From Oviedo: Luarca, Cudillero and Avilés Day Trip

Discover the Best of Asturias’ Coast on a Guided Day Trip from Oviedo

This guided day trip from Oviedo takes you along some of the most captivating spots on the Asturias coast—Luarca, Cudillero, and Avilés—all within a comfortable 10-hour experience for just $48 per person. Led by knowledgeable local guides, you’ll enjoy a mix of scenic beauty, charming villages, and cultural highlights, making it a fantastic choice for those wanting to see the region without the hassle of planning.

What we love about this tour is the opportunity to stroll through Luarca, a town that beautifully merges sea and mountain scenery, and to admire Cudillero’s famously colorful houses perched on inclined streets facing the ocean—perfect for picture-taking. Plus, the visit to Avilés, with its modern Niemeyer Centre and historic core, offers a balanced blend of old and new.

One thing to consider is the moderate walking involved, which might not suit travelers with mobility challenges. Also, food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to budget for lunch or snacks, especially in Cudillero, where local gastronomy is highly praised.

This tour suits those who appreciate authentic villages, scenic vistas, and cultural insights, particularly if you enjoy small-group experiences and the flexibility of guided commentary. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply want a laid-back day exploring Asturias’ coast, this trip will likely find a special place in your travel plans.

Key Points

• Breathtaking coastal scenery in Luarca, Cudillero, and Avilés.
• Expert local guides who share engaging insights about each location.
• Flexible free time in Cudillero for exploring and tasting local food.
• Comfortable transportation on a private bus, making logistics smooth.
• Authentic village visits with charming streets, colorful houses, and maritime heritage.
• Cost-effective at $48, offering good value considering the sights and guide service.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Asturias Coast Day Trip

If you’re eager to experience the rugged beauty and authentic charm of Asturias, this guided tour from Oviedo offers a well-rounded taste of the region’s highlights. It’s a day carefully crafted to maximize scenic views, cultural interest, and relaxed exploration, all within a manageable 10-hour window.

Starting the Journey: From Oviedo and Gijón

The tour begins early, with pickup points in Oviedo at 8:30 am and in Gijón at 9:00 am. The early start is perfect if you’re a morning person and want to make the most of your day. The transportation is by private bus, which means you won’t be dealing with public transit or worrying about the logistics of moving between these dispersed villages. The group size tends to be small, fostering a friendly atmosphere and allowing guides to tailor the experience as much as possible.

First Stop: Luarca

Luarca, in the municipality of Valdés, is the tour’s first stop and a true highlight. Known as the “Queen of the Fishing Villages,” it’s a place where mountain and sea collide in spectacular fashion. We loved the way Luarca presents its history, especially because it’s the birthplace of Nobel laureate Severo Ochoa, and you can see traces of this literary and scientific heritage around town.

Walking the narrow streets, you’ll notice the Plaza Miares, a lively square with colorful houses and cafes, and the Ermita de La Regalina, a small chapel perched on the cliffs offering sweeping views of the ocean. According to reviews, the scenery here is “breathtaking” and “very nice,” making it a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the tranquility of the coast.

Next: Cudillero’s Colorful Charm

From Luarca, the journey continues to Cudillero, arguably one of the most iconic towns on the Asturian coast. Known for its “Amphitheatre of houses”—a cascade of brightly painted homes that seem to tumble down the hillside—Cudillero is a feast for the eyes. The village’s inclined streets lead you past cafes, shops, and viewpoints overlooking the sea.

Your guides will take you through the streets, explaining the town’s history and artistic heritage, including landmarks like La Quinta de Selgas, a beautiful museum, and the Church of Jesus del Nazareno. You’ll have free time here to wander, explore, and most importantly, enjoy an authentic local meal or tapas (the guides can recommend great spots). Reviews mention that the free time is ample and that the food options are highly recommended—think fresh seafood, scallops, turbot, and other regional specialties.

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Final Stop: Avilés

The last leg of the tour takes you to Avilés, a city blending tradition and modernity. Known historically as the “village of the forward,” it’s also home to a stunning historic center and the Niemeyer Centre, an architectural marvel designed by Oscar Niemeyer. Here, the mix of old streets, churches like Santo Tomás, and the vibrant Plaza de la Merced makes for an engaging walk.

The estuary of Avilés is another highlight, rich in industrial and maritime stories. The guides will share insights into the city’s evolution from a traditional fishing town to a modern center of arts and culture.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Based on reviews, visitors appreciated the “knowledgeable guides” and “breathtaking scenery”. One reviewer noted, “Our guide Marta was very good and very knowledgeable.” Another mentioned that even when guides spoke mainly in Spanish, translation was graciously provided, making the experience accessible.

Many travelers also value the balance of guided commentary and free time—especially in Cudillero—allowing you to explore at your own pace. The cost at $48 is seen as very reasonable, considering the sights, transportation, and guided experience.

What to Expect and What to Bring

Expect moderate walking throughout the day, especially in the villages. Comfortable shoes are a must—think narrow streets, inclines, cobblestones. Since food isn’t included, budget for a meal or snacks, particularly in Cudillero, where local cuisine is one of the tour’s highlights.

Bring your passport or ID, just in case, and be prepared for some bilingual commentary—the tour is offered in both English and Spanish, with guides providing explanations in both languages when needed.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, guided introduction to Asturias’ coastal villages and towns without the hassle of planning transportation or navigating unfamiliar routes. It’s especially suited for those who like authentic villages with colorful houses, scenic views, and cultural insights. If you’re interested in local gastronomy, the free time in Cudillero will be a treat.

However, it’s worth noting the moderate walking involved—it’s not ideal for travelers with limited mobility—and the absence of included meals means you’ll need to budget for lunch or snacks.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Tour for You?

If you’re in Oviedo and craving a full day of stunning scenery, charming villages, and cultural discoveries, this tour offers an affordable and well-organized way to experience Asturias’ best coastal sights. The combination of guided commentary and free exploration ensures you’ll see the highlights while still having moments to wander on your own.

For those with an interest in local history, architecture, and gastronomy, this trip delivers a satisfying slice of Asturias’ coast. It’s especially good if you want a hassle-free day, small-group intimacy, and the chance to photograph some of Spain’s most photogenic villages.

If your goal is to see authentic places, enjoy breathtaking views, and learn a bit about the region’s past and present, this tour is a solid choice—and a value for its price.

FAQ

How early do I need to arrive?
You should arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the tour starts to ensure timely departure. Guides cannot wait for latecomers due to strict scheduling.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes guide services and transportation on a private bus. Food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or buy lunch in the villages.

Is there a lot of walking involved?
Yes, the tour involves a moderate amount of walking, particularly in the villages with inclined streets and cobblestones. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Will guides speak English?
The tour is offered in both English and Spanish. When there are more than six participants, guides typically provide bilingual explanations to accommodate all travelers.

Can I do this tour if I have limited Spanish?
Yes, many reviews mention that guides provide explanations in English and are very willing to translate or clarify as needed, making the experience accessible even with limited Spanish.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While the data doesn’t specify seasons, the best time is likely spring or early autumn, when the weather is mild, and the scenery is at its best. Rainy days are mentioned, so packing an umbrella is wise.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly mentioned, the moderate walking and cultural focus make it suitable for families with children who are comfortable with walking and interested in sightseeing. Keep in mind the limited accessibility for wheelchair users.

This Asturias coast day trip strikes a fine balance between guided expertise and free exploration, all at a price that makes it accessible for many travelers. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of this stunning region.

You can check availability for your dates here: