In recent years, especially if you’re approaching your thirties, you’ve probably noticed a surge of interest in running from all sides. Everyone is sharing their Strava stats on social media, talking about their favorite pair of sneakers, and many are heading out earlier and earlier in the evenings because “You get it, I’ve got a half marathon coming up in 15 days.” And we can totally see the excitement, since the capital, despite what some naysayers might say, is filled with delightful running routes.
1. Montsouris Park
Just a stone’s throw from the International University City of Paris, the Montsouris Park is one of the prettiest parks in Paris, boasting 1400 trees, most of which are over a century old. Inspired by London’s parks and a favorite among local students, we just love to jog here!with flair, but we gather even more energy admiring the swans and ducks splashing around in the pond. If the break extends, we can also discover some beautiful bronze or stone sculptures, before being re-energized by the athletes letting loose on the football and basketball fields.
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Parc Montsouris
2, rue Gazan – 14th
2. La Cité Universitaire
The Cité U is also a great spot for a relaxed jog. You’ll need to weave in and out to dodge the international students who are cozying up between the walls of the 40 student residences, but along the way, you can admire the stunning architectures of the 28 national houses it hosts, from Sweden to the United States, and from Morocco to Armenia or Cuba. Between your strides, don’t forget to open your eyes wide to soak in the surrounding nature: the park is home to 179 plant species from around the world, 6 insect hotels, and 52 different bird species!
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International University City of Paris
17, boulevard Jourdan – 14th
3. The Ourcq Canal
No matter if it rains or shines, day or night, the Ourcq Canal is perfect for joggers training at any time. This beautiful waterway flows through the north of the Paris region, allowing you to run for miles and miles, starting at the Villette basin, continuing through Bobigny and Bondy, and finishing in Vaujours! A great way to show off on Strava...
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The Ourcq Canal
From La Villette (19th) to Bobigny (93)
4. The Green Path
Developed on an old railway line, the Green Path stretches over 4 kilometers of greenery that runs through the 12th arrondissement. You can enjoy a little run or simply relax and have a picnic in a cozy spot away from prying eyes. But, being the sporty people we are, of course, the first option takes the spotlight!
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The Coulée Verte
From the Opéra-Bastille to the Vincennes Park – 12th district
5. The Vincennes Woods
And once you arrive at the Vincennes Woods, keep up the effort and try to complete the loop! This is a favorite place for athletes from the east of Paris, offering a wide range of activities and equipment for runners seeking nature. Challenge yourself to run the 13 kilometers through the forest, starting from Saint-Mandé (Val-de-Marne), crossing the lake of Daumesnil, and finishing at the lake of Minimes. Along the pathways, you'll find many fitness stations, parallel bars, balance beams, and vaulting horses scattered for a health course in the shade of the trees.
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Bois de Vincennes
Pyramid Road – 12th
6. Parc Monceau
It’s spacious, with a lovely pond, some swings, and especially plenty of lawns perfect for picking up speed. The Parc Monceau is the most elegant green space in the 8th. Good news for night owls, it closes at 9 PM, giving you time to blow off some steam after work before enjoying a well-deserved good night’s sleep.
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Parc Monceau
35, boulevard de Courcelles – 8th
7. Parc de Bercy
With three lovely gardens featuring bridges, ponds, lawns, water features, and little stairs, the Parc de Bercy is perfect for running enthusiasts. There are several routes available. The 1-kilometer loop goes around the gardens and adds a few stairs to the mix for an extra boost of energy. Another route takes the long path of 1.8 kilometers and even has a street workout area, which is ideal for additional exercises, warming up, or stretching !
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Parc de Bercy
128, quai de Bercy – 12th
8. The Luxembourg Garden
It's not the largest park in Paris, but its setting in front of the Luxembourg Palace and its spacious grounds have always been a delight for joggers. The loop is about 3 kilometers long, with one essential stop: take a break on the benches facing the Medici Fountain.
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Luxembourg Garden
Rue de Vaugirard – 6th
9. Charléty Stadium
More urban, the Charléty Stadium is one of the multi-sport complexes in Paris, featuring a stadium with a capacity of around 19,000 seats. Popular on match nights, it boasts a 400-meter outdoor track and other athletic facilities like long jump and pole vault. If you’re a fan, now's your chance to show off your cardio skills and catch the eye of a great coach to become a pro !
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Stade Charléty
99, boulevard Kellermann – 13th
10. La Petite Ceinture
Finally, the Petite Ceinture is definitely the most refreshing spot in Paris to stretch your legs away from the pavement and the noise. This double-track 32.5-kilometer railway line offers everyone a green escape around a Paris that has regained its charm, starting with its colors. We especially recommend the route starting at place Balard (15th), continuing through the Georges Brassens park and ending at Porte d’Orléans.
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The Little Belt
Accessible, for example, via Place Balard - 15th arrondissement
