Navarre, Spain Travel Guide

Discover Navarre, Spain's hidden gem, where lush forests, historic towns, and unique landscapes create an unforgettable travel experience.

Navarre, located in the north of Spain, is a region rich in natural beauty, history, and culture. This autonomous community offers a diverse landscape that ranges from the lush green Pyrenees Mountains to the rugged Bardenas Reales Desert. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or a culinary enthusiast, Navarre has something special for everyone. The capital city, Pamplona, is famous worldwide for the Running of the Bulls during the San Fermín festival. Beyond the excitement of this event, Pamplona boasts charming medieval streets, beautiful parks, and historical landmarks like the impressive Pamplona Cathedral. As you stroll through the city, you'll find plenty of tapas bars and restaurants serving traditional Navarrese cuisine, featuring dishes made from local produce and wines. For those seeking outdoor adventures, Navarre is a paradise. The Irati Forest is one of the largest and best-preserved beech and fir forests in Europe, perfect for hiking and wildlife watching. The Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route also runs through Navarre, offering pilgrims and hikers scenic trails and a sense of history. Additionally, the Bardenas Reales, a unique semi-desert landscape, provides an otherworldly experience for visitors who enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations. Navarre's cultural heritage is equally impressive. The region is dotted with charming villages, Romanesque churches, and medieval castles. Olite Castle, for example, is a stunning Gothic fortress that transports visitors back in time. The village of Roncesvalles is another must-visit, known for its historic significance on the Camino de Santiago and its beautiful collegiate church. Moreover, Navarre hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from local traditions to modern music and arts.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Navarre.

Visit Navarre in July to experience the San Fermín festival in Pamplona, but book your accommodation well in advance.
Pack comfortable hiking shoes if you plan to explore the Irati Forest or walk parts of the Camino de Santiago.
Try the local wines and pintxos (tapas) in Pamplona's old town for an authentic taste of Navarrese cuisine.
Rent a car to easily explore the diverse landscapes and remote villages of Navarre.
Consider visiting the Bardenas Reales early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the midday heat.

Top City Travel Guides in Navarre

The cities of Navarre, and the easiest places to base yourself.

San Sebastián

Pamplona

Explore Navarre: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Navarre

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Royal Palace of Olite

Explore the Royal Palace of Olite, a stunning medieval castle in Navarre, Spain, rich in history and architectural beauty.

4.6

Ciudadela de Pamplona

Discover the historical allure and natural beauty of Ciudadela de Pamplona, a remarkable fortress and park in the heart of Navarra.

4.6

Rocher de la Vierge

Experience the stunning Rocher de la Vierge in Biarritz, a breathtaking coastal landmark with panoramic views and rich cultural history.

4.6

Biarritz Aquarium

Explore the wonders of the ocean at Biarritz Aquarium, a premier tourist attraction showcasing the beauty and diversity of marine life.

4.3

Best landmarks in Navarre

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Royal Palace of Olite

Explore the Royal Palace of Olite, a stunning medieval castle in Navarre, rich in history and architectural beauty, perfect for every tourist's itinerary.

4.6

Castillo de Javier

Discover the enchanting Castillo de Javier in Navarre, Spain - a stunning blend of history, architecture, and breathtaking views.

4.5

Encierro/Entzierroa Monument

Explore the Encierro Monument in Pamplona, a vibrant tribute to the thrilling Running of the Bulls tradition that captivates visitors from around the world.

4.5

Foz de Lumbier - Ilunberriko Arroila

Explore the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of Foz de Lumbier, a must-visit nature preserve in Navarre, Spain.

4.6

Best restaurants in Navarre

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Iruñazarra

Discover the authentic taste of Navarra at Iruñazarra - where traditional flavors meet modern dining in Pamplona.

4.4

Restaurant Baserriberri

Discover the essence of Spanish cuisine at Restaurant Baserriberri in Pamplona - where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

4.4

El Mercao

Discover El Mercao in Pamplona - where Mediterranean flair meets Spanish tradition in every delicious dish.

4.3

Venta de Ulzama/Ultzamako Benta

Discover Venta de Ulzama: A perfect blend of Basque hospitality and exquisite dining amidst Navarre's breathtaking landscapes.

4.3

Best bars in Navarre

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Bar Gaucho

Experience the authentic flavors of Spain at Bar Gaucho in Pamplona, where every dish tells a story of culinary tradition and local culture.

4.6

Iruñazarra

Discover Iruñazarra in Pamplona, a lively bar and restaurant offering exquisite tapas and grilled dishes that celebrate local Navarra flavors.

4.4

Txirrintxa

Discover the authentic taste of Navarre at Txirrintxa, the premier grill restaurant in Pamplona, offering delightful dishes and vibrant atmosphere.

4.1

Mesón de La NABARRERIA

Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Pamplona at Mesón de La NABARRERIA, the perfect blend of coffee, tapas, and live music.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Navarre

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Discoteca Ozone

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Pamplona at Discoteca Ozone, where dancing, music, and fun create unforgettable memories.

