Zubiri to Pamplona
Stage 3 · Camino Francés
Zubiri → Pamplona
About this stage
Zubiri to Pamplona · 20.5 km · up 630 m, down 630 m
A varied stage following the Arga River valley before climbing into the suburbs and historic centre of Pamplona. The first half passes through gorgeous Navarrese villages, while the second half navigates the city's outskirts before entering through the medieval walls.
The walking is generally moderate with rolling terrain through the valley. Villages like Larrasoana and Zuriain offer rest stops with cafes. The approach to Pamplona passes through the suburb of Villava before crossing the historic bridge into the old city. The entry through the Portal de Francia gate is atmospheric.
Pamplona is a magnificent city famous worldwide for the Running of the Bulls (San Fermin festival, July 6-14). The walled old town, Gothic cathedral, and vibrant pintxos bar scene make it a highlight of the Frances. Full services are available, and many pilgrims take a rest day here.
Terrain: River valley paths, village cobblestones, suburban roads, urban streets
The day, stop by stop
- 0km
Zubiri
villageA small Navarrese village on the Rio Arga with albergues, cafes, and basic services. Known for the medieval Puente de la Rabia bridge at the entrance to the village.
View town guideRestaurantCafeGroceryPharmacyATMClinicPost Office
- 2.8km
Llárratz
villageTiny hamlet between Zubiri and Larrasoaña, rural valley scenery, mountain views, and very no services.
View town guideWater
- 3.5km
Esquiroz
villageTiny Camino hamlet between Ilarratz and Larrasoaña with stone houses, rural valley views, and very limited pilgrim services.
View town guide
- Need a short day?
Larrasoaña is also a good stopping point if you want a shorter day.
- 5.4km
Larrasoaña
villageHistoric Camino village after Zubiri with albergues, food options, the Church of San Nicolás, and the medieval Bridge of Bandits.
View town guideRestaurantCafeGroceryPharmacy150 m from the trail
- 6km
Akerreta
villageSmall hilltop Camino village after Larrasoaña with valley views, stone houses, the Church of the Transfiguration, and limited pilgrim services.
View town guideWater
- 9.1km
Zuriain
villageSmall Camino village on the Arga River between Akerreta and Irotz, with an albergue, food, riverside scenery, and a quiet rural feel.
View town guideRestaurantCafe
- 11.2km
Irotz
villageSmall Camino village on the Arga River before Pamplona, known for its medieval bridge, quiet rural setting, and very limited pilgrim services.
View town guide
- 12.5km
Zabaldika
villageSmall hilltop Camino village before Pamplona with a parish albergue, the Church of San Esteban, valley views, and limited services.
View town guide
- 13.6km
Arleta
villageTiny Camino hamlet before Trinidad de Arre, with a few houses, a former noble estate, a small church, and very limited pilgrim services.
View town guide
- 15.9km
La Trinidad de Arre
suburbSmall historic Camino stop at the entrance to Pamplona, known for its medieval bridge, Romanesque basilica, pilgrim albergue, and riverside setting.
View town guideRestaurantCafeATM - 16.6km
Villava
suburbVillava is a busy Camino town just before Pamplona, with shops, cafés, accommodation, historic links to Trinidad de Arre, and easy urban walking.
View town guide - 18km
Burlada
suburbBurlada is a practical Camino town just before Pamplona, with cafés, shops, pharmacies, accommodation nearby, and an easy riverside approach into the city.
View town guide - Explore the city center
Explore Pamplona's old town and try the pintxos (Basque tapas) along Calle San Nicolas and Calle Estafeta. The cathedral cloister is worth a visit.
- Summer months book up fast
Pamplona has extensive accommodation options from municipal albergues to luxury hotels. If walking during the San Fermín festival (early July), book accommodation well in advance.
- 20.7km
Pamplona
cityThe capital of Navarra, famous worldwide for the San Fermin Running of the Bulls festival. A vibrant city with a magnificent Gothic cathedral, a star-shaped citadel, and some of the best pintxos bars in Spain.
View town guideRestaurantCafeGroceryWaterPharmacyATMBusTrainPilgrim OfficeClinicPost Office
Places to stay along this stage
Koala Picks first, then each town in walking order. Where a place does not book online, walk in, call or message them.
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Planning the Camino Francés?
Add this stage to your day by day plan and see how it fits with the stages around it. Day 0 is the night you arrive in Zubiri. Choosing is never booking.