The 8 Most Beautiful Runs in Portugal

Portugal captivates – even in running shoes!

Whether it's city runs through major metropolises or in the spectacular landscapes of Madeira – the running scene in Portugal mixes adrenaline, culture, and nature into a unique running cocktail. Get inspired by breathtaking trails, fast asphalt routes, and sunny coastal flair. On HDsports, you'll find your perfect mix of challenge and enjoyment, with plenty of top running action!

Top Running Highlights in Portugal – not a ranking, but variety

Note: The order does NOT represent a ranking – each run has its own unique charm and wow factor.

1. Lisbon Half Marathon / Meia Maratona de Lisboa

The Meia Maratona de Lisboa starts spectacularly on the famous Ponte 25 de Abril and then runs along the Tagus River through historic neighborhoods. Atmospherically charged with enthusiastic spectators and live music – pure emotion from kilometer 1 to 21. The course is flat, fast, and ideal for personal bests, but also a treat for leisure runners. After crossing the finish line, you can proudly reward yourself with a Pastel de Nata – the Portuguese runner's diploma, so to speak.

With supporting events, the race attracts over 25,000 participants. Over the half marathon distance, multiple world records have been set in the past.

Date: March

All information about the Lisbon Half Marathon / Meia Maratona de Lisboa

2. Lisbon Marathon / EDP Maratona de Lisboa

Let's stay in Portugal's capital. From Cascais upstream to Lisbon – the marathon offers rocky coastal views, followed by urban flair through Estoril, Oeiras, and finally the capital. The atmosphere is spectacular, with live music at many points and a finish in the Expo Zone. Flat, fast, and ideal for marathon fans who like to aim for personal bests – but don't worry: recreational runners are warmly welcome too.

With around 30,000 participants (including the half marathon and mini-marathon), it is one of the country's largest mass-participation events.

Date: October

All information about the Lisbon Marathon

3. MIUT® – Madeira Island Ultra-Trail®

Trails, drama, and pure nature: the MIUT in Madeira is not for the faint-hearted – with ultra-beautiful routes from 16 km to 115 km that take you over lava rocks, through cloud forests, and nearly to Pico Ruivo. A trail rollercoaster where every step is an adventure. The mix of challenge, community, and island love makes the MIUT the ultimate Madeira experience.

About 3,000 athletes participate each year in this stunning trail race.

Date: April

All information about the MIUT® - Madeira Island Ultra-Trail®

4. Oh Meu Deus Ultra Trail

The name already promises what awaits you: "Oh my God" – as beautiful as the trail, as surprising as the region. Over mountainous paths, pristine forests, and charming village scenes – this trail exudes pure Portuguese warmth. Challenging, but never overwhelming – perfect for explorers seeking paths off the tourist track. Every meter brings you closer to the true soul of Portugal.

With around 500 participants, the Oh Meu Deus Ultra Trail is a real insider tip. In addition to the 100-mile race, shorter distances are also offered.

Date: Spring

All information about the Oh Meu Deus Ultra Trail

5. Madeira Skyrace

High-sky, high-energy! At the Madeira Skyrace, you run on insane high-altitude trails along spectacular ridge paths. Technically challenging, yet blessed with magnificent panoramas – this event is a magnet for all mountain enthusiasts with a hiking instinct. Mind and body are equally challenged, and at the end, a proud grin awaits. Like a vacation for your legs.

The highest point reaches almost 2,000 meters. The Sky Race is 55 km long, but there are also shorter distances and even a Kids Sky Race.

Date: June

All information about the Madeira Skyrace

6. PT281

PT281 is an insider tip for adventure seekers – trails that cross remote mountain regions and untouched nature. With creative route details, small checkpoints in villages, and lots of local character, this run offers a true explorer feeling. Not a mass spectacle, but an intense experience. A run for purists and nature lovers.

The route is, as the name suggests, 281 kilometers long in total. Participants have up to 66 hours to complete this route with 6,500 meters of elevation gain.

Date: July

All information about the PT281

7. Porto Marathon

Porto – wine, charm, and marathon! The course runs along the Douro River, through historic old town streets, and finishes in the beautiful Parque da Cidade. Atmosphere points with live music, street performers, and enthusiastic crowds create real goosebumps. Ideal for running experiences with urban flair and a Mediterranean lifestyle. And after the run? A bottle of Port wine and well-deserved enjoyment!

With 6,000 participants (including supporting events), it is one of the largest running events in Portugal outside the capital, Lisbon.

Date: November

All information about the Porto Marathon

8. Corrida do Tejo

Corrida do Tejo – the big running festival along the Tagus River near Lisbon! The race covers a distance of ten kilometers. The panorama along the riverbank, accompanied by historic architecture and cheering crowds, makes every pace a moment of enjoyment. Community vibes, sport, and city love – all united in one run!

Date: September

All information about the Corrida do Tejo

The Most Beautiful Running Events in Portugal

Note: The order does NOT represent a ranking.

The 25 Most Beautiful Marathons in Europe

Summary

Portugal offers a wide-ranging running experience: city marathons through Lisbon and Porto, top half marathons along historic backdrops, and thrilling trail highlights on Madeira. Whether you're looking for personal bests on flat courses or want to be enchanted by the panorama of an ultratrail – here, everyone finds their personal running experience with passion, culture, and nature. Book your ticket to Portugal and say: Bom corrida!