A layover in Pamplona is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Pamplona Airport sits just 60 minutes from the city center by Local Bus (Line A), and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of PNA:
- Can you legally enter Spain? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-minute journey each way by Local Bus (Line A), you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Pamplona from PNA
From PNA, the Local Bus (Line A) gets you to Pamplona in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Local Bus (Line A) offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to Budget for Your Pamplona Side Trip
Quick budget math for your Pamplona layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage at PNA
Luggage storage is available at Not typically available at this small regional airport.. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Pamplona.
What’s Worth Seeing in Pamplona
Two recommendations for your time in Pamplona:
Start with City Center Walk. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace. Then, if time allows, make your way to Local Market. It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside PNA, you can spend time at Airport Lounge or try Duty Free Shopping. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Pamplona Layover
For food in Pamplona, local travelers recommend Local Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Popular Eatery is another popular pick.
Back at PNA, Airport Cafe is the go-to. Terminal Restaurant rounds out your in-terminal options.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at PNA.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Staying Connected
WiFi at PNA should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Spain and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Pamplona doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from PNA, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.