Pamplona Itinerary 10 Days: The Complete Discovery (2026)

Welcome to Pamplona! Upon your arrival, settle into your accommodation in the heart of the Casco Antiguo. Spend your afternoon getting acquainted with the city's charming historic center. Wander through the narrow, winding streets, soaking in the medieval atmosphere. Make your way to Plaza del Castillo, the city's vibrant main square, where you can enjoy a coffee or a refreshing drink at one of the many outdoor cafes, such as Cafe Iruña, a historic spot frequented by Ernest Hemingway. As evening approaches, explore the beautiful Pamplona Cathedral, a stunning Gothic structure with a rich history. For dinner, indulge in traditional Navarran cuisine at Restaurante Europa, known for its exquisite local dishes and elegant ambiance. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, perhaps catching a glimpse of local life unfolding.

Today, delve into the Pamplona that captivated Ernest Hemingway. Begin your day with a visit to the Bull Ring (Plaza de Toros), even if there's no corrida, to appreciate its grandeur and history. Follow the famous Encierro (Running of the Bulls) route, starting from the Santo Domingo corrals, passing through the Plaza Consistorial, and continuing along Calle Estafeta. Imagine the thrill and excitement of the San Fermín festival as you walk this iconic path. Stop for lunch at Bar Txoko, a classic pinchos bar on Calle Estafeta, and savor some local specialties. In the afternoon, visit the Monument to the Encierro, a powerful sculpture depicting the bull run. Conclude your day with a drink at Bar Windsor, another of Hemingway's haunts, reflecting on the city's enduring allure.

Escape the bustling city center for a morning of tranquility and history. Explore the Ciudadela (Citadel of Pamplona), a star-shaped fortress from the 16th century. Wander through its well-preserved walls, bastions, and green spaces, which now serve as a public park and cultural center. Discover various art exhibitions often held within its premises. Afterwards, take a short walk to Parque de la Taconera, Pamplona's oldest and most beautiful park, often referred to as its 'green lung.' Here, you can admire the elegant French-style gardens, encounter deer and peacocks in the small zoo area, and relax by the fountains. Enjoy a light lunch at a cafe within or near the park. In the late afternoon, consider visiting the nearby Church of San Lorenzo, home to the chapel of San Fermín. For dinner, explore the pinchos scene around Calle San Nicolás.

Immerse yourself in the rich history and art of Navarra today. Begin your morning at the Navarra Museum, housed in a former hospital, where you can explore archaeological finds, Roman mosaics, medieval art, and Renaissance paintings, offering a comprehensive overview of the region's cultural heritage. Afterwards, head to the Mercado de Santo Domingo, a bustling local market located near the Santo Domingo corrals. Here, you can experience the vibrant daily life of Pamplona, browse fresh produce, local cheeses, cured meats, and other regional delicacies. Grab some ingredients for a picnic or enjoy a casual lunch at one of the market stalls. In the afternoon, take a cooking class focusing on Navarran cuisine, learning to prepare dishes like 'Pimientos del Piquillo Rellenos' or 'Bacalao al Ajoarriero.' Conclude your day with a delightful dinner, putting your new culinary skills to the test or enjoying a meal at a restaurant that showcases local flavors, such as Baserriberri.

Experience a small segment of the Camino de Santiago, a pilgrimage route that passes directly through Pamplona. Start your morning by walking the path pilgrims take as they enter the city, crossing the historic Magdalena Bridge (Puente de la Magdalena). This beautiful medieval bridge offers stunning views of the Arga River and the city walls. Continue your walk along the river, enjoying the serene natural surroundings and imagining the journeys of countless pilgrims before you. You can walk a few kilometers of the Camino, perhaps towards the small village of Villava, for a taste of the pilgrimage experience. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the river or stop at a local bar in the Rochapea neighborhood for some traditional fare. In the afternoon, relax by the Arga River, or visit the Church of San Cernin, another significant stop on the Camino. For dinner, explore the diverse culinary scene in the Rochapea area.

