A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thiva (Thebes) vs. Pamplona for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Thiva (Thebes) and Pamplona can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a authentic, vibrant, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

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. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Thiva (Thebes) and Pamplona: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Home to the Running of the Bulls Festival


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Pamplona than Thiva (Thebes), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Pamplona is better known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and hiking, while Thiva (Thebes) is more popular for its museums. Pamplona is more touristy than Thiva (Thebes) and is known for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival. Also, Pamplona is famous for The Running of the Bulls Festival. Thiva (Thebes) is well known for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Pamplona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona?

Thiva (Thebes)
Pamplona

Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Pamplona

Pamplona is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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).

Thiva (Thebes) is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Pamplona

Pamplona is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Pamplona know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Thiva (Thebes) has a few options to choose from. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona Better for its Old Town?

Thiva (Thebes)
Pamplona

Pamplona is a city with good options for its old town. However, Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Pamplona to see the old town. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.

Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona Better for Hiking?

Thiva (Thebes)
Pamplona

Pamplona is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona?

Thiva (Thebes)
Pamplona

Shopping is a popular activity in both Pamplona and Thiva (Thebes).

Thiva (Thebes) offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Pamplona has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Pamplona

Both Thiva (Thebes) and Pamplona are notable to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Thiva (Thebes). Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.

Pamplona offers lots of family activities. 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Pamplona

Pamplona is a city with good options for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

Pamplona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Pamplona

Pamplona is a great destination for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Pamplona is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona Better for Students?

Thiva (Thebes)
Pamplona

Pamplona is a city with good options for students. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.

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

Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Pamplona

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Thiva (Thebes) and Pamplona.

You'll find some public transit in Thiva (Thebes), but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses in the area.

While Pamplona offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Pamplona

Pamplona is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable city. Some areas are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Pamplona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pamplona or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes). However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Pamplona than Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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.


  • How many days in Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Pamplona 1-2

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona?

The city of Thiva (Thebes) offers 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.

In Pamplona, you'll find museums and nightlife. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona?

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

Pamplona is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona?

Thiva (Thebes) 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pamplona. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona?

Thiva (Thebes) 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 city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Pamplona. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Pamplona or Thiva (Thebes)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, 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 Thiva (Thebes) and Pamplona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Pamplona 67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Pamplona 134
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Pamplona

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes)


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.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Pamplona 24

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona?

Prices for flights to both Pamplona and Thiva (Thebes) 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
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    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.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Pamplona 34

Tours and Activities in Pamplona

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

  • Logroño historic&cultural guided walking tour: $32
  • Pamplona pintxo tasting paired with Spanish wines small group tour: $72
  • From San Sebastian: Pamplona City Tour: $91
  • Private City Tour Pamplona: $174
  • Private tour of Getaria, Zumaia, Zarautz and Orio. : $204
  • Bilbao and Guggenheim Museum small group tour: $218
  • Tour of the Bardenas " The great desert of Europe" and Tudela. : $234
  • San Sebastian & Basque Coast Tour From Pamplona: $235
  • Pamplona Private Tour with Castle of Javier : $240
  • Private tour of Lourdes and the three sacred temples: $240
  • San Sebastian And Basque Coast Tour From Pamplona: $240
  • Private tour of the jewels of Bilbao, with Guggenheim and pintxos tasting. : $251

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Pamplona 31

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 Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) Expensive? and Is Pamplona Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona?

Pamplona has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Thiva (Thebes). When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Pamplona. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Pamplona in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Pamplona in the summer. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Pamplona fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pamplona this time of the year. In Thiva (Thebes), it's very sunny this time of the year. Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during summer. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Pamplona 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Pamplona. Many visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Pamplona for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Pamplona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Pamplona averages at about 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thiva (Thebes) this time of the year. In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pamplona. Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in October than Pamplona. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Pamplona 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona in the Winter?

Both Pamplona and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Pamplona because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Thiva (Thebes) is generally a little warmer than Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 10°C (51°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during winter. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pamplona. In January, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Pamplona 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Pamplona in the Spring?

Both Pamplona and Thiva (Thebes) during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Thiva (Thebes) because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Pamplona this time of year.

Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Pamplona in the spring. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Pamplona fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Thiva (Thebes). In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 141 hours of full sun.

Pamplona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in April than Pamplona. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    Pamplona 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Pamplona and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Pamplona
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in)