A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Gran Canaria vs. Pamplona for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Gran Canaria or Pamplona?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Gran Canaria or Pamplona? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Where Should I go: Gran Canaria or Pamplona?

Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is one of Spain's Canary Islands, located just off the coast of northwestern Africa. It is the third largest of the islands, and is known for its variety of volcanic beaches. This island is sometimes called a "Miniature Continent" due to the different climates and variety of landscapes found, which allow for a range of activities like hiking, biking, surfing, and scuba diving.

Pamplona

Pamplona is a city in northern Spain located on the snow-capped foothills of the Pyrenees Range. With the backdrop of mountains, the city is surrounded by a setting ideal for skiing, mountaineering, hiking, wildlife and breathtaking scenery. Yet Pamplona itself is a place full of lively culture and stunning architecture. With a long history, the place is embedded in tradition and perhaps most famous for its annual "running of the bulls" celebrated in July, also known as the San Fermin festival.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain, The Best Adventure Tours to Spain, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Pamplona or Gran Canaria?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Gran Canaria is €125, while the average daily cost in Pamplona is €131. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Gran Canaria and Pamplona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Gran Canaria 63
    Pamplona 67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Gran Canaria 126
    Pamplona 134
Compare Hotels in Gran Canaria and Pamplona

Looking for a hotel in Gran Canaria or Pamplona? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Gran Canaria


Hotels in Pamplona


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Pamplona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Gran Canaria 46
    Pamplona 24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Gran Canaria

Also for Gran Canaria, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Gran Canaria Private Transfer from Vecindario to Las Palmas (LPA) airport: $31
  • Gran Canaria Private Transfer from Las Palmas airport (LPA) to La Garita: $31
  • Gran Canaria Private Transfer from Las Palmas airport (LPA) to Agüimes: $31
  • Gran Canaria Private Transfer from Ingenio to Las Palmas (LPA) airport: $31
  • Gran Canaria Private Transfer from Las Palmas airport (LPA) to Vecindario : $31
  • El Salobre: Horse Riding Adventure with Transfer Options: $32
  • Private Transfer from Gran Canaria Port to Gran Canaria Airport: $33
  • Playa del Ingles to Gran Canaria Airport(LPA)- Departure Transfer: $33
  • Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) to Playa del Ingles - Arrival Transfer: $33
  • Gran Canaria Private Transfer from San Agustín to Las Palmas (LPA) airport: $41
  • Gran Canaria Private Transfer from Las Palmas airport (LPA) to San Agustín: $41
  • Gran Canaria Private Transfer from Las Palmas airport (LPA) to Costa Meloneras: $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pamplona

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Pamplona:

  • Private Transfer from Pamplona Airport to Laguardia town: $282
  • Private Transfer from Pamplona city to San Sebastian: $244
  • Private Transfer from Pamplona city to San Sebastian Airport: $244

Is it cheaper to fly into Gran Canaria or Pamplona?

Prices for flights to both Pamplona and Gran Canaria change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Gran Canaria 34
    Pamplona 41

Typical Food Prices in Pamplona

Some typical examples of dining costs in Pamplona are as follows:


  • Lunch for 2
    10
  • Ice Cream
    4.50
  • Coffee
    1.30

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Gran Canaria 20
    Pamplona 34

Tours and Activities in Gran Canaria

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Gran Canaria.

  • Walking tour Vegueta (old town Las Palmas): $7.49
  • Walking tour old town Las Palmas Vegueta: $7.64
  • Las Palmas: Old Town Highlights Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.45
  • Agüimes: Cocodrilo Park Zoo Entry Ticket: $11
  • Banana Plantation Guided Tour & Tasting: $13
  • Angry Birds Activity Park Entry Ticket: $14
  • Holiday World Maspalomas Wooland Ticket: $14
  • Skip the Line: Holiday World Maspalomas Wooland Ticket: $14
  • Maspalomas: Bowling Session Entry Ticket at Holiday World: $15
  • Taurito: Lago Taurito Water Park Entrance Ticket: $17
  • Puerto de Mogan: Friday Market Experience: $24
  • Winery Tour, Wine Museum, and Tasting: $24

Tours and Activities in Pamplona

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Pamplona are as follows:

