Pamplona Bound: The Ultimate 5-Day Family Adventure!
Experience the thrill of Pamplona's running of the bulls in a safe and family-friendly adventure.
19 July 2023
Pablo Escudero
Spain Travel Writer
A family-friendly trip to Pamplona, Spain offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures. Visit the stunning Gothic-style Pamplona Cathedral, explore the charming old town, and witness the famous Running of the Bulls festival if you're feeling adventurous (though it may not be suitable for younger children). Enjoy family-friendly activities like cycling through the beautiful parks, picnicking along the picturesque River Arga, or attending local festivals and events.
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- Check into the family-friendly Hotel Taconera, with its cozy rooms and charming garden views.
- Stroll through the picturesque Casco Viejo, Pamplona's historic old town, and marvel at its well-preserved medieval architecture.
- Visit the iconic Plaza del Castillo, the city's bustling central square, where you can savor a cup of rich Spanish hot chocolate and people-watch for hours.
- Indulge in a delightful lunch at La Cocina de Alex Múgica, famous for its inventive Basque cuisine and mouthwatering pintxos.
- Immerse yourself in the San Fermín Festival's history at the Museo de Navarra, with its fascinating exhibits on the city's most famous event, the Running of the Bulls.
- End the day with a leisurely walk along the tranquil banks of the Arga River, enjoying the stunning sunset views.
- Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at Café Iruña, a charming café known for its gorgeous Art Nouveau decor and delectable pastries.
- Spend the morning exploring the vast Parque de la Taconera, a peaceful oasis filled with beautiful gardens, ornate fountains, and friendly deer.
- Admire the futuristic architecture of the Yamaguchi Park, a Japanese garden where tranquility and harmony reign supreme.
- Treat the kids to an action-packed adventure at the Parque de Aventura Ilargi, offering thrilling zip lines, climbing walls, and tree-top obstacle courses.
- Savor a traditional Navarran lunch at Mesón del Caballo Blanco, a rustic eatery known for its hearty stews and succulent grilled meats.
- Unwind in the evening with a leisurely stroll through the charming Ciudadela Park, taking in the fragrant rose gardens and catching a live music performance if you're lucky.
- Begin the day with a delicious breakfast at Pastelería Beatriz, a cozy patisserie serving up mouthwatering pastries and fragrant coffee.
- Explore the grandeur of the Pamplona Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant stained glass windows.
- Dive into the city's artistic side at the magnificent Museo Universidad de Navarra, showcasing a stunning collection of contemporary and historic artworks.
- Discover the fascinating history of the Navarre region at the Museo del Encierro, delving deeper into the San Fermín Festival and its traditions.
- Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Restaurante Europa, famed for its exquisite seafood dishes and spectacular views of the city.
- In the evening, catch a performance at the charming Teatro Gayarre, a beautifully restored theater boasting a diverse range of shows, from ballet to comedy.
- Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Café Toloño, a local favorite known for its strong coffee and mouthwatering tortillas.
- Venture outside the city to the stunning Irati Forest, a paradise for nature lovers with its dense foliage, crystal-clear rivers, and scenic hiking trails.
- Embark on an exhilarating rafting adventure on the Ebro River, accompanied by expert guides who will ensure a safe and thrilling experience for the whole family.
- Relish a picnic lunch surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Urbasa-Andía Natural Park, where towering cliffs and serene woodlands await.
- Indulge in Basque cuisine with a modern twist at Restaurante Tatami, where creative dishes like octopus carpaccio and black garlic risotto will tantalize your taste buds.
- Spend a relaxing evening at Parque La Runa, enjoying its vast playgrounds, beautiful gardens, and enchanting puppet shows that will delight both young and old.
- Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Café Canalla, a charming spot known for its scrumptious baked goods and friendly staff.
- Discover the history of bullfighting at the Museo Universidad de Navarra, unraveling the controversial tradition through captivating exhibits.
- Take a leisurely bike ride along the charming Tres Ríos path, offering stunning views of the city and the picturesque countryside.
- Savor a final taste of Pamplona's cuisine at Restaurante Europa, indulging in their exquisite blend of traditional Spanish flavors and innovative culinary techniques.
- Bid farewell to Pamplona with a stunning sunset view from the city's ancient walls, reflecting on the memories made and dreaming of your next adventure.
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How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Pamplona by plane is to fly into Pamplona Airport, which is located approximately 6km from the city center. Flights are available from major cities across Europe, including London, Paris, and Madrid.
Car
The best way to reach Pamplona by car is by taking the AP-15 highway, which connects Pamplona to cities across Spain, including San Sebastian and Zaragoza. It is recommended to rent a car if you plan to explore the surrounding areas as well.
Train
Pamplona Train Station is located in the city center and offers convenient train services to cities across Spain, including Madrid and Barcelona.
Boat
There are no direct boat services available to Pamplona since it is located inland. However, you can reach nearby coastal cities such as Bilbao or San Sebastian by boat and then travel to Pamplona by bus or car.
Bus
Taking a bus to Pamplona is a convenient and affordable option. There are regular bus services available from cities across Spain, including Barcelona, Madrid, and San Sebastian.