Pamplona's San Fermin Festival in July is famous for its "encierro" event, or the running of the bulls, and has been immortalized by Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel, "The Sun Also Rises." Follow these steps to book a trip from Madrid to Pamplona to discover that this festival is but one of the city's many exciting cultural explorations.
Book your tickets from Madrid to Pamplona online at the Rail Europe Web site (see Resources below). You can also call 888-382-RAIL. Expect prices to be reasonable for this route, especially for second-class seats.
Apply the advantages offered by the Eurail Spain Pass to visit multiple cities and regions within Spain.
Book a Eurail Select Pass so you can investigate neighboring Portugal or even Italy after you see Pamplona.
Expand your mobility once you arrive with an Eurail Spain "Rail 'n Drive" package plan.
Purchase a point-to-point ticket for the fastest and most affordable way to get from Madrid to Pamplona.
Choose either the more expensive and roomier first-class "Preferente" or the more budget-friendly "Turista" (tourist, or second) class when you book your train ticket.
With a "Turista" ticket, enjoy access to the cafeteria, telephone, as well as the video and music channels for entertainment. You'll also have access to restroom facilities equipped to handle babies' needs.
With a "'Preferente" ticket, enjoy the extra amenities, including a complementary beverage and meal served at your seat. You'll also be treated to a free newspaper and magazine and to the use of the station's VIP Lounge.
Structure into your plans that your train trip will take approximately 3.5 hours (give or take 10 minutes), regardless of the number of stops along the way.
Take the 09:50 (9:50 a.m.) or the 19:30 (7:30 p.m.) "Altaria" train if you want to take an express trip from Madrid to Pamplona.
Consider when booking your train travel from Madrid to Pamplona that there is no early morning service (Departure 07:15 / 7:15 a.m.) on either Saturdays or Sundays.
Remember that there is no evening train (Departure: 19:30 / 7:30 p.m.) on Saturdays.
