How Many Days Do You Need in Pamplona?
The ideal length of stay in Pamplona depends on what kind of traveler you are and what experiences you want to enjoy—whether it’s history and culture, food and wine, or the world-famous San Fermín Festival. For most visitors, two to three days is the perfect amount of time to explore the city at a comfortable pace, experience its major attractions, and soak in its unique atmosphere.
Below is a breakdown to help you plan your stay based on your interests and travel style.
1. One Day in Pamplona – A Short but Rewarding Visit
If you’re short on time or visiting as part of a road trip through northern Spain, one full day in Pamplona is enough to experience its historic highlights and enjoy a taste of its famous cuisine.
Suggested itinerary for one day:
- Morning: Start in the Old Town (Casco Viejo), walking along Calle Estafeta, Plaza del Castillo, and Pamplona Cathedral. Visit the Town Hall (Ayuntamiento) and follow the path of the Running of the Bulls.
- Afternoon: Have a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, then stroll through Citadel Park (La Ciudadela) or Taconera Park.
- Evening: Enjoy a pintxo crawl (bar-hopping with small plates) in the Old Town and end with a glass of local wine or pacharán (Navarrese liqueur).
Perfect for:
- Travelers passing through northern Spain.
- Those on a tight schedule but eager to see the highlights.
2. Two Days in Pamplona – Ideal for First-Time Visitors
Two days is the ideal stay for first-time travelers who want to experience both the historical side of Pamplona and its relaxed local lifestyle. It allows time to enjoy the city’s parks, museums, and regional cuisine without rushing.
Suggested itinerary for two days:
Day 1 – Explore the Heart of the City
- Walk through the Old Town and visit Pamplona Cathedral and its cloister.
- Explore Plaza del Castillo and enjoy lunch at Café Iruña (a Hemingway favorite).
- Visit the Navarra Museum to learn about the region’s history.
- Spend the afternoon at Citadel Park or along the Arga River Walk.
Day 2 – Culture, Cuisine, and Relaxation
- Visit Taconera Park in the morning, then head to the Pamplona Bullring Museum for insight into the San Fermín Festival.
- Enjoy a leisurely lunch of local dishes such as cordero al chilindrón or menestra de verduras.
- In the evening, join locals for a pintxo crawl in Calle San Nicolás or Calle Estafeta, finishing with dessert or drinks in Plaza del Castillo.
Perfect for:
- First-time travelers who want a complete city experience.
- Those interested in both sightseeing and culinary exploration.
3. Three Days in Pamplona – For Culture, Food, and Day Trips
If you have three days, you can explore Pamplona deeply while adding a nearby day trip to the surrounding Navarre countryside. This option is perfect for travelers who love culture, nature, and regional food.
Suggested itinerary for three days:
Days 1–2: Follow the two-day plan above.
Day 3 – Explore Beyond the City
Choose one of the following day trips:
- Olite Castle (Castillo de Olite): A fairytale-like medieval castle about 40 minutes from Pamplona.
- Bardenas Reales Desert: A dramatic semi-desert landscape that looks like a movie set.
- Roncesvalles (Orreaga): A mountain village on the Camino de Santiago, rich in history and beautiful scenery.
Return in the evening to enjoy a final dinner of local cuisine paired with a glass of Navarre wine.
Perfect for:
- Travelers who want to combine city exploration with regional adventure.
- Those seeking a relaxed yet immersive experience.
4. Four or More Days – During the San Fermín Festival
If you’re visiting Pamplona in early July for the San Fermín Festival (July 6–14), plan for at least 3 to 4 days. The festival is a once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience, and staying several days allows you to balance the excitement of the celebrations with rest and sightseeing.
During the festival:
- Witness or (safely) attend the Running of the Bulls (El Encierro).
- Enjoy parades, music, dancing, and fireworks at night.
- Visit the bullring, Plaza del Castillo, and local bars full of festival energy.
Tip: Book accommodation months in advance—rooms fill quickly, and prices rise significantly during this period.
Summary: How Many Days to Stay in Pamplona
| Type of Visit | Recommended Duration | Highlights |
| ------------------- | -------------------- | ------------------------------------------ |
| Quick Stopover | 1 day | Old Town, Plaza del Castillo, pintxos |
| First-Time Visit | 2 days | Cathedral, Citadel, parks, food culture |
| Extended Stay | 3 days | Add day trips to Olite or Bardenas Reales |
| San Fermín Festival | 3–4 days | Festival events, culture, city exploration |
Final Thoughts
For most travelers, two to three days in Pamplona offers the perfect balance—enough time to discover its history, enjoy its food, and relax in its parks without feeling rushed. The city is compact, walkable, and full of charm, so even a short visit feels rich and memorable.
