San Juan/Donibane - Image 1

San Juan Donibane

4.6
·491k reviews·Pamplona, Spain

Experience the electrifying San Fermín festival in Pamplona, famous for its Running of the Bulls, or explore the charming coastal village of Pasaia Do...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

July 6-14

San Fermín festival

CrowdHigh
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San Juan/Donibane - Image 1

San Juan Donibane

Best Time

July 6-14

San Fermín festival

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the electrifying San Fermín festival in Pamplona, famous for its Running of the Bulls, or explore the charming coastal village of Pasaia Donibane.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"San Fermín offers an unforgettable rush, while Pasaia Donibane provides a serene escape."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Chupinazo

Get to the Plaza del Ayuntamiento by 7:30 AM for the 8 AM Chupinazo start.

👟 Comfortable Shoes are Key

You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if exploring Pasaia Donibane's charming streets.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Running of the Bulls

Running of the Bulls

Pamplona streets

Experience the adrenaline rush of bulls charging through the streets. A truly unforgettable, albeit intense, spectacle.

TikTok
Chupinazo Opening Ceremony

Chupinazo Opening Ceremony

Plaza del Ayuntamiento, Pamplona

The explosive start to San Fermín! Feel the energy as the festival officially kicks off with cheers and celebrations.

TikTok
Pasaia Donibane's Coastal Charm

Pasaia Donibane's Coastal Charm

Pasaia Donibane, Basque Country

Wander through this picturesque fishing village with colorful houses and a unique waterfront street.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for San Fermín

The San Fermín festival, famous for the Running of the Bulls, draws massive crowds. Plan your visit well in advance, especially if you want to experience the main events like the Chupinazo. Accommodation and transport book up months ahead. TikTok

Navigating Pamplona's Crowds

Pamplona becomes incredibly busy during San Fermín. Be prepared for packed streets and consider booking tickets for bullfights early. Local tips suggest arriving very early for good spots. Reddit

Best Times

When
July 6-14
Why
San Fermín festival
Crowd
High
When
Early mornings
Why
Beat the crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Festive atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#runningofthebulls #pamplona #spain #bullrun #fyp #
@zacchizz
313.9K likes • 4.2M views

🎯 Arrive Early for Chupinazo

Get to the Plaza del Ayuntamiento by 7:30 AM for the 8 AM Chupinazo start. TikTokReddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes are Key

You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if exploring Pasaia Donibane's charming streets. Instagram

JJAJAJAAJ GAS 😭@Pamplona #fyp #vira #livesdepamplona
@pamplomigajero
242.1K likes • 1.7M views
📌 Pasaia Donibane, o Pasajes de San Juan, es un municipio formado por la unión de varios barrios históricamente dependientes de San Sebastián y Hondarribia, y que confluyen en una bahía conectada con el mar por un estrecho paso. Pequeño y pintoresco, hay mucho que ver en Pasajes de San Juan. Es uno de los más bonitos pasos del Camino a Compostela por el Norte, conectando Hondarribia con San Sebast...
rincones_vascos
443 likes • 6.8K views

📱 Local Insights App

Check out local tips for San Fermín to discover hidden gems and avoid common tourist pitfalls. TikTok

🚢 Take the Green Boat

Cross to Pasaia Donibane from San Pedro on the charming green boats for scenic views. Instagram+1

✅ ESTAMPAS DE PASAI DONIBANE. PASAJES SAN JUAN. Reconozco que es una debilidad mía cruzar en las motoras verdes Gure Antxote o Gure Torre para disfrutar de los últimos rayos de sol en Pasai Donibane, Pasajes San Juan. El olor a salitre, la luz de la tarde, el verde del monte, el azul del mar, los colores de las casas marineras, viendo entrenar a los clubes de remo, viendo el atunero Mater prepar...
donosti_city
638 likes • 11.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Chupinazo

Get to the Plaza del Ayuntamiento by 7:30 AM for the 8 AM Chupinazo start. TikTokReddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes are Key

You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if exploring Pasaia Donibane's charming streets. Instagram

