Rent a Motorhome in Pamplona and Explore Navarra

Discover Pamplona: The Heart of Navarra

Welcome to Pamplona, or Iruña as it's known in Basque, the vibrant capital of the Navarre region in northern Spain. This city is far more than just the world-famous Running of the Bulls; it's a gateway to incredible landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable adventures, making it the perfect place to rent a motorhome in Pamplona and begin your journey. Situated in a rounded valley, the Cuenca de Pamplona, the city is cradled by the Arga River and surrounded by a ring of mountains that hint at the Pyrenean peaks further north. This unique geography provides a stunning backdrop for any road trip.

The history of Pamplona is long and storied. Founded by the Roman general Pompey in 74 BC as Pompaelo, it served as a strategic outpost. Over the centuries, it became the capital of the Kingdom of Navarre, a fiercely independent realm that withstood pressures from its larger neighbors, France and Castile. The city's formidable walls and the impressive Citadel (Ciudadela) are testaments to its military past. This rich history is palpable as you wander through the cobblestone streets of the Casco Antiguo (Old Town), a maze of narrow alleys, bustling squares, and magnificent churches. With a population of just over 200,000 people, Pamplona retains a welcoming, small-town feel despite its regional importance. It's a key stop on the Camino de Santiago, the ancient pilgrimage route, and you'll see walkers from all over the world passing through. This blend of local culture and international visitors creates a unique and lively atmosphere. When you rent a camper in Pamplona, you're not just getting a vehicle; you're unlocking the freedom to explore this historic crossroads. Imagine driving through lands once ruled by Navarrese kings before setting up camp under the stars.

Pamplona's most famous association is, of course, with Ernest Hemingway, who was captivated by the San Fermín festival and immortalized it in his novel 'The Sun Also Rises.' His presence is still felt in the city, particularly at Café Iruña in the Plaza del Castillo, a beautiful square that serves as the city's living room. Another notable figure is the violinist and composer Pablo de Sarasate, a native of Pamplona whose legacy is celebrated at the local conservatory. The decision to rent a motorhome Pamplona allows you to follow in the footsteps of these great figures, discovering the inspiration they found in the region's raw beauty.

The weather in Pamplona is transitional, a blend of Atlantic and Mediterranean influences. This means you can expect warm, pleasant summers and cool, damp winters. The best time to visit depends on your preferences. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer mild temperatures and lush green landscapes, ideal for hiking and exploring. This is the perfect season to rent a camper Pamplona and enjoy the scenic roads without the peak summer crowds. Of course, if you want to experience the adrenaline of the San Fermín festival, you must come in early July. Be warned, the city is packed, and you'll need to book everything, including your camper, far in advance. Regardless of when you come, having a motorhome gives you the flexibility to chase the good weather, whether it's heading to the cooler mountains or the sunny Ebro valley. For those seeking true off-road freedom, you can even rent a 4x4 camper in Pamplona, giving you access to more remote trails in the Pyrenees. Your adventure in northern Spain starts here, with the keys to your home on wheels.

Sights and Activities In and Around Pamplona

Once you've settled into your base, it's time to explore. Pamplona itself is packed with sights that are best discovered on foot after you've parked your camper. The city is your launchpad for discovery when you rent a motorhome in Pamplona.

Pamplona Cathedral (Catedral de Santa María la Real): A stunning example of Gothic architecture with a Neoclassical façade. Don't miss the beautiful cloister, considered one of the finest in Europe.

The Citadel Park (Parque de la Ciudadela): This massive, star-shaped fortress is now a peaceful public park. It's perfect for a stroll, a picnic, or simply relaxing. The old military buildings now house art exhibitions.

The City Walls (Murallas): You can walk along large stretches of Pamplona's impeccably preserved city walls, which offer fantastic views of the river and surrounding mountains.

Plaza del Castillo: The main square and social hub of the city. Lined with cafés and beautiful buildings, it's the perfect place to grab a coffee and people-watch, just as Hemingway did.

Museo de Navarra: Housed in a former hospital, this museum takes you on a journey through Navarre's art and history, from Roman mosaics to Goya's portraits.

Beyond the city, your adventure truly begins. When you rent a camper in Pamplona, you have the freedom to explore the diverse landscapes of Navarre. Head north to the lush Baztan Valley, explore the mystical Irati Forest (one of Europe's largest beech and fir forests), or venture into the dramatic Pyrenees for world-class hiking. For those who opt to rent a 4x4 camper in Pamplona, the remote mountain tracks offer an unparalleled sense of discovery. To the south, you'll find the desert-like landscapes of the Bardenas Reales Natural Park, a starkly beautiful region of canyons and plateaus. Your motorhome is your ticket to it all.

Unforgettable Road Trips Starting from Pamplona

With your keys in hand, Pamplona is the perfect starting point for some of Spain's most scenic road trips. Here are a couple of ideas for your adventure after you rent a motorhome Pamplona.

⛰️ The Navarrese Pyrenees Loop (4-5 Days)

🌊 Basque Coast & Rioja Wine (5-7 Days)

Returning Your Camper Clean in Pamplona

Before you return your vehicle from your amazing trip, you'll need to make sure it's clean, both inside and out. Finding a suitable car wash can be tricky with a high-roof motorhome. Standard automatic car washes are too low. You need to look for a washing station designed for trucks ('camiones') or large vehicles ('vehículos grandes').

These facilities have the necessary height clearance and powerful jet washes to get the job done properly. When you rent a camper in Pamplona, planning this final step will save you time and stress. Here are a few suitable locations in and around Pamplona:

1. Lavado de Camiones Ansoáin
Located in the industrial area just north of Pamplona, this is a dedicated truck wash that is perfect for motorhomes.
Address: Polígono Industrial de Ansoáin, 31013 Ansoáin, Navarre

2. Repsol Service Station (Polígono Agustinos)
Many larger Repsol stations on industrial estates have high-pressure jet wash bays suitable for large vehicles. This one is conveniently located.
Address: C. A, 5, 31013 Pamplona, Navarre

3. AVIA Service Station Cordovilla
This station south of the city, near the airport, often has facilities for larger vehicles. It is a good option if you are coming from the south.
Address: Pol. Ind. Cordovilla, Calle A, 31191 Cordovilla, Navarre

Always check the height clearance signs before entering any wash bay, and remember to use the platforms and long-handled brushes provided to reach the roof safely.

Your Journey to Pamplona

Getting to Pamplona to start your camper adventure is straightforward, especially for international travelers. Here’s how you can reach us from your home country.

From the UK & Ireland:
While direct flights to Pamplona (PNA) are rare, the easiest way is to fly to nearby larger airports. Bilbao (BIO) and Biarritz, France (BIQ) have regular flights from London (Gatwick, Stansted, Heathrow) and Dublin on airlines like Vueling, easyJet, and Ryanair. From Bilbao, it’s about a 2-hour drive to Pamplona. Alternatively, you can fly to major hubs like Madrid (MAD) or Barcelona (BCN) from most UK and Irish airports and then take a comfortable high-speed train (Renfe) or a connecting flight to Pamplona.

From the USA & Canada:
Your best bet is to book a flight to Madrid (MAD) or Barcelona (BCN). Major carriers like American Airlines, Delta, United, and Air Canada offer direct flights from hubs such as New York (JFK), Miami (MIA), Atlanta (ATL), and Toronto (YYZ). From Madrid or Barcelona, you have two great options: take a short domestic flight to Pamplona (PNA) or enjoy a scenic train ride through the Spanish countryside directly to the city. This journey is part of the adventure before you even rent a motorhome in Pamplona!

From Australia, New Zealand & South Africa:
The journey will involve at least one stop, typically in the Middle East (e.g., Dubai on Emirates, Doha on Qatar Airways) or a major European hub like Amsterdam, Paris, or Frankfurt. From there, you'll connect to Madrid (MAD) or Barcelona (BCN). Once you arrive in Spain, a short connecting flight or a train will bring you to Pamplona, where your camper awaits. Planning this final leg of your journey is easy and offers a great first glimpse of the country you're about to explore.