Estella

Lizarra

A historic town along the Camino de Santiago known for its Romanesque churches, medieval bridges, and the elegant Palace of the Kings of Navarre. Its well-preserved old quarter offers a genuine sense of medieval Navarre.

Things to do

• Palace of the Kings of Navarre — Wander this rare 12th-century Romanesque civil palace, now home to the Gustavo de Maeztu Museum and its striking carved capitals.
• Church of San Pedro de la Rúa — Climb the stone steps to this Romanesque church perched above town, admiring its trefoil-arched cloister and Mudejar-influenced doorway.
• Church of San Miguel — Study the elaborately sculpted north portal, one of the finest examples of Navarrese Romanesque relief carving.
• Puente de la Cárcel — Cross this humpbacked medieval bridge over the Ega River, a key crossing point for centuries of Camino pilgrims.
• Monastery of Irache and the Wine Fountain — Walk or drive just outside town to the Bodegas Irache fountain, where pilgrims can still draw a free cup of wine alongside the ancient monastery.
• Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Puy — Head up to this hilltop shrine for panoramic views over Estella's rooftops and the surrounding Tierra Estella countryside.
• Stroll the Calle de la Rúa — Follow the old pilgrim route through Estella's historic quarter, lined with noble stone facades and coats of arms.
• Ruins of Zalatambor Castle — Explore what remains of the medieval fortress destroyed in the 16th century, offering a quiet vantage point over the old town.

Food to try

• Trufas de Estella — Sample the town's famous handmade chocolate truffles, a local specialty sold in traditional confectioneries.
• Menestra de verduras — Try this classic Navarrese stewed vegetable dish, often made with artichokes, peas, and asparagus from local gardens.
• Pochas navarras — Seek out these creamy fresh white beans, typically stewed with chorizo or quail in the late summer season.
• Cordero al chilindrón — Enjoy tender lamb braised in a rich sauce of tomatoes, peppers, and onions, a hearty Navarrese classic.
• Pintxos on Calle de la Rúa — Hop between bars in the old quarter for pintxos paired with a glass of local Navarra DO wine.
• Wine from Bodegas Irache — Taste regional reds at the historic winery beside the monastery, famous for its pilgrim wine fountain.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect pilgrim etiquette — As a major Camino de Santiago waypoint, Estella sees many walking pilgrims, so greet them with the traditional 'Buen Camino'.
• Expect midday closures — Many shops and small museums close for a few hours around lunchtime, reopening in the late afternoon.
• Visit on Thursday for the market — The weekly market brings local produce and goods to the town center, a good time to see everyday Navarrese life.
• Dress modestly for churches — Cover shoulders and knees when entering San Pedro de la Rúa or San Miguel, as they remain active places of worship.