1. Bardenas Reales

The Bardenas Reales is a semi-desert in the southeast of Navarre, known for its unique, almost moon-like landscape. This biosphere reserve covers approximately 42,500 hectares and is characterized by sandy plains, steep ravines, and remarkable rock formations shaped by erosion. One of the most striking rock formations is Castildetierra, a towering clay formation resembling a castle.

Hiking trails range from short paths that visit the main geological features to longer hikes that take you deeper into the area. The Bardenas Reales can also be visited by car or bike. For more information on the routes, click here.

2. Urbasa-Andía Natural Park

The Urbasa-Andía Nature Park is an extensive mountain plateau known for its green high plains, dense forests, and limestone cliffs. One of the highlights of this park is the Source of Urederra (Nacedero del Urederra), where the water forms a spectacular path of turquoise waterfalls and calm pools. A marked hiking trail of about 5.3 kilometers follows the Urederra River and offers numerous opportunities for photos of the turquoise water, waterfalls, and surrounding nature. This hike is ideal for nature lovers who want to enjoy the serene beauty of the area.

In addition, the Urbasa-Andía Nature Park has numerous other hiking trails where you can admire the beautiful surroundings.

3. Irati Forest

The Irati Forest (Selva de Irati) is one of the largest and best-preserved beech and conifer forests in Europe, after the Black Forest in Germany. This vast forest offers a network of trails ranging from easy routes to more challenging hikes. Walking through this forest is a wonderful experience, especially in autumn when the leaves turn reddish and yellowish colors.

You will also find old shepherd huts and traditional barns, which give the area a special touch. For detailed route information, click here. Additionally, there is a useful app available (Android/iOS) that provides all the necessary information to explore this forest.

4. Way of St James

The Way of St. James (Camino de Santiago) is a historic pilgrimage route that ends in the city of Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain. The Camino Francés, the most popular route to Santiago de Compostela, crosses Navarre. This route offers a unique opportunity to experience both the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region. Along the way, you will pass through medieval towns like Estella and Puente la Reina, where you can enjoy historical architecture and local gastronomy.

The route is well-marked and offers both challenging paths and peaceful countryside roads. Walking along the Way of St. James is not only a physical challenge but also a spiritual and cultural journey through the heart of Navarre.

5. Foz de Lumbier

The Foz de Lumbier is a spectacular gorge carved by the Irati River. A trail follows the river through the gorge and offers views of the steep rock walls and crystal-clear water. Along the way, you can spot various bird species, including the griffon vulture that often circles above the gorge. The route is suitable for all levels and offers a relaxing walk in a beautiful natural setting.

The gorge also houses a tunnel that was once used by trains, adding an interesting historical element to the walk. Also recommended near the Foz de Lumbier is the Foz de Arbayún, which is best admired from the Iso viewpoint.

These 5 most beautiful hiking trails offer a great variety of landscapes. The diversity of nature is therefore one of the characteristics of this beautiful province in northern Spain. Each route offers a unique way to discover and appreciate the region.

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The Embalse de Alloz is located at a short distance from towns such as Pamplona (about 40 km) and Estella (about 15 km). It is easily accessible by car, and there are two parking lots around the lake. These parking lots are next to the two zones where swimming is allowed: the Lerate zone and the Ugar zone.

• Lerate: this area is located between the towns of Lácar and Arizala and can be reached via the NA-7320 road.
• Ugar: this zone is located next to the village of Arizala.

To visit these areas, it is mandatory to reserve a parking space in advance (paid parking). To reserve, click here.

What to do in the Embalse de Alloz

The Embalse de Alloz is a popular destination for visitors from all over Navarra who want to enjoy a summer day. The reservoir is accessible from the end of May to the beginning of September and offers a wide range of recreational activities.

The lake is a hotspot for water sports activities such as sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. Thanks to its calm waters, it is an ideal place for beginners and families. The swimming segment of the Half Triathlon Pamplona-Iruña is also held at the Alloz Reservoir.

In addition, the area is close to one of the routes of the famous Way of St James, which also makes it an attractive location for pilgrims. It is also close to the Source of the Urederra river, with beautiful turquoise waterfalls and pools, and the Urbasa-Andía Natural Park.

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Crossing the Pyrenees and Roncesvalles

The Camino in Navarre begins with the crossing of the Pyrenees from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Roncesvalles. This crossing is difficult, with steep paths and a lot of elevation gain. However, the views are worth it. There are two paths from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Roncesvalles: the Ruta de Valcarlos (23.5 km) and the Ruta de Napoleón (24.3 km). In winter and in bad weather, it is forbidden to walk the Ruta de Napoleón. The Ruta de Valcarlos is safer and more accessible.

Roncesvalles is one of the most symbolic places of the Camino. The small village has an impressive Gothic church, the Colegiata of Roncesvalles, with the famous statue of the Virgin Mary made of wood and silver. A daily pilgrim mass is also held here, which provides a deeply spiritual moment before continuing the journey. A historical fact about Roncesvalles is that Charlemagne's army suffered a heavy defeat here in 778.

Roncesvalles also offers one of the iconic overnight accommodation options along the route: the inn of the Colegiata de Roncesvalles. Here pilgrims find peace in a place that has been welcoming pilgrims since the 12th century. This hostel does not have separate rooms, but several floors with dozens of beds. If you want a bit more privacy, we recommend the Hotel Roncesvalles .

Pamplona: a city of contrasts

After Roncesvalles the next destination is the capital of Navarre, Pamplona. It is common to divide this route into two stages: Roncesvalles-Zubiri (22 km) and Zubiri-Pamplona (21 km). For an overnight stay, our recommendation is the beautiful Txantxorena Hotel in the village of Zubiri.

Pamplona is a lively mix of old and new, with historic city gates, medieval churches and pleasant squares, but also modern buildings. The Cathedral of Santa Maria la Real is a must-see, with a beautiful Gothic façade and one of the best cloisters in Europe. Pamplona is known worldwide for the San Fermín festival and the running of the bulls, but the city offers much more. Pilgrims can enjoy the local gastronomy, such as pintxos (also known as tapas) and Navarrese wine, and experience the hospitality of the locals. For an overnight stay we recommend Hotel Europa , a good hotel in the center of Pamplona.

From Pamplona to Puente la Reina

After visiting the capital, the Camino continues to Puente la Reina (24 km). Puente la Reina is a charming medieval village with one of the most recognizable symbols of the Camino. This village owes its name to the famous bridge over the Arga River. In Spanish, Puente la Reina means Bridge of the Queen.

Legend has it that this bridge was built in the 11th century by an anonymous queen. Its purpose was to facilitate the departure of pilgrims from the village. 

In the past, Puente la Reina was also home to important military orders that were responsible for protecting pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago. One of these orders was one of the most famous, the Knights Templar. They had their main temple a few kilometres from Puente la Reina. This was the temple of Santa Maria de Eunate.

The theory that has received the most attention about the origins of this temple is that it was built as a pilgrim hospital. This was built on behalf of Sancho VI, also called "the Wise", at the request of his wife.

In Eunate, there is an ancient ritual where pilgrims arriving at the site walk three times around the church before entering its center. They do this to absorb the unique energy of this place. Eunate, with its mysterious octagonal shape and location amidst the silence of the landscape, has been regarded for generations as a place of special power and profound significance.

Our recommendation for staying overnight in Puente la Reina is Albergue Jakue, which offers a delicious breakfast buffet. 

Estella and Los Arcos

The last two stages in Navarre along the Camino Francés are Puente la Reina-Estella (22 km) and Estella-Los Arcos (21 km). Estella is a small medieval town with a lot of Romanesque architecture. Many pilgrims visit the church San Pedro de la Rúa. This was built in the middle of the 13th century and dedicated to St. Andrew, the patron saint of Estella. To stay overnight in Estella we recommend the Hostal La Rúa , a simple but very hospitable hostel.

The last destination of the Camino in Navarre is Los Arcos. This village has always been an area where there was a lot of fighting, first between Muslims and Christians, and later between the Navarrese and the Castilians. On top of the hill there was a castle and a wall around the old center. Nowadays there is not much left to see of this busy past. Only three gates of the old wall, which give the village its name, remain as a reminder of that time. For an overnight stay is Pension Los Arcos a nice choice. It is simple but cozy, with a warm atmosphere that fits perfectly with the tranquility of the Camino.

After Los Arcos, pilgrims leave Navarre towards Logroño (28 km), in the province of La Rioja. Here the Camino ends in Navarre, with as final destination Santiago. The Camino de Santiago in Navarre leaves a lasting impression on every pilgrim thanks to the beautiful landscapes, the rich history visible in the ancient buildings, the delicious gastronomy and the warm hospitality of the locals.

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Visit Navarre in 3 days

Navarre has many beautiful sights, but it's impossible to visit them all in three days. To help you make the most of your short time in Navarre, we've selected the most impressive places you absolutely must not miss.

Day 1 – Baztán Region

The adventure in Navarre starts in the beautiful Baztán region, in the north of Navarre. This region is famous for its stunning landscapes, green valleys with typical white houses, and its rich history. It is named after the Baztán River, which flows through many small villages.

These picturesque villages, with their white houses and colorful flowers on the balconies, beautifully showcase the traditional northern Navarrese architectural style. Moreover, Baztán was the setting for the thrilling “Baztan Trilogy,” a popular Netflix series.

It’s a great experience to drive or cycle through this region and discover the charming villages. For a beautiful view, the Mirador del Valle de Baztán is highly recommended. This viewpoint, located along the NA-2540 road and near the village of Zigaurre, offers a stunning panorama of the green valleys and hills of the area.

For dining in the Baztán region, our recommendation is the Santxotena Restaurant in Elizondo, and for meat lovers, the Arotxa Restaurant in the village of Legasa. For a good stay in the region, we recommend the Legate apartment or the Hotel Trinkete, both in Elizondo.

In the Baztán region, there are several places that we recommend visiting.

Elizondo

One of the nicest villages in the Baztán region is Elizondo, which is also the capital of the area. Elizondo has those charming streets with the typical white houses you see around here. The Bidasoa River runs through the village, giving it a calm vibe. Stone bridges connect the riverbanks, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful walk along the river.

