Enjoy an introduction to Gijon’s historical landmarks and stop for photos at its most scenic lookout and extraordinary university complex. Arrive at Mirador de la Providencia, a hilltop lookout that juts towards the sea. From here, enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Gijon and the Cantabrian coastline. This elevated perspective provides an excellent introduction to the landmarks that lie ahead.

Once an ancient Roman port, Gijon still boasts several reminders of the past. The neighborhood of Cimadevilla is of historical importance as it is in the oldest part of the city, on a peninsula that protrudes into the bay. Its cobblestone streets are narrow and labyrinthine, the houses tall and colorful, and many residents still earn their living by fishing. Several downtown churches also offer a glimpse into Gijon’s past, including the 18th-century Collegiate Church. Its neoclassical architecture is not only visually beautiful, but also lends wonderful acoustics to some of the spaces inside, which are used for concerts. Standing next to the bay and beach, it offers a perfect photo opportunity.

Just outside of town is the sprawling Universidad Laboral, where you’ll pause for photos in the main square. Originally designed as an orphanage for miners’ children, the complex of buildings later became a technical school and then expanded to include a theater, music conservatory and church.

Explore the cosmopolitan coastal city of Gijon and gain a deeper understanding of the Asturias region through its architectural landmarks and by sampling the famed fermented cider that is produced here. Arrive at Mirador de la Providencia, a hilltop lookout that juts towards the sea. From here, enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Gijon and the Cantabrian coastline.

Continuing on to the edge of town, you’ll stop at the ornate Universidad Laboral. Originally designed as an orphanage for miners’ children, the majestic complex of buildings later became a technical school and then expanded into a large-scale City of Culture with a theater, music conservatory and gardens. As you tour the grounds and main square, the clock tower, the largest stone structure in Spain, dominates the background.

The Asturias region is also known for outstanding apple cider, and you’ll have the chance to sample a local variety at a traditional “llagar” where it is produced. The fermented cider, known as “sidra,” is typically poured from a bottle held high overhead so it aerates on its way to the glass, which enhances the flavor and aroma. During your visit you’ll be treated to a cider tasting and light snack.

Stop at Marques Square in Gijon’s atmospheric Old Town, where you’ll enjoy a walking tour through the narrow streets that surround the square. Of particular interest is the monument to Don Pelayo, the region’s 8th-century monarch.

Revel in the contrasts so prevalent in Aviles, including the futuristic and historical architecture, and local specialties ranging in taste from sweet to salty. Follow a westerly route to Aviles, an industrial city in the midst of a cultural transformation. The ultimate symbol of Aviles’ futuristic conversion is the Oscar Niemeyer International Cultural Center, a gleaming white jewel that Brazilian architect Niemeyer designed to accommodate the arts. Rising above the estuary, “El Niemeyer” as it’s known locally, has become a beloved city icon well worth a photo stop.

Despite Aviles’ passion for the future, the past hasn’t been forgotten, as you’ll see on a walking tour through Old Town. The architecture here tends to be exceptionally colorful with pale sandstone buildings standing next to more fanciful buildings painted in hues of pink, lemon and blue. Landmarks include the 13th-century Church of Sabugo, the pedestrian streets of Galiana and Rivero, Santo Tomas de Canterbury, and gems such as the Municipal Palace on España Square, where many of the older avenues originate.

Then for a literal taste of Aviles, you’ll stop in a bakery known for sweets such as almond-filled puff pastries. The Asturias region is also known for outstanding apple cider, and you’ll have the chance to sample a local variety at a traditional “llagar” where it is produced. The fermented cider, known as “sidra,” is typically poured from a bottle held high overhead so it aerates on its way to the glass, which enhances the flavor and aroma.

Enjoy a walking tour through picturesque Oviedo, a fascinating city revered for its gorgeous churches, serene plazas and superb landmarks. In the medieval Old Quarter, you’ll appreciate how many of the streets are pedestrian only, enhancing your stroll among the centuries-old buildings. Begin at the soaring Cathedral of San Salvador, the tallest building in Oviedo. You’ll learn that construction began in the 13th century and continued for nearly 300 years, which is evident in its marvelous synthesis of Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance and Romanesque elements. Tucked away within the cathedral, you’ll view a UNESCO World Heritage site, the glorious Camara Santa, King Alfonso II’s 9th-century court chapel. Browse several priceless religious artifacts and jewels in this small, yet exquisite, alcove. Continue your exploration of the Old Quarter at Constitution Square, where you’ll find the 1681 Church of San Isidoro El Real, a church with an austere exterior, dedicated to the city’s patron saint. At your leisure and time permitting, continue your exploration of Oviedo’s enchanting Old Quarter.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Delve into Oviedo’s medieval Old Quarter on a walking tour of its largely car-free streets.
• Admire the beautifully blended architectural styles of the 13th-century Cathedral of San Salvador.
• Delight in the cathedral’s intimate Camara Santa, a 9th-century royal chapel that is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• See from the outside the 1681 Church of San Isidoro El Real dedicated to the city patron saint

HELPFUL HINTS
• Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.

Enjoy the historical and picturesque old quarter of Oviedo at your own pace after an approximately 30 minute escorted transfer.

Oviedo is a fascinating city revered for its gorgeous churches, serene plazas and important landmarks, and you’ll enjoy approximately 3 hours of free time to explore the city on your own. Your tour escort will instruct you on the meeting point and time for the drive back to pier; please be at the meeting time at least five minutes before the scheduled departure time.

Discover two of the most intriguing inland cities in the Asturias region: Aviles, which is undergoing a renaissance, and historic Oviedo. Head to Aviles, an industrial city in the midst of a cultural transformation where you’ll stop for photos at the Oscar Niemeyer International Cultural Center, a gleaming modernistic jewel that has become Aviles’ symbol of the future.

Still, the past hasn’t been forgotten, as you’ll see during a walking tour through colorful Old Town. See the 13th-century Church of Sabugo and other historical landmarks such as the Municipal Palace on España Square, where many older avenues originate.

Enjoy the flavors of Asturias during lunch at a traditional “llagar”, where Asturias’ signature fermented cider is produced.

Drive south to the picturesque Old Quarter of Oviedo, the region’s capital, founded in the 8th century. In the colorful old quarter you’ll find many historic buildings, an open air market and small traditional shops. Many of the streets are pedestrian only and lined with beautifully preserved buildings, so the quarter feels immensely historical.

Stop at Plaza de la Escandalera and follow your guide to the Cathedral of San Salvador; it’s the tallest, most recognized building in Oviedo. Although construction began in the 13th century, it wasn’t completed for nearly 300 years, so the church is mostly Gothic with a blend of Baroque, Renaissance and Romanesque elements. Exploration of the Old Quarter reveals popular plazas such as Constitution Square and its main landmark, the church of San Isodoro. Constructed in 1681, the church is rather austere on the outside in contrast to its luxuriously decorated interior.