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

Should you visit Windsor or Pamplona?

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

Should I visit Windsor 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.

Windsor

Windsor is a beautiful, royal, and traditional town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

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 hiking, shopping, and museums.

Windsor and Pamplona: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 Windsor or Pamplona?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Pamplona than Windsor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Pamplona is better known for its food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Windsor is more popular for its museums, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Windsor is well known for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Pamplona is well known for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival. Also, Pamplona is famous for The Running of the Bulls Festival.

How is Windsor different from Pamplona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Windsor
Pamplona

Windsor 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.

Windsor offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

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 Windsor or Pamplona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Windsor
Pamplona

Pamplona is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Windsor 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).

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Is Windsor or Pamplona Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Pamplona

Pamplona is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Pamplona is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Windsor has a few options to choose from. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Is Windsor or Pamplona Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Pamplona

It's fun to wander around the notable old towns in both Windsor and Pamplona.

Many people head to Windsor to see the old town. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Pamplona has an old town worth visiting. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.


Is Windsor or Pamplona Better for Hiking?

Windsor
Pamplona

Pamplona is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Windsor 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.

Windsor is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Pamplona?

Windsor
Pamplona

Pamplona is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Pamplona Better for Families?

Windsor
Pamplona

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Windsor or Pamplona.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Windsor. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

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 Windsor or Pamplona Better for Couples?

Windsor
Pamplona

Windsor 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.

Windsor is a very popular place to visit for couples. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

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 Windsor or Pamplona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Pamplona

Pamplona is well known for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Pamplona Better for Students?

Windsor
Pamplona

Pamplona is a popular place for students. However, Windsor 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.

Windsor is not popular with students.


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

Windsor
Pamplona

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Windsor and Pamplona.

You'll find some public transit in Windsor, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system around town.

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

Is Windsor or Pamplona a more walkable city?

Windsor
Pamplona

Windsor and Pamplona both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Windsor is a very walkable town. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

Pamplona is a very walkable destination. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Pamplona or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Pamplona?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pamplona than Windsor 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 Windsor or Pamplona? Ideal Length of Stay
    Windsor 1-2 
    Pamplona 1-2

One day in Windsor or Pamplona?

Windsor is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife 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, 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.


A weekend in Windsor or Pamplona?

Windsor 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 Windsor, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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.

Five days in Windsor or Pamplona?

Windsor 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.

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.

A week in Windsor or Pamplona?

Windsor 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.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Pamplona or Windsor?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, while the average daily cost in Pamplona is £112. 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 Windsor and Pamplona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Pamplona £57
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Pamplona £114
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Pamplona

Looking for a hotel in Windsor 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 Windsor


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: Windsor Hotel Prices and Pamplona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Pamplona £21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562

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 Windsor or Pamplona?

Prices for flights to both Pamplona and Windsor 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
    Windsor £39
    Pamplona £35
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Windsor:


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Typical Food Prices in Pamplona

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


  • Lunch for 2
    £8.56
  • Ice Cream
    £3.85
  • Coffee
    £1.11

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Pamplona £29

Tours and Activities in Windsor

Here are a few actual costs in Windsor for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Daily Walking Tour with Local Guide (11am & 2pm): $17
  • Windsor Daily Town Walking Tour: 11am & 2pm: $18
  • Windsor : Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Golden Tours Open Top Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Duck Tour: Bus and Boat Ride: $34
  • Windsor Quest: Self Guided Sightseeing & Immersive Treasure Hunt: $37
  • Windsor and Thames Valley Bike Tour: $38
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • Windsor Castle Afternoon Tour from London: $86

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
    Windsor £7.55
    Pamplona £27

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Windsor and Pamplona, we can see that Windsor 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 Windsor would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Windsor 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 Windsor Expensive? and Is Pamplona Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Pamplona?

Pamplona has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor 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 Windsor 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 Windsor or Pamplona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Pamplona. The summer months attract visitors to Windsor because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pamplona this time of year.

Windsor is cooler than Pamplona in the summer. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 18°C (64°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. Windsor usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pamplona during summer. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Windsor usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Pamplona 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Pamplona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Pamplona. The small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Windsor this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Pamplona for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Windsor is cooler than Pamplona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Windsor in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Pamplona averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Pamplona. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pamplona. Windsor usually gets less rain in October than Pamplona. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Pamplona 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Pamplona in the Winter?

Both Pamplona and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Windsor for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Pamplona in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Windsor. In January, Windsor is generally much colder than Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 4°C (40°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Pamplona during winter. Windsor gets 52 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, Windsor usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Pamplona 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Pamplona in the Spring?

Both Pamplona and Windsor during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Windsor in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Pamplona for the activities around the city during these months.

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

In the spring, Windsor often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pamplona. Windsor gets 147 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. Windsor usually gets less rain in April than Pamplona. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Pamplona 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Pamplona and Windsor

Windsor Pamplona
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in)