With a rich history dating back to Roman times, Gijon's sights revolve around architecture and museums significant to the city's past. The restored baths complex at Campo Valdes is especially unique-a public building which dates from the end of the 1st century A.D. The baths go hand in hand with the Campa de Torres Archaeological Site, a fortified settlement where Gijon keeps its Roman past alive. Both are a part of the seaport to the Ruta de la plata-an ancient pilgrimage path that crosses the west of Spain from north to south, with the Bay of Biscay at Gijon marking its northern point. The coastline here is also lined with a few nice beaches often frequented by visitors.
As far as museums go, a handful of Gijon's best include the Pueblu d'Asturies Folk Museum which preserves the heritage of the Asturian people, the Nicanor PiƱole Museum which represents the works of an Asturian painter, and the Evaristo Valle Museum which honors the paintings and life of another local artist. Each one revolves around the importance of Asturian culture and how it has thrived in the arts over the years. Revillagigedo Palace is another such exhibition venue that also stands as an example of the region's Baroque 18th Century architecture. And then there is the Asturian Railway Museum-a fun place for those interested in the public railway history of Asturias.
A city by the sea, Gijon has much to offer when it comes to water-related activities. Sailing, scuba diving, boat trips, sightings of sea birds, dolphins, and other marine life are all common for visitors drawn to the sea. There is also an Aquarium for those looking to get a closer look at the sea-dwelling animals, with a hands-on experience included in the tour. If you are interested in Atlantic flora and vegetation, the Atlantic Botanical Garden offers a wide range of activities including workshops and the occasional concert. Workshops, parties, concerts, films can also be enjoyed during the International Film Festival of Gijon.
Then there are, of course, Gijon's many beaches which can make for days of fun in the sun. San Lorenzo Beach located on Gijon bay is probably one of the most popular-good for swimming and well-equipped with toilets, showers, sunshades, hammocks for renting, and a nautical club. Estano Beach is another good spot if you are looking to avoid the crowds. It has a small beach of sand and gravel and a natural pool for swimming. Others include Poniente beach, Arbeyal beach, and El Rinconin or Cervigon Beach.
A nice way to explore destinations in Gijon is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Hiking Experience in Asturias, from Gijón or Oviedo for $100 details
- Somiedo Park and its Villages Guided Tour from Oviedo and Gijon for $88 details
- Fascinating Memories of the Gijon Walking Tour for $223 details