How to Get Around in Pamplona Without a Car?
Pamplona is one of the most walkable and accessible cities in northern Spain, making it easy to explore without needing a car. Its compact size, excellent public transportation, and network of pedestrian-friendly streets mean you can comfortably get to almost every attraction on foot, by bus, or even by bike. Whether you’re staying in the Old Town, attending the San Fermín Festival, or exploring local parks and museums, getting around the city without a car is simple and enjoyable.
Here’s a complete guide to the best ways to navigate Pamplona car-free.
1. Walking – The Best Way to Explore the City
Walking is by far the easiest and most enjoyable way to get around Pamplona. The city center is compact, safe, and designed for pedestrians. Most of the main attractions—such as the Old Town (Casco Viejo), Plaza del Castillo, Pamplona Cathedral, Citadel Park, and Taconera Gardens—are all within a short walk of each other.
Why walking works best in Pamplona:
- The city center is mostly flat and pedestrianized.
- Streets are well-marked and easy to navigate.
- It’s a great way to experience local life, architecture, and street culture.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes. Many streets are cobblestoned, especially in the Old Town.
2. Public Buses (Villavesas)
Pamplona’s public bus system, known locally as “Villavesas,” is reliable, affordable, and covers the entire city as well as nearby suburbs.
Key information:
- Tickets: A single ride costs around €1.50, and you can buy tickets directly from the driver.
- Payment: Cash or rechargeable travel cards (Tarjeta del Transporte Urbano).
- Operating hours: Buses typically run from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with some night services (Nocturnos) on weekends.
- Frequency: Every 10–15 minutes during the day.
Where they go:
Buses connect major areas such as the Old Town, University of Navarra, Yamaguchi Park, train and bus stations, and nearby residential neighborhoods.
Pro tip: Use Google Maps or the Infotuc Pamplona app to check real-time schedules and routes.
3. Cycling – An Eco-Friendly Option
Pamplona is one of Spain’s most bike-friendly cities. It has an extensive network of bicycle lanes (over 60 km) that make cycling both safe and enjoyable.
Bike rental options:
- You can rent a bike from local shops or use Ride On Pamplona, a public e-bike system.
- Rental prices range from €10–€20 per day for standard bikes or €15–€25 for electric ones.
Best cycling routes:
- Along the Arga River Walk (Paseo Fluvial del Arga) – a scenic trail through parks and bridges.
- Around Citadel Park and Taconera Gardens for short leisure rides.
- From the city center to the University of Navarra or Yamaguchi Park.
Tip: Helmets are recommended, especially for longer rides outside the city center.
4. Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services
If you need a quicker way to move around, taxis in Pamplona are safe, regulated, and reasonably priced.
How to use them:
- You can hail one on the street, find them at taxi stands (especially near Plaza del Castillo, the bus station, or train station), or call a local company like Radiotaxi San Fermín (+34 948 23 23 00).
- Ride-sharing apps like Cabify sometimes operate in Pamplona, though availability can vary.
Approximate fares:
- Short city rides: €5–€10.
- From the train station to the Old Town: around €10–€12.
Tip: During the San Fermín Festival, book taxis early as demand is high.
5. Electric Scooters (E-Scooters)
Electric scooters have become increasingly popular in Pamplona. Several local companies offer rental scooters, often accessible via mobile apps.
Advantages:
- Affordable and convenient for short distances.
- Eco-friendly and fun way to explore.
Where to use them:
- Designated bike lanes and flat urban areas.
- Avoid riding in pedestrian-only zones, especially in the Old Town.
Note: Always park scooters responsibly and wear a helmet if possible.
6. Trains and Buses for Regional Travel
If you’re planning to visit nearby destinations like Olite, Roncesvalles, or the Bardenas Reales, Pamplona’s public transportation makes this easy without needing a car.
Train station:
- Located about 3 km from the city center (easily reachable by bus or taxi).
- Regular trains connect Pamplona to Madrid, Zaragoza, San Sebastián, and Barcelona.
Bus station:
- Centrally located near Yanguas y Miranda Street.
- Buses go to nearby towns, villages, and natural parks.
- Affordable and frequent service.
7. Walking Tours and Self-Guided Routes
One of the most enjoyable ways to explore Pamplona without a car is through a walking tour. Many local tourism offices and guide groups offer free or low-cost walking tours, covering the Old Town, city walls, and Hemingway’s favorite spots.
Alternatively, you can download a self-guided walking map from the Pamplona Tourism website and explore at your own pace.
Recommended routes:
- “The Running of the Bulls Route” – follows the famous San Fermín festival path.
- “Pamplona City Walls Route” – offers history and great views.
- “Hemingway Trail” – visits the author’s favorite places in the city.
8. Accessibility for Pedestrians
Pamplona’s infrastructure is very pedestrian-friendly, with:
- Well-maintained sidewalks and crosswalks.
- Elevators and ramps in hilly areas (for example, the one connecting the train station area to the Old Town).
- Clear signage in both Spanish and Basque.
This makes the city easy to navigate for travelers of all ages and abilities.
Final Thoughts
Getting around Pamplona without a car is not only practical—it’s actually the best way to experience the city. Its walkable streets, reliable public transport, and bike-friendly layout make it effortless to move from one attraction to another.
For most visitors, a combination of walking, public buses, and occasional taxi rides will cover all your needs. You’ll not only save money but also enjoy the city’s architecture, local life, and atmosphere up close—something you’d miss behind a steering wheel.
