Exploring Asturias: A Day Trip from Gijón to Luarca, Cudillero, and Avilés
If you’re planning a trip to northern Spain and want to get a real taste of Asturias’ stunning coast and charming towns, this From Gijón: Luarca, Cudillero, and Avilés day tour might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t done it myself, I’ve gathered enough insights from travelers to give you a detailed picture of what’s on offer.
What I really appreciate about this experience is how it combines natural beauty and cultural highlights—you get sweeping sea views, quaint fishing villages, and a lively historic city all in one day. Plus, the fact that the tour is guided in both Spanish and English makes it accessible, even if you don’t speak the language fluently.
One thing to keep in mind is the limited time at each stop—which is often the case with day trips of this nature. If you’re someone who loves to linger and soak in every detail, this might feel a bit rushed. That said, it’s a solid choice for those who want to see a good snapshot of Asturias without spending too many days on the road.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic drives, picturesque villages, and cultural sightseeing—especially if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of the coast.
Key Points
- Ideal for those wanting an overview of Asturias’ coastal towns in one day
- Guided in both Spanish and English, making it accessible for non-Spanish speakers
- Includes transportation, so no worries about driving through unfamiliar areas
- Limited time at each stop requires quick exploring, not deep immersion
- Beautiful coastal scenery and charming villages are the main highlights
- Not suitable for wheelchair users due to walking requirements
Why You Might Love This Tour
One of the big draws is the scenic journey along the Asturian coast. As you leave Gijón, you’ll soon be in Luarca, a seaside village where the sea and mountains seem to merge seamlessly. Travelers have enjoyed walking through streets that honor Nobel Prize winner Severo Ochoa, and many mention the spectacular Plaza Miares and the Ermita de La Regalina as highlights. The town’s peaceful vibe and lovely views make it a relaxing start to the day.
Next, the trip takes you to Cudillero, a place that consistently wins hearts. With its steep, inclined streets and houses facing the sea, this fishing village feels like a scene from a movie. The amphitheatre-like layout of the town, along with landmarks such as La Quinta de Selgas and the Church of Jesus del Nazareno, offers plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to explore the local culture. Many visitors rave about wandering its winding streets and enjoying fresh seafood.
Then there’s Avilés, which is a mix of old and new. Known as the “village of the forward,” it’s a place of explorers and history, with a modern touch. The Niemeyer Centre is an eye-catching piece of architecture, and the historic center—featuring the Church of Santo Tomás and Plaza de la Merced—delivers a cozy, cultural vibe. The estuary of Avilés, with its industrial past, adds a layer of depth to your visit, giving you a glimpse into the city’s evolution.
Planning more time in Gijon? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What To Expect at Each Stop
Luarca is your first stop, where you’ll walk through streets that hold memories of Nobel laureate Severo Ochoa. Expect to explore a town that combines natural beauty with a touch of history. The spectacular Plaza Miares and the Ermita de La Regalina are must-sees, perfect for photos and a quick stroll. Visitors often mention the town’s peaceful environment and its lovely seaside atmosphere.
From there, the journey to Cudillero is a highlight. The town’s quirky, inclined streets and houses facing the ocean create a picture-perfect scene. Your guide will show you key sights like the Church of Santa María de Soto de Luiña and La Quinta de Selgas, but you’ll also have free time to explore and taste some local gastronomy—most recommend trying the local seafood or tapas. Some reviews point out that the town can get crowded in the peak season, so your limited time might mean prioritizing what interests you most.
Finally, in Avilés, you’ll get a taste of both history and modernity. The historic center is full of charming corners, and the Niemeyer Centre adds a striking modern touch. You’ll visit the Church of Sabugo and the Plaza de la Merced, and learn about the city’s industrial roots from the estuary’s stories. The blend of old and new makes it a well-rounded end to the day.
