A trip to Pamplona, Spain offers a unique chance to explore the historical and architectural wonders of this iconic city. Located in the culturally rich Navarre region of northern Spain, Pamplona is famous for its annual Running of the Bulls festival, but for the rest of the year, it's a charming and vibrant city, rich with architectural and cultural sites to explore. Here’s a list of the must-visit attractions in Pamplona for history and architecture buffs!
Pamplona Cathedral: Built in the 12th century, the Pamplona Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture located in the city centre. This beautiful grandiose structure enjoys manicured gardens and a striking square tower. Its entrance is free, and it’s open from 9am to 7pm on weekdays and 9am to 2pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
Baluarte de la Reina: Located next to the Cathedral, this impressive 16th-century military fortification boasts a distinctive bell tower. Visitors can explore its old barracks, the vaulted ceiling area called the Hall of the Skeletons, and the old guard house. Entrance to Baluarte de la Reina is free and open from 10am to 1:30pm and 5pm to 8pm from Tuesday to Sunday.
Citadels of Pamplona: The ancient citadels are a network of fortified walls that were built in the 16th and 17th centuries. Located close to Baluarte de la Reina, the impressive structures and stone archways offer a glimpse into the city’s past. Admission to the citadels is free and you can visit them from 10am to 2pm and 5pm to 8pm from Tuesday to Sunday.
Santo Domingo Church: Located in the vibrant old quarter of Pamplona, the Santo Domingo Church dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest churches in Spain. A must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts, the edifice is a stunning mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles. Admission is free, and the church is open from 10am to 7pm from Tuesday to Sunday.
Museo de Navarra: This museum documents and celebrates Navarran culture and history, with their collections focusing on archaeology, sculpture, jewellery, painting, and more. Admission is free, and the museum is open from 10am to 7pm from Tuesday to Sunday.
Citadel of Atarés: Located in a nearby town called Atarés, this prominent citadel was built in the 9th century and is well-preserved. Here you can explore the remains of the Roman walls and the historic palaces from the 15th and 16th centuries. Entrance to this site is free and it’s open from 10am to 2pm and 5pm to 8pm from Tuesday to Sunday.
Plaza del Castillo: A vibrant public square in the center of Pamplona, Plaza del Castillo is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. The sunny plaza features an array of local shops, sidewalk cafes, and notable buildings, including the City Hall and the 17th century Palace of Navarre.
From exploring stunning cathedrals and ancient forts to taking in the vibrant sights of Plaza del Castillo, Pamplona offers a unique glimpse into the city's captivating past. With an array of architectural and historical treasures to explore, you can plan an unforgettable trip to this Spanish city.

Burgos, located in the beautiful country of Spain, is a city rich in history and architectural wonders. From stunning cathedrals to fascinating museums, there is something for everyone to explore and enjoy in this enchanting city.
Burgos Cathedral: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Marvel at the intricate carvings and stained glass windows that adorn the cathedral. Don't miss the chance to visit the stunning Chapel of the Condestable and the tomb of El Cid. Opening hours are from 10 am to 7:30 pm, and entrance fees are 7 euros.
Monasterio de las Huelgas: Explore this medieval monastery, which was once home to royalty and noblewomen. Admire the stunning cloisters and the beautiful Gothic church. The monastery is open from 10 am to 2 pm and 4 pm to 7 pm, with an entrance fee of 5 euros.
Museo de la Evolución Humana: Dive into the fascinating world of human evolution at this museum. Discover the archaeological treasures found in the nearby Atapuerca Mountains and learn about our ancient ancestors. The museum is open from 10 am to 8 pm, and the entrance fee is 6 euros.
Casa del Cordón: Visit this historic house, which served as a meeting place for royalty and played an important role in Spanish history. Admire the beautiful facade and explore the impressive interior. The house is open from 10 am to 2 pm and 4 pm to 7 pm, with an entrance fee of 4 euros.
Cartuja de Miraflores: Step into the serene world of this Carthusian monastery. Admire the exquisite altarpieces and the stunning mausoleum of King John II and his wife. The monastery is open from 10 am to 1 pm and 4 pm to 7 pm, with an entrance fee of 2 euros.
Burgos Castle: Explore the ruins of this medieval fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Take a stroll through the surrounding gardens and soak in the history of the area. The castle is open from 10 am to 2 pm and 4 pm to 7 pm, with free admission.
Arco de Santa María: Walk through this impressive gateway, which once served as the main entrance to the city. Admire the intricately carved sculptures and learn about the history of Burgos. The arch is open all day, and there is no entrance fee.
In Burgos, you can also indulge in the local cuisine. Don't miss trying the famous Morcal, a traditional sausage made with pork and flavored with paprika, garlic, and other spices. Morcal is often served as tapas in local bars. For a sweet treat, be sure to try the Mantecados, a delicious almond-based pastry.
Exploring Burgos will transport you back in time and leave you with unforgettable memories. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and delectable cuisine make it a must-visit destination in Spain. So hop on a train, unwind, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Burgos.

Pamplona is the capital of Navarre, Spain, and it's main train station is called Pamplona Estación de Cercanías. This is the main station that connects Pamplona with other parts of the country, as well as with the rest of Europe. Pamplona also has two other important stations for commuters: Pamplona-Noáin, and Irún.
The Pamplona Estación de Cercanías is conveniently located next to the city center, at Carretera de Irún km 3.6, 31013. It's opening hours are from 5:00 to 23:00. Passengers can contact the station in advance on their telephone number (+34 948 10 01 00) or via email (atencionalpasajero@renfe.es). There is also a luggage storage service at the station.
The main train station in Burgos is called Burgos Rosa de Lima. Located in the heart of the city, it serves as the primary hub for train travel in Burgos. In addition to Burgos Rosa de Lima, there are no other major train stations in the city. However, the station is well-connected to the rest of Europe, making it a convenient starting point for exploring the region.
Burgos Rosa de Lima train station is open from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm daily, providing ample time for travelers to catch their train. The station offers various amenities, including luggage storage facilities for those who need to store their belongings while exploring the city.
When visiting Burgos, don't miss the opportunity to explore its rich cultural heritage. The city is renowned for its stunning Gothic cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Additionally, the Medieval Quarter and the vibrant local markets are must-see attractions. For those looking to venture further, there are excellent transport options available from the station, including regional and long-distance trains connecting Burgos to other popular destinations in Spain and beyond.
Book in Advance:
Just like with airfares, train ticket prices tend to rise as the departure date gets closer. Booking weeks or even months in advance can save you a significant amount.
Travel During Off-Peak Hours:
Avoid traveling during peak times such as weekday mornings and evenings. Opt for midday, late evening, or mid-week rides when there's less demand.
Consider Slower Trains or non direct routes:
Express or high-speed trains might save time, but they're often pricier. Opting for regional or slower services can reduce your fare.
Look for Special Deals and Promotions:
Train operators occasionally have promotions or special deals, especially during off-peak seasons. It's worth signing up for newsletters. Additionally, there are sometimes group or return ticket discounts, so consider these options if they fit your travel plans.