Oviedo offers a surprising mix of experiences that go beyond its beautiful old streets. Whether you’re into eerie legends, breathtaking mountain views, or cultural insights, this city has a lot to offer. We especially like the Oviedo Scary! Legends and Mysteries Tour for its engaging storytelling and atmospheric night explorations, and the full-day Picos de Europa trip for its stunning landscapes and historic sights. These tours capture the essence of Oviedo’s charm—its stories, scenery, and secrets.
What makes Oviedo stand out is its rich variety of guided tours that explore everything from spooky legends to natural wonders. With options like the Civil War Tour providing a window into recent history, and scenic adventures like the Lakes of Covadonga, there’s a perfect experience for every traveler. Below, we break down each of the top tours to help you choose what suits your interests best.
1. OVIEDO SCARED! Legends and Mysteries Tour
At number 1 on our list, the OVIEDO SCARED! Legends and Mysteries Tour offers an atmospheric 1.5-hour journey into the city’s darker side. Join this guided night walk of Oviedo’s historic streets, where storytellers share medieval exorcisms, tales of dragons engraved in stone, goblins that inspired Carbayones, and whispers of hidden Nazis and the Inquisition. This tour is perfect for those fascinated by stories that make the city’s stones come alive.
The tour starts at the stunning Catedral de San Salvador de Oviedo, where you’ll hear about exorcisms and the Holy Shroud’s mysteries—an unmissable stop for lovers of legends. From there, you’ll stroll to Plaza del Fontan, once home to mythological beings, and finish at the Archaeological Museum of Asturias with ghost stories in hand. The reviews rave about the guide’s storytelling skills and well-researched tales. Critics love how the hour-and-a-half flies by, thanks to the engaging narration and atmospheric locations.
Bottom Line: If you’re intrigued by legends, enjoy atmospheric storytelling, and want a memorable night walk, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially great for those who love local myths and a dash of spooky fun.
2. From Oviedo: Covadonga Lakes, Cangas de Onís, and Lastres
For around 11 hours, the Covadonga Lakes and Cangas de Onís tour offers a full immersion into the natural beauty of Asturias. This trip takes you through the Picos de Europa National Park, with stops at the Basilica of Covadonga, the lakes, and the charming village of Lastres. The highlight? The panoramic views of the lakes from the Entrelagos viewpoint and the scenic drive through rugged mountains.
The tour includes visits to Covadonga’s Holy Cave, with a guided tour and free time, plus a delicious lunch in Cangas de Onís. A favorite among travelers is the comfortable, air-conditioned bus, which makes the long journey enjoyable. Reviewers appreciate the guide’s knowledgeable commentary and the variety of sites visited—though some wish for more time in Cangas de Onís. The trip is perfect if you want to combine scenery, history, and local culture without the hassle of driving yourself.
Bottom Line: This full-day trip suits those who want to see Asturias’s iconic landscapes and learn about its history without demanding much walking. It’s especially suitable for nature lovers and first-timers.
3. Bulnes: Excursion with funicular and Cabrales cheese cave in Picos de Europa
Number 3 on our list is the Bulnes Excursion, a full day of mountain adventure. This tour includes a ride on the funicular to Bulnes, a village without road access deep in the Picos de Europa. The journey offers spectacular views of the Cares Gorge and the peaks of Picu Urriellu.
Once in Bulnes, explore the unspoiled village with your guide, then visit the Cabrales cheese cave to see how this traditional cheese is made. The highlight is tasting authentic Cabrales cheese paired with local cider. The tour includes a visit to Las Arenas for a guided food tasting. Most reviews note the well-organized logistics and the stunning scenery, although some mention that weather can impact accessibility. This tour is perfect for cheese lovers and those eager to see remote mountain villages.
Bottom Line: If you’re after mountain vistas, cheese tasting, and a bit of adventure, this tour delivers a memorable day in the mountains. It’s a good fit for active travelers and foodies.
4. Guided tour of Oviedo
Number 4 is the Guided Tour of Oviedo, offering a 1 hour 45-minute introduction to the city’s highlights. Starting at Plaza Porlier, the tour takes you through the Cathedral of San Salvador, where you’ll learn that the Camino de Santiago began here, and visit Capilla de La Balesquida, closely tied to local Fiesta celebrations.
This walking tour covers the most iconic sites and some lesser-known stories about Oviedo’s baroque architecture and medieval streets. The local guide’s storytelling helps bring the city’s architecture and traditions to life. Reviewers mention how the tour’s engaging narration and well-chosen stops make the city’s history accessible and enjoyable. It’s a perfect primer for those with limited time or newcomers wanting a condensed overview.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a quick yet insightful look into Oviedo’s core attractions and culture.
5. Oviedo: Canoe Descent on the Nalon River
For a different kind of adventure, the Canoe Descent on the Nalon River offers a 3.5-hour trip on the water. You’ll paddle along the Nalon River, enjoying both calm stretches and some rapids for a splash of excitement. This tour is perfect if you want to experience Oviedo’s natural environment actively and enjoy the scenery from a different perspective.
Reviews praise the friendly guides and the fun, relaxed atmosphere, making it suitable for beginners as well as those with some paddling experience. The tour includes instruction, so no prior experience is necessary. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable on the water.
