Gijon Highlights - Art, History & Seaside Life in Cimadevilla

Start the tour at the Staircase, descending to the golden San Lorenzo beach. Standing in front of blooming flower beds and overlooking the beautiful sea, the Gijón flag on the top of the stairs beckons visitors to join locals at their favorite meeting place for relaxing and people-watching. From there, you can also take postcard pictures of the quaint-looking Saint Peter Parish sticking out to a bay nearby.

Then, marvel at the photogenic church you have just seen in all its beauty. Built in the same style as its 15th-century predecessor, the 20th-century Saint Peter Parish makes an exceptionally enchanting sight with a breathtaking backdrop and a tranquil ambiance for you to savor the sound, smell, and views of the sea.

Just some steps away is Valdes Palace. The 17th-century Baroque palace, an official Historical Monument, sets itself apart from elegant buildings of its kind with two sober square crenelated towers, but what’s most interesting is the intensive archaeological Roman site below the palace, which is well worth a separate trip to discover the hidden world to the fullest.

Proceed to admire the splendid showcase of neoclassical architecture in the Main Square, whose highlight is the majestic 19th-century Town Hall, adding a touch of grandeur to the elegant space. You will also find yourself lingering here for a wide range of activities: from lovely cafés and cider houses nestling under historic porticoes to traditional dance performances and craft markets on the second weekend of every month.

After leaving the square through the northwest exit, your eyes will be captivated at once by the Baroque gem of Revillagigedo Palace, Old Town’s most emblematic historic building. The 18th-century palace is an architectural feast in its own right and owes its special charms to the location in front of the extravagant cruise dock, the symbolic Cider Tree, and the magnificent Fountain and Statue of Pelayo, which offers the best backgrounds in the Old Town for souvenir photos.

The palace also marks the starting point of Cimadevilla, the charming former fishermen’s quarter. You will discover delightful surprises hidden in the maze of cobbled alleys in the bohemian neighborhood which is characterized by remnants of Roman walls, picturesque houses, and graffiti corners full of bustling bars and restaurants.

Finally, leave all the hustle and bustle behind and go uphill to Santa Catalina Park on top of a headland sticking out above the sea. The breezy open space boasting velvety lawns, the Gijion’s emblematic sculpture Elogio del Horizonte, and weathered fortifications from the 18th century is a great spot for rewinding after a long walk while savoring refreshing seascapes and enchanting cityscapes in all directions.