Downtown El Centro - Protest in Medellin - Please credit my website www.lucidexplore.com if you use these images on your blog or website or please tag my Instagram @lucidexplore if you use these on your social media.
1 / 10

Downtown El Centro

4.6
·491k reviews·Gijón, Spain

Gijón's vibrant downtown, blending historic charm with coastal beauty and a lively Asturian culinary scene.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Lively atmosphere

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Downtown El Centro - Protest in Medellin - Please credit my website www.lucidexplore.com if you use these images on your blog or website or please tag my Instagram @lucidexplore if you use these on your social media.

Downtown El Centro

Best Time

Weekends

Lively atmosphere

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Gijón's vibrant downtown, blending historic charm with coastal beauty and a lively Asturian culinary scene.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Experience the heart of Gijón with its stunning promenade, historic squares, and delicious local cider."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk Everywhere

Downtown El Centro is best explored on foot. Wear comfy shoes!

🍻 Try Local Cider

Experience authentic Asturian culture at a traditional sidrería.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Plaza del Marqués

Plaza del Marqués

Historic heart of El Centro

Admire the Revillagigedo Palace and the statue of Pelayo in this charming historic square.

San Lorenzo Beach Promenade

San Lorenzo Beach Promenade

Coastal edge of El Centro

Stroll along the picturesque promenade, enjoying sea breezes and views of the iconic San Lorenzo beach.

Sidrerías Experience

Sidrerías Experience

Various locations in El Centro

Immerse yourself in Asturian culture with a visit to a traditional sidrería for cider and local delicacies.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Downtown El Centro is the heart of Gijón, buzzing with local life. Expect lively streets, especially on weekends. Embrace the authentic Asturian experience by trying local cider and seafood.

Best Foot Forward

Gijón's downtown is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking to discover hidden plazas and charming streets. Public transport is available but less convenient for central exploration.

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Local dining buzz
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer mornings
Why
Pleasant beach strolls
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

78.000€🟢📞985 333 981 ¡Atención emprendedores! 🏙️ Local comercial en el centro de Gijón🚶‍♂️🎯 📍Ubicación inmejorable: En pleno corazón de la ciudad, con gran afluencia de público. A pasos de estaciones de tren, líneas de autobús, y rodeado de comercios, restaurantes y oficinas. 🏢 Espacio versátil: 34 m² útiles, perfecto para boutiques, oficinas o atención al cliente. Construcción de 1976 con posibil...
@evatufinca
4.2K likes • 151.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk Everywhere

Downtown El Centro is best explored on foot. Wear comfy shoes! TikTok

🍻 Try Local Cider

Experience authentic Asturian culture at a traditional sidrería. TikTok

@vidamolona
3.4K likes • 149.2K views
LOCATION ALERT - Come find this Hidden Gem -Lola’s Essentials in downtown El Centro - entrance off 6th & State street!
lolasessentials
97 likes • 3.5K views

🍔 Burger Deals

Look out for special burger promotions, sometimes even free ones! TikTok

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Capture stunning views from Santa Catalina hill and the Plaza del Marqués. TikTok+1

📍Hola gente!!!! Pedazo de arroces nos hemos comido por 20€ la ración, Hoy fuimos a comer a la sidrería @puenteromanogijon en el centro del Gijón al lado de la playa de San Lorenzo, y nos ha encantado su producto es de primera calidad y más raciones muy abundantes, sobre todo la de los arroces que con una ración comían 3 personas ⭐️Destacar la profesionalidad de los camareros y la cantidad de sus ...
@gastrocunhina
3.1K likes • 116.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk Everywhere

Downtown El Centro is best explored on foot. Wear comfy shoes! TikTok

🍻 Try Local Cider

Experience authentic Asturian culture at a traditional sidrería. TikTok

🍔 Burger Deals

Look out for special burger promotions, sometimes even free ones! TikTok

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Capture stunning views from Santa Catalina hill and the Plaza del Marqués. TikTok+1

🍽️ Abundant Dining

From traditional Asturian to modern burgers, El Centro has it all. TikTok+3

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Downtown El Centro's vibrant atmosphere, beautiful coastal views, and rich culinary scene, especially the authentic sidrerías. While parking can be a challenge, the walkable nature of the area and the abundance of local charm make it a highly recommended destination for experiencing Gijón's heart.

