Café Iruña Pamplona
Iconic 1888 cafe in Pamplona's Plaza del Castillo, famed for its ornate decor and Ernest Hemingway's patronage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Less crowded, relaxed atmosphere
Café Iruña Pamplona
Best Time
Less crowded, relaxed atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 1888 cafe in Pamplona's Plaza del Castillo, famed for its ornate decor and Ernest Hemingway's patronage.
"A stunning original cafe where Hemingway was a patron. The rich interior is enchanting."
📸 Hemingway's Haunt
Visit the 'Rincón de Hemingway' for a glimpse into literary history.
✨ Admire the Decor
The cafe's original, ornate interior is a major draw. Take time to appreciate the details.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Hemingway Room
Side bar area
A special corner dedicated to Ernest Hemingway, who frequented this cafe. A must-see for literary fans.
Ornate Interior
Main dining area
Marvel at the stunning, well-maintained historical decor, mirrored walls, and enchanting atmosphere.
Traditional Pintxos
Bar area
Savor delicious, traditional pintxos (tapas) that are a staple of Navarrese cuisine.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Hemingway's Haunt
Visit the 'Rincón de Hemingway' for a glimpse into literary history. 
✨ Admire the Decor
The cafe's original, ornate interior is a major draw. Take time to appreciate the details.
🍽️ Dinner Reservations
For dinner, it's best to book ahead or arrive early, as locals dine late.
💰 Great Value Set Menu
The €24 set menu offers excellent value with three courses, wine, and water.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Hemingway's Haunt
Visit the 'Rincón de Hemingway' for a glimpse into literary history.
✨ Admire the Decor
The cafe's original, ornate interior is a major draw. Take time to appreciate the details.
🍽️ Dinner Reservations
For dinner, it's best to book ahead or arrive early, as locals dine late.
💰 Great Value Set Menu
The €24 set menu offers excellent value with three courses, wine, and water.
☕ Coffee & Rum
Enjoy a coffee and rum in this historic setting; staff are very nice.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Café Iruña is celebrated for its stunning, historic interior and its connection to Ernest Hemingway, offering an enchanting atmosphere. Visitors praise the delicious pintxos and the excellent value of the set menu, making it a highly recommended stop in Pamplona. Some note that service can be more efficient than personalized for larger groups.
"A stunning original cafe where Hemingway was a patron. The rich interior is enchanting and the mirrored wall reflect the lights and decor of the large space. We were a large group having sangria and pinchos so the service was fast and not individualized but that was ok. The pinchos were delicious."
G Mac
"This was a great experience. Located right at the center of Plaza Castillo in Pamplona, café Iruña will attend to your cravings for traditional hearty food, with a five star service and a dazzling atmosphere. Everything was great, from the entrée to the dessert, passing by the fish, meat and salads. Price is fair, it's not so busy at lunch, but for dinner better make a reservation (or just come early, Spaniards like to have dinner after 9). A must go if you're ever by Navarres capital."
Luis Crespo
"A great experience in this atmospheric restaurant. The set menu at €24 for three courses, bread wine and water is excellent value for money. The food was tasty (especially the delicious “curds” dessert), filling and the local wine very enjoyable. The highlight was saying a quiet hello to Ernest Hemingway in the small bar at the side of the restaurant."
Sarah Fletcher
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Café Iruña is conveniently located in the heart of Pamplona, right on the famous Plaza del Castillo. It's easily accessible by foot if you're exploring the city center. Public transport options are also available, with bus stops nearby.
Yes, its prime location on Plaza del Castillo makes it very easy to find. It's a central landmark in Pamplona.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Café Iruña is a historic cafe and restaurant, not a ticketed attraction. You can walk in and enjoy their offerings.
While specific hours can vary, it's generally open throughout the day and into the evening, serving coffee, drinks, and food. It's advisable to check their current hours before visiting, especially for dinner.
There is no entrance fee to enter Café Iruña. You only pay for what you order.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is enchanting, with a stunning, well-maintained historical interior featuring ornate decor and mirrored walls. It's a step back in time. +1
Yes, there is a special 'Rincón de Hemingway' (Hemingway's Corner) where he was a patron and wrote parts of his novel 'The Sun Also Rises'.
You can order just a coffee, a drink, or pintxos. They offer a range of options from a simple coffee to full meals.
Yes, it can accommodate large groups, though service might be more streamlined rather than individualized. Pintxos are a great option for groups.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Café Iruña serves traditional hearty food, including delicious pintxos (tapas), fish, meat, and salads. They also offer desserts like 'curds'. +1
The pintxos are described as delicious and are a popular choice for visitors.
Prices are considered fair. A coffee with milk or a black coffee is around €2.30. The set menu at €24 offers excellent value.
While specific vegetarian options aren't detailed, they offer salads and a variety of pintxos, some of which may be vegetarian. It's best to inquire directly.
The local wine served with the set menu is described as very enjoyable.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The ornate interior, mirrored walls, and historical ambiance make it a very photogenic spot.
Yes, you are welcome to take photos to capture the beautiful decor and atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 While it's a historic establishment, the atmosphere is generally welcoming. Consider ordering a selection of pintxos, which are often a fun and easy way for kids to try different flavors. 📚 Literary Enthusiasts
+3 Imagine him sitting there, drawing inspiration for The Sun Also Rises. This connection offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the author's world and his experiences in Pamplona. 💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Taste of History: The Ernest Hemingway Connection
+1 The cafe even has a dedicated 'Rincón de Hemingway' (Hemingway's Corner) where patrons can sit and imagine the author at work. This historical connection adds a unique layer to the dining experience, making it a pilgrimage site for literary enthusiasts and a fascinating glimpse into Pamplona's past. +1Visitors often express delight in experiencing a place that played such a significant role in Hemingway's life and work. It's a chance to connect with literary history while enjoying the cafe's offerings.
The cafe itself, established in 1888, predates Hemingway's visits, meaning its rich ambiance was already in place for him to draw inspiration from. +1Beyond the literary ties, the cafe's enduring legacy is a testament to its quality and atmosphere. It has remained a beloved spot for over a century, a true testament to its charm and importance in Pamplona's social fabric.
The Enchanting Ambiance: Decor and Atmosphere
This visual splendor is a significant part of the Café Iruña experience. Many visitors highlight the beauty of the decor as a major reason for their visit and enjoyment.
+1 It's not just a place to eat or drink; it's a destination to appreciate art and history. The cafe's commitment to preserving its original character ensures that every visit feels special and memorable. Whether you're enjoying a coffee, a glass of wine, or a meal, the surroundings add an extra layer of pleasure. The combination of historical architecture and a lively yet comfortable atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed break or a memorable dining experience.
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