Private Tour of Gijón

Gijón, a vibrant coastal city in northern Spain, offers a glimpse into its rich seafaring heritage through a private tour. Led by an expert guide, this immersive experience delves into the city’s fishing district, uncovering the stories of whale hunting, the fishing community, and local icons. Visitors can explore the charming Cimavilla neighborhood, learn about the lives of fishermen and women, and gain a deeper understanding of Gijón‘s captivating past. The tour promises a personalized and engaging exploration of this unique aspect of the city’s cultural identity.

Good To Know

• A 2-hour private tour that explores the cultural memory and fishing history of the port city of Gijón, guided by an official, Spanish-speaking guide.
• Highlights include the whale hunting history, the rula (fish market), notable figures like La Tarabica and Telvina, and the first women’s strike at the tobacco factory.
• Tour begins at the Casa Paquet (Tourist Office) and includes visits to Tránsitu de Ballenes, La Soledad chapel, and the fishermen’s houses in Cimavilla.
• Priced from $135.66 for up to 5 participants, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users but is accessible for most participants, with the meeting point at the Casa Paquet.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This private tour of Gijón offers visitors the opportunity to explore the cultural memory of the city’s port and fishing district.

Priced from $135.66 per group for up to 5 participants, the 2-hour guided tour is led by an official, accredited Spanish-speaking guide.

Guests can freely cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve now and pay later.

The tour introduces the history of whale hunting in the Cantabrian Sea, the work of fishermen and sardine makers, and the Jovellanos Birthplace Museum related to the sea and local history.

Cultural Experience

As visitors embark on this private tour, they’ll explore the cultural memory of Xixón’s port and fishing district.

They’ll discover the history of whale hunting in the Cantabrian Sea and learn about the work of fishermen and sardine makers in the rula (fish market).

The tour examines the lives of notable figures like La Tarabica and Telvina, and discusses the first women’s strike at the tobacco factory.

Visitors will navigate through various life and work stories of the fishing community as they observe the colorful architecture of fishermen’s houses in Cimavilla.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at Casa Paquet (Tourist Office), where visitors then head to Tránsitu de Ballenes and La Soledad chapel, the former headquarters of the old seafarers guild. Here, the guide discusses inshore fishing, the canning industry, and women’s roles in street sales. Walking through Cimavilla, participants observe the colorful architecture of fishermen’s houses. The tour concludes near the Municipal Fish Market, where the guide explores Asturian words linked to the sea.

| Itinerary Highlights |

|———————|

| Begin at Casa Paquet |

| Visit Tránsitu de Ballenes and La Soledad chapel |

| Discuss inshore fishing, canning industry, and women’s roles |

| Walk through Cimavilla, observe fishermen’s houses |

Historical Context

The tour also highlights the lives of notable figures like La Tarabica and Telvina, who played important roles in the fishing community.

La Tarabica was a renowned fish seller known for her wit and business acumen.

Telvina, a pioneering woman, led the first strike at the local tobacco factory, advocating for better working conditions.

These stories provide insights into the complex social dynamics and challenges faced by the fishing community.

The guide delves into these historical narratives, fostering a deeper understanding of the community’s resilience and the significant contributions of its remarkable individuals.

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Accessibility and Meeting Point

Although the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, it provides an accessible experience for most participants.

The meeting point is at Casa Paquet, the tourist office located at C. Oscar Olavarría. Guests should check availability for specific dates and times to ensure the tour fits their schedule.

The 2-hour private tour, led by an official accredited Spanish-speaking guide, explores Gijón’s cultural memory and the lives of its fishing community.

For those interested, this is an opportunity to discover the history and traditions of this coastal city in a personalized setting.

What to Expect on the Tour

Participants can expect a comprehensive exploration of Gijón’s cultural heritage and the lives of its fishing community during this 2-hour private tour.

The guide will lead visitors through the historic port and fishing district, highlighting the history of whale hunting in the Cantabrian Sea and the work of fishermen and sardine makers.

Guests will visit the Tránsitu de Ballenes, La Soledad chapel, and the Jovellanos Birthplace Museum, learning about inshore fishing, the canning industry, and women’s roles in street sales.

The tour concludes near the Municipal Fish Market, exploring Asturian words linked to the sea.

Discovering Gijón’s Seafaring Heritage

Gijón’s rich seafaring heritage unfolds as visitors embark on this captivating tour. The exploration begins at the Tránsitu de Ballenes and La Soledad chapel, uncovering the history of the old seafarers’ guild. The tour delves into the inshore fishing industry, canning operations, and the vital role of women in street sales. Traversing the colorful Cimavilla district, guests witness the architecture that reflects the lives of the fishing community.

| Highlights | Significance | Insights |

| — | — | — |

| Tránsitu de Ballenes and La Soledad chapel | Old seafarers’ guild headquarters | Seafaring history |

| Inshore fishing, canning industry, women’s roles | Integral to local economy | Fishing community life |

| Cimavilla’s colorful architecture | Reflects fishermen’s living spaces | Fishing community culture |

The tour concludes near the Municipal Fish Market, where Asturian terminology linked to the sea is explored, painting a vivid picture of Gijón’s seafaring heritage.

Exploring the Fishing Community’s Stories

As visitors delve deeper into Gijón’s fishing community, they uncover the captivating stories of its notable figures.

The tour explores the life and work of La Tarabica, a resourceful woman who sold sardines on the streets, and Telvina, a pioneering female tobacco factory worker who led the first women’s strike.

Discussions also touch on the historical significance of the fishing industry, including the Cantabrian whale hunting tradition and the vital roles women played in the canning and street sales sectors.

These stories bring the community’s rich cultural heritage to life, providing a nuanced understanding of Gijón’s seafaring past.

Common Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Tour?

The best time to take this tour is during the spring or fall seasons. The milder weather makes for a more comfortable sightseeing experience, and it avoids the peak tourist crowds of summer.

Are Any Snacks or Drinks Provided During the Tour?

No, the tour does not include any snacks or drinks. It’s a 2-hour walking tour focused on exploring the cultural and historical aspects of Gijón’s port and fishing district. Participants should plan to bring their own refreshments.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Focus on Specific Interests?

The tour’s itinerary can be customized to focus on specific interests. The guide is flexible and can adjust the tour to accommodate guests’ preferences, such as emphasizing the fishing community’s history or the region’s cultural heritage.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

The tour itinerary doesn’t specifically mention restroom facilities. However, it’s likely that there will be opportunities to use restrooms during the 2-hour walking tour, such as at the Municipal Fish Market or other stops along the way.

Is Photography Allowed Throughout the Tour Experience?

Photography is generally allowed throughout the tour experience. However, visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the guide or other participants. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific policies on photography.

The Sum Up

This private tour of Gijón offers an immersive cultural experience, exploring the city’s rich seafaring heritage. Guided by an expert, visitors will explore the history of whale hunting, the fishing community, and local figures, while enjoying the vibrant architecture of Cimavilla. The personalized tour provides insights into the lives of fishermen and women, offering a unique opportunity to discover Gijón’s seafaring legacy.

You can check if your dates are available here: