The Spanish capital offers ideal routes and iconic landmarks for running—no matter your level, no matter your motivation.
The European Team Championships are the perfect excuse to enjoy running in a city like Madrid at the start of summer. Warm weather, endless green spaces, and a running culture that keeps growing are just a few reasons to lace up your shoes and experience Madrid like a true local.
Here are five routes that will make you fall in love with the city—through its streets, parks, and vibrant atmosphere.
Parque del Retiro
This is where most Madrileños go running—an essential spot if you love discovering cities through running. With a perimeter of about 6 kilometers and multiple internal paths, El Retiro is one of Madrid’s most iconic landmarks. In fact, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021.
- Where to start: The most scenic place to begin is at the Puerta Real entrance (map).
- How many miles can I run? 2 to 4.5
- Surface: Mostly asphalt, with some dirt trails.
Casa de Campo
Madrid’s largest green area—a massive park with a 20-kilometer perimeter that makes you forget you’re in a capital city. Sunsets from the top of Casa de Campo are breathtaking, and June is the perfect month to run here. For elite and amateur runners alike, this is their personal sanctuary. Just follow the trails.
- Where to start: At the lake (El Lago), easily accessible by metro (map).
- How many miles can I run? As many as you want—virtually unlimited.
- Surface: Mainly dirt, but also asphalt and grass.
Madrid Río
Since the city rediscovered its river, the Manzanares has become a go-to spot for runners. You’ll find endless miles of riverside paths stretching from the elegant heart of Madrid (Royal Palace, Puente del Rey, Puente de Toledo) to the vibrant working-class neighborhoods in the south (Usera, Puerta del Ángel, San Isidro…). It’s also a great place for tempo runs, thanks to distance markers every 50 meters.
- Where to start: A great option is Puente del Rey, next to Príncipe Pío Metro Station (map).
- How many miles can I run? 2 to 7.5
- Surface: Asphalt
Canal (Canal de Isabel II Track)
Short on time but want an efficient workout? This 1,200-meter rubber loop near Vallehermoso Stadium is your best friend. Hundreds of runners (young and old) train here daily. It’s a perfect option when you’re short on time or need to do interval training. Fully outdoor and multi-sport, with markers every 100 meters.
- Where to start: At the main entrance, near Avenida de Filipinas (map).
- How many miles can I run? Up to 6.
- Surface: Rubber
A Running Free Tour
This last option is all about improvising. Go for a relaxed jog through some of Madrid’s most magical corners. In the city center, you can weave through broad boulevards and narrow streets alike. Our recommendation: let your instincts guide you—ditch the usual routes, explore hidden alleys, and discover a different flavor of Madrid.
- Where to start: Anywhere works, but Puerta del Sol is a great launch point (map).
- How many miles can I run? As many or as few as you like.
- Surface: The city is yours to explore—mostly asphalt.
