Check out these scenic running routes in Madrid MICOLO J Thanx 4/Flickr

The Most Scenic Running Routes in Madrid, Spain

Updated: 17 June 2017

Thanks to Madrid’s 300+ days of sunshine a year, it’s possible to exercise outside almost year-round. There are plenty of routes you can take for a scenic run, so check out this list if you fancy a jog through Spain’s capital city.

The charming Retiro Park

You’ll never tire of running through the Retiro Park. With endless canopies of trees, a picturesque lake, a blooming rose garden and monument after monument; all of your senses will be heightened after a run through this regal park. Make sure to slow down to admire the Crystal Palace, a building made almost entirely of glass.

Palacio de Cristal, Paseo República de Cuba, 4, 28009 Madrid

The lake and Alfonso XII monument at the Retiro Park | © Carlos Delgado/Wikipedia

The twisting trails of Casa de Campo

Those wanting to focus on endurance, should run at Casa de Campo. Madrid’s largest green space, this park is well over one thousand hectares. There are plenty of trails that really take you off the beaten path, so make sure to remember how to get back once you’ve started your run and take lots of water with you.

A riverside run

Jogging along Madrid Río is great if you want a little distraction as you run. With loads of people watching, bridges, play areas and even a skate park, you’ll be so visually stimulated you’ll forget you’re doing exercise.

City-fueled energy

To soak up the energy of the busy city, start your jog on the central, tree-lined part of the boulevard on Paseo del Prado down by train station Atocha. Run up the boulevard admiring the gorgeous architecture, fountains and monuments you’ll pass. The boulevard changes name a few times, into Recoletos and finally Paseo de la Castellana, but just keep going. This route is the perfect way to get some exercise and see the city all at once.

Don’t run alone

If you’re one of those people that is more motivated to exercise in a group, Nike has you covered. The Nike + Run Club meets every Thursday at 8:00 pm at the Nike Store on Calle Gran Via. Get there a few minutes early to warm up and introduce yourself. You can do the shorter distance run, 4-6 km, or the longer one, 6-10 km. Routes vary, so be ready for a surprise.

Nike Store, Calle Gran Via 38, 28013 Madrid

Through the Parque Oeste

This run is best done around sunset, as you’ll catch the occasional view of the sun disappearing below the horizon. Start off by circling the famous Egyptian monument, Templo Debod. Then, continue down Calle Pintor Rosales and then jog through the Oeste Park until the sun finally sets.