Pamplona’s best visiting window depends on what you’re after. The city offers dramatically different experiences across the year: the world-famous chaos of San Fermin in July, warm and uncrowded early autumn days, bargain prices in the quiet winter months, and lush green spring landscapes.. For more, see our pamplona. Here’s the breakdown by priority.
Best Time to Visit Pamplona: Best Weather
The best weather in Pamplona runs from late May through early October. June (25°C/77°F, 48mm rain, 9 sun hours) and September (24°C/75°F, 45mm rain, 7 sun hours) are the standouts , warm, mostly dry, and comfortable for walking the city walls and exploring the Old Town. July and August are hotter at 28°C (82°F) but stay dry with only 30-35mm of rain and up to 10 hours of daily sunshine.. For more, see our Pamplona weather by month. Avoid November through February if you want reliable outdoor weather , these months average only 3 hours of sun and 50-85mm of monthly rain.
Best Time to Visit Pamplona: San Fermin and Festivals
If you’re coming for the Running of the Bulls, the San Fermin festival runs annually from July 6 at noon through midnight on July 14. The bull runs themselves happen each morning at 8:00 AM from July 7 to 14. This is the city’s peak tourist period , hotel prices triple or quadruple, and rooms sell out months in advance. Book accommodation by January or February for July dates. The festival transforms Pamplona into a 24-hour street party with parades, concerts, fireworks, and traditional events.. For more, see our things to do in Pamplona. Expect 1 million-plus visitors during the 9-day event.
Best Time to Visit Pamplona: Lowest Prices and Fewest Crowds
For budget-conscious travellers, visit in November, January, or February. Hotel rates drop 40-60% compared to July, and you’ll have the Old Town nearly to yourself. The downside is weather , expect overcast skies, temperatures of 9-12°C (48-54°F), and rain on roughly 12 days per month.. For more, see our Pamplona events and festivals. March and early April offer a middle ground: improving weather (highs reaching 14-16°C), moderate prices, and thinner crowds before Easter week (Semana Santa) brings a spike in domestic tourism.
Best Time to Visit Pamplona: Months to Avoid
Avoid the first two weeks of July if you don’t like crowds or inflated prices , San Fermin makes the city centre nearly impassable and accommodation costs jump 300-400%. November is the rainiest month (85mm) and also the least attractive for sightseeing. August can feel quiet in a different way , many locals leave on holiday and some smaller restaurants and shops close for 2-3 weeks.. For more, see our best neighborhoods in Pamplona. If you want Pamplona at its most authentic and comfortable, target June, September, or early October. See our where to stay in Pamplona for more information. See our Pamplona travel tips for more information.
