La Arena neighborhood
Vibrant Gijón neighborhood with a stunning beach, authentic cider houses, and a lively local atmosphere. Experience true Asturian culture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, perfect for cider
La Arena neighborhood
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, perfect for cider
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vibrant Gijón neighborhood with a stunning beach, authentic cider houses, and a lively local atmosphere. Experience true Asturian culture.
"La Arena offers a genuine taste of Asturian life, with its iconic cider culture and beautiful seaside."
Try the Local Cider
Don't miss 'sidra'! Ask locals to show you the 'escanciado' pouring technique. :champagne_glass:
Walk the Promenade
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the 'El Muro' promenade for stunning sea views. :walking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Playa de San Lorenzo
La Arena Beachfront
Expansive urban beach perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and sunset strolls along the promenade.
Cider Houses (Sidrerías)
Throughout La Arena
Experience the unique Asturian tradition of 'escanciado' (pouring cider from a height).
Cimavilla Fisherman's Quarter
Adjacent to La Arena
Wander through charming narrow streets, discover traditional fishing culture, and enjoy fresh seafood.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best for Coastal Explorers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Try the Local Cider
Don't miss 'sidra'! Ask locals to show you the 'escanciado' pouring technique. :champagne_glass:
Walk the Promenade
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the 'El Muro' promenade for stunning sea views. :walking:
Can I spend 5 days in gijón?
Moving to the north of Spain
Explore Cimavilla
Wander the historic fishing quarter for authentic charm and great seafood. :fish:
Embrace Local Pace
Relax and enjoy the laid-back Asturian lifestyle. :relaxed:
Gijón, Oviedo, or someplace else to stay in Asturias? - Holiday to Spain
Tips
from all over the internet
Try the Local Cider
Don't miss 'sidra'! Ask locals to show you the 'escanciado' pouring technique. :champagne_glass:
Walk the Promenade
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the 'El Muro' promenade for stunning sea views. :walking:
Explore Cimavilla
Wander the historic fishing quarter for authentic charm and great seafood. :fish:
Embrace Local Pace
Relax and enjoy the laid-back Asturian lifestyle. :relaxed:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise La Arena for its authentic Asturian charm, vibrant cider culture, and the beautiful Playa de San Lorenzo. The neighborhood offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for enjoying local life and delicious seafood. Some find it less bustling than other tourist spots, which is often seen as a positive for those seeking a genuine experience.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting Around La Arena
La Arena is easily accessible by foot from Gijón's city center, especially if you're near the Cimavilla quarter. Local buses also serve the area frequently. If arriving by train or bus to Gijón, a short taxi ride or a pleasant walk will get you there.
Yes, La Arena is very walkable. The neighborhood itself is best explored on foot, and the extensive promenade along Playa de San Lorenzo is perfect for leisurely strolls. :walking:
The best way to explore La Arena is by walking. This allows you to discover hidden sidrerías, local shops, and enjoy the coastal atmosphere at your own pace. :footprints:
While La Arena is compact and walkable, local buses connect it to other parts of Gijón. Taxis are also readily available if you need to travel further afield.
Bike rentals are available in Gijón, and cycling along the promenade is a popular activity. It's a great way to cover more ground and enjoy the sea breeze. :bike:
🍽️ 🎫 Food & Drink in La Arena
You absolutely must try Asturian cider ('sidra') and the local cuisine, which often features fresh seafood, fabada (bean stew), and cachopo (veal cordon bleu). :food_bowl:
La Arena is dotted with traditional sidrerías. Look for places bustling with locals; they often have the best atmosphere and authentic cider pouring. :champagne_glass:
Yes, being a coastal neighborhood, La Arena and the adjacent Cimavilla quarter boast excellent seafood restaurants. Enjoy the freshest catch of the day. :shrimp:
Dining can range from affordable tapas and cider to more upscale seafood meals. Sidrerías offer a good balance of quality and price. Expect to pay around €15-€30 per person for a decent meal.
For popular sidrerías and seafood restaurants, especially on weekend evenings, reservations are recommended to avoid disappointment. :pencil2:
🎫 🏖️ Beach & Activities
Playa de San Lorenzo is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, beach sports, and walking along its extensive promenade. It's a lively spot, especially in summer. :beachwithumbrella:
Yes, Playa de San Lorenzo is family-friendly with calm waters for swimming and plenty of space for children to play. Lifeguards are usually on duty during peak season. :family_mm:
Escanciado is the traditional Asturian way of pouring cider from a height to aerate it, enhancing its flavor. It's a spectacle to watch and a must-try experience. :wine_glass:
While Playa de San Lorenzo is more for swimming and relaxing, nearby beaches or surf schools in Gijón might offer water sports like surfing or paddleboarding. :surfer:
The beach is lovely throughout the day, but sunset offers particularly beautiful views. Summer mornings are great for a quieter experience. :sunriseovermountains:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the beach, families can enjoy exploring the nearby Cimavilla quarter, which has a more relaxed pace. While the cider houses might be more adult-oriented, many restaurants in the area offer kid-friendly options. Consider visiting during the day when the atmosphere is more subdued. The open spaces and the sea provide endless entertainment for children, making La Arena a great choice for a family-friendly coastal getaway.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
With Playa de San Lorenzo right on your doorstep, you have ample opportunity for relaxing walks, people-watching, or simply enjoying the sea breeze. The neighborhood is safe and easy to navigate on foot, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Consider staying in a hostel or a small guesthouse to enhance the social aspect of your trip. The relaxed vibe of La Arena makes it a comfortable and enjoyable destination for those traveling solo.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Asturian Cider Culture
When you enter a sidrería, you'll likely hear lively chatter and see groups gathered around tables. The cider is typically served in small glasses, and it's customary to finish it in one go before the bubbles dissipate. If you don't finish your glass, it's polite to leave a little bit, which the waiter might then collect to pour into a communal 'culín' for others to share. This communal aspect is key to the sidrería experience. Many sidrerías also offer a selection of traditional Asturian dishes, making them perfect spots for a full meal. Look for places that are busy with locals – they are usually the most authentic and offer the best experience. :champagne_glass:
Exploring Cimavilla: Gijón's Historic Heart
Cimavilla is also renowned for its excellent seafood restaurants. After a day exploring the neighborhood, you can indulge in the freshest catch of the day, from grilled sardines to hearty fish stews. The area around the old port is particularly lively, offering a variety of dining options. Don't miss the chance to visit the Roman Baths of Campo Valdés located here, offering a glimpse into the city's ancient past. The views from the higher points of Cimavilla, overlooking the bay and the La Arena beach, are also spectacular, making it a perfect spot for photography. :camerawithflash:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit