Pamplona Bull Run Route: Complete Guide Section by Section
The Running of the Bulls (encierro) at the San Fermin festival is Pamplona's most famous tradition and one of the world's most spectacular events. Every morning from 7 to 14 July, six fighting bulls and six steers run 875 metres through the narrow streets of the Old Town to the bullring. The run lasts between two and four minutes, but those brief moments deliver an intensity and thrill that are difficult to put into words.
Understanding the bull run route section by section is essential, whether you plan to run or prefer to enjoy it as a spectator from a private balcony or the barriers. In this guide we explain each stretch of the route, its unique characteristics and the best spots to experience the action.
The six sections of the bull run
The bull run route is divided into six clearly distinct sections, each with its own characteristics and level of difficulty. The route has remained essentially unchanged for centuries: it starts at the Santo Domingo corrals, climbs up to the Town Hall Square, turns at the famous Mercaderes corner, runs the full length of Calle Estafeta and finally enters the bullring.
1. Santo Domingo Slope (280 m)
The bull run begins at the corrals at the bottom of Santo Domingo hill, beside the River Arga. At exactly 8:00 AM the first rocket is fired and the gates open. The bulls charge uphill at great speed through a steep, narrow street. This is the fastest section and one of the most dangerous: the animals emerge fresh and at full strength. The steep gradient favours the speed of the herd. On both sides rise the walls of the Santo Domingo convent and the former Military Hospital.
2. Town Hall Square (100 m)
At the top of the slope, the bulls burst into the Town Hall Square (Plaza Consistorial). This section is an open transition zone where the herd usually maintains its speed. The square's surface is more slippery and the bulls may skid. Experienced runners use this wider space to position themselves before the feared Mercaderes corner. The balconies of the Town Hall and surrounding buildings fill with spectators.
3. Mercaderes Corner (75 m)
The 90-degree turn where Calle Mercaderes meets Calle Estafeta is the most critical and spectacular point of the entire run. The bulls, unable to brake their momentum, tend to skid and crash into the outer barriers. Many serious accidents occur here as runners also pile up at the corner. From balconies on this corner, you get one of the most iconic images of San Fermin: the herd taking the turn at full speed.
4. Calle Estafeta (300 m)
The longest and most famous stretch of the bull run. Calle Estafeta is a straight, long and relatively narrow street that allows the most experienced runners to run for several seconds ahead of the bulls. It is the section where the finest runs take place and where enthusiasts seek the perfect photograph. The balconies on Calle Estafeta are the most sought-after viewing spots, offering a prolonged view of the entire herd.
5. Telefonica Stretch (50 m)
Named after the former telephone company building, this short section connects the end of Estafeta with the tunnel entrance to the bullring. It is a bottleneck where runners dangerously accumulate, as the route narrows before reaching the arena. Pile-ups at this point are frequent and cause falls and crushing. Authorities consider this stretch particularly problematic on mornings with the highest numbers of runners.
6. Tunnel and Bullring (70 m)
The final section is the narrow tunnel that leads directly into the bullring arena. The bulls gallop through a tight corridor into the ring, where thousands of spectators await in the stands. Once inside, the animals are guided into the bullring corrals. After the run, young cows (vaquillas) are released for amateur bullfighting, a hugely popular tradition among young locals and tourists alike.
Where to watch the bull run
If you prefer to experience the bull run as a spectator, you have three main options. The most accessible is to stand behind the wooden barriers that line the route, although you will need to arrive very early (before 6:00 AM) to secure a front-row spot. The second option is to buy a ticket for the bullring, where you can watch the bulls arrive in the arena.
However, the most exclusive option with the best views is to rent a private balcony on Calle Estafeta or another point along the route. From a balcony you enjoy an elevated, safe and prolonged perspective of the entire passage of the herd. Many enthusiasts consider the balcony experience to be the most authentic way to live the bull run. Check out our complete guide to watching the bull run from a balcony for more information.
Bull run practical details
The bull run takes place every day from 7 to 14 July at 8:00 AM sharp, without exception. Regardless of the day of the week or weather conditions, the herd leaves the corrals punctually at eight. Each day a different breed of bulls runs, which affects the speed and danger level of the event.
For those who want to experience San Fermin first-hand, having good accommodation in central Pamplona is essential. Our holiday apartments in the Old Town are within walking distance of the route. For a comprehensive festival guide, visit our San Fermin 2026 page.
875 m
Total route length
2-4 min
Average run duration
8:00 AM
Start time every day
7-14 Jul
Bull run days at San Fermin
Frequently asked questions about the bull run route
How long is the Pamplona bull run route?
The San Fermin bull run route measures 875 metres in total, from the Santo Domingo corrals to the bullring. The bulls cover this distance in an average time of 2 to 4 minutes, depending on the breed and any incidents during the run.
Which is the most dangerous section of the bull run?
The Mercaderes-Estafeta corner is widely considered the most dangerous point. The bulls skid on the 90-degree turn and can crash into the barriers or fall, creating high-risk situations for runners. The Telefonica stretch is also problematic due to bottlenecks and pile-ups before the bullring entrance.
What time does the San Fermin bull run start?
The bull run starts every day at 8:00 AM sharp, from 7 to 14 July. A first rocket announces the opening of the corral gates, and a second rocket confirms that all the bulls have entered the route. If you want to watch from the barriers, it is recommended to be in position before 6:30 AM.
Where can you watch the bull run?
There are three main options: from the barriers along the route (free, but arrive very early), from the bullring (with a ticket), or from a private balcony overlooking the route. Balconies on Calle Estafeta offer the best experience thanks to their elevated perspective, safety and comfort.
Can tourists run with the bulls in Pamplona?
Yes, the bull run is open to anyone over 18 years old and no prior registration is needed. However, running with the bulls is extremely dangerous. Serious injuries occur every year and there have been fatalities in recent decades. Authorities strongly advise against running without experience or under the influence of alcohol. Following safety rules is essential.
Experience the bull run from the best perspective
Rent a private balcony on Calle Estafeta and enjoy the San Fermin bull run with privileged views, total safety and complete comfort.