3.4

Canalla

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Canalla, a premier disco club in Pamplona, perfect for dancing and live music enthusiasts.

3.2

Kabiya

Experience vibrant nightlife at Kabiya, Pamplona's premier cocktail bar and night club, where unforgettable moments await you.

3.8

Discoteca Caney

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Discoteca Caney in Pamplona, where music, dance, and unforgettable experiences await every night.

3.6

Best shops in Navarre

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La Morea Shopping Center

Explore La Morea Shopping Center in Navarra for a diverse shopping experience, delightful dining options, and entertainment for the whole family.

4.2

Halles de Biarritz

Experience the essence of Basque culture at Halles de Biarritz, a lively fresh food market filled with local flavors and vibrant stalls.

4.5

Carreau des Halles

Discover the flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Bayonne at the famous Carreau des Halles Market, a must-visit for every food lover.

4.4

Maisons du Monde

Discover stylish home furnishings and unique gifts at Maisons du Monde in Cordovilla, Navarra - a must-visit for decor enthusiasts.

4.1

Explore Navarre on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Navarre, mapped for you.

Navarre Essentials

Navarre can be reached by several modes of transportation. The nearest international airport is Pamplona Airport (PNA), located just 6 kilometers from the city center of Pamplona. Alternatively, you can fly into Bilbao Airport (BIO) or Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) and then take a bus or train to Navarre. From Madrid and Barcelona, direct train services operated by Renfe are available, connecting to Pamplona and other major cities in Navarre. Additionally, buses operated by ALSA and other companies provide extensive coverage to and from Navarre.
Navarre has a well-developed transportation network. In cities like Pamplona, public buses are a convenient way to get around. Taxis are also readily available. For regional travel, trains and buses connect various towns and villages. Renting a car can offer more flexibility, especially if you plan to explore rural areas and the scenic Pyrenees. Biking is another popular option, particularly on the Camino de Santiago routes.
The official currency in Navarre, as in the rest of Spain, is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, particularly when visiting smaller towns and rural areas. ATMs are plentiful in cities and larger towns. Ensure your card is enabled for international transactions to avoid any issues.
Navarre is generally a safe region for tourists. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas, so it's important to stay vigilant and keep your belongings secure. Pamplona is especially busy during the San Fermín festival, so extra caution is recommended. Avoid poorly lit or deserted areas at night. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but standard precautions should always be taken.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. Major cities like Pamplona have hospitals and medical facilities equipped to handle emergencies. Pharmacies are available in most towns for minor health concerns. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and to carry a copy of your insurance details.
Fashion: Do dress smartly, especially in city areas and when dining out. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing in religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches or monasteries, dress modestly and keep noise to a minimum. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hola' or 'Buenos días.' A handshake is common in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and wines. Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up the bill is often sufficient.
To experience Navarre like a local, visit traditional markets such as the Mercado de Santo Domingo in Pamplona for fresh produce and local delicacies. Participate in local festivals like the San Fermín in Pamplona, but plan ahead as accommodations are in high demand during this period. Explore lesser-known villages like Olite and its impressive castle. Hiking in the Pyrenees offers breathtaking landscapes and a chance to see traditional Basque villages. Engaging with locals, who are often friendly and proud of their heritage, can enrich your experience.

When is the best time to visit Navarre?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Navarre

