Pamplona Town Hall
The magnificent Baroque Town Hall, heart of Pamplona and iconic launchpad for the San Fermín festival's electrifying Chupinazo.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Chupinazo opening ceremony
Pamplona Town Hall
Best Time
Chupinazo opening ceremony

Highlights
Must-see attractions
The magnificent Baroque Town Hall, heart of Pamplona and iconic launchpad for the San Fermín festival's electrifying Chupinazo.
"A striking example of Baroque architecture and a central landmark in the city's cultural life."
🎯 Arrive EARLY for Chupinazo
For the July 6th opening, get to Plaza del Ayuntamiento by 7:30 AM to secure a spot!
🏛️ Free Entry to Lobby
You can enter the ground floor lobby to see historic items and admire the interior architecture.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Chupinazo Rocket Launch
Town Hall Balcony
Witness the electrifying start of San Fermín with the ceremonial rocket launch, a tradition dating back centuries.

Baroque Facade
Exterior of Town Hall
Admire the richly decorated Baroque architecture, a testament to its 1753 reconstruction and enduring style.

Plaza del Ayuntamiento
Town Hall Square
The vibrant heart of Pamplona, hosting festivals, performances, and the daily buzz of city life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for San Fermín
Beyond the Bulls: Architecture & History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive EARLY for Chupinazo
For the July 6th opening, get to Plaza del Ayuntamiento by 7:30 AM to secure a spot!
🏛️ Free Entry to Lobby
You can enter the ground floor lobby to see historic items and admire the interior architecture.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
The Town Hall looks stunning in the late afternoon light. Perfect for photos!
🗣️ Bilingual Signs
Notice signs in both Basque and Spanish, reflecting the region's dual linguistic heritage.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive EARLY for Chupinazo
For the July 6th opening, get to Plaza del Ayuntamiento by 7:30 AM to secure a spot!
🏛️ Free Entry to Lobby
You can enter the ground floor lobby to see historic items and admire the interior architecture.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
The Town Hall looks stunning in the late afternoon light. Perfect for photos!
🗣️ Bilingual Signs
Notice signs in both Basque and Spanish, reflecting the region's dual linguistic heritage.
🐂 Festival Hub
It's the starting point for the Encierro (Running of the Bulls) and a key festival location.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Pamplona Town Hall for its stunning Baroque architecture and its central role in the vibrant San Fermín festival. The building's historical significance and ornate facade are frequently highlighted as major attractions. While the Chupinazo event is a major draw, some find the extreme crowds during this period overwhelming.
"The location of the building was chosen in 1423 when Charles III of Navarre unified the main districts of the Kingdom of Navarre, establishing it as a common political center. In 1753, the original building was demolished, and a new structure was built. Over time, it has undergone several renovations, yet the Baroque style remains prominent. Every year on July 6th at exactly 12:00 PM, the mayor launches the 'Txupinazo' rocket from the city hall balcony to mark the start of the San Fermín festival. It is also one of the routes used during the Encierro, the running of the bulls. Performances featuring giants and big-headed figures are also held here."
Seokjin Ham
"I am not sure if it’s more to visit with a fee, but you can just enter and see the entrance room. The outside of the town hall is beautiful though, baroque style. The Ayuntamiento de Pamplona is is of the most beautiful buildings in Pamplona!"
Maria Achilleia
"The Town Hall of Pamplona was built in the Baroque style in 1753.
The facade is richly decorated with sculpted stonework and painted metalwork. The entrance is flanked by sculptures representing the virtues of Justice and Prudence.
The central balcony is where the start of the San Fermín festival is announced with the "Chupinazo," the ceremonial rocket launch."
Kent Wang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pamplona Town Hall is centrally located in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento. Most visitors arrive by walking from other parts of the city center. If coming from further afield, local buses are available, and taxis can drop you nearby.
Parking in the immediate vicinity of the Town Hall is limited due to its central location and pedestrian zones. It's best to use public parking garages located a short walk away, such as the Plaza del Castillo parking.
Yes, Pamplona has a good bus network. Several bus lines stop within a few minutes' walk of the Town Hall, making it easily accessible via public transport.
Exploring Pamplona's old town, including the area around the Town Hall, is best done on foot. This allows you to fully appreciate the historic streets and architecture.
