The Gran Hotel La Perla is the 5-star hotel on Plaza del Castillo: it is at number 1, in the heart of the centre. It opened in 1881 and is linked to Ernest Hemingway’s history in the city. A good fit if you want to sleep in the middle of the old town and are interested in the building’s past.
Location and getting around
You step straight out onto Plaza del Castillo. Calle Estafeta and Town Hall are a few steps away, and in about 5 minutes on foot you reach Pamplona Cathedral (Santa María) and the bullring.
The Baluarte and the bus station are about 10 minutes on foot. The train station is further, about 35 minutes on foot, so a taxi is advisable for that journey. According to the hotel, it is in the area of the San Fermín running of the bulls route.
Rooms and facilities
Rooms are soundproofed and air-conditioned. Each is decorated around a figure linked to the hotel; besides Hemingway, the property cites Charles Chaplin and Orson Welles among its guests.
The historic guest registers are preserved, with signatures of visitors from the 19th and 20th centuries. Breakfast can be buffet, continental or à la carte, and there are gluten-free options.
No pool, spa, gym or private parking is listed.
Who it suits
- Guests who want to step out of the hotel and be on Plaza del Castillo.
- Readers of Hemingway or anyone interested in Pamplona’s history.
- Visitors during San Fermín who want to be at the centre of the festival.
- Anyone who needs a gluten-free breakfast.
Good to know
Check-in is from 15:00 to 0:00 and check-out from 7:00 to 12:00. On arrival you are asked for photo ID and a credit card. If you travel by car, you will need to find parking outside the old town.
More options in this category at 5-star hotels.