Pamplona City Walls - Lutsk Castle also locally known as Lubart`s Castle or Upper Castle began its life in the mid-14th century as the fortified seat of Gediminas` son Liubartas Lubart, the last ruler of united Galicia-Volhynia.
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Pamplona City Walls

4.7
·260 reviews·Pamplona, Spain

Explore Pamplona's historic City Walls, a 5km circuit of Roman and medieval fortifications offering stunning river views and a glimpse into the past.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall Mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Pamplona City Walls - Lutsk Castle also locally known as Lubart`s Castle or Upper Castle began its life in the mid-14th century as the fortified seat of Gediminas` son Liubartas Lubart, the last ruler of united Galicia-Volhynia.

Pamplona City Walls

Best Time

Spring & Fall Mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Pamplona's historic City Walls, a 5km circuit of Roman and medieval fortifications offering stunning river views and a glimpse into the past.

4.7
(260 reviews)

"Enjoyed the walks around here, it's a good use of the land and site. Beautiful."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking! Wear comfy shoes to explore the extensive walls and enjoy the views.

📅 Book Accommodation Early

For San Fermín, book lodging months ahead or risk sleeping in the park!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Portal de Francia

Portal de Francia

Main Gate

Marvel at this historic gate, still operational with its original pulley system, a testament to medieval engineering.

Panoramic River Views

Panoramic River Views

Along the Walls

Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Río Arga and the charming city of Pamplona as you stroll along the ramparts.

Bastions and Moats

Bastions and Moats

Throughout the Walls

Explore the impressive bastions and moats that once defended this strategic fortress, showcasing its military history.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

While the Pamplona City Walls are accessible year-round, visiting during the San Fermín festival (July 6-14) offers a unique, albeit crowded, experience. For a more relaxed visit, consider the shoulder seasons of spring or fall to enjoy the walls and city without the intense crowds.

Book Ahead for San Fermín

If you plan to visit during the San Fermín festival, accommodation books up months in advance. Reddit users strongly advise booking lodging immediately if you intend to visit during this time, as options become scarce and expensive quickly. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall Mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
July 6-14 (San Fermín)
Why
Vibrant festival atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

JMQKAKAJAKA amo esos lives @Pamplona #fyp #livesdepamplona #vira
@pamplomigajero
380.2K likes • 2.3M views

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking! Wear comfy shoes to explore the extensive walls and enjoy the views. Instagram

📅 Book Accommodation Early

For San Fermín, book lodging months ahead or risk sleeping in the park! Reddit

#runningofthebulls #pamplona #spain #bullrun #fyp #
@zacchizz
313.9K likes • 4.2M views
Walked around exploring Pamplona today. The San Fermin Festival (The Running of the Bulls) was last week, but it is still well represented all over the town. We also walked along the old walls that stood to protect to town so many years ago. Pamplona is an amazing city! #pamplona #pamplonairuña #pamplonaspain #expat #expatfamily #americanfamilymovingtospain #americanslivingabroad #americansmovin...
our_ever_after
0 likes • 381 views

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera or phone to snap stunning panoramic shots of the river and city. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Entire Circuit

The walls stretch about 5km, so allow ample time to walk their full length and appreciate the scale. Instagram

Wanna see the bulls who will run in town? Where do we keep them? Just go the very beginning of the run, in Santo Domingo street, and follow the street down by the old walls of the city. You will cross our river (called Arga) and on your left you will find CORRALES DEL GAS. It is 5 minutes away from city center. 3.5€ paid cash or card #Pamplona #sanfermin #pamplonada #yfm #runningofthebulls #spai...
pamplona_fiesta
348 likes • 28.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking! Wear comfy shoes to explore the extensive walls and enjoy the views. Instagram

📅 Book Accommodation Early

For San Fermín, book lodging months ahead or risk sleeping in the park! Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera or phone to snap stunning panoramic shots of the river and city. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Entire Circuit

The walls stretch about 5km, so allow ample time to walk their full length and appreciate the scale. Instagram

🚫 No Valuables During Festival

During San Fermín, be extra cautious with your belongings; pickpocketing can be an issue. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(260 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Pamplona City Walls for their historical significance, impressive preservation, and beautiful panoramic views of the Río Arga and the city. Many enjoy leisurely walks along the ramparts, finding them a well-maintained and scenic part of Pamplona. However, some note that signage can be minimal, and during peak festival times, crowds can detract from the experience.