📱 Local Insights App

Check out local tips for San Fermín to discover hidden gems and avoid common tourist pitfalls. TikTok

🚢 Take the Green Boat

Cross to Pasaia Donibane from San Pedro on the charming green boats for scenic views. Instagram+1

🐂 Bullfight Tickets

Tickets for bullfights can be hard to get; book in advance if possible. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

San Fermín is an electrifying festival, with the Running of the Bulls and the Chupinazo being major highlights that offer unparalleled adrenaline and energy. Visitors also praise the charm of Pasaia Donibane's picturesque coastal village. However, the extreme crowds and the controversial nature of the bull-related events are significant drawbacks for some.

What People Like

Adrenaline-pumping bull run
Vibrant festival atmosphere
Charming Pasaia Donibane

What People Dislike

Extreme crowds
Animal welfare concerns
High accommodation costs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Pamplona is accessible by bus and train from major Spanish cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Many visitors also fly into nearby airports and take a bus or taxi. TikTok

The city center is largely pedestrianized during San Fermín. Walking is the best way to get around, but be prepared for crowds. Public transport may be rerouted. TikTok

You can reach Pasaia Donibane by bus from San Sebastián or by taking a short ferry ride from the neighboring Pasaia San Pedro. Instagram+1

These locations are in different regions of the Basque Country. Traveling between them typically involves a train or bus journey, taking several hours. TikTok

Driving directly into the heart of San Juan Donibane is restricted due to its unique single-street layout. Parking is available nearby, and the ferry is a popular option. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices for bullfights vary depending on seating location and the specific event. It's advisable to check official sources or reputable ticket vendors for current pricing. Reddit

Yes, bullfight tickets can be in high demand, especially for popular days. Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot. Reddit

While watching from the streets is free, you can purchase tickets for designated viewing areas along the route or in the bullring for a more comfortable experience. Reddit

Pasaia Donibane itself is a public area and does not have an entry fee. You only pay for specific activities like boat rides or museum entries if you choose to visit them. Instagram

Attractions like small museums or historical sites may have varying hours. It's best to check their individual schedules, especially outside of peak tourist season. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

For an adrenaline rush, some participate in the run itself (with extreme caution and understanding of risks). Others prefer watching from balconies or the bullring. TikTokReddit

Don't miss walking along the unique 'Donibane Kalea,' the main street, and enjoying the colorful waterfront houses. The ferry ride is also a highlight. Instagram+1

Expect a vibrant, energetic, and very crowded atmosphere with constant celebrations, music, and people enjoying themselves. TikTok+1

The village maintains its strong maritime heritage. You might see traditional rowing teams practicing, and local festivals often involve seafood and wine. Instagram+1

Running with the bulls is extremely dangerous and carries significant risks of serious injury or death. It is not recommended for the inexperienced or unprepared. TikTok+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find plenty of tapas, pintxos, and local specialties. Seafood is popular, especially in coastal areas like Pasaia. Instagram+1

There are several charming restaurants and bars along Donibane Kalea, offering fresh seafood and local Basque cuisine. Instagram

While traditional Basque cuisine features meat and fish, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian options. It's always good to ask. Instagram

Txakoli is a slightly sparkling, dry white wine from the Basque Country, often enjoyed with seafood. It's a local specialty you should try. Instagram

Tapas and pintxos bars are generally more budget-friendly than full-service restaurants. Look for local spots away from the main tourist thoroughfares. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the energy of the Chupinazo, the dramatic moments of the bull run (from a safe distance!), and the festive street scenes. TikTok+1

The colorful houses lining the single street, the reflections in the water, and the boats create a picturesque scene. The ferry ride offers great vantage points. Instagram+2

Generally, photography is allowed in public spaces. However, be mindful of private property and respect individuals' privacy. TikTok

Late afternoon light often provides a beautiful glow on the colorful houses and the water. Instagram

