Coastal Adventures in Gijón: Family Fun on a Budget
Discover the endless wonders of Gijón, Spain, where family fun meets captivating charm.
19 July 2023
Pablo Escudero
Spain Travel Writer
Gijón, Spain offers a perfect family-friendly trip with its stunning coastal views, cultural attractions, and endless activities for children. Visit the Aquarium of Gijón, where kids can marvel at the diverse marine life, or take a stroll down Playa de San Lorenzo, a beautiful beach ideal for family picnics and sandcastle building. Explore the city's numerous parks, such as the Isabel la Católica Park, offering playgrounds, green spaces, and even a small train ride for the little ones.
Travel plan
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- Begin your day with a leisurely walk along San Lorenzo Beach, sink your toes in the sand and let the salty breeze caress your hair.
- Meander through the charming old town, Cimavilla, where narrow streets hide quaint cafes and vibrant street art awaits you at every turn.
- Satisfy your taste buds with Asturian cuisine at Restaurante El Perlindango, where hearty portions of fabada asturiana (bean stew) and sidra (cider) will make your tummy sing with joy.
- Experience the magic of the underwater world at the Acuario de Gijón, where you can get up close and personal with marine creatures.
- Unwind at the stunning Jardín Botánico Atlántico, an enchanting garden filled with exotic plants and whimsical sculptures.
- Immerse yourself in Gijón's art scene at the Universidad Laboral, a massive cultural complex housing art galleries, theaters, and music halls.
- Visit the Museum of the Asturian People, where you can delve into the rich history and traditions of the region through fascinating exhibits.
- Marvel at the masterpieces in the Museo Evaristo Valle, a unique museum showcasing the works of the eponymous artist in a charming rural setting.
- Enjoy a delectable lunch at Restaurante Salvaje, known for its creative fusion of Asturian and international flavors.
- Take a leisurely stroll through the stunning Jardines de la Reina, a peaceful oasis filled with vibrant flowers, picturesque fountains, and hidden nooks.
- Embark on an exhilarating hike in Parque Natural de las Ubiñas-La Mesa, where breathtaking landscapes and hidden waterfalls await.
- Experience the thrill of surfing at Playa de San Lorenzo, where the crashing waves beckon adrenaline junkies.
- Indulge in a leisurely lunch at Casa Zabala, an authentic Asturian restaurant serving up traditional dishes bursting with local flavors.
- Discover the charming fishing village of Cudillero, with its colorful houses perched on the cliffs and narrow winding streets leading to the harbor.
- End your day with a relaxing stroll along Gijón's picturesque marina, admiring the yachts and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Gijón by plane is to fly directly to Asturias Airport, which is located about 40 km away. There are regular flights from major cities in Spain and other European countries.
Car
Driving is a good option to reach Gijón, as the city is well connected by road with the rest of Spain. The A-8 is the main highway that connects Gijón with cities like Madrid, Bilbao, and Santander.
Train
Although there is no direct train to Gijón, travelers can take a train to Oviedo from Madrid or other major cities in Spain and then take a local train or a bus to reach Gijón, which is about 30 km away from Oviedo. The train stations are Madrid-Puerta de Atocha and Oviedo Station.
Boat
Although there are no regular passenger ferry services to Gijón, travelers can reach Gijón by boat through the port of El Musel, which is located about 6 km away from the city center. The port is mainly used for cargo and industrial purposes, but there are occasional cruise ships that stop at El Musel port.
Bus
Travelers can take a bus from major cities in Spain to reach Gijón. ALSA, the main bus company in Spain, has regular services to Gijón from Madrid, Bilbao, Santander and other cities. The bus station in Gijón is located in the city center.