What to Do and See in Pamplona, Spain - Gateway to the Camino Francés
Arriving in Pamplona - My First Real Taste of Spain
I’ll never forget stepping into Pamplona for the first time. It was early morning, and I could still feel the Pyrenees in my legs after crossing from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. The narrow streets were waking up slowly - a mix of clattering cups, church bells, and the scent of fresh pastries drifting from corner cafés.
Pamplona was my first true city stop on the Camino Francés, and it instantly felt like a celebration - part history, part pilgrimage, and part fiesta.
Be sure to Streets of the Running of the Bulls.
Top Things to Do and See in Pamplona
Here’s what I discovered - and what I’d recommend to anyone walking through this lively city:
1️Walk the Streets of the Running of the Bulls (Encierro Route)
Even outside of July’s San Fermín Festival, you can walk the bull-running route year-round. It starts at the Corrales de Santo Domingo and ends at Plaza de Toros. Along the way, plaques mark each stretch -a fun (and much safer) way to trace Pamplona’s most famous event.
2️ Visit the Pamplona Cathedral (Santa María la Real)
This stunning Gothic cathedral offers peace and reflection after days on the trail. Inside, the cloisters are serene, and the view from the bell tower captures the old city perfectly.
3️ Tapas (Pintxos) Crawl Through Old Town
Pamplona’s Casco Viejo is a labyrinth of pintxos bars. Try:
Bar Gaucho – for their signature prawn skewer
Baserri – for rich Rioja wine and mini croquettes
Bodegón Sarría – a local pilgrim favorite
Related post:Loved by Pilgrims Polvorones: The Melt-in-Your-Mouth Spanish Almond Cookies
FOLLOW THE CAMINO CHRONICLES
4️ Stroll Through Ciudadela Park
This 16th-century star-shaped fortress is now a leafy park filled with art and locals walking dogs. It’s perfect for resting your legs and journaling about your Camino so far.
5️ Watch the Sunset from Parque Yamaguchi
A Japanese-style garden in the middle of Spain - peaceful and photogenic, especially at dusk.
The Cathedral Santa María la Real is so beautiful.
Pilgrim Tip: Collect a Camino Stamp
Don’t miss the Iglesia de San Saturnino, where many pilgrims get their second or third credencial stamp (after Roncesvalles). It’s one of the oldest churches on the route, dating back to the 13th century.
Where to Stay in Pamplona
Albergue Plaza Catedral - modern, clean, and steps from the cathedral
Hotel Maisonnave - for a little comfort and an excellent breakfast buffet
Hostal Arriazu - perfect mid-range stay right off Calle Estafeta
Related post:Tarta de Santiago - The Sweet Symbol of the Camino de Santiago
Get Your Gifts and Gear Here
Tapas (Pintxos) Crawl Through Old Town is a must do.
Food and Local Flavors
Pamplona sits in Navarra, one of Spain’s richest agricultural regions. Try:
Txistorra (local sausage)
Asparagus from Navarra
Rosado wine -crisp and perfect after a long day’s walk
Related post:Chocolate con Churros - A Sweet Camino Morning Tradition
Getting There
Pamplona is well connected - many pilgrims start here if not walking from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port.
By train: from Madrid or San Sebastián
By bus: ALSA or MonBus lines
By plane: Pamplona Airport (PNA) with flights from Madrid and Barcelona
A Sunset walk through the streets and along the on City walls is magical.
Related Posts You’ll Love
The History of the Camino de Santiago and Why It’s Still Relevant Today
Understanding Currency, ATMs, and Payments Along the Camino
Camino on a Budget: 10 Money-Saving Tips for Pilgrims
Conclusion: Pamplona’s Spirit Stays With You
Pamplona surprised me. I expected bull runs and old walls - but what I found was warmth, flavor, and community. It’s a city that greets pilgrims with open arms and feeds both the stomach and the soul.
If you’re passing through on the Camino, take your time here. Savor a café con leche in Plaza del Castillo, wander the cobbled streets, and feel the rhythm of Spain come alive around you.
Buen Camino, and enjoy every moment of Pamplona.
Renae