Pamplona, Spain
The Historic City of San Fermín and the Camino de Santiago
The Historic City of San Fermín and the Camino de Santiago
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Overview
Pamplona, the elegant capital of Spain's Navarre region, is a city steeped in history, tradition, and a unique festive spirit. While globally famous for its electrifying Running of the Bulls during the annual San Fermín festival, the city offers a serene and beautiful experience for visitors year-round. Pamplona's rich past is evident in its well-preserved medieval city walls, its stately Citadel, and its role as a key stop on the iconic Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.
A day trip to Pamplona provides a captivating glimpse into northern Spanish life. You can walk the famed bull run route, explore a charming old town with its lively plazas and historic streets, and enjoy the local culinary scene. Pamplona is a city that beautifully balances its solemn historical legacy with a vibrant, contemporary atmosphere, making it a truly rewarding excursion.
Trace the famous path of the Running of the Bulls (Encierro) through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town. The route is clearly marked with signs and is a surprisingly short but historically significant journey from the corrals to the bullring.
Tip: Walk the route in the morning to get a sense of its twists and turns before the crowds arrive. Look for the small plaques and monuments that mark key moments along the way.
At the end of the bull run route is the historic Pamplona Bullring. You can currently enter the arena to see where the run concludes and where bullfights take place. There is also a small museum that provides context on the history of the sport and the San Fermín festival.
Tip: Take a photo with the statue of Ernest Hemingway, located just outside the bullring, a tribute to the author who famously popularized the festival.
Wander through the grounds of the Citadel of Pamplona, a massive star-shaped fortress from the 16th century. Once a military garrison, it is now a public park where locals relax. It’s a great place for a peaceful stroll and offers impressive views of the city walls.
Tip: The Citadel often hosts art exhibitions and cultural events, so check to see what's on during your visit.
Get lost in the narrow, winding streets of the Old Town (Casco Viejo). This is the heart of Pamplona, home to lively plazas like Plaza del Castillo (the city's main square) and a myriad of shops, cafes, and bars.
Tip: Plaza del Castillo is perfect for people-watching. Find a table at a cafe and enjoy a drink and a snack.
Experience Pamplona's celebrated food scene by trying pintxos, the Basque and Navarran version of tapas. These are small, delicious bites often served on a slice of bread. Hop from bar to bar to sample a variety of these culinary creations.
Tip: Gascona Street is a popular cider street in nearby Oviedo, but Pamplona has many great streets for pintxos. Head to Calle de San Nicolás or Calle Estafeta for some of the best.
Pamplona is a key stop on the Camino de Santiago, the ancient pilgrimage route. You can walk a small section of the route as it enters and exits the city, crossing the medieval stone bridge of Magdalena, and see the pilgrims with their backpacks and walking sticks.
Tip: The walk provides a moment of reflection and a chance to feel connected to centuries of history and spirituality.
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