From Tapas to Traditions: Top Things to Do in Pamplona

Pamplona is where ancient traditions, bold flavors, and northern Spain’s wild spirit come to play. Just beyond its lively plazas and cathedral spires, wineries in Navarra invite you to slow down and sip the region’s heritage one glass at a time. Famous for the thrill of the San Fermín festival but unforgettable for its soul, Pamplona charms with pintxos bars, Gothic gems, Camino pilgrim paths, and unexpected calm in every cobbled street. This is not just a stop on the map, it’s a full-bodied taste of Spain’s culture, served with style and a splash of red.

What are the best things to do in Pamplona?

Head to Pamplona Cathedral

Tucked away in the old town, this gem stuns with its unexpected blend: a serene neoclassical façade hides a soaring Gothic interior, one of the most beautiful in northern Spain. Walk through its peaceful 13th-century cloister, explore the archaeological crypt with Roman remnants, and don’t miss the tomb of King Charles III of Navarre. As a key stop on the Camino de Santiago, the cathedral isn’t just a landmark, it’s a living piece of history that brings together faith, art, and centuries of stories under one glorious roof.

Discover Plaza del Castillo

Plaza del Castillo is Pamplona’s beating heart, a lively square where locals linger over coffee and visitors soak up the city’s soul. Ringed by elegant buildings and home to the iconic Café Iruña (yes, Hemingway really did hang out here), this plaza is your go-to for people-watching, pintxos, or just catching your breath between strolls. Streets like Estafeta and San Nicolás branch off in every direction, inviting you to dive deeper into Pamplona’s historic core, one charming corner at a time.

Stroll along the ancient walls and Fortín de San Bartolomé

Take a walk along Pamplona’s ancient city walls and you’re stepping through centuries of history. These well-preserved fortifications, among the most important in Spain, wrap around the old town and offer unbeatable views over the city and the surrounding Navarre countryside. It’s the perfect blend of fresh air and medieval flair. Don’t miss the Fortín de San Bartolomé, a former military stronghold now turned museum, where you’ll get a crash course on how Pamplona defended itself through the ages.

Visit the Citadel green fortress

The Citadel of Pamplona is one of the finest examples of Renaissance military architecture in Europe, and yes, it’s open to the public. Originally built in the late 16th century under the orders of King Philip II to defend the city, this five-pointed star-shaped fortress is now a peaceful green space that blends history with leisure. Locals come here to jog, picnic, or explore rotating art exhibitions and cultural events hosted inside its walls. It’s a brilliant place to slow down, soak up Pamplona’s heritage, and get a scenic breather in the heart of the city.

Explore the famous bullring and the legacy of bullfighting

Pamplona’s bullring isn’t just any arena, it’s the second-largest in Spain, and the dramatic finale of the famous Running of the Bulls. Every July, this place roars to life as daredevils sprint their way inside (hopefully in one piece). But even when the bulls aren’t charging, the arena is worth a visit. Take a guided tour, sneak behind the scenes, and get a crash course in the traditions, legends, and heated debates around bullfighting. It’s a big part of Pamplona’s story, and a stop that’ll spark conversation.

Walk to Parque de la Taconera

Pamplona’s oldest and most charming park, Parque de la Taconera, feels like stepping into a secret garden. With its elegant flower beds, old stone sculptures, and even a mini zoo tucked beneath the walls, it’s a peaceful retreat just steps from the city center. Bring a book, a snack, or just your curiosity, it’s the perfect place to slow down, breathe in some greenery, and watch deer and peacocks wander by like locals.

Explore the Museum of Navarra

Step inside a former hospital turned cultural treasure: the Museum of Navarra. From medieval paintings to Civil War memorabilia, this fascinating collection walks you through the rich, layered story of the Kingdom of Navarre. If you’re into ancient coins, Gothic altarpieces, or old medical tools (yes, really), it’s a must-stop for anyone wanting to get under the skin of Pamplona’s past.

