Are you planning a visit to Pamplona and wondering which areas are best to stay in and which ones to avoid?
Pamplona, located in the Navarre region, is best known for its famous San Fermín fiestas, where participants run through the streets with the bulls. Many tourists stay in this beautiful Spanish city. But many visitors wonder about the safety of the city's neighborhoods.
In this article, you will discover which neighborhoods to avoid in Pamplona but also the best areas to stay.
Is Pamplona a dangerous city?
At the national level, just like Malaga, Seville, Alicante ou Madrid, Pamplona is not considered a dangerous city.
The vast majority of the population report feeling safe both at home and on the streets, although there are some differences in the perception of safety between men and women and between different neighborhoods in the city.
However, regarding crime figures, the number has been increasing sharply for 3 years. The most common crimes in Pamplona are mainly thefts, robberies with violence, sexual crimes, drug trafficking and injuries during riots, especially during the San Fermín festivals.
At the global level, according to the latest Numbeo ranking of European cities, Pamplona ranks among the least crime cities in Europe.
Indeed, with a crime index of only 19.45, Pamplona is even less criminal than Munich, Prague ou Copenhagen.
What neighborhoods should you avoid in Pamplona?
Although Pamplona is a generally safe city, there are some areas to avoid as insecurity is higher than in the rest of the city. There are 8 neighborhoods that are the most dangerous in Pamplona Buztintxuri, Milagrosa, San Jorge, La Vuelta del Castillo, La Ciudadela, Avenida Zaragoza, Jarauta, La Taconera.
They can be classified into 2 categories:
- Buztintxuri, Milagrosa and San Jorge : These neighborhoods have the highest number of crime victims in Pamplona. However, the most common crimes in these neighborhoods are non-violent thefts of wallets or purses.
- The Vuelta del Castillo, La Ciudadela, Avenida Zaragoza, Jarauta and La Taconera : These areas have been identified as the most dangerous for women in Pamplona, according to a study carried out based on testimonies from residents.
What are the best areas to stay in Pamplona?
According to many internet sources, the safest neighborhoods in Pamplona are:
- Ermitagaña-Mendebaldea,
- Lezkairu,
- San Juan,
- Ensanche,
- Iturrama.
But for a tourist stay, the best area to stay is the old town (Casco viejo de Pamplona).
Casco viejo for tourism and Pamplona fair
The historic district of Pamplona, also known as Casco viejo, is one of the most touristy areas of the city. It is a mainly pedestrian area which surrounds the Castle Square (Plaza del Castillo) in the city center. See location of this neighborhood
You can stroll the cobblestone streets, visit the cathedral and enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Plaza del Castillo.
With its narrow streets, historic monuments and numerous bars and restaurants, it is the ideal place for those looking for a lively and festive atmosphere.
Indeed, it is in this district that the Pamplona feria takes place from July 6 to 14 (San Fermín festivals). In fact, the gathering begins from the Plaza Consistorial in front the town hall.
Which hotel in this area?
If you are looking for a hotel well located to visit Pamplona on foot or to participate in the San Fermín festivals, then I recommend it.hotel el Pompaelo Plaza del Ayuntamiento.
Indeed, this hotel is located in Pamplona's Town Hall Square in the historic center, just 200 meters from Pamplona Cathedral. For festivities, its location is also ideal: 800 meters from Ciutadella Park!
