The Ultimate 5-Day Pamplona Adventure Guide

Run with the bulls and soak in the culture in Pamplona.

22 April 2023

Pamplona, the capital city of Navarre, is famous for its San Fermin festival in July, where the running of the bulls takes place. Tourists can explore the city on foot to admire its gothic and renaissance architecture and visit the Plaza del Castillo, a central hub for events, markets and concerts. Pamplona also offers excellent regional cuisine, including its famous pintxos and Basque-style codfish dishes.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Pamplona!

Check into the charming Boutique Hotel Castillo de Gorraiz, complete with an outdoor pool and gorgeous views of the surrounding hills.
Explore the Old Quarter of Pamplona: wander the cobblestone streets and marvel at the Gothic-style Cathedral of Santa Maria and the impressive Town Hall.
Indulge in delicious pintxos (Basque tapas) and cold beer at La Mejillonera, a local favorite in the heart of the Old Quarter.

Day 2

History and Culture

Visit the impressive fortress of the Citadel, built in the 16th century under the rule of King Philip II and now home to several museums.
Take a guided tour of the Pamplona Cathedral, including the impressive Cloister and Treasury.
Visit the Museum of Navarra to learn about the region's history, art and culture.

Day 3

Nature and Outdoor Activities

Hike or bike the nearby Arga River Greenway, a picturesque trail that follows the river through forests and meadows.
Head to the nearby Gorraiz Golf Club, a world-class 18-hole course set amidst rolling hills and vineyards.
Join a guided wine tour of the nearby Rioja Alavesa region, known for its exquisite red wines.

Day 4

Fiestas and Festivals

For thrill-seekers, visit Pamplona in early July to experience the legendary Running of the Bulls during the Festival of San Fermin.
For a more tranquil experience, visit in September for the San Miguel Festival, where locals dress up in traditional outfits and enjoy music, dancing and food.
If you're in Pamplona in March, don't miss the Carnaval de Navarra, a colorful celebration with parades, performances and street food.

Day 5

Cuisine and Nightlife

Treat yourself to a gourmet meal at the Michelin-starred Restaurante Europa, which offers a contemporary twist on traditional Navarran cuisine.
Sample local craft beers at the cozy and hip La Nube, a popular bar with live music and friendly bartenders.
End your stay in Pamplona with a nightcap at the stylish and elegant Bar Hemingway, a tribute to the writer who famously fell in love with the city.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.