Amaiur-Maya

Another lovely village to visit is Amaiur-Maya. This little village played a very important role in the fight for the independence of the Kingdom of Navarre. In 1512, the kingdoms of Castile and Aragon conquered much of Navarre with the goal of annexing the Kingdom of Navarre to their territory, which led to Navarre losing its independence.

In Amaiur-Maya, there was a large castle, where Navarrese troops took shelter. Intense fighting took place here against the invaders until Navarre regained its independence in 1522.

The remains of the castle can be visited today, with a monolith in the center, which was built in 1922 as a tribute to the fallen troops who fought for Navarre's independence.

Xorroxin Waterfall and the caves of Zurragamurdi and Urdax

In addition to Elizondo and Amaiur-Maya, Baztán also hosts the famous Xorroxin waterfall. It’s a pleasant walk to the waterfall, accessible from the parking lot at the entrance of the village of Erratzu. The whole family can enjoy this beautiful walk, which takes about 2 hours (1 hour to the waterfall and 1 hour back), surrounded by beech and chestnut trees.

Close to the French border is the small village of Zurragamurdi, known for its legends of covens and witchcraft. Just 400 meters from this village, after a pleasant walk through the surrounding forest, you will find access to the cave of Zugarramurdi. The size of this cave is impressive: a 120-meter long natural tunnel with heights of up to 12 meters and two raised galleries. In Zugarramurdi, you will also find the Witch Museum (“Museo de las Brujas”). Here you can purchase tickets for both the cave and the museum.

3 kilometers from Zugarramurdi is another cave, the Urdazubi/Urdax cave. This cave is completely different from that of Zugarramurdi. The Urdazubi/Urdax cave is closed off from sunlight, unlike the Zugarramurdi cave, and here you'll find a stunning collection of stalactites and stalagmites, formed over thousands and thousands of years. For more information about the Urdazubi/Urdax cave and to purchase tickets, click here.

Day 2 – Pamplona

Pamplona is the capital of Navarre and is especially known for the San Fermín festivals. These festivals begin every year on July 6th at 12 PM with the chupinazo. They continue until midnight on July 14th. The San Fermín festivals are especially famous for the running of the bulls and the non-stop partying, with people celebrating both day and night.

However, Pamplona is also a great city to visit outside of these busy festivals. A walk through the old town is enough to experience the historical and cultural richness of the capital of Navarre. We recommend booking a tour to discover the interesting stories about the main spots in Pamplona.

Along the narrow medieval streets, you'll find many monumental buildings and iconic spots of this city. Churches like San Nicolás, beautiful and characteristic parks like the Jardines de la Taconera, the town hall, the cathedral of Santa María la Real, the Plaza del Castillo square, and much more.

The old town of Pamplona is also full of bars where you can enjoy the diverse gastronomy of Navarre in small portions. These are the so-called pinchos/pintxos ("tapas"). It’s highly recommended to pair these pintxos with a delicious local wine. To try the typical pintxos, Bar Gaucho is the perfect place, offering a variety of pintxos and a cozy atmosphere.

Just a 4-minute walk from the town hall is the beautiful cathedral of Santa María la Real. This cathedral was built during the 14th and 15th centuries on the site of the ancient forum of Pompaelo. The northern tower of the cathedral houses María, the largest church bell in Spain. Inside the cathedral is one of the best Gothic cloisters in Europe.

Behind this cathedral is Caballo Blanco ("White Horse"), one of the most charming spots in the city. From here, you’ll enjoy the best views of the city, where you can admire the neighborhoods of Rochapea, Chantrea, and San Jorge, with the mountain of San Cristóbal and its abandoned fortress at the top in the background.

After a long day exploring the beautiful capital of Navarre, it’s time to have dinner. Our recommendation is the restaurant Iruñazarra, in the center of Pamplona. This restaurant serves typical Navarrese dishes, but with a more modern and refined style. Perfect for getting to know Navarrese gastronomy better.

For accommodation, we recommend the Hotel Europa, which is located 300 meters from the Iruñazarra restaurant.

Day 3 – Ujué, Olite and Bardenas Reales

To conclude the journey through Navarre, we start the last day in Ujué. This is a beautiful medieval village about 45 minutes drive from Pamplona and is listed in the list of Los Pueblos más Bonitos de España (“The Most Beautiful Villages of Spain”). A walk through the steep, labyrinthine streets is a wonderful experience. In addition, Ujué is also home to one of the most important monumental buildings of Navarrese medieval architecture. This is the Romanesque sanctuary-fortress of Santa Maria, which was built between the 11th and 14th centuries.

If the Navarrese village of Ujué is known for something, besides being one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, it’s for its delicious Migas del Pastor (“Shepherd’s Crumbs”). Migas is a traditional dish with humble origins. In its most basic form, they were made with ingredients that were accessible to every shepherd. These ingredients include stale bread, lamb fat, garlic, water, and salt.

Nowadays, more ingredients are used, such as tomato, serrano ham, and mushrooms, creating a perfect combination of flavors, colors, and aromas. These migas can be found in many restaurants in Navarre, but for an authentic experience, you must go to Ujué. If you want to try these migas, we recommend the Restaurante Mesón de las Torres. If this is the case, our recommendation is then to first visit Olite and then Ujué.

