Are you thinking about visiting Pamplona, Spain? Here's what you need to know before planning your trip.
Is Pamplona worth visiting?
Pamplona is worth visiting for one to two days so that you can explore everything that the city has to offer. Pamplona is the capital of the Navarre province in Spain. Tourists flock to the city for the Running of the Bulls festival in July, but it's also a stop along the Camino de Santiago. There are grand plazas and beautiful churches in town as well as a great restaurant scene.
Pamplona, Spain
Reasons to Visit Pamplona
Food
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).
Nightlife
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.
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.
Museums
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.
Historical Sights
You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.
Shopping
You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.
The Costs
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Pamplona might be a very affordable destination for you. Check out the travel costs for Pamplona here or see if Pamplona is expensive here.
Is Pamplona worth visiting in the Summer?
The warm weather in summer is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 20°C (68°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 22°C (72°F).
The peak season for travel is summer in Pamplona, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This destination is quite popular with tourists, and in the high season it's even busier than usual as this is when most people like to visit. Expect crowds to be large, and prices to be a bit higher than normal. However, there's plenty to do here this time of year, too.
The nearby hiking this time of year is a must-do, so take some time to get out on the trails, take in some fresh air, and enjoy the scenery. You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable city, especially in the nice weather. This is a great time of year to go hiking, wander through the museums, and enjoy the city's energy. Also, you can admire the historic sights and enjoy an evening out.
Summer Weather in Pamplona
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| July | 20°C (68°F) | 81 mm (3.2 in) |
| August | 20°C (68°F) | 115 mm (4.5 in) |
| September | 18°C (65°F) | 134 mm (5.3 in) |
Is Pamplona worth visiting in the Autumn?
Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Pamplona. This destination is quite touristy, so in the shoulder season you can still find plenty of crowds, but better prices.
Keep in mind that it can be fairly rainy during autumn, and temperatures hover around 16°C (60°F).
You'll find plenty to do during autumn, as you'll be able to browse around the old town, browse through museums, and discover the big city activities. Also, you can check out the hiking.
Autumn Weather in Pamplona
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| October | 16°C (60°F) | 155 mm (6.1 in) |
| November | 11°C (52°F) | 190 mm (7.5 in) |
| December | 9°C (49°F) | 184 mm (7.2 in) |
Is Pamplona worth visiting in the Winter?
This is the low season for travel in Pamplona. This destination is quite touristy, but in the low season you'll see fewer crowds and much better prices.
The weather in Pamplona can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 8°C (47°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
During this season it's fun to experience the famous sights and museums, the cuisine, and the historic old town. Also, you'll be able to dance the night away and soak up the big city atmosphere.
Winter Weather in Pamplona
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| January | 8°C (47°F) | 183 mm (7.2 in) |
| February | 9°C (49°F) | 147 mm (5.8 in) |
| March | 10°C (51°F) | 148 mm (5.8 in) |
Is Pamplona worth visiting in the Spring?
Keep in mind that it can be fairly rainy during spring, and temperatures hover around 12°C (54°F).
Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Pamplona, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is quite touristy, so in the shoulder season you can still find plenty of crowds, but better prices.
This is a great time of year to browse the shops, browse the museums, and admire the historic sights. Also, you can experience the nightlife.
Spring Weather in Pamplona
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| April | 12°C (54°F) | 163 mm (6.4 in) |
| May | 15°C (59°F) | 139 mm (5.5 in) |
| June | 18°C (64°F) | 92 mm (3.6 in) |
Things to Consider Before Visiting Pamplona
Not As Family-Friendly
While there are some family activities, it's not as child-friendly as other destinations.
Not As Romantic
For couples, this destination does not have a great vibe for romance compared to other places.
Related
What is Pamplona most famous for?
Pamplona is most famous for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival. The city is very popular for its food, nightlife, and hiking. It's also known for museums, historical sights, and shopping. It is often described as laid-back, historic, and elegant.
What is the most famous sight in Pamplona?
The most popular sight in Pamplona is The Running of the Bulls Festival. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Pamplona on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for The Running of the Bulls Festival and other attractions here.
How touristy is Pamplona? Is it a popular city to visit?
Pamplona is a popular city for tourists and travelers. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- Private City Tour Pamplona: $174
- Two winerie visits in la Rioja and walking tour of la Guardia: $258
- Private tour of the jewels of Bilbao, with Guggenheim and pintxos tasting.: $250
- San Sebastián city and pintxos tour from Pamplona: $282
- Private tour of Lourdes and the three sacred temples: $239
- Pamplona Private Tour with Castle of Javier: $239
- Private tour of Fuenterrabia and San Sebastian.: $282
- Tour of the Bardenas " The great desert of Europe" and Tudela.: $233
How long should I spend in Pamplona?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Pamplona is one to two days. Since Pamplona has activities such as dining, nightlife, and hiking, many visit for up to two days.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Pamplona? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Pamplona?.
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