Asturias is one of those places that feels made for a road trip. Dramatic mountain backdrops, winding coastal drives, quiet villages, and food worth planning your entire day around — every stop feels different from the last. The best way to experience it all isn’t by rushing between cities, but by taking your time on the road, stopping whenever something catches your eye, and letting the landscape set the pace.
This 5-day Asturias road trip itinerary is designed for slow mornings, scenic drives, and long lunches with a view. You’ll move between historic towns, rugged coastline, and the heart of the Picos de Europa, with just enough structure to keep things easy while leaving room for spontaneity. Whether you’re here for the nature, the food, or simply the joy of driving somewhere beautiful, this route gives you a little bit of everything that makes northern Spain unforgettable.
Over five days, you’ll explore elegant cities, mountain villages, and some of the most striking coastal scenery in Spain — all connected by short, stunning drives that make the journey just as memorable as the destinations.
Before You Go: Quick Planning Tips
Before hitting the road, a little planning goes a long way in Asturias. While this region is perfect for spontaneous detours and slow travel, having a rough idea of timing, driving conditions, and what to pack will make the experience much smoother.
Best time to visit:
Late spring through early autumn (May–October) offers the best balance of weather and open attractions. Summer brings warmer temperatures and lively coastal towns, while spring and early autumn are quieter with lush green landscapes and fewer crowds. Rain is always possible here, so it’s wise to plan with flexibility.
Renting a car & driving:
A car is essential for this itinerary. Many of Asturias’ most beautiful spots — mountain viewpoints, coastal villages, and hidden beaches — are only accessible by road. Driving is generally relaxed and scenic, though mountain routes can be narrow and winding, so take your time and enjoy the views.
Pacing this itinerary:
Five days is enough to experience a mix of mountains, coast, and culture without rushing. Distances between stops are relatively short, which means more time exploring and less time driving. You can easily adjust the pace by adding extra nights in places you enjoy most.
What to pack:
Layers are key in northern Spain. Even in summer, mornings and evenings can feel cool, especially in the mountains. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a light rain jacket, and something warm for higher altitudes. If you plan on hiking or spending time outdoors, a small daypack will quickly become your best friend.
The 5-Day Asturias Road Trip Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival & Exploring Oviedo
Your Asturias road trip begins in Oviedo. The city sets the tone for the days ahead. It feels elegant but not formal. It feels lively but not overwhelming. A good place to ease into the slower rhythm of northern Spain.
Arrive and pick up your rental car. Settle into your accommodation. Then head out to explore on foot. Oviedo’s historic center is compact and easy to walk. Narrow streets and small plazas fill the area. You see well-preserved buildings at every turn. Spend the afternoon walking without a strict plan. This city works best at a slow pace.
Walk through the old town and head toward Oviedo Cathedral. It stands as one of the city’s main landmarks. From there, move through nearby streets with small shops and cafés. Local boutiques line the way. Stop for a coffee or a glass of wine in one of the squares. Take time to enjoy the atmosphere.
Oviedo offers a great introduction to Asturian food. Try local dishes like fabada asturiana, a rich bean stew from the region. You can also order cachopo, a large dish people often share. Pair your meal with sidra, the local cider. Watch how they pour it from high above the glass. This custom forms a key part of local culture.
As evening arrives, the city grows busy. Locals move between cider bars and restaurants. Join the flow and walk without a fixed plan. Let your first day unfold at a slow pace. After a calm evening and a good night’s rest, you feel ready to head toward the mountains in the morning.
Day 2 – Oviedo → Cangas de Onís → Lakes of Covadonga
After a slow morning in Oviedo, head toward the mountains. This drive becomes one of the most scenic parts of the trip. The journey to Cangas de Onís takes about an hour and a half. Take it slow along the way. The views change from city streets to green hills and mountain scenery.
Cangas de Onís is a small town with a strong presence. Many people see it as the gateway to the Picos de Europa. Start at the famous Roman bridge. It stands as a key symbol of the region. Pause here and stretch your legs. Take in your first clear mountain views. The town feels relaxed and easy to walk. Stop at a café or bakery for a mid-morning coffee.
From Cangas de Onís, continue to the Covadonga Sanctuary. The site feels calm and historic. Mountains and nature surround it. Even if you do not focus on religious sites, the setting makes the stop worth it. Spend some time walking around before you head higher into the mountains.
