What to See in Pamplona in 1 Day — Itinerary, Highlights & Free Tours
Pamplona is the capital of Spain's Navarra region and is famous for the San Fermín festival each July, when runners dash alongside bulls through the old streets. But there’s much more to this Basque city than the thrill of the bull run. You’ll find elegant boulevards with Belle Époque buildings, lively cobblestone lanes filled with pintxos bars, and ancient walls surrounding a well-preserved Old Town. Here, Gothic churches and Renaissance palaces reflect the city’s Roman roots, medieval history, and its role on the Camino de Santiago. Ernest Hemingway wrote about Pamplona in "The Sun Also Rises," making it a literary landmark. Whether you’re exploring the citadel, tasting txistorra sausage in busy plazas, or walking the ramparts above the Arga River, Pamplona offers a true taste of northern Spanish culture. This Freetour.com guide will help you discover the city’s top sights, food, and hidden gems, with expert advice and useful tips for every stop.
Must-see sights: Plaza del Castillo, Pamplona Cathedral, Ciudadela, City Walls, Monumento al Encierro, Calle Estafeta
Typical daily budget: €40–60 (excluding accommodation)
Best time to visit: May–June or September–October
Famous for: San Fermín festival, Running of the Bulls, Hemingway connection, Camino de Santiago, pintxos
Top tours: Free Tour through Pamplona, Free Tour of Historic Pamplona, Free Tour of Pamplona: History and Curiosities
Begin your exploration at Plaza del Castillo, Pamplona's elegant main square and the city's undisputed social heart. This rectangular plaza functions as the "living room" where locals gather at outdoor café terraces beneath historic arcaded buildings. The plaza's name references a castle that once stood here, though today cafés and Belle Époque architecture define the space. Settle into Café Iruña, the legendary establishment frequented by Ernest Hemingway during his visits to Pamplona in the 1920s. The café's Moorish-inspired interior, with tilework and columns, creates an atmospheric charm where you can imagine Hemingway sketching the characters who would populate "The Sun Also Rises".
From Plaza del Castillo, major streets radiate in all directions—Calle Estafeta leads to the bullring, San Nicolás beckons with pintxos bars, and Avenida Carlos III offers upscale shopping. The plaza transforms during San Fermín into a sea of white clothing and red scarves as thousands celebrate.
Practical Info: Plaza del Castillo is free to explore; Allow 30-45 minutes; Café Iruña is open daily; Perfect starting point for walking tours.
Walk to Pamplona Cathedral, an architectural gem combining Gothic grandeur with neoclassical refinement. Construction began in the late 14th century atop remains of an earlier Romanesque church, creating one of northern Spain's most important Gothic cathedrals. The imposing neoclassical façade from the 18th century contrasts beautifully with the soaring Gothic interior featuring ribbed vaulting and stained glass. The cathedral stands along the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, welcoming travelers for centuries.
Inside, explore the exquisite 14th-century cloister—considered one of Europe's finest with intricate stone carvings and peaceful arcades. The Diocesan Museum houses religious art treasures, including medieval sculptures and gilded altarpieces. Don't miss the royal tomb of King Carlos III of Navarre and his wife, masterpieces of Gothic funerary art. The crypt reveals archaeological layers, including Roman remains beneath the cathedral. For adventurous visitors, climbing the bell tower offers spectacular city views.
Practical Info: Open Nov-Mar Mon-Sat 10:00am-6:00pm, Apr-Oct Mon-Sat 10:00am-7:00pm; Sun/holidays 10:00am-2:00pm year-round; Entry €7 general (€4-5 reduced for seniors/students, children under 12 typically free); Includes cathedral, cloister, museum; Bell tower climb extra fee by reservation; Tourist visits suspended during religious services; Allow 1.5-2 hours.
Discover the Monumento al Encierro, a dramatic bronze sculpture capturing the intensity of bulls and runners in mid-charge. Located near Plaza de Toros, this powerful monument honors Pamplona's most famous tradition. The sculpture's dynamic composition conveys both the danger and exhilaration of the encierro.
From here, walk the legendary Running of the Bulls route along Calle Estafeta toward the bullring. This narrow medieval street becomes the world's most famous racetrack each July morning as bulls thunder past balconies packed with spectators. Brass markers embedded in the cobblestones commemorate participants who lost their lives during the runs. Even outside festival season, walking this atmospheric lane connects you to Pamplona's centuries-old bullfighting culture.
