Pamplona isn’t just about the famous Running of the Bulls; it’s a city brimming with culinary delights, intriguing legends, and lively festivals. What makes Pamplona stand out for tours is its unique mix of cultural, historical, and gastronomic experiences—all accessible through a variety of guided adventures. We especially enjoy tours that combine local insight with authentic moments, like the Pintxos Tasting Tour with a local guide, which offers a delicious way to explore the city’s vibrant food scene. Whether you’re interested in uncovering stories of the city’s past, catching the excitement of festival mornings, or exploring nearby forests, Pamplona’s tours deliver an experience tailored to various interests.
From intimate food walks to storytelling night tours, our list highlights the best options to help you enjoy Pamplona—regardless of your schedule or budget. Each tour offers a taste of what makes this city memorable, so read on to find the ideal experience for your upcoming adventure.
1. Pamplona: Pintxos Tasting Tour with Local Guide
At number 1, the Pintxos Tasting Tour with a local guide earns its spot for providing an intimate, flavorful dive into Pamplona’s food culture. For $129 per person, this 2.5-hour tour introduces you to the city’s best pintxos—small bites that are as much a part of local life as the festival itself. Your guide, a knowledgeable local, will take you through several top bars in Pamplona’s Old Town, sharing stories behind each dish and pairing them with your choice of wine, beer, vermouth, or soft drinks.
What makes this tour standout is the combination of culinary delights with cultural sightseeing. You’ll visit iconic sites like the Encierro/Entzierroa Monument and the Ayuntamiento de Pamplona, making it a perfect blend of tasting and exploring. The small group (max 10) ensures an intimate experience, and the itinerary includes five pintxos, three drinks, and a dessert with coffee or tea—enough to satisfy your taste buds without feeling rushed. Guests often comment on the friendly guide and the local atmosphere, making it a top choice for food lovers.
Bottom Line: This tour offers excellent value for those wanting authentic food, local insights, and a relaxed pace—ideal for first-timers or anyone eager to taste the real Pamplona.
2. Night-Time Tour Legends and Mysteries of Pamplona
At number 2, the Night-Time Tour Legends and Mysteries of Pamplona immerses you in the city’s secret stories after dark. Lasting around 110 minutes, this walk is perfect for those interested in the spine-tingling side of Pamplona. Led by an expert storyteller, you’ll stroll through alleys and squares, visiting places like the Castle and Old Town, where tales of creatures, adventures, and death abound.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on legends, folktales, and the supernatural, making it an engaging experience for history lovers and story seekers alike. The host’s interactive style and personalized approach make the stories come alive, even for a small group or private outing. The tour is highly rated, with one reviewer noting, “A lot of fun facts and the host made the activity interactive and engaging.” It’s a good choice for those who want a different perspective of Pamplona, especially if you’re traveling in the evening.
Bottom Line: For travelers who enjoy stories and a touch of mystery, this night tour offers a memorable way to uncover the city’s lesser-known tales.
3. Pamplona: Walking Tour and Photo Session with Bulls
Positioned at number 3, the Walking Tour and Photo Session with Bulls combines sightseeing with fun photo opportunities. Over three hours, you’ll explore Pamplona’s highlights—like Plaza del Castillo, the Cathedral of Santa María la Real, and San Fermín streets—while a guide shares insights about the city’s history and traditions.
A highlight is the playful photo session with replica San Fermin bulls in a setting reminiscent of Estafeta Street, giving you a chance to capture lively memories. The guide, Jenny, is praised for her helpful tips and extensive knowledge, making the tour leisurely and informative, with ample time for questions. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed pace, engaging commentary, and a humorous photo souvenir.
Bottom Line: This tour suits those who want to combine sightseeing with a fun photo experience and learn about Pamplona’s main sights at a comfortable pace.
4. Pamplona: Private Guided Walking Tour
Number 4 offers a more personalized experience with the Private Guided Walking Tour. For $153, up to four people can enjoy a tailored two-hour exploration of Pamplona’s Old Quarter, uncovering secrets of the running of the bulls route and marveling at the Cathedral of Santa María la Real.
This tour is ideal for travelers seeking flexibility and depth. The guide, well-versed in local history and culture, will customize the visit based on your interests. You’ll also see iconic spots like Plaza del Castillo and the Chapel of San Fermin, all with a focus on storytelling and uncovering hidden details. Reviewers appreciate the personal attention and the richness of the commentary.
