Casco Histórico de Avilés
Avilés quietly harbours one of the best-preserved medieval old towns in Asturias, a compact labyrinth of 12th-century arcaded streets, noble palaces and Romanesque churches that most visitors to the region completely overlook. Strolling the porticoed Calle Galiana on a weekday morning, coffee in hand, feels like having a film set entirely to yourself.
Palaces, Arcades and Hidden Courtyards
The Palacio de Camposagrado, a Baroque masterpiece on Plaza de España, and the Renaissance Palacio de los Valdés are the headline acts, but the real pleasure is wandering without a map. Duck through the Arco de los Zapatos — the old cobblers' arch — into the tangle of lanes behind the main square.
The Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari dates to the 12th century and contains the remarkable Gothic tomb of Pedro Solís, a bishop whose effigy is carved with extraordinary detail. It's rarely busy and entry is free.
Plaza de España: The Social Heart
The arcaded Plaza de España is the living room of Avilés, lined with outdoor terraces that fill up from noon onwards. Order a glass of sidra natural and a plate of jamón and watch the unhurried rhythm of Asturian life unfold around you.
On weekend mornings a small artisan and antique market sets up under the arcades, selling everything from vintage postcards to hand-thrown ceramics. It's low-key, authentic and refreshingly uncommercialized.
More of Avilés
Discover where to stay, what to do and the best deals for your trip.
Explore Avilés →