Practical Info: Route free to walk; Calle Estafeta features shops, bars, restaurants; San Fermín Festival July 6-14, bull runs 8:00am daily July 7-14; Allow 45 minutes.
Explore the Ciudadela, a magnificent five-pointed star-shaped fortress representing one of Spain's finest examples of Renaissance military architecture. King Philip II ordered construction in 1571 to defend Pamplona's strategic position near France. The massive fortification, with its bastions, moats, and ramparts, now serves as a peaceful public park and cultural venue.
Walk the ramparts for excellent city views, then descend into the grassy interior where locals jog, picnic, and relax. Exhibition halls within the fortress host rotating art shows and cultural events. The blend of military history and contemporary leisure creates a unique atmosphere—formidable walls protecting tranquil gardens.
Practical Info: Grounds open Mon-Fri 7:30am-9:30pm, Sat 8:00am-9:30pm, Sun/holidays 9:00am-9:30pm; Closed July 4-21 for San Fermín; FREE entry to grounds; Exhibition spaces open Tue-Sat 11:30am-1:30pm & 6:00pm-8:30pm, Sun 11:30am-1:30pm; Allow 1-1.5 hours.
City Walls & Fortifications — Pamplona's remarkably preserved 5-kilometer circuit of walls dates back to Roman foundations and medieval expansions. Walking the ramparts provides panoramic views across the Arga River valley and the surrounding countryside. The Portal de Francia gate still operates with original medieval pulley systems. The Interpretation Centre of Fortifications explains the city's defensive history.
Ayuntamiento (Town Hall) — The baroque Town Hall on Plaza Consistorial becomes San Fermín festival's epicenter when the mayor launches the chupinazo rocket from its balcony at noon on July 6, signaling the official start of the celebrations.
Iglesia de San Saturnino — Medieval church featuring Gothic towers where San Fermín mass occurs, honoring Pamplona's patron saint. The church dominates its namesake plaza, surrounded by bars and shops.
Museum of Navarra — Housed in a former hospital, this museum displays archaeological treasures from prehistoric to modern times, including Roman mosaics, medieval artifacts, and Moorish pieces that document Navarra's layered history.
Practical Info: Tue-Sat 9:30am-2:00pm & 5:00pm-7:00pm, Sun 9:30am-2:00pm; Closed Mondays; Entry ~€2, free select Sundays/holidays; Allow 1.5-2 hours.
Taconera Park — Pamplona's oldest public park features English gardens, peacocks, deer enclosure, and romantic paths along medieval fortifications.
Free Tour through Pamplona — Duration: 1h 30min | Starting at Bar Txoko, Plaza del Castillo #20, discover Pamplona's true capital of Navarra through its Three Medieval Burgos. Professional licensed guides use radio headsets, ensuring perfect audio throughout the tour. Travel through time from the Basque foundation of Iruña, the Romans and Pamplona, and the formation of the Kingdom of Navarra. Visit Plaza del Castillo, Ayuntamiento (Town Hall), Cuesta de Santo Domingo, Portal de Francia, Rincón del Caballo Blanco, Plazuela de San José, y la fachada de la Catedral. Guides wear blue t-shirts or red hoodies for easy identification. Tour offered in Spanish only. Bring your own headphones (with a jack connection) for the best audio. Pet-friendly. Tip-based at tour conclusion.
Free Tour of Historic Pamplona — Duration: 2 hours | Starting at Monumento al Encierro, enjoy a pleasant stroll through the city's nerve center. Pamplona offers an affluent historical past far beyond Sanfermines and Camino de Santiago. Explore both main attractions plus Media Luna Park. Tour designed for weekends (Saturdays) and holidays. Punctual departure recommended. Suitable for people with reduced mobility, families with children, and pet-friendly. No minimum attendees required. Bring comfortable clothes and footwear; an umbrella or waterproof clothing if rain is expected. Tour registration code: UETC0106. Tip-based payment.
Free Tour of Pamplona: History and Curiosities — Duration: 2h 30min | Comprehensive tour covering city highlights, legendary tales, quirky facts, and hidden corners.
Explore more tours in Pamplona.
Pamplona’s food combines Basque and Navarran traditions, giving it a unique northern Spanish flavor. Pintxos, or Basque-style tapas, are a big part of the local food scene. These small bites on bread feature ingredients like jamón ibérico, anchovies, piquillo peppers, and local cheeses. Pintxo hopping, called poteo, means going from bar to bar, having a pintxo and a drink at each stop before moving on.
