Running of the bulls — Travel Guide

Book your hotel and balcony spot 3–6 months in advance; Pamplona sells out and prices rise three to five times over normal nights.

Wear the festival uniform — white kurta-style shirt and trousers with a red scarf (pañuelo) — available cheaply in local shops.

Watch your first run from a rented balcony (about ₹9,000–19,000 per person, often with breakfast) or reach the wooden barriers by 6:30 am for a free spot.

Keep digital and paper copies of your passport and visa; the crowds are dense and pickpockets know it.

Try pintxos on Calle Estafeta in the evening and carry a light jacket, since Navarre mornings are cool even in July.

Buy travel insurance that covers adventure activities if you are even thinking about running.

Don't run unless you are fit, sober, well-rested and have studied the course; first-time visitors should watch, not run. This is non-negotiable safety advice.

Don't carry a phone, camera or bag on the course if you run — it is against the rules and people have been gored while filming selfies.

Don't touch or taunt the bulls, and if you fall, stay down and cover your head until the herd passes.

Don't bring small children to the barrier crush at 8 am; watch the run on the giant screens or from a balcony instead.

Don't expect to find rooms on arrival; even hostels an hour away fill up during the festival.

Don't drink through the night and then run at 8 am — exhaustion causes most injuries.