Oviedo Railway Station, also known as Estación del Norte, is the main transport gateway to the capital of Asturias. It is not just a vital transport hub but also an architectural landmark, combining a historic 19th-century façade with modern infrastructure. The station serves long-distance destinations (including trains to Madrid and Barcelona) as well as an extensive network of suburban trains connecting the city with the coast and other parts of the region.
It is important for passengers to know that the station is located at the very end of the city's main shopping street, making it exceptionally convenient for tourists. The station has a unique feature: the railway tracks are covered by a massive slab known as "La Losa," transformed into a pedestrian plaza, so entrances may be located on different levels.
City
Oviedo
Country
Spain
Type
Railway station
Contact Information
Address: Calle de Uría, s/n, 33003 Oviedo, Asturias, Spain.
Information Phone (Renfe): +34 912 320 320 (general support line).
Official Website: Information is available on the Adif or Renfe portals.
Opening Hours: The station is open daily, approximately from 05:00 to 00:00 (depending on the schedule of the first and last train).
Luggage Storage: The station has automatic lockers for luggage (consigna).
Accessibility: The Atendo assistance service for passengers with reduced mobility is available (booking in advance is recommended).
How to Get There
Getting to Oviedo station is very simple, as it effectively anchors the city's central axis.
On Foot: From the Cathedral and the historic centre, you can walk along Calle Uría in about 10–15 minutes. It is a pleasant walk past shops and San Francisco Park.
Public Transport: Right in front of the station building and on the slab above the tracks, there are stops for city buses (TUA). Almost all key routes connecting different districts of the city stop here.
Taxi and Transfers: A taxi rank is located directly at the main exit. A trip from remote areas of the city usually takes no more than 15 minutes.
Services and Amenities
Oviedo station offers a full range of services for a comfortable wait for your journey. The building houses ticket counters for long-distance and suburban services, as well as numerous machines for self-service ticket purchase.
Available to passengers:
Waiting Halls: Spacious areas with seating.
Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is usually available on the premises (Adif network).
Luggage: Lockers of various sizes are available.
Commercial Zone: Newsstands, souvenir shops, and car rental.
Facilities: Clean restrooms and baby changing areas.
For passengers with limited mobility, elevators, escalators, and adapted restrooms are provided.
Where to Eat
If you have time before your train departs, you will not go hungry. Inside the station itself, there is a cafeteria where you can grab coffee, a bocadillo (Spanish sandwich), or pastries. This is an excellent option for a quick snack with an average bill of around 5–10 euros.
For a more substantial meal, simply exit the station building. On the adjacent street, Calle Uría, and in nearby lanes, there are dozens of restaurants, traditional dining venues, and cafes. Here you can try traditional Asturian cuisine or find familiar fast food options. Many establishments open early in the morning, offering breakfast for travellers.
Station History
The history of railway connections in Oviedo began in 1874 with the opening of the line to Gijón. The current historic station building, combining elements of French style and eclecticism, was built in the late 19th century and has been an important architectural monument ever since.
A key stage in modern history was the massive reconstruction in the late 1990s. This saw the creation of the famous "La Losa" — a giant concrete slab covering the railway tracks. This engineering solution allowed for the unification of city districts previously separated by the railway, creating a pedestrian promenade on top and a modern transport hub below.
Passenger Tips
Arrival Time: For long-distance trains (Alvia), it is recommended to arrive at the station 30 minutes before departure, as luggage screening is conducted via scanner before boarding.
Tickets: Keep your ticket until you exit the station. Oviedo has turnstiles that require ticket scanning for both entry and exit, especially for suburban trains (Cercanías).
Safety: The station is calm and safe, but as in any crowded place, keep an eye on your belongings. The building closes at night, so staying overnight in the waiting hall is not possible.
Navigation: Pay attention to the display boards: trains may depart from different platforms, access to which is via underground pedestrian tunnels or from the upper level.