Navarra is an autonomous community in northern Spain full of charm, natural beauty and a rich historical heritage, which is reflected in its monuments and festivals. The region has a great variety of landscapes, from the Pyrenees to the Bardenas Reales desert, passing through forests such as the Irati Forest and valleys such as the Baztan Valley. In this article, we will explore some of the most notable places what to see in Navarra and the activities to do there to discover all its possibilities.
What to see in Navarra
1) Pamplona
one of the best things what to do in Navarra is to see its capital, famous for the San Fermín running of the bulls, it is a city with a rich historical and architectural heritage. St. Mary's Cathedral is an outstanding example of Gothic architecture, with its impressive façade and splendid stained glass windows that tell numerous stories.
In addition, the Citadel of Pamplona is a well-preserved military fortress dating back to the 16th century. You can take a walk along its walls and explore its museums to discover the history of the city. And if you want a gastronomic route, you can also enjoy their wonderful pintxos spread throughout all the places in the old town.
2) Castle Square
The heart of Pamplona, this square is a lovely place to relax and observe local life. Surrounded by historic buildings with elegant balconies and terraces, it is a popular meeting point for residents and visitors. In addition, it is in the center of all the most popular places where you can enjoy the diverse cuisine of its lands.
3) Camino de Santiago
Navarra is an essential part of the Camino de Santiago, a millennia-old pilgrimage itinerary. In the town of Puente de la Reina, you will find an impressive medieval bridge over the Arga River, an iconic stop for pilgrims.
Estella is another of the medieval towns to see in Navarra, with a very well preserved old town. Its cobbled streets and historic buildings will transport you back in time. Additionally, the Irache Monastery is known for its wine fountain, where pilgrims can drink wine for free, a unique tradition.
4) Bardenas Reales Natural Park
This natural park is a spectacle of erosion and desert landscapes. The rock formations and plateaus create an almost lunar atmosphere that is a wonder of nature. It is one of the essential places to see in Navarra, ideal for hiking and enjoying a unique environment.
5) Irati Jungle
One of the natural wonders of Navarra. This beech forest is one of the largest in Europe, and a refuge for flora and fauna. Its winding trails will take you through lush forests, and you will find crystal clear rivers that reflect the natural beauty of the region.
The Irati Forest is an ideal place to see in Navarra, for lovers of hiking, nature and photography. In winter, you can go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing at the Abodi cross-country ski resort. In spring, the Irati beech forests are covered in an unparalleled phosphor green. In summer, you can cool off on the banks of the Irati River. And in autumn, the forest transforms into an almost unique color palette.
6) Baztan Valley
This valley is a region located in the north of Navarra, a picturesque place that is dotted with charming villages with stone houses and red roofs. The green valleys and mountains in the background create a stunning setting. Don't miss the opportunity to explore its natural trails and visit the caves and historic bridges.
It is known for its green landscapes with mountains, forests and meadows, dotted with small towns where imposing farmhouses and ancestral houses stand out. The region has a wide variety of tourist places that are worth visiting, such as the Urdax caves, the Santxotena museum and the Señorío de Bertiz.
7) Royal Palace of Olite
This medieval castle is a courtly and military construction erected during the 13th and 14th centuries in the town of Olite. The palace is a masterpiece of King Charles III “the Noble” and the most representative emblem of the old Kingdom of Navarra. The palace has many rooms and towers that can be visited. Its towers, corridors and gardens are a wonder to explore, where the history of this place will transport you to the Middle Ages.
8) The Monastery of Leyre
Located in the beautiful region of Navarra, it dazzles with its picturesque landscape and historic charm. Surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests, this ancient monastery exudes an aura of serenity and spirituality. Its Romanesque and Gothic architecture captivates visitors with its timeless beauty. Additionally, the monastery is home to a rich history dating back more than a thousand years, making it an unrivaled cultural and spiritual destination in northern Spain.
9) The birthplace of Urederra
It is a true natural treasure that you can see in Navarra. Its landscape dazzles with the beauty of its crystalline waters that emerge from the depths of the Sierra de Urbasa. Surrounded by lush vegetation and rocky gorges, the Nacedero de Urederra is a corner of serenity and wonder. Trails that wind along the river allow visitors to explore this magical environment and enjoy its unique charm. It is an unmissable destination for those seeking harmony with nature in the heart of Navarra.