What People Like

Lively atmosphere
Coastal views
Authentic sidrerías

What People Dislike

Parking difficulties

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Asturias Airport (OVD), you can take a bus or taxi to Gijón's city center. The journey takes approximately 40-50 minutes. Once in Gijón, Downtown El Centro is easily accessible by foot or local bus routes. TikTok

While buses serve the area, Downtown El Centro is highly walkable. Most attractions and amenities are within easy reach on foot, making it the preferred mode of exploration. TikTok

Parking in the immediate downtown area can be challenging. Several public parking garages are available nearby, such as Parking El Centro or Parking Plaza Mayor. TikTok

Yes, Gijón's main train station is located within walking distance of Downtown El Centro, making it a convenient option for travelers arriving by rail. TikTok

While not explicitly mentioned, Gijón is a bike-friendly city. You may find rental services near the promenade or major squares for exploring the area. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Downtown El Centro itself is a public area, so no tickets are required to wander its streets, plazas, and promenade. Entry to specific museums or attractions within the area may have fees. TikTok

Shops and restaurants generally follow typical European hours, with many opening around 10 AM and closing around 8 PM. Some may close for a siesta in the afternoon. Sidrerías often stay open later. TikTok+1

Absolutely! Walking along the San Lorenzo promenade, exploring Plaza del Marqués, and soaking in the atmosphere of the sidrerías are all free experiences. TikTok+1

While not always advertised, you might find local guides offering walking tours, especially during peak season. It's worth checking with local tourist information centers. TikTok

The exterior of historic buildings like the Revillagigedo Palace can be admired for free. If you wish to enter and explore any museums or cultural centers within them, check their individual admission policies. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the Plaza del Marqués with its historic palace, the scenic San Lorenzo Beach promenade, and the lively atmosphere of the traditional sidrerías. TikTok+4

Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting a sidrería, trying Asturian specialties like cachopo, and enjoying the vibrant street life, especially on weekends. TikTok+2

Yes, the coastal views from the promenade, the historic architecture in Plaza del Marqués, and the colorful streets offer numerous picturesque spots. TikTok+1

You'll find a mix of local boutiques, souvenir shops, and everyday retail stores. Some unique finds might be available in smaller, independent shops. TikTok+1

Yes, Downtown El Centro can be thoroughly enjoyed as a day trip, allowing you to see the main sights, enjoy a meal, and soak in the atmosphere. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Must-tries include cachopo (a large breaded veal cutlet stuffed with ham and cheese), fabada asturiana (bean stew), and fresh seafood. Arroces (rice dishes) are also highly recommended. TikTok+1

Many traditional sidrerías are scattered throughout El Centro. Look for places that serve local cider (sidra) and offer a lively, communal dining experience. TikTok+1

Yes, you can find cafes offering traditional Spanish breakfasts, as well as places like 100 Montaditos for a more casual and varied selection. TikTok

Dining prices vary. You can find affordable options like tapas and montaditos, while full meals at restaurants can range from €20-€30 per person, with rice dishes being a good value for sharing. TikTok+1

While traditional Asturian cuisine is meat and seafood-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan dishes. It's best to check menus or ask staff. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The San Lorenzo Beach promenade at sunset, the historic Plaza del Marqués, the colorful boats in the marina, and the charming narrow streets offer fantastic photo opportunities. TikTok+1

Golden hour, both in the early morning and late afternoon, provides beautiful light for capturing the architecture and coastal scenery. Midday can be harsh. TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and near public spaces. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for street scenes and architecture. A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expansive coastal views. TikTok