Admire the City Hall and the San Firmin Festival

Pamplona’s Baroque-style Town Hall isn’t just photogenic, it’s where the city truly comes alive every July 6th during the Chupinazo, the explosive rocket launch that kicks off the San Fermín festival. Join the buzz, feel the energy, and soak up the atmosphere where tradition meets celebration. Just steps away, don’t miss the Privilege of the Union monument, a nod to the 15th-century unification of Pamplona’s three boroughs, proof that this city’s festive spirit has deep historic roots.

Experience the River Arga path

Hop on a bike or stroll at your own pace along the scenic Arga River path, one of Pamplona’s best-kept secrets. This leafy greenway winds past charming old mills, quiet picnic spots, and lush riverbanks, linking together some of the city’s prettiest parks and most historic corners. It’s the perfect way to experience Pamplona beyond the old town buzz, just you, the sound of flowing water, and a trail full of surprises.

What are the best things to do around Pamplona ?

Explore the wine country of Navarra

Just 30 minutes south of Pamplona, the Navarra wine region invites you to savor the good life. With rolling vineyards, medieval hilltop towns, and bodegas that mix old-world charm with cutting-edge winemaking, this area is a must for anyone curious about Spain’s northern wines. Known especially for its expressive Garnacha and elegant Tempranillo, Navarra is also home to some of the country’s best rosés. Many estates near Pamplona offer intimate tastings and guided cellar tours where you’ll learn how the region’s unique climate and soil shape each vintage. It’s the perfect escape after soaking in Pamplona’s energy, and a tasty way to toast your journey through Navarre.

Visit the city of Estella-Lizarra

Just 39 minutes southwest of Pamplona, Estella-Lizarra is a gem of the Kingdom of Navarre and a must-visit along the Camino de Santiago. This medieval town charms with its mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, ancient stone bridges, and quiet chapels tucked between winding streets. Once a key stop for pilgrims, Estella still radiates a peaceful, timeless energy, ideal for travelers looking to blend cultural discovery with a slower pace. After wandering through its historic quarter, settle into one of the local pintxos bars on the main square to taste Navarre’s rich flavors, from seasonal vegetables to cured meats, all with a glass of regional wine in hand.

Step off the Camino and into Estella’s timeless charm, and discover the best things to do in Estella-Lizarra!

Savor the flavors and stories of Logroño

Tucked into the heart of La Rioja, Logroño is more than just the regional capital, it’s a lively hub where food, wine, and culture come together effortlessly. From strolling down Calle Laurel with a glass of Rioja in hand to exploring centuries-old churches and bustling markets, the city invites you to slow down and enjoy. The surrounding Logroño wineries are some of the finest in Spain, offering cellar tours and tastings that showcase the depth of the region’s winemaking tradition. rs with local charm and world-class wine.

Glass in hand, appetite ready, our guide to the top things to do in Logroño starts here.

Unwind in the coastal capital of San Sebastián

Just about 80 minutes from Pamplona, San Sebastián is your perfect seaside escape after the adrenaline of San Fermín. Nestled in the Basque Country, this elegant coastal city is famous for its golden beaches, world-class pintxos, and relaxed vibe. Stroll through the buzzing Parte Vieja (old town) and hop between cozy bars for the ultimate pintxos crawl. Then kick back on Playa de la Concha or enjoy fresh seafood with a view of the bay. Want to elevate the experience? Join a San Sebastián wine tour to discover the region’s unique txakoli wines and nearby vineyards.

Ready to swap bulls for beaches and pintxos? Discover our top things to do in San Sebastián and plan your perfect coastal escape.

Drive for a day trip in Bilbao

Just under two hours from Pamplona by car, Bilbao is the perfect day trip for travelers looking to mix modern art, industrial charm, and Basque flavor. Home to the iconic Guggenheim Museum and a dynamic culinary scene, this riverside city surprises at every turn. Stroll along the Nervión River, grab pintxos in the old town (Casco Viejo), and explore cutting-edge exhibitions that have redefined Spain’s cultural landscape. Don’t miss out on a Bilbao wine tour while you’re there, it’s a great way to sample local Txakoli wines and discover hidden gems beyond the museum walls. Bilbao is where art, architecture, and wine culture meet in the most unexpected ways.

Check out our favorite things to do in Bilbao and sip your way through the city!

Good to Know before visiting Pamplona