Txistorra represents Pamplona's signature sausage—thin, spicy chorizo often grilled and served in crusty bread or atop pintxos. Piquillo peppers from Lodosa are prominently featured, typically stuffed with seafood, cod, or meat. During San Fermín, estofado de toro (bull stew) appears on menus as a hearty tribute to bullfighting traditions. Cuajada, a creamy sheep's milk dessert resembling thick yogurt, provides sweet endings to meals.
The best places for pintxos are around Calle San Nicolás, Plaza del Castillo, and Calle Estafeta. People usually go bar-hopping in the early evening, from 7 to 10 pm, before dinner. Pintxos go well with Navarra wines, which include great reds, rosés, and the local Moscatel dessert wine. Each pintxo costs about €2-4, a full bar crawl is €15-25, and a sit-down meal is €25-40.
Pamplona experiences an oceanic climate with warm summers and cool, wet winters. Summer (June-August) brings pleasant 25-30°C (77-86°F) temperatures perfect for festivals and outdoor exploration, though occasional afternoon thunderstorms occur. July is the hottest and busiest month due to San Fermín. Spring (April-May) offers mild 15-20°C (59-68°F) weather, blooming parks, and fewer crowds—excellent for visiting. Autumn (September-October) offers comfortable 18-23°C (64-73°F) temperatures, beautiful fall colors, and harvest-season wine activities. Winter (November-March) brings cool 8-15°C (46-59°F) days with frequent rain and occasional snow, though many sunny days occur between storms. Pack an umbrella and a light jacket, regardless of the season, as the weather can change quickly in northern Spain.
The Romans founded Pompaelo in 75 BCE, naming it after General Pompey the Great, who established a military camp at this strategic location near the Pyrenees mountain passes. The settlement controlled vital routes between Iberia and Gaul (France). After Rome's fall, Visigoths and Moors briefly controlled the region before Basque forces established the Kingdom of Navarre, with Pamplona as its capital, around 824 CE.
During the medieval period, three separate walled towns (burgos) existed side by side—San Cernin (French merchants), San Nicolás (native Navarrans), and Navarrería (clergy and nobility)—often competing and occasionally fighting until they officially merged in 1423. This created today's cohesive Old Town. The Kingdom of Navarre maintained its independence until 1512, when Castilian forces annexed it into the united Spain.
Pamplona's strategic border location near France necessitated extensive fortifications built during the 16th-18th centuries, including the massive star-shaped Citadel constructed 1571-1645. The city remained an important military garrison throughout the centuries.
The San Fermín festival honoring the city's patron saint dates to medieval times but gained international fame when American writer Ernest Hemingway featured Pamplona prominently in his 1926 novel "The Sun Also Rises". Hemingway visited repeatedly during the 1920s, cementing the city's romantic association with bullfighting, celebration, and the Lost Generation culture.
When is the San Fermín Festival?
July 6-14 annually; bull runs occur 8:00am daily July 7-14.
What are the best things to do in Pamplona?
Explore Plaza del Castillo and Old Town, visit the Cathedral, walk the city walls, tour Ciudadela, sample pintxos, follow the bull run route on Calle Estafeta, and take free walking tours.
How many days do you need in Pamplona?
1-2 days cover the main sights; 3 days allow a relaxed pace and day trips to the surrounding Navarra region.
Is Pamplona safe to visit?
Very safe city; exercise normal precautions; extra vigilance during San Fermín due to crowds and pickpockets.
Where should you eat pintxos in Pamplona?
Calle San Nicolás, streets around Plaza del Castillo, and Calle Estafeta offer excellent pintxos bars.
Can you visit the Cathedral?
Yes—open Mon-Sat with entry fee; hours vary by season; tourist visits not available during religious services.
Which free tours are available in Pamplona?
Freetour.com offers Free Tour through Old Town Pamplona (1.5h), Free Tour of Historic Pamplona (2h from Monumento al Encierro), and Free Tour of History and Curiosities (2.5h, comprehensive).
