Quote:
Comparing it to Mardi gras is beyond flawed.
Obviously it's entirely different in so many ways, but I've found myself making a similar comment depending on the point of reference of the person/people I'm talking to.
I've been twice for work and will go a third time this summer (for work). It's nothing I'd do on my own time or dime, that's for darn sure. The first time I went, we had a flat on Calle Estafeta with two balconies which seemed neat and super convenient in theory but the reality was far from. It was so noisy and loud the entire time - I finally got some sleep on the train when we left Pamplona...it was awful. Plus, the crowds and grossness that are the streets (except for when they're cleared out and cleaned each morning) were repulsive. I strongly recommend booking accommodations a bit outside the center. There are public buses (and taxis) that you can use to get to/from your hotel and center if it's further than walking. But you'll actually get some sleep that way.
This summer I'll do the same as last year which is come in from San Sebastian. We left SS super early, drove to Pamplona for all the morning festivities and headed back to SS later in the day. Tons of people do that, so I'd recommend booking bus and/or rain tickets in advance as well as accommodation in SS.
Bring disposable white clothes that you're fine with tossing/leaving behind after San Fermin. Same with shoes. There are tons of shops/stores that sell white clothes, t-shirts, red panuelos in case you just want to buy something there. Only carry the basics (wallet/ID, phone) with you as you're cruising the town and streets. Money belts and Zip-locs are handy.