Olite

Olite is a small town about a 35-minute drive from Pamplona and 20 minutes from Ujué. It is home to one of Navarre’s most popular tourist attractions, the Royal Palace of Olite.

The Royal Palace of Olite is the perfect place to learn more about Navarre's medieval history. It can be explored inside, with access to, among other things, galleries, rooms, and the various towers. In addition to exploring the palace, Olite has many more wonderful experiences to offer. Walking through the medieval alleyways of the old town or visiting its stunning churches are just a few examples.

We recommend eating in Olite, unless you really want to try the Migas. In that case, we suggest visiting Olite first and then Ujué. Our recommended restaurants in Olite are Gambarte or Casa Del Preboste, and for those who enjoy fine dining, we recommend the Parador de Olite restaurant. All of these restaurants serve typical Navarrese dishes.

Bardenas Reales

45 minutes by car from Olite, you will find the Bardenas Reales, one of the most visited attractions in Navarre. The Bardenas Reales is a semi-desert in the southeastern part of Navarre.

This is one of the most popular attractions in Navarre, thanks to the enchanting ravines and plateaus that form an almost lunar landscape. In recent years, the area has become even more popular due to its appearance in the TV series Game of Thrones.

The Bardenas Reales offer more than 700 kilometers of paths for nature lovers and are best explored by car or bike. However, we also recommend taking a guided tour to learn the story behind the Bardenas.

For an overnight stay, our recommendation for a unique experience is the Hotel Aire de Bardenas. For those who prefer something more conventional, we recommend Alojamiento Rural La Alberca, known for its hospitality and ideal for nature lovers.

Navarre has so much more to offer than we can fit into this three-day trip. From stunning natural parks and charming villages to amazing food and old traditions, this region is full of surprises. We encourage you to keep exploring and let yourself be amazed by everything it has to offer.

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Visit Navarre in 1 day

To make the most of a short visit to Navarre, we’ve gathered the must-see attractions below. Since one day doesn’t offer much time, there are two options: Pamplona for lovers of big cities, or Ujué, Olite, and the Bardenas Reales for those who want to explore two medieval villages, one with a sanctuary-fortress and the other with a beautiful castle, as well as a unique desert.

Pamplona

Pamplona is the capital of Navarre and is especially known for the San Fermín festivals. These festivals begin every year on July 6th at 12 PM with the chupinazo. They continue until midnight on July 14th. The San Fermín festivals are especially famous for the running of the bulls and the non-stop partying, with people celebrating both day and night.

However, Pamplona is also a great city to visit outside of these busy festivals. A walk through the old town is enough to experience the historical and cultural richness of the capital of Navarre. We recommend booking a tour to discover the interesting stories about the main spots in Pamplona.

Along the narrow medieval streets, you'll find many monumental buildings and iconic spots of this city. Churches like San Nicolás, beautiful and characteristic parks like the Jardines de la Taconera, the town hall, the cathedral of Santa María la Real, the Plaza del Castillo square, and much more.

The old town of Pamplona is also full of bars where you can enjoy the diverse gastronomy of Navarre in small portions. These are the so-called pinchos/pintxos ("tapas"). It’s highly recommended to pair these pintxos with a delicious local wine. To try the typical pintxos, Bar Gaucho is the perfect place, offering a variety of pintxos and a cozy atmosphere.

Just a 4-minute walk from the town hall is the beautiful cathedral of Santa María la Real. This cathedral was built during the 14th and 15th centuries on the site of the ancient forum of Pompaelo. The northern tower of the cathedral houses María, the largest church bell in Spain. Inside the cathedral is one of the best Gothic cloisters in Europe.

Behind this cathedral is Caballo Blanco ("White Horse"), one of the most charming spots in the city. From here, you’ll enjoy the best views of the city, where you can admire the neighborhoods of Rochapea, Chantrea, and San Jorge, with the mountain of San Cristóbal and its abandoned fortress at the top in the background.

After a long day exploring the beautiful capital of Navarre, it’s time to have dinner. Our recommendation is the restaurant Iruñazarra, in the center of Pamplona. This restaurant serves typical Navarrese dishes, but with a more modern and refined style. Perfect for getting to know Navarrese gastronomy better.

For accommodation, we recommend the Hotel Europa, which is located 300 meters from the Iruñazarra restaurant.

Ujué, Olite and Bardenas Reales

The second option is better suited for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and road trips. This second option requires more driving time and is more active, making it less suitable for those who prefer to stroll leisurely around Pamplona.

Ujué

Ujué is a beautiful medieval village about a 45-minute drive from Pamplona and is listed as one of Los Pueblos más Bonitos de España ("The Most Beautiful Villages in Spain"). A walk through its steep, labyrinthine streets is a wonderful experience. Additionally, Ujué is home to one of the most important monumental buildings in Navarre’s medieval architecture. This is the Romanesque sanctuary-fortress of Santa María, which was built between the 11th and 14th centuries.

If the Navarrese village of Ujué is known for something, besides being one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, it’s for its delicious Migas del Pastor (“Shepherd’s Crumbs”). Migas is a traditional dish with humble origins. In its most basic form, they were made with ingredients that were accessible to every shepherd. These ingredients include stale bread, lamb fat, garlic, water, and salt.

