Running In Paris: Where To Run In the City of Love

Get ready to lace up your running shoes and embark on a breathtaking journey through the heart of Paris! 🏃‍♀️🇫🇷

Running in Paris is an experience like no other. 

As a runner who grew up in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe, and Los Angeles, I know natural beauty. While Paris’s beauty is a lot more urban, its charm is off the charts.

This enchanting city, known for its iconic landmarks and romantic ambiance, offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and picturesque landscapes. 

Whether you’re sprinting along the banks of the Seine River or exploring the lush greenery of its magnificent parks, Paris will sweep you off your feet (which can be dangerous for us runners!).

Today I’m sharing a little bit about what I’ve learned about running in Paris, including the best times of year to run in Paris, five great routes to run in Paris for your first time, and the best running tours in Paris.

When To Run In Paris

For the most pleasant running conditions, plan your Parisian running adventure during the mild seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). 

With temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C), you’ll find the weather to be ideal for exploring the city on foot. The summer months can get a bit sweatier, especially with the canicules or heat waves that have become more frequent. 

The chilly winter season is certainly one of my favorites, but the shorter days might complicate your desirees for longer running escapades.

Top 5 Running Routes In Paris

Paris offers a plethora of incredible running routes that showcase the city’s most iconic sights and natural wonders. 

Get ready to embrace the runner’s high as you discover the magic of these top five routes:

Paris Running Route #1: Run Along the Seine

Begin your adventure at the foot of the majestic Eiffel Tower and let the Seine River guide your stride. 

As you meander along the riverbanks, you’ll be greeted by the grandeur of the Louvre Museum, the graceful architecture of Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the charming bridges that span the Seine. 

This route is a true love letter to the essence of Paris.

Paris Running Route #2: Run to the Bois de Vincennes via the the Promenade Plantée

Immerse yourself in the perfect blend of urban and natural beauty on this extraordinary route. Start at the Promenade Plantée (Paris’s version of the High Line in New York), a unique elevated park built upon an old railway viaduct.

As you soak in the stunning views of Parisian rooftops, continue your journey through charming neighborhoods until you reach the sprawling Bois de Vincennes, Paris’s large park to the east of town, where tranquil trails await amidst lush greenery (along with one of the city’s impressive castles, the château de Vincennes).

Paris Running Route #3: Run through the Bois de Boulogne

Escape the bustling city streets and find solace in the enchanting embrace of the Bois de Boulogne. This vast park, located on the western edge of Paris, offers a runner’s paradise with its extensive network of trails. 

Lose yourself in the serenity of dense forests, picturesque lakes, and magnificent chateaus as you revel in the harmony of nature.

Paris Running Route #4: Run Canal St. Martin to Buttes Chaumont

Follow the charming Canal St. Martin and let its waters guide your footsteps towards the magnificent Buttes Chaumont park. This route seamlessly blends urban landscapes with pockets of tranquility. 

Experience the vibrant energy of the canal and the soothing ambiance of the park, adorned with rolling hills, a stunning lake, and even a picturesque temple.

Paris Running Route #5: Run up to Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur

Challenge yourself with a run to the iconic neighborhood of Montmartre, famous for its bohemian charm and the majestic Sacré-Cœur Basilica. 

Start your ascent from the city streets and feel your adrenaline surge as you conquer the hill leading up to Montmartre. Reward yourself with panoramic views of Paris and soak in the artistic atmosphere that has inspired countless creatives throughout history.

Best Running Tours in Paris

To truly immerse yourself in the allure of Paris, why not consider joining a running tour? Running with a private tour or a group is an excellent way to explore the city’s hidden routes. Plus, you’ll also get a dose of history at the same time, giving you a hands-on (and shoes-on!) experience.

Below, we have two incredible running tours in Paris that will take you off the beaten path and unveil the city’s secrets:

1. Sports, Fun, and Educational Discovery of Paris

What makes the Sports, Fun, and Educational Discovery of Paris running tour great is just how personalized you can make it. Enjoy a light jog or request a harder workout as you sprint between some of the most iconic landmarks in Paris. 

Need some inspiration? Here are a few of the possibilities to enjoy as you work up a little Parisian sweat:

• Louvre Museum
• Jardin des Tuileries
• Place de la Concorde
• Palais Garnier
• Seine River
• Ile de la Cite
• Musee d’Orsay
• Eiffel Tower
• Champs-Elysees
• Hôtel des Invalides
• Luxembourg Gardens
• Pont-Neuf
• Petit Palais 

Check out the Sports, Fun, and Educational Discovery of Paris running tour here.

2. Sunrise Run & Sightseeing in Paris

If you’re in town for a Paris vacation and want to sneak in a run, this group sunrise run might be your best bet. While Paris is a great spot for tourists to visit, it definitely attracts a lot of them! See more of the city faster with this morning guided run tour.

Learn more about the Sunrise Run & Sightseeing in Paris here.

Get Ready For Your Next Run In Paris

Paris, the City of Love, embraces runners with open arms and invites them to uncover its hidden treasures. 

Whether you’re captivated by the Seine’s allure, enchanted by the parks’ serenity, or enticed by the artistic pulse that flows through the city, Paris offers a running experience that will leave you breathless. 

So, pack your running gear, set off on this unforgettable journey, and remember, there are countless run adventures awaiting you around the globe. Happy running!

Psst! If you’re craving more run adventures, consider exploring the stunning trails of Chamonix in the French Alps or doing some laps around a vineyard! We’ve got more French running adventures for you here