GijonSpain

Gijón is a glorious city with a rich tapestry of Roman history, picturesque beaches and a range of historic sights. As the largest urban hub in the province of Asturias, it has excellent shopping and dining options. Learn how 18th-century author and philosopher Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos shaped and influenced much of the city.

Visit the Jovellanos Birthplace Museum to understand the author’s impact here. Admire the original furnishings and fixtures and take the audio guide. His tomb lies in the adjacent Capilla de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, or Chapel of Our Lady of Remedies, located on the Plaza de Jovellanos. Stroll through the historic area of Cimadevilla, on the Santa Catalina Headland, to reach the hilly Cerro de Santa Catalina Park. This is the place to admire the iconic Elogio del Horizonte monument.

Explore the fascinating rooms of the Campo Valdés Roman Baths and see the main gate and clock tower of the Roman Walls. The Roman highlight is the Archaeological-Natural Park of Campa Torres, which includes a museum and the vestiges of a hill fort.

For a change of scenery, go to the southern end of the Santa Catalina Headland to visit the vast sandy stretches of Poniente Beach and San Lorenzo Beach. Travel to the eastern outskirts of the city for the exotic plants and water features of the scenic Atlantico Botanical Garden. Visit the nearby Museum of the Asturian People to learn about the region’s past.

Browse the shopping streets spread across the center of Gijón. Try the seafood and the renowned pastries and take a cider tour.

The city can be found on the Bay of Biscay in the northwestern part of Spain. Fly to Asturias Airport and drive east for roughly 25 miles (40 kilometers) to arrive in about 30 to 40 minutes. Travel through the city via buses and taxis or consider renting a bike or a Segway to ride on the designated lanes.

Gijón is a relaxed haven offering wonderful shopping and dining as well as the chance to see fascinating Roman ruins.