Xixón is famous! A tour 100% in Asturian to get to know our city.

Exploring Gijón in Asturian: A Deep Dive into the City’s Heart

When it comes to visiting Gijón, many travelers stick to the usual highlights—beaches, the marina, and the lively city center. But what if you could experience this vibrant city through the eyes of locals, in their native language? That’s exactly what this tour promises: a 100% in Asturian that offers a genuine glimpse into Gijón’s soul.

What immediately draws us to this experience is its focus on authenticity. You’ll get to meet colorful characters from Cimavilla, explore the maritime beauty of San Lorenzo beach, and discover the lively Paseo de Begoña—all narrated in Asturian, a language close to the city’s heart. Plus, the price of just $12 makes it a surprisingly accessible way to deepen your understanding of Gijón.

The only thing to keep in mind is that this tour is relatively short—1.5 hours—which means it offers a quick but rich overview. If you’re after an in-depth exploration or a very relaxed pace, you might find yourself wanting more. But for those who love authentic experiences, local stories, and a bit of language immersion, this tour hits the mark perfectly.

This experience is perfect for culturally curious travelers, those eager to hear Gijón’s stories in their original language, or visitors who want a different perspective on the city’s most famous sites.

Good To Know

• Authentic Language: The tour is conducted entirely in Asturian by a native speaker, offering a genuine linguistic experience.
• Rich Neighborhood Stories: It highlights colorful characters of Cimavilla and local legends.
• Iconic Locations: Stops include San Lorenzo beach, Paseo de Begoña, and key city sights like the Jovellanos Theater.
• Concise Yet Informative: At 1.5 hours, it’s a quick, engaging way to see Gijón differently.
• Affordable: Priced at just $12, it offers excellent value for a culturally immersive experience.
• Accessible and Well-Organized: Wheelchair accessibility and a clearly mapped itinerary ensure ease for most travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point: Plaza del Marqués

Meet your guide in front of the statue of Don Pelayo in Plaza del Marqués. This spot is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, making it a perfect starting point to set the tone of the tour. From here, your guide will introduce you to the city’s layout and some historical context, all in Asturian. If you’re lucky, the guide, possibly a local like Javier or María, will share small anecdotes that bring the city to life from the very first moment.

Cimavilla: The Historic Neighborhood

Next, you’ll wander into Cimavilla, the historic neighborhood known for its colorful facades and lively atmosphere. This area is the birthplace of many local legends, and the guide will introduce you to some of its most charismatic residents through tales that have been passed down for generations. Expect to learn about the neighborhood’s significance in Gijón’s maritime past and hear stories about residents who shaped its character.

One reviewer noted: “I loved the way the guide brought Cimavilla’s history to life, especially hearing about some of the more eccentric characters from the neighborhood.” Since the tour is in Asturian, you’ll get a true sense of the local culture and linguistic flavor often missed in traditional tours.

Casa del Chino, El Lavaderu, and the Museo Casa Natal de Jovellanos

The route then takes you past three key stops, each with its own story. The Casa del Chino was noted as a hop-on stop, giving you the chance to pause and absorb the surroundings. Moving forward, El Lavaderu offers another glimpse into historic Gijón, once a bustling laundry site, now a piece of living history.

The Museo Casa Natal de Jovellanos highlights the birthplace of one of the city’s most celebrated figures, Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos. Expect to hear some local stories about his influence and how his legacy still echoes in the city today.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

La Escalerona and Playa de San Lorenzo

As the tour moves toward La Escalerona, you’ll get fantastic views of San Lorenzo beach, arguably Gijón’s most famous stretch of sand. The route here is designed to give you a visual feast of the seaside, with commentary about the area’s maritime importance. The guide will likely mention local legends linked to the beach and its role in the city’s cultural fabric.

Center of the City: Plaza del Parchís and Teatro Jovellanos

Your walk continues through the bustling Plaza del Parchís, a lively spot known for its colorful architecture and local vibe. The guide will share insights about the area’s architecture and the cultural scene, including the Jovellanos Theater. This historic venue is a hub for local arts and performances, and hearing its stories will enrich your appreciation of Gijón’s creative spirit.

Final Stop: Paseo de Begoña

The tour culminates on the Paseo de Begoña, often regarded as the heart of Gijón. This lively promenade is perfect for soaking in the city’s energy, watching street performers, or grabbing a quick snack. The guide will wrap up with personal stories or local tidbits, leaving you with a sense of connection to Gijón’s everyday life.

Practical Details

Pricing and Duration

At $12 per person, this tour offers remarkable value, especially considering the knowledgeable, native-speaking guide and the focus on authentic language. The 1.5-hour timeframe makes it ideal for travelers with limited time but who want to make the most of their visit without feeling rushed.

Accessibility

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a significant plus for travelers with mobility needs. The route covers central, pedestrian-friendly areas, making navigation straightforward.

Language and Content

Conducted entirely in Asturian, the tour provides a deep culture. However, some content is shown in its original language, which adds to the authenticity but might be challenging for non-speakers. That said, many reviews suggest that the engaging storytelling bridges any language gaps.

Meeting Point and Cancellation

Meet at Plaza del Marqués, directly in front of Don Pelayo’s statue—easy to find with clear signage. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case plans change.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for culturally curious travelers eager to experience Gijón beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s perfect for those interested in local stories, authentic language, and a genuine glimpse into city life. If you’re someone who enjoys short but meaningful tours that pack a punch, this is a great choice.

It also suits visitors who want to support local guides and enjoy Asturian culture in a relaxed, engaging way. The price point makes it accessible for most budgets, and its short duration is perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing day.

The Sum Up

This Gijón tour offers a rare chance to experience the city in its native tongue, guided by someone deeply connected to its stories and characters. You’ll see highlights like Cimavilla, San Lorenzo beach, and Paseo de Begoña, but with a local’s insight that transforms these places from mere sights into stories.

For the budget-conscious traveler seeking an authentic cultural experience, this tour provides excellent value and a memorable way to understand Gijón’s soul. It’s especially perfect for those who enjoy stories, local history, and a personal touch that larger, more generic tours often lack.

While it’s a quick overview—just 1.5 hours—it’s packed with enough charm and local flavor to leave you feeling more connected to the city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone who thinks they know Gijón well, this tour offers a fresh perspective in a language that echoes the city’s true spirit.

FAQ

Is the tour conducted entirely in Asturian?
Yes, the tour is led in Asturian by a native speaker, providing an authentic linguistic experience.

How long does the tour last?
The duration is approximately 1.5 hours, making it a quick yet engaging way to explore Gijón.

Where does the tour start?
It begins in Plaza del Marqués, in front of the statue of Don Pelayo, a recognizable city landmark.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, with routes through pedestrian-friendly areas.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What are some highlights of the tour?
Stops include Cimavilla, San Lorenzo beach, Paseo de Begoña, Plaza del Parchís, Jovellanos Theater, and the Casa Natal de Jovellanos.

Is this tour good for families or children?
While the experience is rich in stories and culture, the language and pace suit adult travelers or older children interested in local culture.

What’s the value for the price?
At $12, it offers an inexpensive, authentic way to understand Gijón’s culture and history beyond typical tourist routes.

Are food or drinks included?
No, the tour focuses on sights and stories; food and drinks are not part of the package.

Would this tour suit someone who already knows Gijón well?
Yes, because the focus on local characters and Asturian language adds a new layer of insight, even for seasoned visitors.

You can check if your dates are available here: