Have you ever dreamed of experiencing San Fermín like a true local—without worrying about hotel reservations, inconvenient transfers, or sky-high accommodation prices? Stay with us, because we’re going to show you how to make it happen in the most practical and freeing way: traveling to San Fermín by motorhome.
In this guide, you’ll find the best tips, tricks, and must-know locations to make your trip a total success. But there’s one thing most people don’t tell you—something that could ruin your trip if you’re not prepared. Keep reading to find out what it is.
Why Choose a Motorhome for San Fermín?
San Fermín, held every year from July 6 to 14 in Pamplona, is one of the most famous festivals in the world. What many don’t realize is how hard (and expensive) it is to find a central place to stay during those dates. That’s where the magic of a motorhome comes in: total freedom, comfort, and the privilege of choosing where you sleep each night.
You can easily move to quieter areas to rest after a full day of celebrations. With your home on wheels, you set the pace.
Benefits of Traveling to San Fermín by Motorhome
- Avoid high hotel costs
- Cook your own meals and save on dining
- Carry all your belongings with you—no unpacking and repacking
- Flexibility to change plans on the go
- Connect with nature if you want to stay outside the city
- Perfect for families or groups of friends
Where to Start: Renting a Motorhome in Madrid
If you live in Madrid or arrive in Spain via Madrid’s airport, renting your motorhome there is a smart choice. You’ll have access to a wide range of models, competitive prices, and the convenience of starting your journey fully equipped.
Renting a motorhome in Madrid allows for easy planning: pick up the vehicle, load up everything you need, and in about four hours of driving, you’ll be in Pamplona, ready for the festivities.
How to Get to Pamplona by Motorhome
The most direct route from Madrid to Pamplona is via the A-2 and AP-15 highways. It’s an easy drive with plenty of service areas to stop, stretch, and refuel.
Travel Tips
- Leave early: travel on July 4 or 5 to avoid heavy traffic
- Fill up the tank and use apps like Park4Night to find overnight stops
- Avoid driving at night if you’re not used to motorhomes—San Fermín will already be intense enough
Where to Sleep in Pamplona with a Motorhome
This part is critical. During San Fermín, Pamplona fills up fast and not all areas allow overnight parking for motorhomes. It’s essential to know the legal and comfortable options.
Motorhome Area in Pamplona
The most convenient option is the motorhome area in Pamplona, located on Vuelta del Castillo street, close to the city center. It’s set up each year specifically for visitors like you and offers limited spaces—so arriving early is key.
Services: waste disposal, potable water, security, portable toilets
Perk: walking distance to the old town and bull run area in under 15 minutes
Campgrounds in and Around Pamplona
Another popular choice is staying at a campground in Pamplona or nearby towns like Ezcaba or Aritzaleku. These sites offer full amenities (showers, electricity, pools, green areas) and often run shuttle buses to the city center during the festival.
Some even offer activities or early breakfasts to help you catch the morning bull runs.
Overnighting Outside the City
If you prefer a quieter environment or are traveling with young children, consider nearby towns with designated motorhome parking areas. Estella, Olite, or Tafalla are great options for spending the night and commuting to Pamplona by car or public transport.
What to Pack in Your Motorhome for San Fermín
Pamplona in July is hot during the day and slightly chilly at night. Keep that in mind when packing:
- White clothing and red neckerchief (a must)
- Comfortable shoes (you’ll walk a lot)
- Sunglasses and a hat
- Sunscreen
- Basic first aid kit
- Well-stocked fridge (cold meals and drinks will be lifesavers)
- Earplugs (if sleeping close to the city center)
Don’t forget to check your motorhome’s equipment: full water tank, charged battery, gas for cooking, and tire condition.
Experiencing San Fermín from Your Motorhome
Once in Pamplona, make the most of the festival. A motorhome makes it easy to organize your days:
- Wake up early to watch the bull runs at 8:00 AM (arrive by 6:00 AM for a good spot)
- Head back to your motorhome for breakfast or a nap
- Enjoy music, parades, and cultural events in the old town
- Eat where you want: in your motorhome, at a bar, or picnic-style in a park
- If you’re up for it, return to the center for concerts and evening fun
The best part of having a motorhome is setting your own pace and taking breaks whenever you need them.
When to Book Your Motorhome for San Fermín
The earlier, the better. May and June are the busiest booking months. Many people repeat this experience yearly, so motorhomes get reserved fast.
Booking a motorhome in Madrid also gives you more choices for larger, family-friendly, or budget-friendly models.
Tips from Experienced Travelers
- Bring a power bank and solar chargers—you’ll be out all day
- Stock up on groceries before reaching Pamplona
- Use mobile apps to locate water, waste stations, and safe parking
- If traveling with kids, opt to sleep outside the noisy areas
- Be mindful with alcohol: if you drink, don’t drive—use your motorhome as a base and wait until the next day
The Mistake Many Make (That You Won’t)
Many travelers arrive without checking where they can legally park overnight—and end up fined or forced to move in the middle of the night. Don’t overlook planning your overnight stays. Keep in mind that much of Pamplona’s center is closed to large vehicles during the festival.
Plan ahead, stay informed, and avoid unpleasant surprises.
First Time Driving a Motorhome?
No worries! No prior experience is needed. Just be sure to:
- Take a short practice drive before your trip
- Learn how to manage water and electricity systems
- Secure everything inside before driving
- Drive slower than usual and avoid narrow city streets
At Autocaravanas Camperdadi, we explain everything when you pick up your vehicle so you can hit the road with confidence.
What to Do After San Fermín?
One of the best things about traveling to San Fermín by motorhome is that you don’t have to rush back. You can keep exploring Navarra or even head into the Basque Country, La Rioja, or the Pyrenees.
Navarra is full of nature, charming villages, and food routes—perfect for turning your trip into a full holiday.
Ready to Hit the Road?
There’s no experience quite like living San Fermín with total freedom. You enjoy the festivities at your own pace, with your own space, on your own terms.
If you’re thinking of making it happen, get in touch with Autocaravanas Camperdadi, and we’ll help you plan your trip from start to finish.
📞 Call us at +34 91 082 06 32
💬 Send us a WhatsApp at +34 639 266 865
📧 Email us at: info@autocaravanascamperdadi.com
See you on the road!