Quick Takeaway
Must-see sights: Plaza del Castillo, Pamplona Cathedral, Ciudadela, City Walls, Monumento al Encierro, Calle Estafeta
Typical daily budget: €40–60 (excluding accommodation)
Best time to visit: May–June or September–October
Famous for: San Fermín festival, Running of the Bulls, Hemingway connection, Camino de Santiago, pintxos
Top tours: Free Tour through Pamplona, Free Tour of Historic Pamplona, Free Tour of Pamplona: History and Curiosities
1-Day Itinerary in Pamplona
Plaza del Castillo & Cafe Iruna
Begin your exploration at Plaza del Castillo, Pamplona's elegant main square and the city's undisputed social heart. This rectangular plaza functions as the "living room" where locals gather at outdoor café terraces beneath historic arcaded buildings. The plaza's name references a castle that once stood here, though today cafés and Belle Époque architecture define the space. Settle into Café Iruña, the legendary establishment frequented by Ernest Hemingway during his visits to Pamplona in the 1920s. The café's Moorish-inspired interior, with tilework and columns, creates an atmospheric charm where you can imagine Hemingway sketching the characters who would populate "The Sun Also Rises".
From Plaza del Castillo, major streets radiate in all directions—Calle Estafeta leads to the bullring, San Nicolás beckons with pintxos bars, and Avenida Carlos III offers upscale shopping. The plaza transforms during San Fermín into a sea of white clothing and red scarves as thousands celebrate.
Practical Info: Plaza del Castillo is free to explore; Allow 30-45 minutes; Café Iruña is open daily; Perfect starting point for walking tours.
Pamplona Cathedral (Santa María la Real)
Walk to Pamplona Cathedral, an architectural gem combining Gothic grandeur with neoclassical refinement. Construction began in the late 14th century atop remains of an earlier Romanesque church, creating one of northern Spain's most important Gothic cathedrals. The imposing neoclassical façade from the 18th century contrasts beautifully with the soaring Gothic interior featuring ribbed vaulting and stained glass. The cathedral stands along the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, welcoming travelers for centuries.
Inside, explore the exquisite 14th-century cloister—considered one of Europe's finest with intricate stone carvings and peaceful arcades. The Diocesan Museum houses religious art treasures, including medieval sculptures and gilded altarpieces. Don't miss the royal tomb of King Carlos III of Navarre and his wife, masterpieces of Gothic funerary art. The crypt reveals archaeological layers, including Roman remains beneath the cathedral. For adventurous visitors, climbing the bell tower offers spectacular city views.
Practical Info: Open Nov-Mar Mon-Sat 10:00am-6:00pm, Apr-Oct Mon-Sat 10:00am-7:00pm; Sun/holidays 10:00am-2:00pm year-round; Entry €7 general (€4-5 reduced for seniors/students, children under 12 typically free); Includes cathedral, cloister, museum; Bell tower climb extra fee by reservation; Tourist visits suspended during religious services; Allow 1.5-2 hours.
Monumento al Encierro & Bull Run Route
Discover the Monumento al Encierro, a dramatic bronze sculpture capturing the intensity of bulls and runners in mid-charge. Located near Plaza de Toros, this powerful monument honors Pamplona's most famous tradition. The sculpture's dynamic composition conveys both the danger and exhilaration of the encierro.
From here, walk the legendary Running of the Bulls route along Calle Estafeta toward the bullring. This narrow medieval street becomes the world's most famous racetrack each July morning as bulls thunder past balconies packed with spectators. Brass markers embedded in the cobblestones commemorate participants who lost their lives during the runs. Even outside festival season, walking this atmospheric lane connects you to Pamplona's centuries-old bullfighting culture.
Practical Info: Route free to walk; Calle Estafeta features shops, bars, restaurants; San Fermín Festival July 6-14, bull runs 8:00am daily July 7-14; Allow 45 minutes.
Ciudadela (Citadel)
Explore the Ciudadela, a magnificent five-pointed star-shaped fortress representing one of Spain's finest examples of Renaissance military architecture. King Philip II ordered construction in 1571 to defend Pamplona's strategic position near France. The massive fortification, with its bastions, moats, and ramparts, now serves as a peaceful public park and cultural venue.
Walk the ramparts for excellent city views, then descend into the grassy interior where locals jog, picnic, and relax. Exhibition halls within the fortress host rotating art shows and cultural events. The blend of military history and contemporary leisure creates a unique atmosphere—formidable walls protecting tranquil gardens.
Practical Info: Grounds open Mon-Fri 7:30am-9:30pm, Sat 8:00am-9:30pm, Sun/holidays 9:00am-9:30pm; Closed July 4-21 for San Fermín; FREE entry to grounds; Exhibition spaces open Tue-Sat 11:30am-1:30pm & 6:00pm-8:30pm, Sun 11:30am-1:30pm; Allow 1-1.5 hours.
