There are places we visit. There are also places we experience.

During our author's journey of Journey Group to Pamplona we will find ourselves in the very heart of one of the most famous festivals in the world – San Fermin. For nine days, the city lives to the rhythm of music, processions, fireworks, traditions and the unique atmosphere of the Spanish fiesta.

Our focus is on the most exciting moments – the opening ceremony, the famous "Enciero" - the running of the bulls, the traditional processions, the parade of the Giants and the Big Heads, the evening shows and the atmosphere of the old town.

We will have enough time not just to "see" Pamplona, but to feel it - with its narrow medieval streets, squares, tapas bars, local traditions, and festive energy.

Day 1 | SOFIA – MADRID – PAMPLONA

Welcome to Navarra!

Departure from Sofia by plane to Madrid and continuation to Pamplona.

After arriving in the capital of Navarra, we head to the hotel and check in.

Our first evening is dedicated to a leisurely introduction to the city. We will walk through the historic center, feel the atmosphere before the big fiesta begins, and have the opportunity to try the first local specialties.

Pamplona is much more than the city of bulls. Here, history, Basque culture, Spanish gastronomy and the festive spirit come together in one place.

Overnight in Pamplona.

Day 2 | PAMPLONA – THE DAY THE CITY EXPLODES

Today our real adventure begins.

On July 6, Pamplona turns into a sea of white and red. Thousands of people fill the streets, and the anticipation for the start of San Fermin is felt everywhere.

CHUPINASO – the official start of the festival

At 12:00 we will be in the area of Plaza Consistorial, where the festival traditionally starts with the famous Txupinazo – the rocket that kicks off the nine-day fiesta.

Minutes later, the whole city is already celebrating.

White clothing, red scarves, music, songs, champagne and incredible human energy – this is the moment when Pamplona literally changes its rhythm.

In the afternoon we will immerse ourselves in one of the most colorful traditions of the festival – Parade of Giants and Big Heads.

In the evening it's time for more San Fermin:

• street celebrations;
• music and dancing;
• the traditional Toro de Fuego – The Fire Bull;
• festive fireworks;
• concerts and the atmosphere of the squares of Pamplona.

For those who wish, additional visits to events from the festival program can be organized.

Overnight in Pamplona.

The day is free for relaxation, walks, the beach or exploring the island on your own.

If desired, you can join an additional sunrise excursion to the highest part of Madeira - Pico Ruivo peak.

The start is early in the morning, but the view above the clouds and the mountain landscapes are an unforgettable experience.

Day 3 | THE BIG DAY – ENCIERO, SAN FERMIN AND THE BULLDOG FIGHT

This is the day that many people come to Pamplona for.

08:00 AM – ENCIERO

Early in the morning we head to the old city for one of the most recognizable sights in the world – the running of the bulls.

The six bulls run along the approximately 850-meter route through the narrow streets of Pamplona, while the participants in the enciero run in front of them.

The run itself only lasts a few minutes, but the atmosphere before and after it makes the experience something that is difficult to describe in words.

For our group, we recommend viewing from a pre-booked balcony along the route, which allows a much better view of the event and avoids direct participation in the dangerous running.

After the enciero, the city continues to celebrate.

THE SAN FERMIN PROCESSION

We will have the opportunity to observe the traditional procession in honor of Saint Fermin, the patron saint of Pamplona.

This is the different face of the festival – solemn, religious and deeply connected to local history and tradition.

In the afternoon, Pamplona returns to its festive energy – parades, music and events fill the streets.

EVENING – PLAZA DE TOROS

For those who wish, we offer the opportunity to visit the traditional bullfight in the Pamplona arena, with pre-purchased tickets.

And the evening continues with:

• Toro de Fuego;
• street performances;
• fireworks;
• live music;
• the festive atmosphere of Plaza del Castillo and the old town.

Overnight in Pamplona.

Day 4 |  PAMPLONA – FIESTA WITHOUT A BREAK

After breakfast we start the day more calmly.

This is our day for Pamplona outside the big events.

We will have free time for independent walks, cafes, tapas bars and discovering the city at our own pace.

For those who wish, we will organize a walk through the historic center with an emphasis on:

Plaza del Castillo – the heart of city life;

Pamplona City Hall – the emblematic place from which the festival begins;

Calle Estafeta – one of the most famous streets along the route of the Enciero;

Bullring – the legendary arena;

the old quarters and the city fortifications – a testament to the centuries-old history of Pamplona.

During the day, the festival continues – a new enciero, street processions, music and festive events.

In the evening we are part of the fiesta again.

For those who wish - the opportunity to visit the evening bullfight or other events from the official program.

Overnight in Pamplona.

Day 5 | PAMPLONA – MADRID – SOFIA

Breakfast.

Last hours in Pamplona – time for coffee, souvenirs and a last walk around the city.

Transfer to the airport and flight to Sofia with a stopover in Madrid.

Arrival in Sofia.