Shift your focus to modern Pamplona today. Begin your day exploring the Ensanche, the expansion district built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by wider streets, elegant buildings, and modernist architecture. Here you'll find the Parliament of Navarre and the Palacio de Navarra. Afterwards, head to Yamaguchi Park, a unique Japanese-style garden that symbolizes the sister-city relationship between Pamplona and Yamaguchi, Japan. Stroll through its serene landscapes, admire the waterfalls, bridges, and traditional Japanese flora. It’s a perfect place for quiet contemplation and beautiful photo opportunities. Enjoy lunch at a contemporary restaurant in the Ensanche area, perhaps trying some modern Navarran cuisine. In the afternoon, visit the Planetario de Pamplona, located within Yamaguchi Park, for an engaging astronomical show. Conclude your day with dinner in the Ensanche, enjoying the more modern dining options.

Tonight, you're embarking on a quintessential Pamplona experience: a pinchos crawl! Dedicate your evening to sampling the incredible variety of small, artfully crafted bites that are a hallmark of Navarran cuisine. Start your adventure on Calle Estafeta, renowned for its lively pinchos bars. Hop from one bar to another, trying a different pincho and a small glass of wine (txikito) or beer (caña) at each. Don't miss Bar Gaucho, famous for its creative and delicious pinchos, and La Mandarra de la Ramos for its vibrant atmosphere. Continue your culinary journey to Calle San Nicolás, another hotspot for pinchos, where you'll find places like Bar Otano. This is a fantastic way to experience the local culture, socialize, and enjoy a diverse range of flavors. For a final treat, consider catching a flamenco show or enjoying live music if available in one of the city's cultural venues.

Today, venture outside Pamplona for a captivating day trip to the Royal Palace of Olite, one of the most magnificent medieval castles in Spain, located about 40 minutes south of Pamplona. This fairy-tale castle, once the seat of the Kings of Navarre, boasts towers, courtyards, and gardens that will transport you back in time. Spend your morning exploring its intricate architecture and climbing its towers for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Afterwards, enjoy lunch in the charming town of Olite. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Navarra's renowned wine region with a visit to a local winery. Take a guided tour of a bodega, learn about the winemaking process, and indulge in a tasting of some exquisite Navarran wines, such as those from Bodegas Ochoa or Bodegas Marco Real. Return to Pamplona in the evening, perhaps enjoying a lighter dinner after your culinary explorations.

Spend your penultimate day enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds Pamplona. Take a leisurely morning walk or rent a bike to explore the Parque Fluvial del Arga (Río Arga Park), a green corridor that follows the Arga River, encircling the city. You'll discover different landscapes, from urban parks to more natural riverbanks, and pass by historic bridges and mills. It's a fantastic way to see the city from a different perspective and enjoy some fresh air. Enjoy a casual lunch at a riverside cafe or pack a picnic to savor amidst nature. In the afternoon, you might revisit a favorite spot in the Casco Antiguo for some last-minute souvenir shopping or simply enjoy a final coffee on Plaza del Castillo. For your farewell dinner, choose a special restaurant in the Old Town, such as Restaurante Rodero, a Michelin-starred establishment, to celebrate your incredible journey through Pamplona.

On your final day in Pamplona, enjoy a relaxed morning. Depending on your departure schedule, you might have time for one last stroll through the Casco Antiguo, revisiting a favorite plaza or street. Indulge in a traditional Navarran breakfast, perhaps a freshly baked croissant or a tostada with local olive oil and tomato, accompanied by a strong Spanish coffee. If time allows, pick up any last-minute gifts or local delicacies, such as 'Pacharán' (a sloe-flavored liqueur) or artisanal cheeses, to bring a taste of Navarra home with you. Reflect on the memories made, from walking the Camino path to savoring delicious pinchos. Head to the airport or train station, carrying with you the vibrant spirit and rich history of Pamplona. We hope you've had a truly unforgettable experience in this charming Spanish city.