This historic Spanish city hosts the famous San Fermín festival, featuring the thrilling and dangerous running of the bulls each July through its narrow streets.
Pamplona, the capital of Spain's Navarre region, comes alive each July during the San Fermín festival, famous for its Running of the Bulls. The city's Old Town invites you to explore its Gothic cathedral, medieval churches, and lively Plaza del Castillo. You can savor pintxos at outdoor cafes, walk the same streets Ernest Hemingway once roamed, and follow in the footsteps of pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago.
San Fermín Festival and Running of the Bulls
From July 6-14 each year, Pamplona transforms into a non-stop celebration during the San Fermín festival. At 8 AM daily, six bulls thunder through the city's narrow streets towards the bullring, with daring participants sprinting alongside them. This 875-meter course draws thousands of runners and spectators from across the globe. Throughout the festival, you'll encounter parades, fireworks, and traditional dances filling the city streets.
Exploring the Old Town (Casco Viejo)
As you wander through Pamplona's Old Town, you'll find yourself on narrow, stone-paved streets flanked by historic buildings. Walk along Calle Estafeta, the main street of the bull run, now lined with shops and bars. The Old Town is home to several medieval churches, including the 13th-century Gothic San Saturnino and the 14th-century San Nicolás. These churches once formed part of the city's defensive system, and you can still see architectural elements from that era.
Plaza del Castillo: The Heart of Pamplona
Plaza del Castillo serves as Pamplona's main square and social hub. Vibrant buildings housing cafes and restaurants encircle the square. For centuries, this plaza has been central to city life, hosting markets, celebrations, and even bullfights in years past. Take a seat at one of the outdoor terraces, perhaps at Café Iruña, a favorite haunt of Ernest Hemingway during his visits to the city.
Pamplona's Culinary Scene
When you dine in Pamplona, you'll taste the flavors of traditional Navarrese and Basque cuisines. Try local specialties like cordero al chilindrón (lamb stew) and pochas (fresh white beans). You'll find pintxos, Basque-style tapas often served on bread, in many bars across the city. Head to Calle San Nicolás for some of the most popular pintxos bars in town. Don't forget to sample the local wines from the nearby Navarra wine region, known for its robust reds and crisp rosés.
Day Trips from Pamplona
Pamplona's location makes it an ideal base for exploring northern Spain. You can drive to the Pyrenees mountains for hiking in summer or skiing in winter. Wine lovers can visit the Rioja wine region, about two hours away by car, to taste wines and tour vineyards. For a change of scenery, take a one-hour train ride to the coastal city of San Sebastián, where you can relax on the beach and dine at some of Spain's most acclaimed restaurants.
