What do I need to attend the Running of the Bulls™?

I love to plan my own trips! Even prior to working in tourism I was always planned my family and friends’s trips around the world. I do this because I love to learn about every place I’m going and I like to be independent in during my trips by knowing where to go and what to do.

Sometimes it takes me a long time to get prepared because destination or event I’m attending it a bit confusing. In my opinion, The Running of the Bulls™ is one of the most difficult trips to organize.

If you are reading this post is because you love organize your trips too, and you need some advice.  I know, there is a lot of information about events and things to do in Pamplona all over the internet. Believe it or not but the Running of the Bulls is that is an event for all kind s of people, not just daredevils. There are many ways to enjoy the running of the bulls, you just have to decide which way is best for you. Here are some places to start.

First of all, you need to know your budget and decide how many days do you want to spend in Pamplona. As you probably know, the festival starts on July 6th and ends on July 14th. The running of the bulls only occurs from July 7th to the 14th. Weekends and the beginning days of the festival tend to be the most expensive. If you have a small budget I recommend that you attend the festival during the middle days.

The second important decision is to know where you want to stay. Pamplona is a small city, so there are not that many hotels in the city center. Luckily, the old town is not too far from the most popular hotels. If you want to stay in the middle of the action, there is a somewhat small selection of hotels that could be great for you. If you don’t mind the distance, and you are happy walking around 20 minutes or taking a taxi or public bus, there are a lot of nice hotels to stay in as well.

Once those two fundamental parts of trip planning have been solved. The next thing to decide is how you are going to be part of The Running of The Bulls, el Encierro. One option is to run. If this is your choice, be sure that you know the most important things about it, and always watch the day before, to understand how it works.

If you prefer to participate as a spectator, the best way to so is by renting a balcony spot. First of all, decide what part of the bull run route you want to watch (Santo Domingo, Mercaderes or Estafeta), after, choose a level. To be closer to the bulls choose level 1 or 2. To have  a great and long view of the street choose level 3 or 4.

After you’ve tackled those three questions. You can then decide how you prefer to spend your time in Pamplona, there are many activities during the day including concerts, exhibitions, contests, cultural events. Some of the events are free like concerts and cultural events. However, some require entrance tickets like the bullfights or apartado.

In the case of the most popular events, like the Opening Ceremonies, Closing Ceremonies, Procession and Pamplona Fireworks. You will need to choose between watching from the street or from a balcony spot. If you’re not a fan of large (sometimes rowdy) crowds the second option might be best for you.

I’m sure that, whatever you choose, the experience is going to be an unforgettable one! I f you’re still undecided about what to do or if you need more advice to decide which option is best for you, please let me know!