All these places that you can see in Navarra offer a wealth of cultural, historical and natural experiences that will leave you amazed. Each one is a gem in its own right, and together they form an unforgettable journey through this beautiful region.
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What to do in Navarre
Navarra is a land of diversity and contrasts that offers a range of activities to suit all tastes, whether seeking outdoor adventures, immersing yourself in rich history or tasting delicious food, Navarra has something special to offer every visitor.
1) San Fermín festivities in Pamplona
They are one of the most emblematic and exciting festivals in Spain. Every year, at the beginning of July, the city is filled with color, music and excitement in honor of San Fermín. The most famous event is the running of the bulls, where brave runners challenge fighting bulls in the narrow streets of the old town.
The mornings are filled with adrenaline, while the afternoons are dedicated to parades, music, dancing, and people dress in white and red to join the party. This festival is a unique experience that fuses tradition and fun in an explosion of joy that attracts visitors from all over the world.
2) Hiking and cycling
If you are a sporty and adventurous person, you have many alternatives to do in Navarra. For example, it is a paradise for lovers of hiking and cycling. The region has an extensive network of routes and trails that cross impressive natural landscapes, including mountains, valleys, forests and rivers.
The Pyrenees offer challenging mountain trails, while the Irati Forest provides the opportunity to explore dense forests and green meadows. For road cyclists, Navarre's scenic roads wind through vineyards and gentle hills, offering perfect routes to enjoy rural beauty and wine culture.
You can also explore sections of the Camino de Santiago on foot or by bicycle, or venture along the Plazaola Greenway, a former railway line converted into a path for cyclists and walkers.
3) Navarra Gastronomy
Gastronomy in Navarra is a fundamental part of the experience. In addition to trying traditional dishes such as pochas a la Navarra, which are fresh beans cooked with chistorra and bacon, and stuffed Piquillo peppers, you can also enjoy the famous roast lamb, which is masterfully prepared in the region.
Navarra is also known for its varied offer of pintxos, small culinary delights that you can enjoy on a culinary tour of the bars in the old town.
4) Visits to wineries
Visits to wine cellars are one of the best things to do in Navarra. They are famous for their commitment to quality and innovation in wine production. Navarra is known for its geographical diversity, ranging from the Pyrenees mountains to the fertile lands of the Ribera, and this diversity is reflected in the variety of wines produced in the region.
Various grape varieties are grown here, including Tempranillo, Garnacha, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, among others. This allows wineries to produce a wide range of wines, from robust reds to crisp whites and refreshing rosés, offering wine lovers an enriching and delicious experience that combines tradition, innovation and enchanting scenery.
5) Art and culture
Art in Navarra is an expression of its rich history and creativity. Monuments such as Olite Castle and Leyre Monastery are notable examples of historic architecture. Additionally, the region is home to museums such as the Museum of Navarra and the Museo Universidad de Navarra, which exhibit a wide range of contemporary art.
Explore the exhibits to learn about the evolution of art over time and the cultural influence in Navarre. You can also visit historical monuments and places of cultural interest in the region, such as the Royal Palace of Olite, or other locations that will transport you to the Middle Ages.
6) Local festivals
Navarra is known for its vibrant local festivals, which celebrate the culture, tradition and joy of the region. In addition to Sanfermines in Pamplona, there are also other festivities such as the Vegetable Festival in Tudela, which pays tribute to local agriculture with festive dishes and parades.
Other patron saint festivals, such as those of Estella and Tafalla, offer music, dance and colorful parades that reflect the identity of each town. Or, for example, the Harvest Festival in Olite, where the grape harvest and wine production in the region are commemorated, and you can participate in wine tastings, parades, shows and activities related to the harvest.
In summary, if you still have doubts about what to do in Navarra, these are some of the festivities that appeal to the culture, tradition and hospitality of its lands, filling the region with life and joy.
Navarra offers a wide range of activities to satisfy the interests of all types of travelers. Whether you are looking for exciting adventures, culinary experiences, cultural exploration or simply relaxation in nature, this region has much to offer.
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Make the most of your time in Navarra!
