Asturias is a renowned tourist destination for Spanish holiday-makers, yet is still little-known to foreign tourists. The region's scenic beauty, cultural attractions and historic monuments make it quite different from the typical beach-sun-paella Spanish holiday.
Asturias is also an attractively close destination for holiday-makers thanks to its easy accessibility by air, land and sea. A point of particular interest is the projected ferry, which will link Great Britain and Asturias in the near future.
Asturias has a modern tourist infrastructure, with quality hotels, restaurants and communications. In addition, it also features other attractive options such as rural tourism and mountaineering.
Oviedo, the administrative capital of Asturias is placed in the central area of Principado of Asturias.
Its annual average temperature is 14ºC and the estimated population is 200,000.
It asserts itself as a modern, open and international city, mainly through the Prince of Asturias Awards and the increasingly close links with its town-twins; in Chile, France, Germany, the USA and Cubaa.
Oviedo has a regional and national name for its specialised shops. Walking along Uría District or the Old Quarter the visitor can find amny different shops where the goods available are really varied: national or international fashion clothes, handicraft products, etc.
Oviedo is famous for being one of the most celebrated towns in the North of Spain for its catering. The art of proper eating is part of Oviedo's cultural background.
Oviedo has good modern sports facilities. The local Council organizes its own championships and courses which favour the practice of sports as varied as swimming, athletics, basketball, golf, climbing, horse riding, etc.
Oviedo is acknowledged for its musical tradition both nationally and internationally. Some of the activities are concerts of classical music, opera, piano acts, dance festivals, etc.
Within the city limits, the parks are breathing spaces were people can enjoy nature through walks and games, being the most important ones the following: Purificación Tomás Park, Naranco Picnic Area, Parque de Invierno, Campo de S. Francisco (in the centre of the city).