Bottom Line: Best suited for small groups or couples wanting an exclusive, in-depth walk through Pamplona’s history and landmarks.
5. Irati Forest and Ochagavía Excursion
Number 5 takes you outside the city with the Irati Forest and Ochagavía Excursion. This 10-hour adventure explores Europe’s second-largest beech and fir forest, offering a scenic walk through the Pyrenean landscape, along with visits to the charming village of Ochagavía, known for its stunning beauty.
This tour is perfect for nature lovers and those wanting a full day of outdoor activity. The itinerary includes walking tours, regional food tasting, wildlife viewing, and photo stops, all guided by official guides in Spanish (other languages available upon request). Tourists remember the peacefulness of the forest and the picturesque village, making it a great day-trip option.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers eager to combine nature exploration with cultural visits, provided you’re comfortable with guided tours in Spanish.
6. Pamplona: Running of the Bulls Balcony Breakfast Tour
Number 6 offers a unique chance to experience the San Fermin festivities from the best balcony in Pamplona. Over four hours, you’ll enjoy a buffet breakfast while watching the famous race from an exclusive vantage point, soaking in the electrifying atmosphere.
This tour is perfect for those wanting a front-row view of the bull run combined with a relaxed meal. Plus, afterward, you’ll take a walking tour of the city, giving context to the morning’s excitement. It’s highly rated for the combination of spectacular views and culture.
Bottom Line: Suitable for festival enthusiasts who want a comfortable, close-up experience of the San Fermin run without the crowds.
7. San Fermin Tour
Number 7, the San Fermin Tour, provides an authentic glimpse into the festival with an official guide. Running for about 2 hours, this tour emphasizes the traditions, stories, and local perspective, rather than just the spectacle.
This is perfect if you want to understand the cultural significance of the festivities, beyond just the party atmosphere. The guides—locals who love their city—share insights into San Fermin’s history and customs, making it informative and heartfelt. It’s especially recommended for travelers who want to experience San Fermin in a respectful, culturally-rich way.
Bottom Line: Best for festival-goers who want to see the event through the eyes of a local and learn its deeper meaning.
8. The Pamplona Foodie’s Tour of the Best Pintxos!
At number 8, this foodie tour is perfect for tasting the city’s culinary staples. In three hours, you’ll visit several bars, sampling three pintxos paired with three drinks (wines or soft drinks). The guide will introduce you to top pintxo bars and explain their history and specialties.
Guests rave about the variety and quality of pintxos, as well as the local recommendations for other places to eat. The tour also offers cultural insights into pintxos as an integral part of Pamplona’s social life. It’s a great pick for food lovers eager to explore local flavors in a lively setting.
Bottom Line: Excellent value for those wanting a hands-on taste of Pamplona’s best pintxos, plus tips on where to continue your culinary adventure.
9. Pamplona: Walking Tour with Churros Tasting and Coffee Break
Finally, at number 9, the Walking Tour with Churros Tasting combines sightseeing with a sweet treat. Over approximately 135 minutes, you’ll stroll along Pamplona’s main sights, hear fun facts about the city, and learn about the Camino, Bull Run, and Hemingway.
The highlight is tasting traditional Spanish churros with coffee or tea, a delicious way to experience local customs. The tour includes multiple sightseeing stops and offers practical tips on where to visit next, making it a good choice for those who want a relaxed introduction to Pamplona’s cultural and culinary scene.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers with limited time who want a relaxed walk, tasty churros, and interesting stories about Pamplona’s traditions.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Pamplona
When selecting a tour, consider what interests you most. If you’re a foodie, the Pintxos Tasting or Foodie Pintxos Tour are excellent options. For festival enthusiasts, the Balcony Breakfast Tour or San Fermin Tour provide immersive experiences.
If you want a more mysterious or historical perspective, the Legends and Mysteries Night Tour or Private Guided Walk offer personalized stories and deeper insights. Outdoor lovers might prefer the Irati Forest excursion, which combines nature with local culture.
Booking early is advisable, especially during festival season, to secure your spot. Think about your interests, available time, and whether you prefer group or private tours to find your ideal Pamplona experience.
As you can see, Pamplona offers a wide range of tours tailored to different tastes and schedules. Whether you’re savoring pintxos, exploring legends, or catching the bulls from a balcony, each experience promises a memorable slice of this lively city. Choose wisely, book ahead, and get ready for a trip full of stories, flavors, and unforgettable moments.