A Detailed Look at the Private Tour of Gijón and Villaviciosa
If you’re looking to combine history, scenic views, and authentic local flavor, this private tour of Gijón and Villaviciosa offers a compelling way to do so. Priced at around $394 per person, it lasts about 6 hours and 30 minutes, with the convenience of hotel or port pickup included. Guided by a knowledgeable local, you’ll explore the city’s ancient Roman roots, wander through the lively fishing village of Villaviciosa, and enjoy some of the area’s finest viewpoints and historic sites.
What we love about this tour is its personalized touch — with a private guide, you’ll get tailored attention and the flexibility to focus on what interests you most. The inclusion of key sites like the Roman thermal baths and Revillagigedo palace makes it a great choice for history buffs, while the scenic stops such as Playa de San Lorenzo and the Eulogy of the Horizon viewpoint offer stunning photo ops.
A potential consideration is that the tour covers a lot in one day, so you’ll want to be comfortable with a fairly busy schedule and some walking. Also, lunch is not included, so if you plan to indulge in local cuisine, you’ll need to budget extra or upgrade your experience to include a meal at a traditional cider mill.
This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate historical sites, scenic vistas, and authentic local culture. If you enjoy a customized approach and want to avoid large groups, this private experience will suit you perfectly.
Key Points
- Personalized Experience: A private guide offers tailored insights and flexibility.
- Rich Historical Stops: Roman ruins, palaces, and old neighborhoods provide a glimpse into Gijón’s past.
- Stunning Views: From viewpoints like Eulogy of the Horizon to beaches like Playa de San Lorenzo, the scenery impresses.
- Authentic Local Culture: Villaviciosa’s fishing port and traditional cider mill visits deepen your connection.
- Active but Manageable: The 6.5-hour schedule includes walking and sightseeing, suitable for most travelers.
- No Lunch Included: You’ll need to budget separately for food or consider upgrading.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Gijon
Exploring the Itinerary in Depth
Starting in Barrio de Cimadevilla
Your day begins in Cimadevilla, the old fisherman’s neighborhood that was once the core of Roman Gijón. Walking its narrow streets, you’ll get a taste of the city’s maritime soul and see remnants of Roman settlements. It’s a lively area today, but the historic charm remains intact. Expect to spend about 15 minutes here, soaking in the atmosphere and spotting colorful boats bobbing in the harbor.
The Palacio de Revillagigedo and Roman Wall
Next, a stroll through the alleys near the Revillagigedo Palace takes you past the ancient Roman wall remains. This area offers a window into Gijón’s layered past, blending old city walls with elegant architecture. The guide will likely point out details you might miss on your own, making this segment both educational and visually appealing. This stop lasts around 10 minutes and is free.
Statues and Squares
From there, a quick visit to the Statue of Pelayo brings you face-to-face with the legendary founder of the Kingdom of Asturias, connecting you to Spain’s early medieval roots. Just a short 3-minute stop, it’s a great photo opportunity.
A walk to the Plazuela del Marques introduces you to a charming small square, perfect for a quick break, while the Plaza Mayor showcases impressive historic buildings that hint at Gijón’s civic history. These stops, each around 5 minutes, help set the scene of a city proud of its heritage.
While you're exploring Gijon, here are other experiences we've looked into
- Excursion to Lakes of Covadonga and Cangas de Onís from Gijón
- Xixón is famous! A tour 100% in Asturian to get to know our city.
- Bioparc Aquarium of Gijon Entry Ticket
- From Gijón, Oviedo or Pola de Somiedo: Brown Bear Spotting
- From Gijón: Covadonga Lakes, Cangas de Onís and Lastres
- Gijón: Ribadesella, Llanes & San Vicente de la Barquera
Roman Thermal Baths and Other Highlights
Exploring the Termas Romanas de Campo Valdes will be a highlight for history aficionados, as these Roman baths remain remarkably well-preserved. Expect about 15 minutes here to appreciate the engineering marvels of ancient public baths.
Passing by Lavaderu Square, the Jovellanos Museum, and the Clock Tower viewpoint adds layers to your experience, offering cultural, artistic, and panoramic insights into Gijón.
Panoramic Views and the City’s Coast
A visit to the Eulogy of the Horizon viewpoint promises sweeping views of Gijón, perfect for snapping memorable photos and understanding the city’s coastal layout. Afterward, you’ll walk down to Playa de San Lorenzo, the city’s most popular beach, where you can breathe in the sea air and enjoy the lively promenade.
