Gijón, the largest city in Asturias, blends maritime charm with a deep sense of history and culture. Whether you’re drawn to Roman ruins, avant-garde sculpture, or lush botanical gardens, the city offers a wide range of attractions that reveal its unique character. Here are ten of the best cultural and scenic places to visit—all located within Gijón.

1. Termas Romanas de Campo Valdés (Campo Valdés Roman Baths)

Located near the Church of San Pedro, these 1st-century Roman baths are one of the city’s most important archaeological sites. The museum allows visitors to walk through well-preserved remains of the baths, with interactive displays that bring ancient Gijón to life.

2. Museo del Pueblo de Asturias (Museum of the Asturian People)

This open-air museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the traditional way of life in Asturias. It features rural buildings, traditional tools, costumes, and the International Bagpipe Museum. A visit here offers a fascinating look at local identity and customs.

3. Jardín Botánico Atlántico (Atlantic Botanical Garden)

Just outside the city center, this expansive botanical garden focuses on plant species native to the Atlantic arc, from northern Spain to the British Isles. Peaceful and beautifully curated, it includes forest trails, thematic gardens, and a historic farmstead.

4. Museo del Ferrocarril de Asturias (Gijón Railway Museum)

Housed in a former station near Poniente Beach, this museum is a must for railway enthusiasts. Its vast collection includes steam locomotives, vintage carriages, and displays explaining the impact of railways on Asturian industry and society.

5. Palacio de Revillagigedo

Dominating the Plaza del Marqués, this striking Baroque palace from the 18th century now serves as an art center. It hosts contemporary exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year. The adjoining Church of San Juan Bautista is also worth a visit.

6. Bioparque Acuario de Gijón (Gijón Aquarium)

Ideal for all ages, this modern aquarium recreates marine ecosystems from the Cantabrian Sea to the Amazon. Home to over 4,000 marine animals, including sharks, otters, and seahorses, it offers an educational journey through global aquatic habitats.

7. Jardín de la Fundación Museo Evaristo Valle

This museum is set in a picturesque early 20th-century villa surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. It showcases the work of Gijón-born painter Evaristo Valle, alongside temporary art exhibitions and a sculpture garden, blending art and nature seamlessly.

8. Colegiata de San Juan Bautista (Colegiata de Gijón)

Once part of the Revillagigedo complex, this former collegiate church is one of the city’s most significant religious monuments. Though it no longer serves as a parish church, its architecture and historical relevance make it a notable landmark in Gijón’s cultural landscape.

9. Elogio del Horizonte

Designed by Basque sculptor Eduardo Chillida, this monumental concrete sculpture crowns the green hill of Cerro de Santa Catalina. It serves as both a landmark and a viewpoint, framing the sea and sky in a way that encourages reflection and awe.

10.Cimavilla and Cerro de Santa Catalina

The old fishermen’s quarter of Cimavilla is the oldest part of Gijón. Wander its narrow cobbled streets and climb to the top of Cerro de Santa Catalina for some of the best views in the city. Along the way, you’ll find public art, historic buildings, and a strong sense of place.