Pamplona is world famous for the running of the bulls each July. The rest of the year it is a tidy, prosperous city with ramparts, parks and an old town full of bars.
The University of Navarra and a strong industrial base keep it busy.
Climate: Cooler than most of Spain: mild summers, cold winters.
Visiting Pamplona
How long: 1 to 2 days
Don’t miss
- Old town and Plaza del Castillo
- Citadel park
- City walls
- Café Iruña
- San Fermín (6 to 14 July)
What to eat
- Pintxos on Calle San Nicolás
- Chistorra
- Navarre vegetables
Tip: During San Fermín hotels cost several times the normal rate and sell out months ahead.
Plan a visit
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A perfect first day
- Morning: walk the bull-run route from the corrals to the bullring.
- Afternoon: the city walls and the Ciudadela park.
- Evening: pintxos on Calle Estafeta and Plaza del Castillo.
Easy day trips
Where to stay as a visitor
For everything on foot (book months ahead for San Fermín).
More of Pamplona
Fiestas
Living in Pamplona
Best for: Families and professionals wanting a safe, well-run mid-size city.
Neighbourhoods and areas
Historic.
Central, practical.
Newer, family area.
Pros
- Safe and green
- High quality of life
Cons
- Cold winters
- Crowds and prices in July
Cost tiers compare places within Spain (€ = among the cheapest, €€€€ = among the most expensive). Rents change quickly: check current listings for the exact area before you decide.
Thinking of moving?
Get your personal paperwork list for visas, NIE, padrón and more.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Pamplona?
1 to 2 days is enough for the main sights: old town and plaza del castillo, citadel park, city walls. During San Fermín hotels cost several times the normal rate and sell out months ahead.
Is Pamplona expensive to live in?
On our scale it is high (€€€). Rents are above the Spanish average.
How do I get to Pamplona?
By air: Pamplona (PNA), 15 minutes. By rail: Trains to Madrid about 3h.
Have you been to Pamplona?
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