About this tour
A nine-hour private drive from Bilbao takes you into the heart of Navarre's two most compelling cities. Pamplona reveals itself through its medieval street plan, sturdy fortification walls, and the austere Gothic Cathedral—all layered with the contemporary mythology of the San Fermín festival. Your guide then steers you south to Olite, where a former royal palace dominates the hilltop town, its crenellated silhouette still commanding the landscape after centuries. You'll have time to absorb each city at your own pace, with a vehicle and driver at your disposal throughout.
Highlights
- Pamplona's intact city walls and Plaza del Castillo
- Santa María la Real Cathedral interior and exterior
- Palacio Real de Olite's medieval fortifications and courtyards
- Olite's compact Old Town on foot
- Navarre wine country context and local narrative
What to expect
You'll be collected from your Bilbao accommodation in a private vehicle. The drive north takes roughly 90 minutes; your guide joins you in Pamplona for a four-hour walking exploration of the old quarter, including the cathedral, walls, and key plazas. After lunch on your own, you'll drive to Olite (about 45 minutes). Here you'll tour the palace grounds and Old Town with your guide still present, getting a feel for how medieval Navarre's rulers lived. The return journey to Bilbao leaves time to absorb the countryside transitions between regions.
Good to know
Entrance fees to the cathedral and palace are not included—budget accordingly. The pace is unhurried, designed for genuine looking rather than rushing. Comfortable walking shoes essential. Infant seats available on request at booking. Minimum two people per reservation.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.