If you don’t have a lot of time to explore, you’ll be better off renting a car. If slow travel is more to your liking, then by all means, use the trains and buses.
Renting a car can give you extra flexibility. It allows you to visit more remote spots and hidden gems that public transport might not reach. Exploring Asturias by car is easy because the area is compact and the roads are well maintained and not heavy with traffic. You can see the highlights without spending hours traveling. Gijon is convenient for a pickup and you’ll find a range of cars to choose from. Pricing is competitive on DiscoverCars.com.
Another great thing is the well-marked hiking and biking trails. If you love outdoor activities, these trails are perfect for you.
Don’t miss the chance to take a scenic drive along the coast when you visit Asturias. The views are stunning and make for a memorable experience.
Best Time to Visit Asturias
Trying to figure out when to plan your trip to Asturias? Well, it depends on what you’re looking for!
Popular Times to Visit
Summer (June to August) is when most tourists flock to Asturias. When other parts of Spain get unbearably hot, the weather here is warm and sunny, which is perfect for hitting the beaches and exploring the coastal towns. Just keep in mind that it can get a bit crowded and prices for accommodations tend to be higher.
If you happen to be planning a trip in August 2026, the 12th is worth noting. A total solar eclipse will pass directly over Asturias that day – the first visible from the region in over a century. Accommodation is already filling up fast, so book well in advance if your dates line up.
If you prefer a quieter vibe and don’t mind slightly cooler temperatures, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are great options. You’ll have fewer crowds to deal with and can enjoy the beautiful spring flowers or the stunning fall colors in the countryside.
Winter (December to February) is the least popular time for tourists, but if you’re into winter sports or just want to experience Asturias without the crowds, it can be a unique time to visit. Just be prepared for some rain and chilly temperatures.
Weather Considerations
Speaking of weather, Asturias has a bit of everything thanks to its diverse landscape. In the coastal areas, you can expect mild temperatures year-round, with averages ranging from 10-15°C (50-59°F) in the winter to 20-28°C (68-77°F) in the summer.
As you move inland and into the mountains, temperatures can drop a bit, especially in the winter. But if you’re into skiing or snowboarding, that’s not necessarily a bad thing!
Rainfall is pretty common throughout the year, and more so in winter, so make sure to pack a raincoat or umbrella no matter when you visit.
Local Festivals and Events
Asturias has no shortage of fun local festivals and events that can add some extra excitement to your trip. Here are a few notable ones:
- Semana Santa (Holy Week): This religious celebration takes place in March or April and features processions and events throughout the region.
- Fiesta de la Sidra (Cider Festival): Held in July in Nava, this festival is all about celebrating Asturias’ famous cider. Expect plenty of cider tasting, traditional music, and general merriment. Gijón holds one too on one day in August.
- San Mateo Festival: This big festival takes over Oviedo in September with concerts, fireworks, and a lively atmosphere.
- Descenso del Sella (Sella River Descent): Held on the first Saturday of August, this massive canoeing event on the Sella River is a mix of sports and partying, with thousands of participants and spectators.
- Celtic Festival of Avilés: Usually in July, this festival celebrates the Celtic heritage of the region with music, dance, and traditional costumes.
Conclusion
Asturias doesn’t need a hard sell. The mountains, the coast, the food, the cider — it all does the talking. What makes it worth going now is that it hasn’t been swallowed up by mass tourism yet, and that still counts for a lot. Come for the scenery, stay for the sidrerías, and don’t be surprised if you start looking up flights back before you’ve even left.