Bottom Line: A great way to combine outdoor adventure with scenic views, this canoe descent suits active travelers looking for a memorable, hands-on experience.
6. Somiedo Natural Park & its Rural Villages Tour from Oviedo
If you want to explore Asturias’s rural side, the Somiedo Natural Park & Villages is a quiet, scenic escape. This tour takes you to Las Veigas, La Peral, and Pola de Somiedo, offering insights into traditional trades and transhumance practices. The highlight is the panoramic view from the El Príncipe Lookout, where the landscape seems to stretch forever.
The tour provides free time to wander and sample local food, making it perfect for those who appreciate quiet, scenic beauty and rural culture. It’s rated highly for its peaceful atmosphere and knowledgeable guide. Because it’s a shorter trip compared to others, it’s ideal for travelers with more limited time or those who want a relaxed experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in rural Asturias and traditional mountain villages, this tour offers a peaceful, scenic, culturally rich day trip.
7. Asturias: Cider, Local lunch, Villaviciosa, Tazones, Laboral
For a full immersion into Asturias’ culinary and cultural scene, check out this tour. It combines cider tasting at the Trabanco factory, visits to the fishing villages of Tazones and Villaviciosa, and a guided tour of Laboral University. The day ends with regional food sampling.
Guests rave about the flavorful local lunch and the opportunity to taste authentic cider paired with regional snacks. The guide’s local insights and the visits to charming villages make it a comprehensive taste of Asturias. The tour is well-paced for those interested in gastronomy and culture, and the private bus keeps travel smooth. It suits food lovers and those wanting to experience the region’s local traditions firsthand.
Bottom Line: If regional cuisine and scenic village visits appeal to you, this tour offers a delicious, educational day with excellent value.
8. Civil War Tour of Oviedo
The Civil War Tour offers a sobering 1.5-hour look into Oviedo’s recent past, covering fighting that took place between July 1936 and October 1937. You’ll see the scars of conflict on the city’s facades and learn about the siege, repression, and shells still embedded in buildings.
The guide highlights the impact of the war on local life and the city’s architecture. Reviews commend the in-depth storytelling and the ability to connect history with the city’s visible remnants. This tour is ideal for history buffs or travelers interested in understanding the city’s more turbulent moments.
Bottom Line: For those interested in modern history, this tour provides a meaningful context for Oviedo’s recent past.
9. One day tour of the Picos de Europa
Another way to see the stunning Picos de Europa is with this full-day trip. It hits key sights like the Basilica of Covadonga and the Holy Cave, with plenty of free time to enjoy local food. The landscapes are memorable, with rugged peaks and lush valleys making it an ideal escape for nature lovers.
The tour offers a comprehensive look at the area’s best features, and reviews mention how well-organized and scenic the trip is. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of mountain majesty in a manageable day trip. The mix of guided sightseeing and free time makes it flexible for different interests.
Bottom Line: If rugged mountain vistas and religious sites appeal, this tour covers the essentials with a relaxed pace for a memorable day.
10. Oviedo: Tour de la Revolución de 1934
In this tour, you’ll learn about the last workers’ revolution in Asturias, a pivotal event where the Asturian Commune challenged authorities in 1934. The 1.5-hour walk explores barricades, key sites, and the social upheaval that shaped the region.
The guide brings to life the events that challenged the status quo, making it meaningful for history enthusiasts. Reviewers appreciate the vivid storytelling and how the tour connects past struggles to present-day Oviedo.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in social history and revolutionary movements, this tour offers a concise yet impactful look at Asturias’s worker uprisings.
11. The Siege of Oviedo – Civil War in the city
Finally, the Siege of Oviedo is a 1.5-hour tour that brings the Civil War to life through the city’s remaining scars. It reveals key scenes of the siege and explores the visible traces of conflict that still exist today. The guide’s engaging presentation makes history accessible and personal.
Reviews highlight how the tour makes the past tangible, perfect for travelers who want a deeper understanding of Oviedo’s wartime experience. It is suited for those interested in military history or urban stories of resilience.
Bottom Line: For history lovers wanting a vivid, informative experience of Oviedo’s wartime past, this tour is a compelling choice.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Oviedo
When deciding among these options, consider your interests and how much time you have. Want spooky stories and atmospheric walks? The Legends and Mysteries Tour might be your pick. Looking for stunning landscapes? The full-day Picos trips and Scenic Lakes are excellent.
For cultural and culinary experiences, the Cider and Villages tour combines food, villages, and local traditions. History enthusiasts will find the Civil War and Revolution tours particularly insightful.
Think about your fitness level, time constraints, and whether you prefer active outings or relaxed sightseeing. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Oviedo’s tours cover a wide range—from ghostly legends to mountain vistas and historic battles—making it a versatile destination for all kinds of travelers. If you’re after a spooky night walk, the Legends and Mysteries Tour is a fun kick-off. For scenic beauty and outdoor lovers, the Picos de Europa excursions are hard to beat. Culture and history buffs should consider the guided city tour or the Revolution insights.
No matter your interests, booking early and choosing tours that match your pace and curiosity will ensure you make the most of your visit. Oviedo’s mix of stories, landscapes, and local flavors promises a memorable trip.