The drive to the Lakes of Covadonga stands out as a highlight of the trip. Winding roads lead you into the Picos de Europa. Wide views open up around each turn. You see grazing cows and alpine scenery. The landscape feels very different from the coast you visit later. Once you reach the lakes, take your time. Walk along the trails. Stop at viewpoints. Enjoy the quiet landscape.
This day moves at a slower pace and focuses on the outdoors. Wear comfortable shoes. Bring a jacket and a camera. The weather can change fast in the mountains. This adds to the experience.
By late afternoon, drive back toward Cangas de Onís. Settle in for a relaxed dinner in town. Try another local dish or choose a simple meal. After a full day, enjoy a quiet evening. Stay overnight here to remain close to the mountains. This location sets you up well for another day in nature tomorrow.
Day 3 – Adventure in Picos de Europa
Wake up in the fresh mountain air and ease into the day. Today focuses on the natural beauty of the Picos de Europa. Move at a slower pace. Choose between hiking, scenic drives, or long meals with mountain views.
Start with breakfast in Cangas de Onís. Then head back into the national park. This region gives you flexibility. You can make the day active or relaxed. If you enjoy hiking, choose from many trails. Some routes are short and scenic. Others lead through valleys and mountain passes. Even a simple walk from a roadside viewpoint offers wide views.
If you prefer a relaxed day, explore by car. Stop at viewpoints and small villages along the way. The roads through the Picos de Europa rank among the most beautiful in northern Spain. They pass cliffs, deep gorges, and open green valleys. Grazing animals dot the landscape. Each turn reveals a new scene.
Plan a long lunch in a mountain village or countryside restaurant. Try regional cheeses like Cabrales. You can also order grilled meats and local dishes after a morning outdoors. Meals here move at a slow pace. Take your time and enjoy it.
In the afternoon, keep exploring at your own pace. Take another short walk or drive to a new viewpoint. You can also sit with a coffee and enjoy the scenery. There is no need to rush. Focus on the landscape around you.
Return to Cangas de Onís or your nearby stay in the evening. Settle in for another calm night in the mountains. After a full day outdoors, enjoy a quiet dinner and a slow evening. Tomorrow, you head toward the coast.
Day 4 – Coastline Drive: Llanes & Hidden Beaches
After two days in the mountains, today’s drive brings a new scene. Head toward the Asturian coast. The drive from Cangas de Onís to Llanes takes just under an hour. The views shift from rugged peaks to the ocean. It feels like a different place.
Arrive in Llanes and start in the old town. Colorful buildings and small streets shape the area. The seaside atmosphere feels relaxed. Walk through the historic center. Browse local shops. Then head toward the harbor. Fishing boats and coastal views set the mood for the day.
Spend time exploring the nearby beaches and coastal paths. Playa de Toró sits a short walk from town. It is known for its rock formations and scenic setting. For something different, visit Gulpiyuri Beach. This small inland beach hides between green fields. Seawater filters through the cliffs and forms the beach. It feels like a hidden spot.
If conditions allow, drive further along the coast to the Bufones de Pría. These natural blowholes send seawater into the air when the sea is rough. Even on calm days, the cliffs and ocean views make the stop worth it.
Plan a long seafood lunch by the water. Take your time and enjoy the coastal pace. Order fresh fish or grilled seafood. Pair it with local cider or wine.
As afternoon turns to evening, settle into your stay in Llanes or nearby Ribadesella. Take a walk along the coast or through town at sunset. Enjoy another relaxed evening with good food and ocean air before the final day of your road trip.
Day 5 – Ribadesella & Scenic Return
The final day of your Asturias road trip focuses on slowing down and enjoying the coast. Take the day at an easy pace before heading back. After days of mountain and coastal drives, this last stretch works best without rushing.
Start the morning in Ribadesella with a relaxed breakfast or coffee by the water. The town feels calm and local. It is a good place to ease into the day. Take a walk along the beach or the seaside promenade. Enjoy the quiet before the day becomes busier.
If you want something active, try canoeing on the Sella River. This scenic route feels gentle and offers a new view of the landscape. Even if you stay on land, spend time near the river or beach. It is a good way to enjoy your final morning on the coast.