  • Biarritz and French Basque coast small group tour, lunch included: $260
  • Bilbao and Guggenheim Museum small group tour: $218
  • From San Sebastian: Pamplona City Tour: $91
  • Logroño historic&cultural guided walking tour: $32
  • Pamplona - Private Historic Walking Tour: $427
  • Pamplona Private Tour with Castle of Javier : $240
  • Pamplona pintxo tasting paired with Spanish wines small group tour: $72
  • Private City Tour Pamplona: $174
  • Private tour of Fuenterrabia and San Sebastian.: $283
  • Private tour of Getaria, Zumaia, Zarautz and Orio. : $204
  • Private tour of Lourdes and the three sacred temples: $240
  • Private tour of the jewels of Bilbao, with Guggenheim and pintxos tasting. : $251

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Gran Canaria 7.14
    Pamplona 31

Sample the Local Flavors in Gran Canaria

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Gran Canaria:

  • Spanish Tapas and Wine Tasting Tour in Mogan: $52
  • Spanish Cured Meats & Wine Tasting Tour in Mogan: $60
  • Gran Canaria Picnic Experience & Wine Tasting: $102

Sample the Local Flavors in Pamplona

Also in Pamplona, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Half Day Rioja Wine Tour: $218
  • Wine tour of La Rioja, with two winery visits, and La Guardia. : $221
  • Wine Tour: 2 Wineries From Logroño: $240
  • Rioja Wine Tour: 2 Wineries From Pamplona: $240
  • Wine Tour: Winery & Traditional Lunch From Logroño: $251
  • Rioja Wine Tour: Winery & Traditional Lunch From Pamplona: $251
  • Rioja Wine Tour: $283


When comparing the travel costs between Gran Canaria and Pamplona, we can see that Pamplona is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Gran Canaria Expensive? and Is Pamplona Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Gran Canaria or Pamplona?

Gran Canaria has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Pamplona. When comparing the sizes of Gran Canaria and Pamplona, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Gran Canaria or Pamplona?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Gran Canaria or Pamplona in the Summer?

Both Pamplona and Gran Canaria during the summer are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pamplona this time of year.

In July, Gran Canaria is generally a little warmer than Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Gran Canaria average around 23°C (73°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Pamplona, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Gran Canaria. In the summer, Gran Canaria often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Gran Canaria gets 293 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 209 hours of full sun.

Gran Canaria usually gets less rain in July than Pamplona. Gran Canaria gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Gran Canaria 23°C (73°F) 
    Pamplona 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Gran Canaria or Pamplona in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Gran Canaria and Pamplona. Furthermore, many travelers come to Pamplona for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Gran Canaria is a little warmer than Pamplona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Gran Canaria averages around 23°C (73°F) in October, and Pamplona fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In Gran Canaria, it's very sunny this time of the year. Gran Canaria usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during autumn. Gran Canaria gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Pamplona receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Gran Canaria usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Gran Canaria gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Gran Canaria 23°C (73°F) 
    Pamplona 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Gran Canaria or Pamplona in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Gran Canaria as well as Pamplona. Additionally, many visitors come to Pamplona in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Gran Canaria is much warmer than Pamplona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Gran Canaria in January average around 18°C (64°F), and Pamplona averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Gran Canaria often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Gran Canaria gets 187 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 85 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pamplona. Gran Canaria usually gets less rain in January than Pamplona. Gran Canaria gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Gran Canaria 18°C (64°F) 
    Pamplona 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Gran Canaria or Pamplona in the Spring?

Both Pamplona and Gran Canaria are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Pamplona for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Gran Canaria is generally much warmer than Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Gran Canaria average around 19°C (66°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Gran Canaria. Gran Canaria usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during spring. Gran Canaria gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 141 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pamplona. In April, Gran Canaria usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Gran Canaria gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Gran Canaria 19°C (66°F) 
    Pamplona 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Pamplona and Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria Pamplona
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (64°F) 25 mm (1 in) 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in)
Feb 18°C (64°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in)
Mar 19°C (66°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Apr 19°C (66°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 1 mm (0 in) 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 0 mm (0 in) 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 0 mm (0 in) 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 24°C (75°F) 0 mm (0 in) 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Oct 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 21°C (70°F) 22 mm (0.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Dec 19°C (66°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in)