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Run in Parque del Retiro

Madrid, Spain

4.3/5
based on 3 reviews

Details

Distance

2.8 miles

Elevation Gain

200 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Erika Noble

Discover Madrid's central park on this leisurely 2.8-mile run, with beautiful views of the lake, gardens, and historic monuments. Run beneath the trees on winding dirt trails and enjoy the Madrileño lifestyle as you explore one of the city's true gems.

El Parque del Retiro is one of Madrid's largest parks, located just east of Madrid's triangulo de arte and la Puerta de Alcalá. Home to many fountains, grassy meadows, and the iconic Palacio de Cristal, it's a lovely place to explore any time of year. Locals frequent the park in the afternoon, and you can often find students taking flamenco classes in the gazebos and friends picnicking in the grass.

To get there, take the metro Line 2 (red) to Retiro station, which is connected to a pedestrian pathway that leads directly into the park. Parking can be difficult in this area of the city, so it's preferable to take the metro or walk.

Begin your run heading right on the trail behind the Retiro metro station, across from the beautiful facade of the Church of San Manuel and San Benito. The trail will begin with a slight incline and take you in a loop around the perimeter of the park, with many opportunities to take footpath detours and discover quiet nooks. There are drinking fountains spotted throughout the park, but it may be easier to bring your own bottle, as they are sporadic. 

Depending on the season, start your run early in the morning or an hour before sunset to enjoy the best temperatures. End your run right where you started, within walking distance of street vendors for a drink or a bite to eat. 

Madrid is home to many runners, so don't hesitate to strike up a conversation even if you aren't a fluent Spanish speaker! Running the park is a great way to get to know the city as well as engage with Spanish culture. 

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Features

Fitness
Chillin
Running
Dog Friendly
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Groups
Picnic Area
Romantic
Scenic

Run in Parque del Retiro Reviews

The park is a green oasis in the city. This makes it the perfect place to run and feel like you are far away in nature and not in the urban environment. It also very nice to run during the hot summer days.

This is definitely the most beautiful park that I’ve been to. I studied abroad in Madrid and came here all the time to study, relax, or work out! I’m very confident that I haven’t even seen the entire park because it’s so big!

This huge park is full of people participating in all manner of activities. There's runners, bikers, roller bladers, picnic-ers, boaters, and anything else you can dream up. There's plenty of space and probably someone willing to join in!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

El Retiro Park