What to do in Gijón
Plans, activities and things to see in Gijón
Gijón
About Gijón
Gijón is Asturias's most populous city, and its Cantabrian seafront defines much of the outdoor activity offer. Playa de San Lorenzo, with more than 1.5 km of sand, hosts surf schools and beginner lessons on Cantabrian waves. The Gijón coastline can also be explored by kayak, with routes skirting cliffs and reaching Playa del Arbeyal or Cabo Torres with views of the historic estuary industry.
By land, the Camino de Santiago del Norte passes through the city centre and links Gijón to the most sc...
Gijón is Asturias's most populous city, and its Cantabrian seafront defines much of the outdoor activity offer. Playa de San Lorenzo, with more than 1.5 km of sand, hosts surf schools and beginner lessons on Cantabrian waves. The Gijón coastline can also be explored by kayak, with routes skirting cliffs and reaching Playa del Arbeyal or Cabo Torres with views of the historic estuary industry.
By land, the Camino de Santiago del Norte passes through the city centre and links Gijón to the most scenic Asturian sections heading east. The Camín Real de la Mesa, a historic route to the Meseta, is one of Asturias's most respected MTB circuits for its combination of history and varied terrain. Coastal routes towards Cabo Peñas or the wild beaches of eastern Asturias make for full-day hikes with constant views of the Cantabrian Sea.
Highlights
- • Surf lessons and beginner classes at Playa de San Lorenzo on Cantabrian waves
- • Sea kayaking along the Gijón coast to Cabo Torres and Playa del Arbeyal
- • The Camino de Santiago del Norte runs through Gijón's city centre
- • MTB on the Camín Real de la Mesa, a historic route between Asturias and the Meseta
Best time to visit
Summer offers the best conditions for water and coastal activities, while spring and autumn are ideal for hiking and MTB with fewer visitors.
Practical tips
Cantabrian weather changes quickly; check the local forecast before heading out by kayak or planning multi-day hiking routes.