From Ribadesella, begin the drive back with a stop in Lastres. This village stands as one of the most scenic along the coast. It sits on a hillside above the sea. Narrow streets and traditional houses fill the village. Wide viewpoints overlook the water. Park near the top and walk down through the streets. Pause to enjoy the views or stop for a coffee. Time feels slow here.
After Lastres, continue your return drive at a relaxed pace. Stop at any viewpoints you missed. Enjoy the final views of the Asturian countryside from the road. Depending on your plans, head back to Oviedo or continue to your next stop.
As the trip ends, five days in Asturias feels full but short. The mountains, coastal roads, small towns, and local meals leave a strong impression. Many travelers leave with a desire to return.
Food You Must Try in Asturias
Food stands as one of the highlights of any Asturias road trip. The region’s cuisine feels hearty and traditional. It stays closely tied to the land and sea. From mountain stews to coastal seafood, each stop offers something worth trying.
Fabada asturiana ranks as the most famous local dish. This rich bean stew cooks slowly with chorizo, pork, and morcilla. It feels comforting and filling. It works well after a day in the mountains. Many traditional restaurants serve their own version. Try it at least once during your trip.
Cachopo is another local favorite. This large dish uses two breaded veal fillets filled with ham and cheese. Cooks fry it and serve it with fries or peppers. The portion is often big enough to share. It suits a relaxed lunch or dinner after a day of driving.
Cheese plays a big role in Asturias. Many travelers notice this quickly. Cabrales is a well-known blue cheese aged in mountain caves. The region also offers many other local cheeses worth tasting. Pair them with fresh bread and local cider for a simple meal.
No visit to Asturias feels complete without sidra. This traditional cider comes poured from high above the glass. The pour helps open the flavor. People often drink it while standing in busy cider bars. Order a bottle to share and watch the pouring ritual. The moment matters as much as the drink.
Along the coast, seafood takes center stage. Restaurants serve grilled fish, calamari, mussels, and other fresh catches. Towns like Llanes and Ribadesella offer many options. Plan a long seafood lunch by the water. These slow meals often become lasting memories of the trip.
Where to Stay (Quick Suggestions)
Choosing the right places to stay shapes your Asturias road trip. With five days, keep the plan simple. Pick a few well-located bases. This helps you explore without packing and unpacking each day.
Oviedo (Night 1)
Start your trip in Oviedo to ease into the journey. Stay in or near the old town. You can walk to restaurants, cider bars, and main sights. Boutique hotels and small guesthouses are easy to find. They offer a comfortable base for your first night.
Cangas de Onís or surroundings (Nights 2–3)
For the mountain portion, stay in or near Cangas de Onís. This location keeps you close to the Picos de Europa and the Lakes of Covadonga. Scenic drives through the national park start nearby.
Many places to stay here are rural hotels or countryside guesthouses. Some are converted farm stays with mountain views. Staying two nights gives you time to explore without rushing.
Llanes or Ribadesella (Night 4)
Along the coast, Llanes and Ribadesella both work well. Llanes feels lively and sits close to beaches and restaurants. Ribadesella feels quieter and more relaxed. Choose a place near the water if you can. It adds a new view to the trip and creates a calm final night before heading back.
Book in advance during summer and early autumn. Smaller towns often have fewer options. Outside peak season, you find more choice and a slower pace overall.
Final Thoughts
A road trip through Asturias focuses on the journey, not just the landmarks. Over five days, you move from city streets to mountain landscapes and then to the coast. Each drive feels short and scenic. The transitions feel easy.
The region stands out for its pace. Long lunches fill the afternoon. Small towns invite you to walk without a plan. Even the drives become part of the experience. Some of the best moments happen by chance. You might stop at a quiet viewpoint. You might find a great restaurant without planning. A small village might catch your eye from the road.
This five-day itinerary gives a balanced first look at Asturias. It blends nature, food, and culture. The pace never feels rushed. It suits travelers who enjoy scenic routes and outdoor landscapes. It also suits those who like places that feel real and connected to local life.
By the time you leave, you may already think about returning. You might want to explore deeper into the Picos de Europa. You might want to visit more coastal villages. You could continue along northern Spain. Asturias often leaves that feeling. You leave relaxed and ready to plan another road trip.