Yes, but always from a safe distance and with respect for the animals and the event. TikTok+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Pamplona during San Fermín is very lively and can be overwhelming, families can still enjoy parts of the festival. The Chupinazo opening ceremony offers a spectacle of energy, though it gets very crowded. TikTok Consider visiting Pasaia Donibane for a more relaxed family outing. Its charming streets and waterfront are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the ferry ride is usually a hit with children. Instagram Look for family-friendly tapas and pintxos, which are often a fun way for kids to try local flavors. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, visiting Pasaia Donibane offers a beautiful experience without significant costs. Enjoying the scenery, walking the streets, and taking the affordable ferry are key. Instagram+1 In Pamplona, while accommodation during San Fermín is expensive and books up fast, consider staying in nearby towns and commuting. TikTok Eating tapas and pintxos at local bars is generally more economical than sit-down meals. Instagram Watching the Running of the Bulls from the street is free, but be aware that prime viewing spots might require early arrival or a small fee for balcony access. Reddit

💖 Couples

For a romantic escape, Pasaia Donibane offers a picturesque setting with its colorful houses and waterfront promenade. Enjoy a leisurely walk hand-in-hand, share a bottle of Txakoli with fresh seafood, and soak in the tranquil coastal ambiance. Instagram+1 In Pamplona, couples can experience the vibrant festival atmosphere together, perhaps enjoying evening strolls and live music. For a unique thrill, consider watching the Running of the Bulls from a balcony for a memorable shared experience. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thrill and Controversy of the Running of the Bulls

The Running of the Bulls (Encierro) is the most famous event of the San Fermín festival in Pamplona. Every morning from July 6th to 14th, six fighting bulls and several steers are let loose to run through the narrow, cobbled streets of the old town towards the bullring. Thousands of brave (or perhaps foolhardy) participants, known as 'mozos,' run ahead of the bulls, aiming to reach the bullring safely. TikTok+1

This tradition, while exhilarating for some, is also highly controversial due to the inherent dangers and the subsequent bullfights. Animal welfare organizations strongly condemn the event, highlighting the stress and potential harm to the animals. TikTok Visitors considering participating are urged to understand the extreme risks involved and to do so with utmost caution and respect. Reddit

For those who prefer to watch, securing a spot on a balcony along the route or in the bullring is recommended. Remember that the run begins promptly at 8 AM, so arriving very early is crucial for good viewing positions. Reddit

Discovering Pasaia Donibane: A Coastal Gem

Pasaia Donibane, also known as Pasajes de San Juan, is a remarkably picturesque fishing village nestled on the coast of the Basque Country. Its most distinctive feature is its unique layout: a single, charming street, Donibane Kalea, runs along the waterfront, with colorful houses seemingly built right on the water's edge. Instagram+2

Getting to Donibane is part of the experience. Many visitors opt for the short and scenic ferry ride from the neighboring town of Pasaia San Pedro, offering lovely views of the bay and the village as you approach. Instagram+1 Once there, strolling along Donibane Kalea is a must. The atmosphere is tranquil, filled with the scent of the sea and the sounds of local life. Instagram

Donibane is an ideal spot for a relaxed day trip. You can enjoy fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants, perhaps trying the local Txakoli wine, and soak in the authentic maritime charm. The village also holds historical significance as a stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. Instagram+1

The Spirit of San Fermín: Beyond the Bulls

While the Running of the Bulls is the main draw, San Fermín is a multifaceted festival offering a rich cultural experience. The Chupinazo, the opening ceremony on July 6th, is an explosion of joy and energy, marking the official start of the nine-day fiesta with music, dancing, and fireworks. TikTok Throughout the festival, Pamplona buzzes with parades, traditional music, street performances, and gastronomic events. TikTok

The festival also provides a platform for social and political expression. In recent years, attendees have used the event to voice solidarity with various causes, as seen with demonstrations supporting Palestine. TikTok This highlights how San Fermín, while rooted in tradition, also reflects contemporary societal dialogues.

Beyond the organized events, the true spirit of San Fermín lies in the communal celebration. Locals and visitors alike come together to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, share food and drink, and immerse themselves in the unique culture of Pamplona. TikTok Experiencing the festival involves embracing this lively, inclusive spirit.

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