Where to run in Barcelona? Our top 5 jogging routes
Barcelona has the perfect climate for all outdoor sports, including running! As well as its many parks, there is a lot of space to run all over the city. Here are just a few of our favorites!
Running in the city
If you love jogging right through the heart of the city, then Barcelona is perfect for you. But it’s important to know where you’re going. Below are a few options, so you can decide which suits you best!
1. Running in Barcelona: the seaside route
As it’s a coastal town, what could be better than running along the seafront? It’s a flat run, that’s very pleasant and very very long, making it perfect for beginners and expert runners alike.
- Particularly in Summer, it tends to be full of tourists, which can make it difficult to find a path.
- We recommend running from the Villa Olímpica towards the Forum, as it’s a much quieter route and there are a lot of coastal kilometers.
- There is almost always a sea breeze, which is very pleasant on hot days. Furthermore, if you want to cool down, you can always take a dip after your run. Tempted?
- How to get there? Metro: Vila Olímpica (L4)
- Run: 8km return
2. Running in Barcelona: Avenida Diagonal
The Avenida Diagonal is one of the city’s main arteries but it is also a very wide street that includes bike paths in both directions and plenty of space on the pavement for both runners and pedestrians.
- It’s accessible from almost any point in the city as it crosses it from one end to the other, so you can get there at any time. No excuses!
- It’s a very busy street so there tends to be a lot of traffic along certain sections
There’s plenty of space to run at any point on the street, but we especially recommend the section running from the plaza de Glòries to the Fòrum (5.5 km). It’s also possible to run the section between Passeig Sant Joan and the Fòrum (9km).
- On the route shown on the map below there are fewer cars, which makes the path a bit more pleasant.
- How to get there? Metro Glòries (L1) / Metro: Verdaguer (L4, L5)
- Run: 5.5 km return / 9km return.
3. Running in Barcelona: Passeig Sant Joan
Passeig Sant Joan is a tree-lined street with ample pedestrian space. It runs from Gràcia to Arc de Triomf, and from there you can cross to the Ciutadella park or even get to the beach.
- The best part? The route in the direction we’re suggesting is aaaaalll downhill (2.5km)! Perfect for when you’re just starting to get in shape. And if you prefer a challenge you can also run it in the opposite direction!
- How to get there? Metro Joanic (L4) / Arc de Triomf (L1)
- Run: 5 km return
Running in nature
If you prefer to get away from the bustle of the city, and enjoy a greener running route, we have two options, one slightly more urban but more accessible, Montjuïc, and the other further out but surrounded by nature, the Carretera de les Aigües.
4.Running in Barcelona: Montjuïc
Where better to escape to than the city’s green lung? Montjuïc is one of Barcelona’s most pleasant spaces, with gardens and parks that are perfect for sport!
You can get to Montjuïc from various points in the city (principally from the Plaça Espanya and Paral-lel). The route we suggest runs from Plaça Espanya, but Montjuïc has innumerable running routes so once you’re there you can choose whichever path takes your fancy!
- We recommend starting at the MNAC (which offers spectacular views of Barcelona). You can walk down (as I did), or if you prefer, start your run from here towards the square.
- This is definitely a run full of ups and downs so prepare to get out of breath! 😉
- How to get there? Metro Plaça Espanya (L1, L3)
- Run: 5 km
5. Running in Barcelona: Carretera de les Aigües
If you want a run with some of the best views of Barcelona, the Carretera de les Aigües is the route for you! With the whole city at your feet you can enjoy an earth path that’s practically flat. It’s a very popular path for runners and cyclists alike.
There are various routes but we recommend the main path as it’s the most accessible and provides the best views during your entire run.
- It’s a little far and you will have to take public transport to get there, so it might not be the best option if you’re short on time.
- On the other hand being further form the city the air is cleaner. It’s a beautiful run and it’s perfect for an outing with family or friends.
- How to get there?
- Train from Plaça Catalunya – S1 dirección Terrassa / S2 dirección Sabadell
- Stop Peu del Funicular – Then cable car towards Vallvidrera, stop Carretera de les Aigües.
- Run: 4.5 km return
Whether you prefer the city or the wilds of nature, there is no excuse. Barcelona has somewhere for all kinds of runners!
What are you waiting for? Get your running shoes on, 3, 2, 1… Go!