The main entrance and ground floor lobby are generally accessible. However, some older parts of the building and the surrounding plaza may have uneven surfaces. It's advisable to check specific accessibility details if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need tickets to view the exterior of Pamplona Town Hall or enter its ground floor lobby. Access to specific event areas or upper floors may require tickets during festivals or special events.
The exterior is always visible. The lobby is typically open during standard business hours on weekdays. During the San Fermín festival, the area is extremely busy and access might be restricted or managed differently.
For the 'Chupinazo' on July 6th, expect massive crowds. For a less intense experience, consider visiting the plaza on other festival days, but be prepared for crowds.
Official guided tours are not always advertised for general public access to the Town Hall itself, beyond the lobby. However, guided walking tours of Pamplona often include historical context about the Town Hall.
Entry to the ground floor lobby of Pamplona Town Hall is free. There are no admission fees for simply viewing the building's exterior or accessing the main entrance area.
📸 📸 Photography
The Plaza del Ayuntamiento offers the best vantage point for capturing the entire facade. The surrounding streets also provide charming perspectives.
Yes, but it's extremely crowded. Be prepared for limited space and be mindful of others. Capturing the rocket launch itself is challenging but rewarding.
Golden hour, in the late afternoon or early evening, provides beautiful warm light on the Baroque facade.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful of any private events or specific signage indicating restrictions.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the full facade and the plaza. A standard zoom lens is versatile for details. A fast lens can be helpful for low-light conditions during festivals.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Town Hall has been the political center of Pamplona since 1423. The current Baroque building dates back to 1753 and has undergone renovations, maintaining its architectural integrity.
It's the focal point! The 'Chupinazo' rocket is launched from its balcony to start the festival. The plaza is filled with revelers, and it's a key location for events and processions.
Yes, the ground floor lobby often displays historic items, offering a glimpse into the building's past.
The Town Hall is a prime example of Baroque architecture, characterized by its ornate facade, sculpted stonework, and decorative elements.
The Encierro, or Running of the Bulls, starts near the Town Hall and passes through the old town. The Town Hall square is a popular viewing spot for the end of the run.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a calmer visit, exploring the Town Hall's exterior and the ground floor lobby is a good option. It's a chance to see a beautiful historic building without the intense crowds. Pack snacks and water, as the area can get busy, and be mindful of the cobblestone streets which can be tricky for strollers.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
During the San Fermín festival, the Town Hall becomes a dynamic subject. Photographing the Chupinazo is challenging due to the immense crowds and fast-paced action, but the raw energy of the event can make for dramatic shots. Be prepared for tight spaces and consider a zoom lens to capture details from a distance. Remember to also look for smaller details like the sculptures flanking the entrance and the flags adorning the building.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heartbeat of San Fermín: The Chupinazo
Experiencing the Chupinazo requires strategic planning. Visitors are advised to arrive very early, often by 7:30 AM or earlier, to secure a decent viewing spot in the packed plaza. The energy is palpable, with music, chanting, and a collective countdown to the rocket launch. While the event is exhilarating, it's also incredibly crowded, so be prepared for a dense throng of people.
Beyond the Chupinazo, the Town Hall square remains a hub of activity throughout the festival. It hosts various performances, including traditional music and the famous 'Gigantes y Cabezudos' (Giants and Big-Heads) parades, making it a central point for experiencing the San Fermín spirit.
Architectural Grandeur: A Baroque Gem
Even outside the frenzy of San Fermín, the Town Hall is a beautiful landmark worth admiring. The intricate details of its facade, the imposing structure, and its placement in the bustling Plaza del Ayuntamiento make it a picturesque sight. Visitors can often enter the ground floor lobby, which may house historic items, offering a small but significant glimpse into the building's long history and its role as the administrative heart of the city.
The building's enduring Baroque style, despite subsequent renovations, speaks to its architectural significance. It stands as a proud symbol of Pamplona's heritage and continues to be a focal point for civic life and cultural events, making it a must-see for anyone interested in Spanish architecture and history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit