With a combination of flat and hilly terrain, city runs and natural landscapes, Budapest is a runner’s dream. Over the last few years, a number of dedicated running trails have been popping up around the city making things even easier for anyone hoping to get that personal best. These are the places to go for the best running routes in Budapest.
Margaret Island
Park, Natural Feature
One of the city’s most frequented running routes can be found on the centrally located Margaret Island, easily accessible by the 4/6 tram which takes you straight to its entrance. A 5km (3.1 mile) long rubber running track circles the island, providing views over the Danube and shade from the island’s trees; the route is predominantly set over flat terrain and is popular with locals from Spring to Autumn.
Budapest’s City Park, or Varosliget, is a large green area set over flat terrain, with a number of paths perfect for running. Runners can adjust the distance of their route according to preference; a loop of the park provides a run of approximately 4k (2.48 miles), however longer and shorter runs are equally accessible. A scenic route, the Szechenyi Thermal Baths and Vajdahunyad Castle can both be found in the park, while Heroes Square stands at its entrance.
Located in Budapest’s 11th district, this park features a running track with a distance of approximately 800m (0.48 miles) in a peaceful environment. Alternatively, runners can jog on one the park’s paths to extend their run over a combination of hilly and flat terrain. There’s also an outdoor gym.
Normafa
Found in the Buda hills, Normafa is popular with locals and its clean air provides the perfect running environment. A number of paths offer a range of routes; jog from Normafa to the Elizabeth Lookout Tower on János-hegy and back for a route of approximately 5k (3.1 miles), which offers spectacular views over Budpapest and a combination of flat and hilly terrain – with the final stretch up to the lookout tower providing a steep incline. http://instagram.com/p/BML_upPhtNc/
This recently created park in Southern Buda is a scenic, well equipped option for a run for all levels. A 2000m (1.24 miles) running track is available, as are a number of paths on which joggers can enjoy flat terrain and river views.
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Starting and ending at the Gellért Thermal Baths, this route is perfect for anyone hoping for some post run relaxation. Run up Gellért Hill to the Citadella, enjoying panoramic views over Budapest, before heading back down to the thermal baths. With both an incline and decline featured in this run, it’s a short but challenging route with a flexible distance depending on the path chosen.
Orczy-Kert (Orczy Park)
Park
Found in District VIII, this green park offers an 800m (0.49 miles) running track and a small outdoor fitness area. Runners will pass by a small lake, while enjoying shade from the large number of trees in the park. Its inner city location and flat terrain make this an accessible route for all levels.
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