"The walls, stretching approximately 5 kilometers, were built to defend Pamplona, a strategic fortress located between the Spanish and French border. Notable features include bastions, moats, and gates, with the Portal de Francia, which operates with a pulley system, still in use today. Walking along the walls offers panoramic views of the Río Arga and the city of Pamplona."

Seokjin Ham

"Not much to see here.

Pamplona, originally called Pompaelo, was founded by the Roman general Pompey in 75 BCE.

The Walls of Pamplona date back to the Roman period but were significantly expanded and fortified during the medieval era and the Renaissance. The walls that exist today are from the 16th to 18th centuries."

Kent Wang

"Nice external old walls and dors"

David Gurevitz

What People Like

Historic fortifications
Scenic river views
Well-preserved walls

What People Dislike

Minimal signage
Crowded during festivals

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Pamplona City Walls are easily accessible from the city center. You can walk to most sections from the main plazas. Public transport options are also available within Pamplona, with buses stopping near the wall entrances. TikTok

Parking can be challenging, especially during peak season or festivals. Several public parking garages are available in the city center, a short walk from the walls. Consider using public transport or walking if possible. TikTok

Yes, the Pamplona City Walls have multiple access points, allowing you to start your exploration from various locations around the city. The Portal de Francia is a notable entry point. Instagram

Parts of the city walls run parallel to sections of the Running of the Bulls route, particularly in areas like Santo Domingo street. You can often see the bulls being kept near the start of the run along the walls. Instagram

If you're in the city center, walking is the most convenient way to reach the Pamplona City Walls. Many sections are just a few minutes away on foot. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, walking along the main sections of the Pamplona City Walls is generally free and open to the public. Access to specific historical buildings or museums within the walls might require a ticket. Instagram

The outdoor sections of the Pamplona City Walls are typically accessible at all times. However, any associated visitor centers or specific gates might have limited hours, especially during holidays. TikTok

The primary experience of walking along the Pamplona City Walls is free. Some specific attractions or guided tours related to the walls may have a fee. Instagram

Yes, you can visit the Pamplona City Walls during the San Fermín festival, but expect large crowds. Some areas might be temporarily affected by festival activities. TikTok+1

Guided tours are often available and can provide deeper historical context. Check with the local tourist information office for schedules and booking information. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can walk along the ramparts, enjoy panoramic views of the Río Arga and the city, explore historic bastions and moats, and see the Portal de Francia gate. InstagramReddit

The walls stretch approximately 5 kilometers. Walking the entire circuit can take 1-2 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the views. Instagram

Yes, the walls are generally safe for children, but supervision is recommended, especially near the edges. It's a great way for kids to learn about history and enjoy outdoor activity. Instagram

Look for spots offering clear views of the Río Arga, the city skyline, and the architectural details of the fortifications. The Portal de Francia is also a photogenic spot. Instagram

While signage might be minimal, guided tours offer detailed historical context. You can also research Pamplona's Roman and medieval history beforehand to enhance your visit. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the city center of Pamplona is adjacent to the walls and offers numerous restaurants, cafes, and tapas bars. You'll find a wide variety of culinary options. TikTok

While there aren't designated picnic areas on the walls themselves, you can find pleasant spots in nearby parks or along the riverbanks for a picnic before or after your walk. Instagram

Pamplona is known for its Navarrese cuisine, featuring local produce, lamb, and excellent pintxos (Basque-style tapas). Don't miss trying local specialties. TikTok

Some restaurants and cafes in the city center may offer views towards the walls or the surrounding landscape. It's worth exploring options with outdoor seating. Instagram

During San Fermín, many bars and food stalls are open. While it's festive, be mindful of your surroundings and belongings, especially in crowded areas. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but still offers good opportunities for architectural shots. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and fortifications. A standard zoom lens is versatile for general shots. A smartphone with a good camera is also sufficient. Instagram