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Navarre. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloKaixo
  [kai-so]
- GoodbyeAgur
  [ah-goor]
- YesBai
  [bye]
- NoEz
  [ez]
- Please/You're welcomeMesedez
  [meh-seh-dez]
- Thank youEskerrik asko
  [es-keh-rik as-ko]
- Excuse me/SorryBarkatu
  [bar-kah-too]
- How are you?Zer moduz?
  [zer moh-dooz]
- Fine. And you?Ondo. Eta zu?
  [on-do. eh-tah zoo]
- Do you speak English?Ingelesez hitz egiten duzu?
  [in-gel-e-sez heet-s eh-gi-ten doo-zoo]
- I don't understandEz dut ulertzen
  [ez doot oo-lehr-tsen]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenua ikusi nahi nuke, mesedez
  [meh-nu-ah ee-khoo-see nah-ee noo-keh, meh-seh-dez]
- I don't eat meatHaragia jan nahi ez
  [hah-rah-gee-ah hahn nah-ee ez]
- Cheers!Osasuna!
  [oh-sah-soo-nah]
- I would like to pay, pleaseOrdaindu nahi nuke, mesedez
  [or-dain-doo nah-ee noo-keh, meh-seh-dez]
- Help!Laguntza!
  [lah-goon-tzah]
- Go away!Joan zaitez!
  [ho-an sigh-tez]
- Call the Police!Polizia deitu!
  [poh-lee-zee-ah day-too]
- Call a doctor!Sendagile deitu!
  [sen-dah-gee-leh day-too]
- I'm lostGaldu naiz
  [gal-doo nah-ez]
- I'm illGaixorik nago
  [guy-xo-reek nah-go]
- I'd like to buy...Erosi nahi nuke...
  [eh-roh-see nah-ee noo-keh]
- I'm just lookingBatez ere, begiratzen ari naiz
  [bah-tez eh-reh, beh-gee-raht-sen ah-ree nah-ez]
- How much is it?Zenbat balio du?
  [zen-baht bah-lee-oh doo]
- That's too expensiveHori gehiegi da
  [ho-ree geh-hee-eh-gee dah]
- Can you lower the price?Prezioa jaitsi dezakezu?
  [preh-zee-oh-ah hi-tsee deh-zah-keh-zoo]
- What time is it?Zenbat ordu dira?
  [zen-baht or-doo dee-rah]
- It's one o'clockOrdu bat da
  [or-doo baht dah]
- Half past (10)Hamabostak (10)
  [hah-mah-boh-stahk (10)]
- MorningGoizean
  [goh-ee-zeh-an]
- AfternoonArratsaldean
  [ah-raht-sahl-deh-an]
- EveningIluntzean
  [ee-loon-tzeh-an]
- YesterdayAtzo
  [at-so]
- TodayGaur
  [gour]
- TomorrowBihar
  [bee-har]
- 1Bat
  [baht]
- 2Bi
  [bee]
- 3Hiru
  [hee-roo]
- 4Lau
  [lah-oo]
- 5Bost
  [bohst]
- 6Sei
  [say]
- 7Zazpi
  [zahz-pee]
- 8Zortzi
  [zort-see]
- 9Bederatzi
  [beh-deh-raht-see]
- 10Hamar
  [hah-mar]
- Where's a/the...?Non dago...?
  [nohn dah-go]
- What's the address?Zer da helbidea?
  [zer dah hel-bee-deh-ah]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Mapa batean erakutsi iezadakezu?
  [mah-pah bah-teh-an eh-rah-koot-see yah-sah-dah-keh-zoo]
- When's the next (bus)?Noiz iritsiko da hurrengoa (autobusa)?
  [noyz ee-reet-see-koh dah oo-ren-go-ah (ow-toh-boo-sah)]
- A ticket (to ....)Txartela (....)rako
  [char-teh-lah (....)rah-koh]

History of Navarre

The Kingdom of Navarre emerged in the early Middle Ages, with its origins tracing back to the 9th century. It was initially a small, mountainous region that expanded its influence under the reign of Sancho III, also known as Sancho the Great. By the 11th century, Navarre had become one of the most powerful Christian kingdoms in the Iberian Peninsula.
Sancho III, who ruled from 1004 to 1035, played a crucial role in the expansion and consolidation of the Kingdom of Navarre. He managed to extend his influence over other Christian kingdoms in Spain, including León and Castile, by strategic marriages and alliances. His reign marked the peak of Navarre's territorial expansion and political power.
During the Reconquista, the period in which Christian kingdoms aimed to reclaim territories from Muslim rule, Navarre played a significant role. The kingdom participated in key battles and formed alliances with other Christian states to push back the Moors. This era significantly shaped the cultural and religious landscape of Navarre.
In the 16th century, Navarre faced political turmoil and conflict with neighboring kingdoms. Ferdinand II of Aragon conquered the southern part of Navarre in 1512, leading to its eventual incorporation into the Kingdom of Castile. This event marked the end of Navarre's status as an independent kingdom and began a new chapter under Spanish rule.
Navarre is one of the regions where the Basque language, Euskara, is spoken. The Basque culture, with its unique customs, traditions, and folklore, significantly influences Navarre's identity. Festivals like the San Fermín in Pamplona highlight the region's vibrant cultural heritage, attracting visitors from around the world.
Pamplona, the capital of Navarre, is internationally renowned for the Running of the Bulls, held during the San Fermín festival in July. This event, which dates back to the 14th century, involves participants running in front of a group of bulls that are let loose through the city's streets. It is a key cultural event that epitomizes the region's traditions and attracts thousands of tourists every year.
Navarre boasts a rich culinary heritage, characterized by its use of local produce and traditional recipes. The region is famous for its vegetables, particularly the Piquillo peppers and white asparagus. Dishes like 'pochas' (a type of bean stew) and 'cogollos de Tudela' (a lettuce variety) are staples of Navarrese cuisine, reflecting the region's agricultural abundance.
Navarre is dotted with historical monasteries and castles, remnants of its medieval past. Landmarks such as the Monastery of Leyre, a significant religious site dating back to the 9th century, and the Castle of Olite, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, offer a glimpse into the region's storied history and architectural heritage.
Navarre is traversed by one of the major routes of the Camino de Santiago, the French Way, which pilgrims have walked for centuries. Towns like Roncesvalles serve as key starting points or rest stops for pilgrims. This historical pilgrimage route contributes to Navarre's cultural and spiritual significance, drawing thousands of pilgrims annually.
In the contemporary era, Navarre enjoys a high degree of autonomy within Spain, with its own parliament and government. The region maintains a strong sense of identity, balancing its historical heritage with modern development. Navarre's unique blend of history, culture, and autonomy continues to shape its role in modern Spain.