Nowadays, more ingredients are used, such as tomato, serrano ham, and mushrooms, creating a perfect combination of flavors, colors, and aromas. These migas can be found in many restaurants in Navarre, but for an authentic experience, you must go to Ujué. If you want to try these migas, we recommend the Restaurante Mesón de las Torres. If this is the case, our recommendation is then to first visit Olite and then Ujué.

Olite

Olite is a small town about a 35-minute drive from Pamplona and 20 minutes from Ujué. It is home to one of Navarre’s most popular tourist attractions, the Royal Palace of Olite.

The Royal Palace of Olite is the perfect place to learn more about Navarre's medieval history. It can be explored inside, with access to, among other things, galleries, rooms, and the various towers. In addition to exploring the palace, Olite has many more wonderful experiences to offer. Walking through the medieval alleyways of the old town or visiting its stunning churches are just a few examples.

We recommend eating in Olite, unless you really want to try the Migas. In that case, we suggest visiting Olite first and then Ujué. Our recommended restaurants in Olite are Gambarte or Casa Del Preboste, and for those who enjoy fine dining, we recommend the Parador de Olite restaurant. All of these restaurants serve typical Navarrese dishes.

Bardenas Reales

45 minutes by car from Olite, you will find the Bardenas Reales, one of the most visited attractions in Navarre. The Bardenas Reales is a semi-desert in the southeastern part of Navarre.

This is one of the most popular attractions in Navarre, thanks to the enchanting ravines and plateaus that form an almost lunar landscape. In recent years, the area has become even more popular due to its appearance in the TV series Game of Thrones.

The Bardenas Reales offer more than 700 kilometers of paths for nature lovers and are best explored by car or bike. However, we also recommend taking a guided tour to learn the story behind the Bardenas.

For an overnight stay, our recommendation for a unique experience is the Hotel Aire de Bardenas. For those who prefer something more conventional, we recommend Alojamiento Rural La Alberca, known for its hospitality and ideal for nature lovers.

These are our recommended attractions in Navarre if you only have 1 day to visit Navarre. However, we recommend staying longer in Navarre, as there are many other beautiful places to visit. If you change your mind and want to stay longer in Navarre, check out Navarre in 3 days.

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1. City and village festivals (San Fermín)

Every city and town in Navarre celebrates its own festivals during the summer period, with the most famous being San Fermín, in the capital Pamplona. In all city and village festivals in Navarre, the tradition is to wear white clothing with red accessories.

The San Fermín festivals, also known as the Sanfermines, are an annual event held in Pamplona. These festivities are held in honor of San Fermín (Saint Firmin of Amiens), one of the two patron saints of Navarre. The festival takes place every year from July 6 to 14 and attracts over 1,000,000 visitors from around the world, being especially famous for the encierros (“running of the bulls”).

The rest of the cities and towns also have their own festivals, which are a smaller version of the Sanfermines. There are often encierros and many fun activities, such as concerts, rides, drinks, and street music.

2. Pilgrimages

In Navarre, several pilgrimages take place every year. Two of the most well-known are the pilgrimage to Ujué and Javier.

Thousands of people walk from various nearby villages to Ujué, some of which are over 25 kilometers away. This tradition has been taking place since the year 1043, usually at the end of April or the beginning of May. The pilgrims wear black robes, cover their faces with a hood of the same color, and often carry Christian crosses.

Since the prayers to San Francisco Javier ("Saint Francis Xavier") helped overcome a cholera epidemic in Navarre in 1886, annual pilgrimages to Javier are held by thousands of people from all over Navarre. These are usually held during the first two weekends of March and are also known as Javieradas. During the Javieradas, people wear regular clothing, unlike the romería ("pilgrimage") to Ujué.

3. Holy Week

During Semana Santa ("Holy Week"), several processions are held in Navarre, where a group of bearers typically carries a statue of Christ and/or the Virgin Mary through the streets of their town or city. However, this takes place on a much larger scale in southern Spain. Nevertheless, it is a tradition that many people in Navarre look forward to.

4. Medieval days of Olite and Artajona

During the second weekend of August, the Medieval Festival takes place in Olite, where the town steps back in time to the Middle Ages. Numerous activities, musical performances, and shows take place, along with a medieval market. Additionally, many people dress in various types of medieval clothing.

Additionally, Artajona organizes an event at the end of August that also takes the town back to the Middle Ages. The locals also dress in clothing from that medieval period. During this event, there are various activities to enjoy. Visitors can, for example, taste typical Navarrese products at the craft markets. There are also falconry shows, a demonstration of knights on horseback carrying medieval lances, and several guided tours.

5. Three Kings and Olentzero

The Reyes Magos ("The Three Kings") are to Spanish children what Santa Claus is to others. The Reyes Magos are celebrated by almost all families in Spain, where children receive presents. A tradition is that children who have misbehaved during the year receive coal as a punishment. However, they often receive edible (candy) coal as a joke. On January 5th, parades with floats are held in almost every town or city, and when children wake up in the morning, they often find many presents under the Christmas tree.

