Gijón is a city best enjoyed on foot, taking in the sea views, rather than rushing from one museum to the next. San Lorenzo Beach and the old Simavilla quarter allow you to combine a long, unbroken stretch of coastline with short city streets. After a bus ride, this is a convenient way to ease back into the rhythm of the city.
Where to start your walk
At San Lorenzo, first check the weather and assess the length of your chosen stretch. You don’t have to walk the entire promenade: just a section is enough, leaving you with enough energy for the old quarter. It’s best to think of the coast as a place to take a breather, rather than a guarantee of a swim come what may.
How to continue the route
Simavilla occupies an elevated area by the sea. Further on, you can reach the sculpture ‘In Praise of the Horizon’, where the architectural focus gives way to the open sky and water. In the wind, this stretch feels cooler than the city streets.
A local detail worth bearing in mind
If the wind is strong, cut short the open section and allow more time for exploring the neighbourhood. Your plan for getting back to the bus should be in place regardless of how long you want to sit by the sea.
Plan for after the bus tour
The route is designed for you to explore the city at your own pace, rather than as a guided tour with a fixed timetable. First, check the arrival address against your ticket and find somewhere to leave your luggage. Mark your accommodation, the first sightseeing spot and the return pick-up point on an offline map. Start counting the time for your city walk from the moment you’ve left your luggage and are ready to set off.
On the day of arrival, plan just one main sightseeing stop. If your flight is delayed, cut back on the extra part of your itinerary, whilst still allowing time for a meal and the journey back. Before paying for entry, check the official opening hours, access conditions and any planned maintenance work. A view of the building from the outside does not mean that its interiors are accessible without restrictions.
What to keep before leaving
- the drop-off address and the transport operator’s contact details;
- an offline map showing the return route;
- confirmation of your chosen museum or guided tour session;
- contact details for your accommodation and the arrangements for collecting any luggage you’ve left behind.
You may find the following useful: How to plan your first day after a long coach journey, How to find a hotel from the coach station, Offline maps for travelling in Europe: how to set up your phone. Check available bus journey options on RedRay; this guide does not confirm the availability of a direct service to every city.
Resources for preparation
General information about the city and attractions: Gijón, Cimavilla, Elogio del Horizonte. The suggested walking route is the editorial team’s recommendation; please check with the relevant establishments for current opening times.
Image details
- Plaza del Marqués, Gijón.JPG — Asturkian; CC BY-SA 3.0. The image has been resized and converted to WebP. Licence terms are available on the original page.
- Elogio del Horizonte, Gijón 2021A.jpg — Fernando; CC BY-SA 4.0. The image has been resized and converted to WebP. The licence terms are available on the original page.
- Gijon Town Hall.jpg — DougManson; CC BY-SA 3.0. The image has been resized and converted to WebP. The licence terms are available on the original page.
Questions and Answers
Can this route be used on the day of arrival?
Yes, by choosing the central section and one main sightseeing spot. After travelling overnight, it’s better to leave the strenuous climbs and longer journeys for the following day.
What is the most important thing to bear in mind for the walk?
In strong winds, shorten the open-air section and allow more time for the neighbourhood. Your plan for getting back to the coach should work regardless of how long you fancy sitting by the sea.
What should you do with your suitcase?
Before you set off, confirm that your luggage will be stored at your accommodation or in a reputable left-luggage facility, including the time you’ll collect your belongings. Keep your documents, ticket and a fully charged mobile phone with you.
Do you need to buy all your admission tickets in advance?
First, choose your main attraction and check its rules. Don’t book several close-together time slots until you’ve confirmed the route between them. Keep your city walk flexible.