Major Landmarks & Fortifications
City Walls & Fortifications — Pamplona's remarkably preserved 5-kilometer circuit of walls dates back to Roman foundations and medieval expansions. Walking the ramparts provides panoramic views across the Arga River valley and the surrounding countryside. The Portal de Francia gate still operates with original medieval pulley systems. The Interpretation Centre of Fortifications explains the city's defensive history.
Ayuntamiento (Town Hall) — The baroque Town Hall on Plaza Consistorial becomes San Fermín festival's epicenter when the mayor launches the chupinazo rocket from its balcony at noon on July 6, signaling the official start of the celebrations.
Iglesia de San Saturnino — Medieval church featuring Gothic towers where San Fermín mass occurs, honoring Pamplona's patron saint. The church dominates its namesake plaza, surrounded by bars and shops.
Museum of Navarra — Housed in a former hospital, this museum displays archaeological treasures from prehistoric to modern times, including Roman mosaics, medieval artifacts, and Moorish pieces that document Navarra's layered history.
Practical Info: Tue-Sat 9:30am-2:00pm & 5:00pm-7:00pm, Sun 9:30am-2:00pm; Closed Mondays; Entry ~€2, free select Sundays/holidays; Allow 1.5-2 hours.
Taconera Park — Pamplona's oldest public park features English gardens, peacocks, deer enclosure, and romantic paths along medieval fortifications.
Free Walking Tours
Free Tour through Pamplona — Duration: 1h 30min | Starting at Bar Txoko, Plaza del Castillo #20, discover Pamplona's true capital of Navarra through its Three Medieval Burgos. Professional licensed guides use radio headsets, ensuring perfect audio throughout the tour. Travel through time from the Basque foundation of Iruña, the Romans and Pamplona, and the formation of the Kingdom of Navarra. Visit Plaza del Castillo, Ayuntamiento (Town Hall), Cuesta de Santo Domingo, Portal de Francia, Rincón del Caballo Blanco, Plazuela de San José, y la fachada de la Catedral. Guides wear blue t-shirts or red hoodies for easy identification. Tour offered in Spanish only. Bring your own headphones (with a jack connection) for the best audio. Pet-friendly. Tip-based at tour conclusion.
Free Tour of Historic Pamplona — Duration: 2 hours | Starting at Monumento al Encierro, enjoy a pleasant stroll through the city's nerve center. Pamplona offers an affluent historical past far beyond Sanfermines and Camino de Santiago. Explore both main attractions plus Media Luna Park. Tour designed for weekends (Saturdays) and holidays. Punctual departure recommended. Suitable for people with reduced mobility, families with children, and pet-friendly. No minimum attendees required. Bring comfortable clothes and footwear; an umbrella or waterproof clothing if rain is expected. Tour registration code: UETC0106. Tip-based payment.
Free Tour of Pamplona: History and Curiosities — Duration: 2h 30min | Comprehensive tour covering city highlights, legendary tales, quirky facts, and hidden corners.
Explore more tours in Pamplona.
Local Food & Pintxos Culture
Pamplona’s food combines Basque and Navarran traditions, giving it a unique northern Spanish flavor. Pintxos, or Basque-style tapas, are a big part of the local food scene. These small bites on bread feature ingredients like jamón ibérico, anchovies, piquillo peppers, and local cheeses. Pintxo hopping, called poteo, means going from bar to bar, having a pintxo and a drink at each stop before moving on.
Txistorra represents Pamplona's signature sausage—thin, spicy chorizo often grilled and served in crusty bread or atop pintxos. Piquillo peppers from Lodosa are prominently featured, typically stuffed with seafood, cod, or meat. During San Fermín, estofado de toro (bull stew) appears on menus as a hearty tribute to bullfighting traditions. Cuajada, a creamy sheep's milk dessert resembling thick yogurt, provides sweet endings to meals.
The best places for pintxos are around Calle San Nicolás, Plaza del Castillo, and Calle Estafeta. People usually go bar-hopping in the early evening, from 7 to 10 pm, before dinner. Pintxos go well with Navarra wines, which include great reds, rosés, and the local Moscatel dessert wine. Each pintxo costs about €2-4, a full bar crawl is €15-25, and a sit-down meal is €25-40.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Getting There: Direct trains from Madrid (2h 45min-3h), San Sebastián (1h), Zaragoza (1h 45min); Well-connected by bus; Driving via A-15 highway.