Also, the Olentzero (originally from the Basque Country) is celebrated by some people in Navarra. These are usually those who feel Basque or have a connection to the Basque Country. A parade is also held, where the Olentzero, who is a kind of Basque Santa Claus, is carried by a group of people on December 24th.

6. Jotas

The jotas navarras are a traditional music style sung during Navarrese festivities. They are part of the broader jota tradition found in various parts of Spain, including Aragón, La Rioja, and Valencia.

Singing is an important part and is often characterized by energetic, emotional, and sometimes improvised lyrics. Singers often have powerful voices and sing with a lot of expression. The singing is often accompanied by instruments such as guitars, bandurrias (a Spanish string instrument), lutes, and sometimes accordions.

In addition, they wear white clothing with red accessories, which is typical for the village festivals in Navarra and the San Fermín festivities in Pamplona.

7. Carnival

A tradition in Navarra is, like in many places around the world, the annual celebration of carnival. However, in some places in Navarra, it is celebrated in a special way.

In the village of Lantz, a village between Pamplona and Elizondo, there is the tradition that on the night before Ash Wednesday, the entire village dresses up as various mythical characters, with the aim of capturing the bandit Miel Otxin, who represents the evil spirits. Some inhabitants wear sacks filled with hay, while others wear colorful clothing and straw hats.

In the villages of Ituren and Zubieta, a special carnival is also celebrated in the last week of January. Here, people dress up as Joaldunak (also known as Zanpantzar). The costume consists of a colorful, pointed hat, a woolen garment, and two cowbells on the back. The Joaldunak jump as they walk through the streets, creating a rhythmic sound with the cowbells.

In the village of Alsasua, people dress up as Momotxorro. The costume consists of a cow’s head with two horns, a white apron with “blood,” blue trousers, and a pitchfork.

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1. Football

Football is the most popular sport in Navarre. The most important football club in Navarre is Club Atlético Osasuna in Pamplona, the capital. Osasuna plays in La Liga and is known for the passion and support of its fans. The Osasuna hooligans, the Indargorris (“Red Force” in Basque), sing at every match and always support Osasuna, regardless of the result.

Football and futsal are widely practiced in Navarre. Many schools have futsal courts where children enjoy playing together during breaks.

2. Frontenis

Frontenis is a sport that is often played in villages in Navarre. Originally from Mexico, it is also widely played in northern Spain.

Es ist eine Mischung aus Tennis und Squash, bei der ein Gummiball mit speziellen Schlägern (ähnlich wie Tennisschläger, aber leichter) gegen die Wand geschlagen wird. Der Ball ist kleiner als ein Tennisball und sorgt für ein schnelles Spiel. Dieser Sport kann eins gegen eins oder zwei gegen zwei gespielt werden. Die Spieler versuchen, den Ball über die Linie an der Wand vorne zu schlagen, wie beim Squash.

This sport is played in a fronton. A fronton is sometimes covered, but it can also be uncovered. The differences with squash are that the field is much larger (officially 30 meters long) and there is no right wall.

If you visit small Navarrese villages, you’ll see a fronton in most of them, where locals often gather to spend their afternoons, especially in the summer.

3. Basque Pelota (or Pelota Mano)

Pelota Vasca (“Basque Ball”), also known as Pelota Mano (literally “Hand Ball”), originally comes from the Basque Country, but is also often played in Navarre. It closely resembles frontenis. This sport is also played in a fronton.

However, in this sport, the ball is hit with the hand instead of with a racket. Additionally, the ball is significantly harder and heavier, and is made of leather, among other materials.

4. Herri Kirolak

Originally from the Basque Country, this collection of disciplines is often practiced as a show, but there are also various competitions held mainly in northern Navarre.

The disciplines that are part of Herri Kirolak include wood chopping with axes, called Aizkolaritza, similar to STIHL Timbersports, but also lifting heavy stones and tug-of-war.

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Whether you are looking for relaxation in the middle of nature, to dive into the rich history, or simply to enjoy delicious food, Navarra has it all. If your visit to Navarra is short, discover Navarre in 1 day or Navarre in 3 days.

If you want to know what to see and do in Navarra, below you will find a list of the top 13 sights in Navarra that you must visit when you are in Navarra.

13. Javier Castle

The Castle of Javier is considered one of the most important castle fortresses in Navarra. It served for many years as the defense of the Kingdom of Navarra. It was in this castle that San Francisco Javier (“Saint Francis Xavier”) was born on April 7, 1506. He lived in the castle until he was 19 years old.

The castle can be visited from the inside with a guided tour or on your own. There is also a museum inside with objects from the old castle and three-dimensional exhibits about the life of San Francisco Javier.

Since prayers to San Francisco Javier helped overcome a cholera epidemic in Navarra in 1886, pilgrimages are held every year by thousands of people from all over Navarra. These are usually held on the first two weekends of March and are also known as the Javieradas.

12. Artajona

Artajona is a small village completely surrounded by medieval towers and fortified walls, known as El Cerco de Artajona ("The Enclosure of Artajona"). This wall was built in the 11th century, which served to protect the Kingdom of Navarre.

At just 4 kilometers from Artajona, there are the dolmens of Portillo de Eneriz and of Mina de Faranagortea. These are two of the rare examples of gallery tombs with perforated doors, a specific tomb architecture typical of several areas around the western Mediterranean.

