Things to Do in Pamplona
Pamplona is famous for one wild week in July. But this Navarran city has much more going on all year round. Stone walls wrap around a cosy old town. Pintxos bars spill onto every corner. Green parks give you space to breathe between sights. So, whether you’re here for a day or a whole week, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy. Here are the best things to do in Pamplona, from grand cathedrals to leafy gardens.
Pamplona Cathedral
Start your visit at the Pamplona Cathedral, officially known as Santa MarÃa la Real. This Gothic giant sits at the top of the old town and dates mostly from the 14th and 15th centuries. Step inside to see the stunning cloister, often ranked among the finest in Europe. Then head down to the museum, where medieval treasures and even Roman ruins wait below the floor. Because it’s the first cathedral on the Camino de Santiago route into Spain, pilgrims have passed through its doors for centuries. Tickets sell out on busy days, so it’s worth booking ahead through the official ticket page.
Plaza del Castillo
Next, make your way to Plaza del Castillo, the beating heart of Pamplona. This grand square has watched over city life since the 19th century. Locals gather here for coffee, festivals, and evening strolls. Grab a bench under the trees and simply people-watch for a while. Alternatively, pick a terrace bar and order a coffee or a glass of local wine. Every major event in Pamplona, from concerts to the San FermÃn festivities, spills into this square at some point. It’s free to visit, so there’s no need to book anything at all.
The Running of the Bulls Route
No trip to Pamplona feels complete without tracing the route of the famous Encierro. Begin at the Monumento al Encierro, a bronze sculpture of runners and bulls caught mid-stride. From there, follow the cobbled streets that thousands of runners sprint through every July. The route winds past old townhouses before finishing at the Plaza de Toros bullring. Along the way, you’ll also spot a statue honouring Ernest Hemingway, who made the festival famous worldwide through his writing. Walking the route yourself gives real insight into just how narrow and steep those streets truly are. This self-guided walk costs nothing beyond your time.
La Ciudadela
Afterwards, escape the crowds at La Ciudadela, a former 16th-century military fortress turned public park. Its star-shaped stone walls once protected the city from attack. Today, though, joggers and dog walkers have replaced soldiers. Wander through the grassy grounds and admire the star fort’s clever design from above. Contemporary sculptures dot the pathways, adding an artistic touch to the historic setting. Because entry is free, it makes a relaxing stop between busier sights. Bring a picnic and enjoy the shade beneath the old chestnut trees.
Museo de Navarra
For a deeper look at regional history, visit the Museo de Navarra. Housed in a former 16th-century hospital, this museum traces Navarre’s story from prehistory right through to today. Highlights include Roman mosaics, Gothic murals, and a striking portrait painted by Goya. Consequently, art lovers and history buffs both find something to enjoy here. The building itself, with its elegant Renaissance courtyard, is worth admiring too. Entry costs just a few euros, and it’s free on Saturday afternoons and Sundays.
Café Iruña
When hunger strikes, head to Café Iruña, a Belle Époque café that’s been serving Pamplona since 1888. Its mirrored walls and gilded ceilings transport you straight back in time. Ernest Hemingway was a regular here, and a bronze statue of him still stands at the bar. Order a coffee, a glass of Navarran wine, or a plate of pintxos to soak up the atmosphere. Because it sits right on Plaza del Castillo, it’s the perfect spot to rest your feet mid-sightseeing. No booking is needed, though it does get busy during peak season.
Parque de la Taconera
Just beyond the old town walls, Parque de la Taconera offers a peaceful green retreat. This is Pamplona’s oldest public garden, laid out in a formal French style. Stone bridges cross an old moat, while statues and fountains line the paths. Look out for the small enclosure of deer and other animals, which delights younger visitors. Meanwhile, adults enjoy the shaded benches and manicured hedges. Since entry is free and the park never closes, it’s an easy addition to any Pamplona itinerary.
The City Walls
Finally, don’t miss a walk along Pamplona’s imposing city walls, among the best-preserved fortifications in Spain. Built over several centuries, these ramparts once shielded the city from invasion. Today, you can walk along much of their length for sweeping views over the Arga River valley. Sunset is a particularly good time to visit, as golden light washes over the surrounding countryside. Interpretation panels along the route explain the walls’ military history in simple terms. Best of all, this walk is completely free and open at all hours.
Pamplona rewards visitors who look beyond the bull-running headlines. From the quiet cloisters of the cathedral to the buzzing terraces of Plaza del Castillo, this compact city packs in variety at every turn. If you’re planning your visit, check out our guides on where to stay in Pamplona and where to eat in Pamplona. Fancy exploring further afield? Our best day trips from Pamplona guide has you covered, and our 3-day itinerary for Pamplona ties it all together. However you spend your time here, Pamplona’s mix of history, food, and green space is bound to win you over.