In the very heart of Navarra, travelers are offered a unique way to discover Pamplona: following a route inspired by the life and works of Ernest Hemingway. This journey is more than just a tour—it’s an immersive experience that captures the atmosphere of a city that became a second home and source of inspiration for the famous writer.
The connection between Hemingway and Pamplona began in the early 20th century, when the young journalist first arrived for the San Fermín festival. From that first visit, he kept returning to the city, soaking in its energy, watching street parades, the bullfighting, and everyday life. These impressions formed the basis of his novel “The Sun Also Rises,” which brought Pamplona international fame.
The Hemingway route includes not only the city’s famous squares and streets, but also historic bars, hotels, and cafés where the writer spent his evenings among friends and local personalities. Perhaps the most iconic stop is Plaza del Castillo—the hub of city life—where Hemingway first arrived in July 1923. Nearby stands the legendary hotel La Perla, where he stayed during his visits, and close by is the café Iruña, which still preserves the atmosphere of the early 20th century.
History and literature enthusiasts can also visit the bar Txoko, remember the now-gone Café Torino, or walk to the Hotel Quintana, where Hemingway used to meet locals and discuss the happenings of the festival. These places still retain the spirit of that era, when the writer turned every meeting into material for his future books.
A special part of the route is dedicated to the famous running of the bulls—encierro—which Hemingway described with particular excitement. The streets where the bulls raced, the alleys by the arena, and the old markets have all become part of his literary legacy. After the writer’s death, Pamplona honored his memory with a monument near the arena, highlighting the inseparable bond between the city and the man who made it world-famous.
The route also includes less-known but equally significant sites: the Santo Domingo Market (Mercado de Santo Domingo), the Cathedral of Santa María la Real (Catedral de Santa María la Real), and the city hall building. Every corner of the city preserves memories of Hemingway, turning an ordinary stroll into a journey through the pages of his books.
For those interested in following this route, both group tours and self-guided walks are available. The Pamplona tourist office and local guides will help you choose the best option, so everyone can discover the city through the eyes of the great writer and experience its unique atmosphere.