Generally, there are no restrictions on photography for personal use. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. TikTok

The Portal de Francia, the bastions, the views of the Río Arga, and the city skyline are all excellent subjects. Look for interesting textures and historical details. Instagram

Drone usage is typically regulated in urban areas. It's advisable to check local regulations with the Pamplona tourism office before flying a drone over the city walls. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Pamplona City Walls are a fantastic destination for families. The expansive, open spaces are perfect for children to explore and burn off energy, while the historical aspect offers an educational element. Walking along the walls provides stunning views that can captivate young imaginations. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone, as there's a lot of ground to cover. Instagram

Consider focusing on sections with fewer steep inclines and ensuring constant supervision, especially near the edges. The Portal de Francia with its pulley system can be a particular point of interest for kids. Pack snacks and water, as amenities directly on the walls are limited, though the city center is always nearby with plenty of options. TikTok

🚶 Budget Travelers

The Pamplona City Walls are an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers as access is largely free. You can spend hours exploring the fortifications and enjoying the views without spending a dime on admission. Instagram This makes it a perfect activity to fill your day without impacting your wallet. Reddit

To save further, consider packing your own picnic lunch to enjoy in a nearby park or along the Río Arga, rather than dining at restaurants. Utilize public transport or walk to reach the walls from your accommodation, avoiding taxi fares. If visiting during San Fermín, booking hostel accommodation well in advance is key to keeping costs down. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Pamplona City Walls offer a wealth of photographic opportunities, from grand panoramic vistas to intricate historical details. The Río Arga and the city skyline provide stunning backdrops, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Instagram Don't miss capturing the unique Portal de Francia and the imposing bastions and moats that speak to the city's defensive past. Reddit

Bring a wide-angle lens to encompass the expansive views and a standard zoom for more detailed shots. Be mindful of the lighting conditions; midday sun can be harsh, but it's excellent for highlighting the textures of the stone. During San Fermín, the vibrant atmosphere adds another layer to photography, though crowds can be a challenge. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Walk Through History: The Pamplona City Walls

The Pamplona City Walls are a remarkable testament to the city's strategic importance throughout history. Originally founded by the Roman general Pompey in 75 BCE as Pompaelo, Pamplona's defenses evolved significantly over centuries. The walls you see today are largely from the 16th to 18th centuries, representing a sophisticated system of fortifications designed to protect against invaders. These impressive structures include bastions, moats, and gates, showcasing military architecture from different eras. Reddit

One of the most striking features is the Portal de Francia, a historic gate that still operates with a functional pulley system, a rare surviving example of its kind. Walking along the approximately 5-kilometer circuit of the walls offers not only a journey through military history but also provides panoramic views of the Río Arga and the picturesque cityscape of Pamplona. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a leisurely stroll and appreciate the blend of history and natural beauty. Instagram

While the walls themselves are a significant historical monument, their integration into the modern city is also noteworthy. They are well-maintained and offer a green, accessible space for recreation. The restored city walls are a point of pride for Pamplona, serving as a constant reminder of its rich past while offering a pleasant environment for daily life. Reddit

Experiencing San Fermín from the Walls

Visiting the Pamplona City Walls during the San Fermín festival (July 6-14) offers a unique perspective on this world-famous event. While the main action of the Running of the Bulls takes place on the streets below, the elevated position of the walls provides a vantage point to observe the city's vibrant atmosphere. You can witness the immense crowds, the festive decorations, and the general excitement that permeates Pamplona during this time. TikTok+1

Some sections of the walls run parallel to parts of the bull run route, such as Santo Domingo street. This proximity allows visitors to get a sense of the scale and energy of the event, even if they are not directly on the running path. The Corrales del Gas, where the bulls are kept before the run, is located near the walls, offering a glimpse into the preparations. Instagram

It's important to note that visiting the walls during San Fermín means contending with significant crowds. While the experience is exhilarating, Reddit users advise extreme caution with valuables due to increased pickpocketing risks. Reddit For those seeking a less intense but still atmospheric experience, visiting the walls on days adjacent to the main bull runs, or during the opening 'Chupinazo' ceremony, can be a good compromise. TikTok+1

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