Oviedo is a city that wears its history proudly. With roots stretching back to medieval times, it’s a place where ancient streets, historic buildings, and sculptures tell stories of kings and pilgrims alike. We love the walking tour of Oviedo’s historic center for its immersive experience and intimate insights. This tour helps you see the city through the eyes of someone who truly understands its significance, especially as the starting point of the famous Camino de Santiago. The combination of art, architecture, and stories shared by guides makes it a standout.
If you want a shorter, more focused experience, the Explore Oviedo’s historic center tour offers a concise look at key sites like the Cathedral of El Salvador and the bustling Plaza del Fontán. Both tours showcase different facets of Oviedo’s past, helping you choose based on your available time and interests. Now, let’s dive into each one to see which suits your trip best.
1. Oviedo : Walking tour of the Historic Center
At number 1, we have the comprehensive Oviedo: Walking tour of the Historic Center. For around $159 per group (up to 5 people), this 2-hour tour offers a deep dive into Oviedo’s most important landmarks. What makes this tour stand out is the way it combines history, art, and local stories, with the guide providing a personalized experience—adjusting the pace and focus based on your interests. You’ll explore significant sites that connect to Oviedo’s royal past and Pilgrim routes.
Highlights include scattered sculptures that tell stories of the city’s artistic past, and stories about Oviedo’s role as a city of Kings. Reviewers commend Cristina’s friendly, knowledgeable approach and her ability to communicate clearly. One reviewer even praised the ability to customize the tour, making it feel like a private exploration rather than a cookie-cutter experience. The tour covers notable buildings, plazas, and hidden corners that you might miss on your own. If you’re keen to understand Oviedo’s cultural fabric and its connection to the Camino, this is a fantastic choice.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a thorough, flexible introduction to Oviedo’s history in a short amount of time.
2. Explore Oviedo’s historic center
For a slightly shorter, 1.5-hour experience, the Explore Oviedo’s historic center offers a lively introduction to the most popular sights and local culture. Priced without a specified fee, it’s perfect for travelers looking to get a quick yet meaningful overview of Oviedo’s core sites.
This tour takes you inside the Cathedral of El Salvador, which is famous for its mix of architectural styles, and introduces you to Oviedo University, a hub of academic and historic significance. You’ll also visit Plaza del Fontán, a lively square where locals gather for trade and socializing, and Los Trescabanales, the old fish market that speaks to the city’s trading roots. The guide’s focus on authentic Asturian culture shines through, making this a great choice for those interested in experiencing the city’s everyday life.
Reviewers mention that this tour is a perfect snapshot of Oviedo’s soul—small but packed with culture and history. It’s best suited for travelers on a tight schedule who still want to soak in the city’s atmosphere and main sights without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a quick, culturally rich overview with a focus on local life, this tour hits the spot.
How to Choose
Choosing between these tours depends on your priorities. The Oviedo: Walking tour of the Historic Center offers a longer, more detailed exploration—perfect if you want to understand the city’s royal and pilgrimage roots in depth. Meanwhile, the Explore Oviedo’s historic center is ideal for those with limited time or a preference for a quicker, culturally immersive experience. Consider your budget, schedule, and interests. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Both tours offer rich insights into Oviedo’s past, with each catering to different traveler needs. If you’re a history enthusiast eager to learn about Oviedo’s kings, sculptures, and connection to the Camino, the longer private tour is the way to go. For a quick but authentic taste of the city’s main sights and local flavor, the shorter option works wonderfully.
No matter which you choose, Oviedo’s mix of medieval streets, grand buildings, and lively plazas will surely delight. If you want to make the most of your visit, consider booking your tour early—these experiences fill up quickly, especially during the busy seasons. Prepare to walk through history in one of Spain’s most charming and historically significant cities.