Generally, yes, but it's polite to be discreet and avoid disrupting other diners. Some establishments might have specific policies, so it's good practice to ask. TikTok+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Downtown El Centro offers a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty to keep children entertained. The San Lorenzo Beach promenade is perfect for a leisurely walk or a run-around, and the beach itself is a great spot for sandcastle building. Exploring the Plaza del Marqués can be exciting for kids, imagining themselves in historical settings. TikTok+1

When it comes to dining, look for restaurants that offer simpler options or shareable dishes like pizzas or rice plates. Many cafes also provide pastries and snacks that kids will enjoy. The overall walkability of the area makes it easy to navigate with strollers, and the lively but generally safe environment allows families to relax and enjoy their visit. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Downtown El Centro can be explored without breaking the bank. Many of the most iconic sights, like the San Lorenzo Beach promenade and Plaza del Marqués, are free to enjoy. TikTok+1 Opt for tapas and 'pinchos' at local bars for affordable and varied meals, or seek out places offering 'menú del día' (set lunch menus) which are usually very reasonably priced. TikTok

Consider staying in a hostel in the area, which can be a cost-effective option. Walking is the best way to get around, saving on transportation costs. Look for bakeries or smaller cafes for inexpensive breakfast and snack options. TikTok

couples

For a romantic experience, stroll hand-in-hand along the San Lorenzo Beach promenade during sunset, enjoying the picturesque views. Explore the charming, narrow streets of El Centro, discovering hidden plazas and cozy cafes perfect for intimate conversations. TikTok+1

Enjoy a shared meal at a traditional sidrería, experiencing the unique ritual of cider pouring together. Many restaurants offer intimate settings for a delightful dinner, and the vibrant nightlife ensures you can find a cozy bar for a nightcap. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Gijón's Historic Heart

Downtown El Centro, often referred to as the historic heart of Gijón, is a vibrant area that seamlessly blends traditional Asturian charm with modern city life. Its pedestrian-friendly streets invite leisurely exploration, leading you through picturesque plazas and along the stunning coastline. Key landmarks like the Plaza del Marqués, with its imposing Revillagigedo Palace, offer a glimpse into the city's rich past. The nearby marina adds a touch of maritime flair, while the iconic San Lorenzo Beach promenade provides breathtaking ocean views and a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll. TikTok+1

This area is not just about sightseeing; it's about experiencing the local culture. The numerous sidrerías are central to Asturian social life, where you can enjoy the unique experience of 'escanciado' (pouring cider from a height) and savor regional specialties. From bustling markets to charming cafes, Downtown El Centro offers a sensory journey that captures the essence of Gijón. TikTok+1

For those interested in real estate or simply admiring beautiful architecture, you'll find a mix of historic buildings and modern renovations. Videos showcase apartments in historic buildings, highlighting the blend of old-world charm and contemporary living within this desirable downtown location. TikTok+1

A Culinary Journey Through El Centro

Gijón's Downtown El Centro is a paradise for food lovers, offering a diverse culinary landscape that celebrates Asturian traditions and international flavors. The region is renowned for its high-quality produce, particularly its seafood and meats, which form the basis of many local dishes. A must-try is the cachopo, a substantial dish of breaded veal stuffed with ham and cheese, often large enough to share. TikTok

No visit to Gijón is complete without experiencing a sidrería. These traditional taverns are more than just places to eat and drink; they are social hubs. Here, you can sample Asturian cider (sidra), poured from a height to aerate it, and enjoy a variety of tapas and larger dishes. Arroces (rice dishes) are also a popular and often abundant choice, making them great for groups. TikTok+1

Beyond traditional fare, Downtown El Centro also caters to modern tastes with trendy cafes and burger joints. You might even stumble upon promotions for free burgers, adding an element of surprise to your dining adventure. Whether you're seeking a hearty Asturian feast or a quick, delicious bite, El Centro has something to satisfy every palate. TikTok+1

You may also like

1 of 2