Planning a route by car through Asturias and Galicia? If you have six days for your trip, you can spend three of them in one autonomous community and three in the other. Although some things will have to be left to one side for a future trip, in this first experience you can explore some of the most iconic parts of these incredible regions.
Days 1 to 3 of the Asturias and Galicia driving tour
We start our trip in Asturias, more specifically in its capital city: Oviedo. Over the following days we will visit Cangas de Onís and Llanes.
Day 1: Oviedo
A small and cosy city with a historic centre that captivates all who pass through it. Here you will find emblematic buildings like the Cathedral of San Salvador with its impressive Gothic tower and Holy Chamber.
From the cathedral you can walk to Calle Gascona or "Bulevar de la Sidra" (Cider Boulevard) to enjoy the Asturian atmosphere at its purest.
In the afternoon you can stroll around the city and visit the Campoamor Theatre and San Francisco Park. During your walk through the city you will come across interesting sculptures including La Regenta, Mafalda and even one of Woody Allen.
Day 2: Cangas de Onís and the Lakes of Covadonga
On the second day of our trip we hop in the car and drive to the heart of the Picos de Europa National Park. Here the essential stop is the beautiful town of Cangas de Onís. There is a lot to see in the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Asturias, but we highly recommend its famous Roman bridge with its hanging cross.
After the visit, take the car again and head towards Covadonga. Both the Basilica de Santa María la Real and the Santa Cueva are well worth your time. Afterwards, it is time to go up to the Lakes of Covadonga.
Enol and Ercina are located out in the middle of nature and there you can enjoy incredible panoramic views. What’s more, if you are a fan of hiking, in this area you will find some very interesting routes.
Day 3: Llanes
The third and final day in Asturias can be spent visiting one of the most beautiful coastal towns in the north of Spain. Llanes has a well preserved historic centre where you can see small palaces, the Santa Maria del Conceyu Basilica and even a medieval wall.
Enjoy the Paseo de San Pedro and the breathtaking views of the Bay of Biscay. Another must-see is the Port of Llanes, where you can see the Cubos de la Memoria by Agustín Ibarrola.
If you have some time to spare, some of the most famous beaches in Asturias are close by, such as Torimbia or Gulpiyuri.
Days 4 to 6 of the Asturias and Galicia driving tour
The fourth day of your trip is a good time to head over to Galicia and visit iconic spots like O Grove, A Coruña and Santiago de Compostela.
Day 4: Santiago de Compostela
Visited every year by thousands of pilgrims from across the world, Santiago de Compostela is a city with a unique atmosphere. Its historic centre, which you have probably seen countless times in photos or on television, is a World Heritage Site.
From there you can "get lost" in a labyrinth of cobblestone streets that will allow you to learn more about the lifestyle of the inhabitants of Santiago. Of course, you cannot miss the Cathedral of Santiago, the Monastery of San Martin Pinario, the Mercado de Abastos and the Alameda Park.
Day 5: Rías Baixas
The fifth day of this trip is a perfect opportunity to visit the Rías Baixas and some of the area’s most iconic municipalities. You can start in O Grove and cross to the island of A Toxa, which is known for its hot springs.
Then head for Combarro, one of the most picturesque villages in Galicia. You will love its hórreos (raised granaries) by the sea, its cobblestone streets, its stone crosses and its seaside taverns.
Day 6: A Coruña
The final day of the trip is reserved for A Coruña, a modern city that has kept its seafaring spirit intact. If you are in a bit of a hurry, start your visit at the Tower of Hercules (the oldest working Roman lighthouse in the world). From there take the promenade to enjoy the views of both the city and the Atlantic.
In the afternoon you can visit the old town. In the Plaza de María Pita you will find the City Hall, an impressive construction.
This route through Asturias and Galicia by car is short but intense. You will return home with the feeling of knowing you have visited some of the most popular areas of both regions. Do you need a rental car for this trip? All you have to do is rent a car with OK Mobility.
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