A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Zaragoza vs. Pamplona for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Zaragoza or Pamplona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Zaragoza or Pamplona, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a cultural, historical, and compact city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Pamplona

Pamplona is a elegant, laid-back, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Zaragoza and Pamplona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zaragoza or Pamplona?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Pamplona than Zaragoza. While Zaragoza is larger than Pamplona, Pamplona has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Pamplona is more popular for its nightlife, hiking, and big city activities, while Zaragoza is known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Pamplona is more touristy than Zaragoza and is known for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival. It is also home to The Running of the Bulls Festival. Zaragoza is popular for its grand landmarks, local cuisine, and rich cultural scene.

How is Zaragoza different from Pamplona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zaragoza 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.

Zaragoza offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. For such a small city, it really has a large number of cultural and historical attractions. The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is the most recognizable sight, but there's also the Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta, the cathedral of Zaragoza, and the Aljafería Palace, among others.

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 Zaragoza or Pamplona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Zaragoza and Pamplona can be difficult as they are each very good in their own way.

Dining out in Zaragoza is an experience not to be missed. There are authentic restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike. You'll also find some interesting food tours around town. Tapas are popular, as is chocolate and fresh, traditional recipes.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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).

Is Zaragoza or Pamplona Better for Nightlife?

Pamplona is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Pamplona has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Zaragoza. The nightlife is at its best on weekends, when students and young locals head out on the town. Many evenings start with tapas and wine, but there are nightclubs and dancing as well.

Is Zaragoza or Pamplona Better for its Old Town?

Zaragoza is a well-known place for its old town. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Zaragoza. The old town is small but filled with monumental buildings and an authentic atmosphere.

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

Is Zaragoza or Pamplona Better for Hiking?

Pamplona is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.

Pamplona is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zaragoza or Pamplona?

Zaragoza is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Zaragoza is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many local shops selling locally produced items and interesting souvenirs. There are also boutiques, markets, and vintage shops that are fun to browse though.

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 Zaragoza or Pamplona Better for Families?

Zaragoza and Pamplona are both good destinations for the whole family.

Zaragoza is a family-friendly place to visit. When your kids get their fill of architecture and history, you can head to the Zaragoza Aquarium. Also worth a visit is the Emoz Museum, which is an origami museum. And if you need a break from sightseeing, take a kayak out on the Ebro River.

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 Zaragoza or Pamplona Better for Couples?

Zaragoza 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.

Zaragoza is a very popular place to visit for couples. Filled with culture, beauty, and monumental buildings, this is a small and romantic city. It's particularly romantic at night when the streets are quiet and many of the buildings are lit up.

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 Zaragoza or Pamplona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pamplona is notable for backpackers. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Pamplona is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Zaragoza is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are enough hostels around town to choose from, and while it's not the backpacker haven that some Spanish cities are, it still sees a good number of young travelers.

Is Zaragoza or Pamplona Better for Students?

Zaragoza and Pamplona are both good destinations for students and younger travelers.

Zaragoza is a good city to visit for students. International students enjoy this small city because it has a local vibe where they can practice their Spanish and enjoy an authentic experience.

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.

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

Zaragoza is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Zaragoza can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams around the city.

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

Is Zaragoza or Pamplona a more walkable city?

Zaragoza and Pamplona both are very good when exploring on foot.

Zaragoza is a very walkable destination. The city center is very walkable.

Pamplona is very walkable. 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 Zaragoza Worth Visiting? and Is Pamplona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pamplona or Zaragoza?

How long in Zaragoza or Pamplona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zaragoza or Pamplona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zaragoza than Pamplona because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Zaragoza, and 1-2 days is enough time in Pamplona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pamplona than Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza or Pamplona?

The beautiful city of Zaragoza offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The city of Pamplona offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Zaragoza or Pamplona?

Zaragoza 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zaragoza, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Pamplona 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the 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 Zaragoza or Pamplona?

Zaragoza 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 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 Zaragoza or Pamplona?

Zaragoza is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

Pamplona is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Barcelona, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza Expensive? and Is Pamplona Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Zaragoza or Pamplona?

Zaragoza has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Pamplona. When comparing the sizes of Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza or Pamplona in the Summer?

Both Pamplona and Zaragoza are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Zaragoza in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Pamplona for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Zaragoza is generally a little warmer than Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Zaragoza average around 26°C (79°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Pamplona. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zaragoza. Zaragoza usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during summer. Zaragoza gets 344 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zaragoza usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Zaragoza gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zaragoza or Pamplona in the Autumn?

Both Pamplona and Zaragoza during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Zaragoza for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Pamplona because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Zaragoza is around the same temperature as Pamplona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zaragoza averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Pamplona fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Zaragoza often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Zaragoza gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 144 hours of full sun.

Pamplona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Zaragoza usually gets less rain in October than Pamplona. Zaragoza gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zaragoza or Pamplona in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zaragoza and Pamplona. The winter months attract visitors to Zaragoza because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pamplona this time of year.

In the winter, Zaragoza is around the same temperature as Pamplona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zaragoza in January average around 8°C (46°F), and Pamplona averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Zaragoza usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during winter. Zaragoza gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

Pamplona receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Zaragoza usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Zaragoza gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zaragoza or Pamplona in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Zaragoza as well as Pamplona. The natural beauty are the main draw to Zaragoza this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Pamplona for the activities around the city.

In April, Zaragoza is generally a little warmer than Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Zaragoza average around 15°C (58°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zaragoza this time of the year. In the spring, Zaragoza often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Zaragoza gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pamplona. Zaragoza usually gets less rain in April than Pamplona. Zaragoza gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pamplona and Zaragoza