The Monument to the Mother of the Emigrant
A poignant sculpture at San Lorenzo beach honors those who left for new worlds, reflecting the city’s tradition of emigration. It’s a moving stop that lasts around 23 minutes, giving you a chance to reflect and enjoy the seaside scenery.
The Modernist Landmark: Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura
As you approach the city’s cultural hub, you’ll see the Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura, Spain’s largest building from the 20th century. The guide will point out features like the tower, theater, and church, giving insight into its significance. Spending about 40 minutes here allows you to absorb the scale and architectural interest of this modern landmark.
Venturing to Villaviciosa
Finally, the tour takes you to Villaviciosa, a picturesque fishing village with Romanesque charm. Highlights include the Santa Maria de Villaviciosa church (known as the Olive), the Arcedianos house, and the local port. Over 1.5 hours, you can explore cobblestone streets, enjoy views of the bay, and observe local life in a setting that feels worlds away from the city.
What You Can Expect and Why It Matters
Throughout the day, you’ll experience a blend of history, architecture, and scenic beauty. The inclusion of free admission sites makes this tour particularly valuable, as most of the major landmarks are accessible without additional costs. The private guide ensures that you’ll hear stories and details tailored to your interests, transforming what could be a superficial overview into a meaningful experience.
The scenic viewpoints and beaches are more than just pretty pictures—they offer a sense of place, showing how the city and surrounding countryside have evolved. The visit to the Laboral building adds a modern twist, contrasting ancient history with contemporary design.
The option to upgrade to a cider mill lunch is appealing if you love local culinary traditions. This would add a delicious layer to your day, allowing you to sample the region’s famous sidra (cider) and traditional tapas, further immersing you in Asturian culture.
The Value of a Private Guided Tour
At nearly $400 per person, this tour might seem pricey, but think of it as an all-inclusive, tailored experience. The benefit of having a guide who knows the history, navigates logistics, and customizes stops is significant, especially in a city where many sites are close but rich in detail. Plus, the convenience of pickup and drop-off saves you time and effort.
The 6.5-hour duration is ideal for a rundown without feeling rushed. You get to see Gijón’s highlights and venture into Villaviciosa, making this a well-rounded day trip.
Who Will Love This Tour?
Travelers who appreciate history, architecture, and scenic views will find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suited for those who dislike large groups and prefer a more intimate, customized experience. If you’re keen on discovering Roman ruins, enjoying coastal vistas, and exploring a traditional fishing village, this day will give you a genuine taste of both Gijón and Villaviciosa.
It’s also perfect for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and culture, with the flexibility to focus on what excites them most.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the walking involved and the historical nature of some sites.
What’s included in the price?
The fee covers private transportation, a professional guide or guide/driver, and all entrance fees to the listed sites.
Can I get a different pickup location?
Pickup is offered from your hotel or port, so you can arrange for convenient collection.
Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included in the base tour price, but you can upgrade to enjoy a meal at a cider mill.
How long is each stop?
Most stops range from about 3 to 15 minutes, with a few longer visits like Villaviciosa (about 1.5 hours) and the Laboral Cultural Center (about 40 minutes).
Will I have free time during the tour?
Since it’s a guided private experience, the schedule is designed to maximize your sightseeing, but your guide can tailor the pace slightly if needed.
Are the sites accessible?
Most sites are accessible, but travel specifics depend on your mobility needs. Clarify with your guide beforehand.
What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Final Thoughts
This private tour provides a rich, personalized look into Gijón’s historic and scenic charms, making it ideal for visitors who want more than just a surface overview. The combination of Roman ruins, modern architecture, stunning viewpoints, and coastal villages offers a well-rounded experience that feels authentic and thoughtfully curated.
If you’re the type of traveler who values knowing the stories behind the sights, enjoys beautiful vistas, and prefers a tailored approach to exploring new places, this tour will serve you well. The inclusion of Villaviciosa adds a peaceful, scenic element that complements the bustling city life, rounding out a memorable day in Asturias.
In short, this private tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a leisurely, insightful, and culturally rich day in Gijón and beyond. It’s a perfect way to connect with the history, scenery, and local flavor of this coastal region—especially if you appreciate a guide’s personal touch and local knowledge to bring the experience alive.