11. Urbasa-Andía Natural Park

The Urbasa-Andía Natural Park is a beautiful natural area known for its varied landscapes and impressive geological formations. The park is also home to a rich biodiversity, with vast beech forests covering approximately 60% of the area, and diverse animal species such as wild boars, roe deer and various birds of prey. In addition, there are numerous archaeological sites, including dolmens and menhirs, which bear witness to human presence since prehistoric times.

In 1997, this nature park was declared a nature reserve. The highest point of the Urbasa-Andía Natural Park is the mountain of San Donato (1,489 meters), which is crowned with a hermitage.

10. Puente la Reina

Puente la Reina was founded in the 12th century to populate the regions around the pilgrim route of the Camino de Santiago. A walk through this village takes the walker back to the Middle Ages. If there is one thing characteristic of Puente la Reina, it is the famous Romanesque bridge over the Arga River, on the outskirts of the village.

The temple of Puente la Reina is located a few kilometers from Puente la Reina Santa Maria de Eunate, an important temple for the Knights Templar. This temple served as protection for pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago.

9. Forest of Irati

The Selva de Irati (“Forest of Irati”) is the second largest and best preserved beech and pine forest in Europe, after the Black Forest in Germany.

Every season of the year offers something unique in the Irati Forest. In spring, the forest comes to life with the fresh green of new leaves and blooming flowers. The summer months invite you to take walks along the winding paths and cool off by the banks of the Irati and Urbeltza rivers. In autumn, the forest turns into a stunning color spectacle. The leaves change into brilliant shades of red, yellow, and orange. Even in winter, the Irati Forest has its charm. The snow-covered landscapes create the perfect setting for winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

8. Pamplona

Pamplona or Iruña (in Basque) is the capital of Navarre. Among tourists, Pamplona is mainly known for the San Fermín festivals. But Pamplona is also a lovely city to visit outside of these busy celebrations. Pamplona offers many beautiful spots and buildings that can be visited in just one day.

The San Fermín celebrations, also known as the Sanfermines, are an annual festival that takes place in Pamplona. The Sanfermines are especially known for it non-stop partying, where people party both at night and during the day. It is tradition to wear white and red clothing during these celebrations, with most people wearing a white shirt and pants with red accessories.

7. Ochagavía

Ochagavía is a picturesque village near the Pyrenees, with stone streets and a natural setting, enriched with ancient traditions that help preserve the essence of the life of its ancestors. In addition to the traditional houses and various bridges along the Anduña river, the religious architecture is also remarkable.

6. Ujué

Ujué is a beautiful medieval village and is listed among the Los Pueblos más Bonitos de España (“The Most Beautiful Villages in Spain”). With its steep, labyrinthine streets, Ujué also houses one of the most important monumental buildings of medieval architecture in Navarra: the Santa María sanctuary-fortress. Inside this fort lies the precious treasure of both the people of Ujué and many from Navarra: the sculpture of the Holy Virgin of Ujué.

A special day in Ujué is the Day of the Migas, which is celebrated annually on the third Sunday of September. Migas is a traditional dish with humble origins. In the past, it was made with stale bread, lamb fat, garlic, water and salt. Nowadays, more ingredients are used, such as tomatoes, Serrano ham and mushrooms, achieving a perfect combination of flavours, colours and aromas.

5. Baztan

The scenic region of Baztán is located in the north of Navarra. It is famous for its beautiful landscapes, lush forests, winding rivers and imposing mountains, but also for its rich history. One of the most important villages in the Baztán region is Elizondo, also the capital of this region. The village of Elizondo is characterized by its beautiful streets with the typical white houses.

Also, in Baztán is the famous Xorroxin Waterfall. The walk to the waterfall is perfect for relaxing with the whole family.

4. Foz de Arbayún and Foz de Lumbier

The Foz de Arbayún (“Arbayún Gorge”) and the Foz de Lumbier (“Lumbier Gorge”) are two spectacular gorges in eastern Navarra. The beauty of Foz de Arbayún can be admired from various spots. To fully appreciate the grandeur of this area, the best option is to drive to the Iso viewpoint. This viewpoint is easily accessible by car as it is located along the road.

Although the Foz de Lumbier is less spectacular than the Foz de Arbayún, it is more popular. The reason for this is that Spain's first electric train ran along this route between 1911 and 1955. The development of new train routes led to the closure of this route, but the memory remains visible in the so-called Via Verde (“Green Way”).

3. Olite

Olite is a small town about 35 minutes drive from Pamplona, the capital of Navarre. This is where one of Navarra's most popular tourist attractions is located Royal Palace of Olite. In addition, Olite has beautiful medieval streets and buildings, tasty restaurants and many wineries that can be visited.

Olite is also known as the wine capital of Navarra. At the beginning of September, the big festival, the Fiesta de la Vendimia (“Grape Harvest Festival”), takes place. A tradition during this festival is that some young people stomp the grapes with their feet, after which there is an opportunity to taste different types of wines.

