Pamplona, a city in northern Spain, is most famously known for its San Fermín festival, which includes the Running of the Bulls, catapulted to global fame by Ernest Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises. While visitors flock to the city in July to witness this iconic event, many might not realize that Pamplona has recently been crowned the city with the best quality of life in Spain. For authors Jules Stewart and Helen Crisp, who have experienced Pamplona’s unique charm firsthand, the city’s blend of tradition, culture, and modernity makes it a standout destination. They’ve even participated in the Running of the Bulls themselves, though Jules admits his experience was less than glamorous. “A horde of Australian runners knocked me to the ground,” he confesses, adding that Helen fared much better. The event, despite its adrenaline-fueled reputation, is not without its lighter moments, as Jules humorously recounts being warned about the dangers of inebriated Aussie participants.
Beyond the thrill of the bulls, Pamplona’s reputation as Spain’s top city for quality of life is well-deserved. According to a survey by Madrid Capital Mundial (MCM), Pamplona outperforms rivals like Palma de Mallorca and Málaga in categories such as cost of living, affordable housing, a clean environment, low crime rates, and efficient healthcare. The city’s 200,000 residents also benefit from its thriving agricultural sector, including renowned wine production, and the presence of a highly productive Volkswagen factory. This blend of tradition and modernity creates a city that feels both vibrant and laid-back, offering residents and visitors alike a high standard of living. As Jules and Helen note, Pamplona’s residents enjoy an average life expectancy of 84.4 years, with 98% of them describing their city as a wonderful place to live.
For those who enjoy exploring local culture, Pamplona has plenty to offer. The city is home to 12 museums and three university campuses, making it a hub for education and the arts. A stroll through the Old Town reveals narrow medieval streets lined with family-run shops, from ironmongers to candlemakers, alongside ancient churches and the stunning baroque town hall. The city’s grand neoclassical cathedral, perched on a hill overlooking the city, boasts Spain’s largest working bell. For food enthusiasts, Pamplona’s markets are a treasure trove of fresh produce, with local specialties like Roncal cheese and fresh vegetables from the nearby “vegetable garden of Spain” in Tudela. The city’s pintxo bars serve up award-winning tapas that blend traditional flavors with innovative twists, making dining out a culinary adventure.
Pamplona’s commitment to sustainability is another aspect of its charm. The city’s extensive green spaces, including the beautiful La Taconera gardens and the walkways along its historic walls, are a testament to its eco-friendly ethos. With over 60,000 trees—roughly one for every three residents—and 56 kilometers of bicycle lanes, Pamplona is a city that prioritizes the environment. This focus on sustainability, combined with its clean streets and well-managed traffic, makes it a delightful place to explore on foot or by bike. For locals like Javier Cía Alcorta, a lifelong resident and owner of a rare books and antiques shop, Pamplona’s ease of navigation is one of its greatest advantages. “It’s a city where you can improvise your daily plans with ease,” he says, highlighting the accessibility of its schools, libraries, hospitals, and cultural events.
One of Pamplona’s hidden gems is the Señorío de Otazu winery, a 20-minute taxi ride from the city center. Otazu is one of only twenty Spanish wineries to earn the prestigious Denominación de Pago certification, recognizing its exceptional wines. But what truly sets Otazu apart is its world-class art collection, featuring works by international artists like Ai Weiwei and Carlos Cruz-Diez. As Jules wryly notes, the winery’s slogan could be, “We also make wine,” given its impressive display of over 700 pieces of art. This unique blend of wine and art makes Otazu a must-visit for anyone interested in culture, creativity, and fine wine.
In short, Pamplona is a city that has it all: rich history, vibrant culture, and a high quality of life. Its mix of medieval charm, modern amenities, and natural beauty makes it a place where tradition and innovation coexist seamlessly. As Jules and Helen can attest, Pamplona is a city that grows on you. Even if it lacks a few niche items (Marmite lovers, take note!), the city’s many virtues make it a wonderful place to live or visit. Whether you’re running with the bulls, sipping wine amidst cutting-edge art, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll through its picturesque streets, Pamplona is a city that leaves a lasting impression.
