A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pamplona vs. Ravenna for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Pamplona or Ravenna?

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

Should I visit Pamplona or Ravenna? 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.

Pamplona

Pamplona is a historic, elegant, and laid-back city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping.

Ravenna

Ravenna is a historic, off-the-beaten-path, and charming town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Pamplona and Ravenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pamplona or Ravenna?

You'll generally find more things to do in Pamplona than Ravenna. Pamplona is bigger than Ravenna, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Pamplona is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and big city activities, while Ravenna is more popular for its museums and small town charm. Pamplona is more touristy than Ravenna and is popular for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival. Also, Pamplona is famous for The Running of the Bulls Festival. Ravenna is well known for its many stunning mosaics which date back to the early Christian and Byzantine empires.

How is Pamplona different from Ravenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Ravenna and Pamplona. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pamplona or Ravenna?

Ravenna is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Ravenna offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Most sights in town are centered around the the beautiful mosaics. Neonian Baptistery is a good place to begin your visit. Other highlights include San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and Sant'Apollinare Nuovo.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pamplona. Although most people visit in July for the Running of the Bulls, throughout the year there are some interesting museums and sights around town. You can check out the Cathedral of Pamplona, the Museo de Navarra, and the main plaza in town, Plaza del Castillo.

Is the Food Better in Pamplona or Ravenna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Pamplona and Ravenna.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Pamplona. Local cuisine includes lots of fresh vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, and onion. You'll find many unique dishes in the area, and you shouldn't leave without trying the txistorra (sausage), revuelto de setas (eggs and mushrooms), and ajoarriero (cod).

Ravenna has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The region is most known for its first course dishes, so pasta lovers will enjoy dining on homemade egg pasta dishes that are served with meat or cheese sauces. You'll also find lots of grilled meats and many great desserts.

Is Pamplona or Ravenna Better for Nightlife?

Pamplona is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Pamplona has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a good sized university population that keeps the nightlife active around town. The Old Quarter is likely where you'll find the most going on, particularly around Calle San Nicolás and Calle Estafeta. Earlier in the evening the crowd is pretty young, but as the evening passes you'll find the crowd matures a bit.

Ravenna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find most of the pubs and clubs in town around Marina di Ravenna. There are a couple of places that attract a crowd, but many are open only during the summer months.

Is Pamplona or Ravenna Better for its Old Town?

Pamplona is a good destination for its old town. However, Ravenna does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Pamplona. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.

Ravenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Pamplona or Ravenna Better for Hiking?

Pamplona is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Ravenna is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Pamplona. It's a stop off on the famed Camino de Santiago, so if you want to walk part of the route, this is a nice place to explore.

Ravenna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pamplona or Ravenna?

Both Pamplona and Ravenna are notable shopping destinations.

Pamplona offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Ravenna has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are some nice shopping streets in town where you can buy locally made mosaics. You'll also find art studios and artisan shops, as well as your typical souvenir shops and clothing stores. Via Cavour, via Diaz, and via Cairoli are some of the most popular shopping streets.

Is Pamplona or Ravenna Better for Families?

Ravenna is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Ravenna is a very kid-friendly town. In town you'll find mosaics, museums, and a charming town, and ten kilometers outside of town you'll find Italy's largest amusement park - Mirabilandia. The city is also filled with parks where kids can explore and learn, and the food, like any Italian city, is very kid-friendly.

Pamplona is a family-friendly city. The city is very green, with many parks and gardens where kids can stretch their legs. There's also the Pamplona Planetarium and several museums that relate to environmental education.

Is Pamplona or Ravenna Better for Couples?

Ravenna is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Ravenna is a very popular place to visit for couples. Many visitors to Italy don't add this charming town to their itinerary, but for couples who want to experience a small town setting with beautiful art and architecture, then Ravenna is a great option. There are parks to explore and great restaurants to experience as well.

