Pamplona is located in the north of Spain and has a population of around 200,000. It is the capital of the Navarre autonomous community.
It is most famous for its San Fermin festival and running of the bulls when tourists flock to the city. While the festival is an amazing event, Pamplona is a city that is well worth a visit at other times as well.
Being inland, somewhat elevated and in the north, Pamplona’s weather is much milder than much of Spains. The city has a long and rich history and the old town is very well preserved. The streets are full of interesting shops and of course the usual collection of touristy places. If you look around, especially away from the beaten tourist paths, you will find plenty to see.
Tourist guides show you the course along which the bull running takes place. Start at the staging area and ending at the bull ring which is one of the largest in Spain. You can walk this at a leisurely pace and there are many photo opportunities along the way.
The outskirts of the old city include the battlements and defensive positions used during the Peninsular War. Parks and walkways combine with these battlements to make a wonderful place to walk and take in the scenery.
Pamplona has an excellent food culture and amazing tapas can be found throughout the city but especially in the old town.
One very popular eating place is Cafe Iruna. This cafe was made famous by Ernest Hemmingway and has become something of a tourist destination in its own right. It is a very impressive place. You will see locals, as well as tourists, enjoy its beautiful surroundings.
My number one tip for Pamplona is:
“Visit Pamplona when the running of the bulls isn’t on.”
A million people are estimated to visit during the festival so it is really hectic and packed. You will only fully appreciate Pamplona if you see it without the massive crowds.
There are no major airports in Pamplona or the region. Your best bet is to fly into either Madrid, Donostia-San Sebastian, Bilbao or even Zaragoza and drive or catch a train from there.
From Madrid, to the capital Pamplona is about 3 hours 30 minutes by train.
Travelling from Donostia-San Sebastian is about 1 hour 40 minutes by train.
From Zaragoza it is a 2 hour 20 minute train trip.
Driving from Madrid takes around 4 hours.
From Donostia-San Sebastian it is about an hour driving.
Bilbao to Pamplona is about a 2 hour drive.
Zaragoza to Pamplona is about a 2 hour 10 minute drive.