Running paths with a view in Barcelona

With spring just around the corner, it’s time to shake the dust off that pair of running shoes and hit the pavement. Whether you’re an experienced runner or training for your first 5K, Barcelona is full of public parks, paths, and facilities to serve as the backdrop of your workout.

Parc de la Ciutadella/Arc de Triomf

This is the perfect place to take a jog and explore. Start at Arc de Triomf and make your way over the flat, paved path all the way around the park. This area can get a bit crowded on the weekends, but during the week, it’s great to take a loop around the park. There are also grassy areas if you want to stop and take a rest or to get in a bit of “gym-less” exercise, such as body weight training like squats, lunges, push-ups or sit-ups. Perfect for exercisers of all types.

Can Dragó

Located along one of Barcelona’s biggest streets, Avinguda Meridiana, in the Sant Andreu district, this facility is perfect for any type of exercise. Can Dragó is a park that has several facilities including a gym with swimming pool (membership required), a paved path for running, and basketball courts. Since it isn’t in the center of the city it’s not as congested as some of the other public spaces. This area is also dog-friendly which means you can take your four-legged buddy for a run with you. Make this your running route if you’re looking for something outside of the downtown area.

Carretera de les Aigües

Located in Parc Natural de Collserola, this is one of Barcelona’s most popular running circuits. This unpaved path is about 9 kilometers long and offers an outstanding view of the city. You will find many other runners there. so if you don’t like running alone you will easily find a running partner on the path. With the surrounding natural beauty and the fantastic views to inspire you, this park will make you feel revitalized and healthy while you run.

El Besós

Along the Besós river separating Barcelona from Sant Adrià de Besós you will find the perfect place to lace up your sneakers and burn off some energy. This area is wide open and grassy, often filled with people playing football or doing other exercises. On the perimeter is a running path that is several kilometers long that ends at the beach, perfect for a scenic and peaceful run. This park is the quietest out of all the previous places mentioned, ideal for anyone looking to get away from the noise of the city or crowds of people.