Asturias Airport (IATA: OVD) is a small but efficient international airport located in the region of Asturias, in northern Spain. The airport primarily serves the city of Oviedo, but it is also the main gateway for other nearby cities, including Gijón and Avilés. Known for its simplicity and accessibility, Asturias Airport caters to both domestic and international travelers. This guide will provide essential information for those visiting the airport for the first time, covering everything from public transportation and currency exchange to car rentals and mobile services.
General Information
- Location: Asturias Airport is located about 47 km west of Oviedo, 40 km from Gijón, and 15 km from Avilés, making it relatively central for visitors to Asturias.
- Facilities: The airport is small but well-maintained. It has one terminal and is easy to navigate, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a less stressful airport experience.
- Operating Airlines: The airport serves several airlines including Iberia, Volotea, Vueling, and easyJet, offering both domestic flights to cities like Madrid and Barcelona as well as international connections to destinations such as London and Paris.
- Operating Hours: The airport operates daily, though hours may vary depending on the flight schedule.
Transportation from Asturias Airport
Asturias Airport offers several convenient transportation options for travelers to reach their destinations, whether you prefer public transit, a private taxi, or a rental car.
1. Public Bus
The Alsa bus company operates regular routes between Asturias Airport and several nearby cities, including Oviedo, Gijón, and Avilés. This is a cost-effective and convenient option for travelers on a budget.
- Oviedo Route: Buses run every hour, with the journey to Oviedo taking about 45 minutes. The ticket costs around €9.
- Gijón Route: This bus also departs hourly, and the trip takes around 50 minutes. Tickets are priced at about €8.
- Avilés Route: The trip to Avilés takes about 20 minutes, with tickets costing around €4.
Bus stops are located directly outside the terminal, and tickets can be purchased from the driver or online via the Alsa website.
2. Taxis
Taxis are readily available outside the terminal and offer a quicker but more expensive way to get to your destination. A taxi ride to Oviedo typically costs between €50-60, to Gijón around €45-55, and to Avilés approximately €20-30.
3. Car Rental
Several international and local car rental companies have desks at the airport, including Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and Enterprise. Renting a car is an excellent option if you plan to explore the surrounding region, as Asturias is known for its scenic drives through coastal and mountainous areas.
- Booking: It is recommended to book your car rental in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. You can collect your vehicle at the airport upon arrival.
- Driving in Spain: Remember that in Spain, vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and most rental cars are manual transmission unless you specifically request an automatic.
Currency Exchange and Payment Options
Unlike larger international airports, Asturias Airport does not have a dedicated currency exchange office. Therefore, it’s advisable to exchange money at your departure point or withdraw euros from one of the ATMs located within the terminal.
- ATMs: ATMs are available inside the airport and accept major international cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.).
- Currency: Spain uses the euro (€), and most places accept credit and debit cards. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash, especially if you’re traveling to smaller towns where card payments may not be as widely accepted.
Local Transportation Cards
Asturias does not have a region-wide transportation card system similar to those in larger cities like Madrid or Barcelona. However, Alsa buses are the most popular mode of transport within the region, and you can purchase tickets online or at the station. Discounted tickets are available for children, seniors, and frequent travelers.
Mobile Connectivity and SIM Cards
For travelers needing mobile connectivity during their stay in Spain, several options are available at or near Asturias Airport:
- SIM Cards: Though the airport itself does not have dedicated shops for SIM cards, you can purchase prepaid SIM cards from major Spanish providers such as Movistar, Orange, and Vodafone in nearby cities like Oviedo, Gijón, or Avilés. These SIM cards provide both calling and data services, and they’re usually very affordable.
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout Asturias Airport. To connect, simply select the “Airport Free Wi-Fi” network and follow the registration instructions.
Local Tips and Secrets
Asturias Airport is small, but there are a few local tips that can help make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable:
- Quiet Atmosphere: The airport is generally not crowded, even during peak travel times, which makes for a peaceful experience compared to larger international hubs.
- Local Flavors: While waiting for your flight, try some Asturian cider (Sidra), which is the region’s famous drink. You can purchase cider and other local delicacies at the airport’s duty-free shop.
- Weather Considerations: Asturias is known for its unpredictable weather, so it’s always a good idea to carry an umbrella or light jacket, even if the forecast looks sunny when you land.
- Local Driving Advice: If you plan to rent a car, be aware that the roads in Asturias can be narrow and winding, especially in the mountains. Drive carefully and consider renting a smaller vehicle to navigate these areas more easily.
Taxis and Ridesharing
- Taxis: Taxis are the most reliable and readily available form of private transportation from Asturias Airport. If you prefer, you can also request a ride through a taxi app such as Free Now, which operates in some Spanish cities.
- Ridesharing: Ridesharing apps like Uber and Cabify do not currently operate in Asturias, so travelers should rely on traditional taxi services or arrange transportation through their hotel.
Car Rentals
Renting a car is a popular option among tourists wishing to explore the natural beauty of Asturias, from its rugged coastline to its lush mountains and small villages.
- Rental Companies: Major car rental companies such as Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and Enterprise have desks at Asturias Airport. You can also find local rental companies offering competitive rates.
- Advance Booking: To ensure vehicle availability, especially during the summer months, it is advisable to book your rental car in advance. Rates are generally lower when booking online.
Local Attractions and Things to Do Near the Airport
- Oviedo: The capital of Asturias is famous for its medieval old town and landmarks such as the Oviedo Cathedral and the San Francisco Park. It is about a 40-minute drive from the airport.
- Gijón: A coastal city known for its beaches, maritime history, and vibrant cultural scene, Gijón is also about a 45-minute drive from the airport.
- Avilés: This small town, located just 20 minutes from the airport, is known for its charming historic center and the modern Oscar Niemeyer International Cultural Centre.
Asturias Airport (OVD) is a small but highly efficient gateway to one of Spain’s most picturesque regions. With its simple layout, convenient public transportation links, and easy access to car rental services, it’s an excellent entry point for travelers looking to explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of northern Spain. Whether you’re heading to Oviedo, Gijón, or the surrounding countryside, this airport provides all the necessary amenities for a smooth start to your journey.