Pamplona is a good city for couples to visit. Although it's most known for the Running of the Bulls in July, the city also has some interesting sights at other times of the year. Couples can walk around the city walls, or explore the many parks in town. There are also some interesting museums.

Is Pamplona or Ravenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pamplona is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Pamplona. Backpackers are drawn to this city during July for the Running of the Bulls festival. It's also a stop along the Camino de Santiago, which brings in a young, budget-oriented crowd.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ravenna. It's a bit off-the-beaten path, so you won't find a large number of hostels or a lot of backpackers to hang out with. That doesn't mean it won't make a great addition to your itinerary though.

Is Pamplona or Ravenna Better for Students?

Pamplona is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Ravenna is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Pamplona. This is a quiet city, which appeals to some students. The laid back atmosphere makes it a nice place to relax and learn.

Ravenna is not popular with students.

Is Pamplona or Ravenna Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Pamplona and Ravenna offer notable public transit options.

Pamplona has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive bus system around town.

Ravenna has some public transit options. Buses in and around town are managed by START ROMAGNA and offer access to many nearby towns.

Is Pamplona or Ravenna a more walkable city?

Pamplona and Ravenna both are superb when exploring on foot.

Pamplona is a very walkable city. It's a stop off on the Camino de Santiago, so many people arrive on foot. It's also an easy city to explore on foot.

Ravenna is a very walkable destination. There are care-free areas to the town that can only be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Pamplona Worth Visiting? and Is Ravenna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ravenna or Pamplona?

How long in Pamplona or Ravenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Pamplona or Ravenna to fill your time. In our opinion, Pamplona has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Pamplona than Ravenna. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Ravenna than Pamplona. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Ravenna, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Ravenna than Pamplona. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Ravenna that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pamplona than Ravenna if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Pamplona.

One day in Pamplona or Ravenna?

In Pamplona, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Ravenna is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Pamplona or Ravenna?

In Pamplona, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pamplona has to offer.

Ravenna is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ravenna, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Pamplona or Ravenna?

Pamplona is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Ravenna is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Pamplona or Ravenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pamplona. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Pamplona. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Ravenna is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Pamplona and Ravenna, we can see that Pamplona is more expensive. And not only is Ravenna much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ravenna would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ravenna and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Pamplona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pamplona than you might in Ravenna.

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

Which is Bigger, Pamplona or Ravenna?

Pamplona has a larger population, and is about 43% larger than the population of Ravenna. When comparing the sizes of Pamplona and Ravenna, 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 Pamplona or Ravenna?

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 Pamplona or Ravenna in the Summer?

Both Ravenna and Pamplona during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Pamplona for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Ravenna because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Pamplona is cooler than Ravenna in the summer. The daily temperature in Pamplona averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Ravenna fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Pamplona usually gets more rain in July than Ravenna. Pamplona gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pamplona or Ravenna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Pamplona and Ravenna. The autumn months attract visitors to Pamplona because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Ravenna this time of year.

In the autumn, Pamplona is a little warmer than Ravenna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Pamplona in October average around 16°C (60°F), and Ravenna averages at about 14°C (58°F).

Pamplona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Pamplona usually receives more rain than Ravenna. Pamplona gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Pamplona or Ravenna in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Pamplona as well as Ravenna. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pamplona this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ravenna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Ravenna. In January, Pamplona is generally much warmer than Ravenna. Daily temperatures in Pamplona average around 8°C (47°F), and Ravenna fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Pamplona receives a lot of rain in the winter. Pamplona usually gets more rain in January than Ravenna. Pamplona gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pamplona or Ravenna in the Spring?

Both Ravenna and Pamplona are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Pamplona for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Ravenna in the spring for the small town charm.

Pamplona is around the same temperature as Ravenna in the spring. The daily temperature in Pamplona averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Ravenna fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

It's quite rainy in Pamplona. In April, Pamplona usually receives more rain than Ravenna. Pamplona gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ravenna and Pamplona