A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stratford-upon-Avon vs. Pamplona for Food, Attractions, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Stratford-upon-Avon and Pamplona can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a peaceful, park-filled, and charming town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. And you can't forget about the food and theater.

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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Pamplona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Pamplona than Stratford-upon-Avon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Pamplona is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Stratford-upon-Avon is more popular for its theatre productions and small town charm. Pamplona is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon 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. Stratford-upon-Avon is well known for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Pamplona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona?

Pamplona is very good for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Pamplona offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is terrific for its theatre productions. However, Pamplona is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Stratford-upon-Avon draw crowds from around the world. Shakespeare enthusiasts must check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. There are often tickets available the day of for a reduced price.

Pamplona is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pamplona is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Pamplona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Stratford-upon-Avon area. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona Better for Nightlife?

Pamplona is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona Better for its Old Town?

Stratford-upon-Avon and Pamplona are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Stratford-upon-Avon. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Pamplona offers a nice historic old town area. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona Better for Hiking?

Pamplona is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona?

Pamplona is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Pamplona. You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona Better for Families?

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a family-friendly town. This small town has a ferris wheel that offers beautiful views. There's also a the Stratford Butterfly Farm, which is a beautiful setting and if you stand still enough, you might even be lucky enough to have one land on your shoulder. You can also check out Tudor World, the MAD Museum, or one of the playgrounds around town.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Pamplona. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona Better for Couples?

Both Stratford-upon-Avon and Pamplona are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Stratford-upon-Avon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The charming town offers a few nice restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. For a lovely date night, check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. During the day, wander around the old town or stroll down the river and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting. Many residents have converted properties into Bed and Breakfasts, so there are a number of cute and affordable places where couples can stay.

Pamplona is a good town 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pamplona is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Most backpackers skip this town for the more lively cities. There are affordable places to stay, but no real hostels in town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona Better for Students?

Pamplona is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pamplona is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Stratford-upon-Avon. The train station is a bit removed from the town center, but because the town is so small, it's still possible to reach it on foot from most places.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona a more walkable city?

Pamplona is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable town. It's easy to stroll around town on foot, but there aren't many pedestrian only areas. Head for the river for some of the nicest walking areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting? and Is Pamplona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pamplona or Stratford-upon-Avon?

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pamplona than Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona?

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

In Pamplona, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona?

Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Many people visit Pamplona for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pamplona, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that theater is why people visit. 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.

The destination of Pamplona offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that theater is why people visit. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Pamplona. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One week 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Stratford-upon-Avon and Pamplona, we can see that Stratford-upon-Avon is more expensive. And not only is Pamplona much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Pamplona would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Pamplona 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 Stratford-upon-Avon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Stratford-upon-Avon than you might in Pamplona.

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

Which is Bigger, Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona?

Pamplona has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Pamplona. Most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Pamplona because of the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Pamplona in the summer. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Pamplona fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pamplona. In the summer, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pamplona. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 209 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in July than Pamplona. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona in the Autumn?

Both Pamplona and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the small town atmosphere. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Pamplona this time of year.

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Pamplona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Pamplona averages at about 16°C (60°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than Pamplona during autumn. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pamplona. In October, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona in the Winter?

Both Pamplona and Stratford-upon-Avon during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pamplona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Stratford-upon-Avon in the winter. In January, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally much colder than Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 3°C (38°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Pamplona. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 85 hours of full sun.

Pamplona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in January than Pamplona. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Pamplona in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Pamplona. Many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm. Also, many visitors come to Pamplona in the spring for the activities around the city.

Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Pamplona in the spring. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Pamplona fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pamplona during spring. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 141 hours of full sun in the spring.

Pamplona receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pamplona and Stratford-upon-Avon