How the Day Unfolds
The tour typically starts at 09:00 AM, with a prompt departure from Gijón. You’ll spend around 3 hours in Luarca, then about the same at Cudillero, and finish with roughly 2 hours in Avilés. The tour lasts about 9 hours in total, including transportation and sightseeing. While it’s a full day, the pace is fairly relaxed, with plenty of opportunities for quick photo stops and short walks.
The transportation is in a comfortable bus, which makes the trip pleasant and stress-free. The group size isn’t specified, but given the reviews and the approach, it’s likely a small group, which helps with getting personalized attention from the guide.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour price covers round-trip transportation and a live bilingual guide. The guide will speak in both Spanish and English, which is helpful for understanding the stops in real-time. However, food and drinks are not included, so you’re on your own when it comes to lunch or snacks. Many travelers find it best to bring some water, a snack, and perhaps some cash for a quick bite or to buy souvenirs.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Real-Life Experience
Travelers’ reviews give us a glimpse of what to expect. One person praises the friendly and knowledgeable guide, highlighting how this adds value to the trip. Another mentions that, despite the rainy weather, the guide tried to provide some shelter and helpful tips, which shows their dedication.
A common theme is that, even though the tour is in Spanish, guides do try to communicate key points in English when possible, which helps non-Spanish speakers enjoy the experience. If you’re worried about language, having a translation app or pre-recorded information could be handy, especially during free time.
The Practical Side
Since food isn’t included, plan to bring your own or enjoy local eateries during your free time. The timing means you’ll be on the go most of the day, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are a must—especially since some reviews mention rain. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so keep mobility in mind if that’s a factor.
Final Thoughts
This Gijón day trip is a great way to see some of Asturias’ most picturesque coastlines and historic towns without the hassle of driving or planning individual visits. The combination of guided sightseeing, scenic views, and some free time to explore and taste local food offers a balanced itinerary.
If you love charming villages with colorful houses, panoramic ocean views, and a touch of history, you’ll likely enjoy this tour. It’s especially suitable if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of this beautiful region. Keep in mind the limited time at each stop, so if you prefer to explore at a slower pace or delve deep into each town’s stories, you might want to consider a more flexible or private tour.
This trip offers good value for those eager to discover the coast of Asturias in a well-organized, informative way. Just arrive prepared for a full day of sightseeing, and you’ll leave with a handful of memorable moments and plenty of photos.
From Gijón: Luarca, Cudillero and Avilés Day Trip
“Our tour guide was very friendly and knowledgeable. We had a great time!”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves a fair amount of walking and is designed for adults. If your children can comfortably walk and are interested in scenic towns, they might enjoy it, but it’s not specifically tailored for families or young kids.
What language is the guide speaking?
The tour is offered in Spanish and English. If there are more than six participants, it will be conducted entirely in English. Guides do try to provide explanations in both languages, but some reviews mention that being ready with a translation app can help.
How long do we spend at each stop?
You’ll have around 3 hours in Luarca, 3 hours in Cudillero, and about 2 hours in Avilés. This allows for sightseeing, quick meals, and photos but doesn’t leave much time to explore in-depth.
Is food included in the tour?
No, meals and drinks are not included. You can bring your own snacks or plan to enjoy local eateries during free time.
What should I bring?
Bring a passport or ID, comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and perhaps an umbrella or rain jacket, especially if rain is forecasted.
Are the tours suitable for wheelchair users?
No, this experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, so consider mobility needs when booking.
How early should I arrive at the meeting point?
Aim to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time to avoid missing the bus, as guides cannot wait for latecomers.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving flexibility in case your plans change.
Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, it lasts about 9 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and free time, so prepare for a busy but rewarding day.
This guided trip from Gijón to Luarca, Cudillero, and Avilés offers a nicely balanced mix of coast, culture, and small-town charm. Whether you’re interested in picturesque villages, historical sights, or simply enjoying the sea views, you’ll find plenty to love in this tour. Just remember to pack your patience for a packed day and your camera for those stunning vistas!
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