- Getting Around: Old Town is entirely walkable; City buses serve outer areas; Bike rentals are available; Underground parking is available at Plaza del Castillo
- Accommodation: Book 6-12 months ahead for San Fermín; Central hotels near Plaza del Castillo are ideal for sightseeing
- Language: Spanish and some Basque (Euskera) spoken; English in tourist areas; Basic Spanish helpful
- Meal Times: Lunch 2-4pm, dinner 9-11pm; Pintxos bars busiest 7-10pm
- San Fermín: July 6-14; Expect massive crowds, inflated prices, pickpocket risks; Wear white clothes with red scarf/sash; Bull runs 8am daily July 7-14; Book everything far in advance
- Safety: Very safe city; Extra vigilance during festivals; Watch footing on cobblestones
- Tipping: Not mandatory; round up bills or tip 5-10% for good service; free tours typically €10-15 per person.
- Weather: Bring layers year-round; Rain gear recommended even in summer; Comfortable walking shoes essential for cobblestones
- Visit Duration: 1-2 days covers main sights; 3-4 days allows day trips and relaxed exploration
Weather in Pamplona
Pamplona experiences an oceanic climate with warm summers and cool, wet winters. Summer (June-August) brings pleasant 25-30°C (77-86°F) temperatures perfect for festivals and outdoor exploration, though occasional afternoon thunderstorms occur. July is the hottest and busiest month due to San Fermín. Spring (April-May) offers mild 15-20°C (59-68°F) weather, blooming parks, and fewer crowds—excellent for visiting. Autumn (September-October) offers comfortable 18-23°C (64-73°F) temperatures, beautiful fall colors, and harvest-season wine activities. Winter (November-March) brings cool 8-15°C (46-59°F) days with frequent rain and occasional snow, though many sunny days occur between storms. Pack an umbrella and a light jacket, regardless of the season, as the weather can change quickly in northern Spain.
Short History of Pamplona
The Romans founded Pompaelo in 75 BCE, naming it after General Pompey the Great, who established a military camp at this strategic location near the Pyrenees mountain passes. The settlement controlled vital routes between Iberia and Gaul (France). After Rome's fall, Visigoths and Moors briefly controlled the region before Basque forces established the Kingdom of Navarre, with Pamplona as its capital, around 824 CE.
During the medieval period, three separate walled towns (burgos) existed side by side—San Cernin (French merchants), San Nicolás (native Navarrans), and Navarrería (clergy and nobility)—often competing and occasionally fighting until they officially merged in 1423. This created today's cohesive Old Town. The Kingdom of Navarre maintained its independence until 1512, when Castilian forces annexed it into the united Spain.
Pamplona's strategic border location near France necessitated extensive fortifications built during the 16th-18th centuries, including the massive star-shaped Citadel constructed 1571-1645. The city remained an important military garrison throughout the centuries.
The San Fermín festival honoring the city's patron saint dates to medieval times but gained international fame when American writer Ernest Hemingway featured Pamplona prominently in his 1926 novel "The Sun Also Rises". Hemingway visited repeatedly during the 1920s, cementing the city's romantic association with bullfighting, celebration, and the Lost Generation culture.
FAQ about Pamplona
When is the San Fermín Festival?
July 6-14 annually; bull runs occur 8:00am daily July 7-14.
What are the best things to do in Pamplona?
Explore Plaza del Castillo and Old Town, visit the Cathedral, walk the city walls, tour Ciudadela, sample pintxos, follow the bull run route on Calle Estafeta, and take free walking tours.
How many days do you need in Pamplona?
1-2 days cover the main sights; 3 days allow a relaxed pace and day trips to the surrounding Navarra region.
Is Pamplona safe to visit?
Very safe city; exercise normal precautions; extra vigilance during San Fermín due to crowds and pickpockets.
Where should you eat pintxos in Pamplona?
Calle San Nicolás, streets around Plaza del Castillo, and Calle Estafeta offer excellent pintxos bars.
Can you visit the Cathedral?
Yes—open Mon-Sat with entry fee; hours vary by season; tourist visits not available during religious services.
Which free tours are available in Pamplona?
Freetour.com offers Free Tour through Old Town Pamplona (1.5h), Free Tour of Historic Pamplona (2h from Monumento al Encierro), and Free Tour of History and Curiosities (2.5h, comprehensive).