2. Source of Urederra

The source of the Urederra river (“Nacedero del Urederra”) is an idyllic spot, as the name suggests (in Basque, “Ur” means water and “eder” beautiful). It springs from the bowels of the earth and is especially known for its striking turquoise water. The water leaves behind a spectacular path of raging waterfalls and calm pools.

Visitors can enjoy walks along well-marked trails that wind along the riverbank. These trails also offer beautiful views of the waterfalls and pools. It is an ideal place for nature lovers, hikers and photographers who are looking for peace and the natural beauty of the area.

The walk is surrounded by a very diverse flora, such as beech, oak, elm and maple. There is also a rich fauna, with many species of birds and fish.

1. Bardenas Reales

The Bardenas Reales is a semi-desert in the southeast of Navarra. It is one of the most popular attractions in Navarra due to the enchanting ravines and plateaus that look almost lunar. In the year 2000, UNESCO declared the Bardenas Reales a biosphere reserve. In recent years, it has become more popular among tourists due to its appearance in the TV series Game of Thrones.

The Bardenas has over 700 kilometers of paths for the enjoyment of nature lovers. Many companies offer tours through this magical place, with the possibility to explore the Bardenas by segway, 4×4 off-road vehicles, buggies or quads, and even on horseback. It is also possible to rent (electric) mountain bikes and 4×4 off-road vehicles from these companies.

Near the Bardenas is also Senda Viva, an amusement park that combines thrilling attractions and various species of animals. It is the largest family recreation park in Spain.

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This beautiful waterfall is located on the Iñarbegi River, a tributary of the Bidasoa. It has a height of about 4 meters and is surrounded by lush vegetation. It offers not only a visual spectacle, but also a refreshing experience. After a relaxing walk, it is allowed to swim in the cool, crystal clear waters below the waterfall.

The stroll

The walk to the Xorroxin waterfall is about 7 kilometers round trip. It starts from the small village of Erratzu, where you can also park your car. In summer, you need to reserve your parking spot, which can be booked for free here.

Even though the route is circular, on hot days it is recommended to return via the same path, as the way back does not pass through the forest. Where it is unclear where the route continues, there are signs with “Xorroxin” on them. You can see the route below:

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This region takes its name from the Baztán River, which flows past numerous small villages. These picturesque villages, with their typical white houses with flower-filled balconies, evoke the essence of traditional Northern Navarrese architecture. Baztán was also the setting for the gripping suspense saga “Baztan Trilogy”, which can be seen on Netflix.

A beautiful viewpoint on the Baztán valley is located near the village of Zigaurre. It is located along the NA-2540 road and offers views of the villages of Zigaurre, Irurita, Gartzain, Ariztegi and Elizondo.

Villages in Baztan

In the Baztán region there are several villages worth a visit. The villages in this region are characterized by their typical white houses.

Elizondo

One of the nicest villages in the Baztán region is Elizondo, which is also the capital of the area. Elizondo has those charming streets with the typical white houses you see around here. The Bidasoa River runs through the village, giving it a calm vibe. Stone bridges connect the riverbanks, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful walk along the river.

Here you can also admire historical buildings, such as the Town Hall and the Church of Santiago, which reflect centuries of architecture. In the village there are also mansions and palaces that once belonged to the aristocracy and which show the grandeur of the past.

Amaiur-Maya

Another lovely village to visit is Amaiur-Maya. This little village played a very important role in the fight for the independence of the Kingdom of Navarre. In 1512, the kingdoms of Castile and Aragon conquered much of Navarre with the goal of annexing the Kingdom of Navarre to their territory, which led to Navarre losing its independence.

However, in Amaiur-Maya there was a big castle, where Navarrese troops were entrenched. Here there was fierce fighting against the invaders until Navarre became independent again in 1522. Another castle that played an important role during this time is the Castle of Javier.

The remains of the castle can be visited today, with a monolith in the center, which was built in 1922 as a tribute to the fallen troops who fought for Navarre's independence.

What else to visit in the Baztán region

In addition to Elizondo and Amaiur-Maya, Baztán is home to the well-known waterfall of Xorroxin. The walk up to the waterfall is perfect for relaxing with the whole family.

Close to the border with France is also the village of Zurragamurdi, known for legends of covens and witchcraft. Just 400 meters from this village, after a pleasant walk through the forest in which it is located, you will find access to the cave of Zugarramurdi. The dimensions of this cave are impressive: a 120 meter long natural tunnel with heights of up to 12 meters and two elevated galleries.

Also located in Zugarramurdi is the Museum of the Brujas (“Witches Museum”), which explores the socio-cultural origins of the legends of witchcraft. It is recommended to explore this museum before visiting the cave, as it helps to better understand what the cave meant to the inhabitants of Zugarramurdi. In addition to Spanish and Basque explanations, the museum also offers explanations in English and French. Here you can buy entrance tickets for both the cave and the museum.

3 kilometers from Zugarramurdi is another cave, the Urdazubi/Urdax cave. This cave is completely different from that of Zugarramurdi. The Urdazubi/Urdax cave is closed off from sunlight, unlike the Zugarramurdi cave, and here you'll find a stunning collection of stalactites and stalagmites, formed over thousands and thousands of years. For more information about the Urdazubi/Urdax cave and to purchase tickets, click here.

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