Pedals, Padel & Paella: The Guide to Staying Active in Valencia.
Why Valencia Is a Fitness Lover’s Paradise.
By Isabella — October 17 2025
Did you know that last year’s world half marathon records were set in Valencia?
Valencia is an ideal place for year-round athletes or people who just enjoy playing sport at any level — it’s an outdoor city and the weather is ideal during the winter months and, outside of July & August, pretty manageable if you get out early enough or later in the day.
So what’s on offer?
Get your trainers on!
There are great places to run and the most popular is, as the locals call it, El Rio — previously a river that ran through the city which was diverted after the floods of 1957. It is now a 13km park that meanders through the center of Valencia and is an ideal green space to run or cycle. With mainly flat running and cycle tracks you can push your pace or build your fitness. Wherever you rent you will be in striking distance of the Rio.
If you are a more experienced runner there are lots of organised events: 5k, 10k, half and full marathons. Last year the world record for the half marathon was set right here in Valencia. Running through the streets and seeing all the iconic buildings from a unique perspective is a dream for many runners, whilst the beat of the Valencia Batucada drumming teams keeps you motivated and moving.
The Túria park is like a giant outdoor sports centre full of health-conscious Valencians practicing tai chi, yoga, boxing and Zumba. You can join these groups easily through the Expat Facebook pages.
On Two Wheels…
There are bike hire shops all over town with a huge selection to choose from in the Russafa area. Rates are normally pretty competitive with a day or half day available and electric bikes for an easier ride. This is a great way to get around easily and improve your local knowledge — and of course, Valencia is very well served with dedicated cycle paths. If you are here for a few months or more you can sign up for the Valenbisi street bikes!
It’s a breeze cycling from Russafa to the Arenas beach area through the park and maybe stopping for a tostada or bocadillo on the beach in Malvarrosa or Patacona.
Maybe you have brought your bike with you and regularly dress in Lycra! There are so many routes out of the city — it’s quick and you can be cycling towards the hills of the Serra Calderona or Náquera in no time.
Outside of the city there are routes for every level of experience — you want a gran fondo route, take your pick. You want to hit the big hills, jump on a train and get off at Xàtiva and head to where the elite teams winter train — it’s all here in easy reach. There are many cycling groups also; you don’t need to cycle alone — unless you want to 😊
It’s a Racket!
Where to start with padel. One of the fastest-growing games in many European countries, you could say Spain is its home (despite being invented in Mexico). There are many courts and if you are new to the game, it’s easy to learn — or if you play at 5.0 level there are plenty of willing players out there. So if you want to learn the difference between a “bandeja” or a “chiquita” and pick up some helpful Spanish phrases (including a few colourful local ones!) now is your chance.
There are year-round chances to play with warm winter conditions. Several clubs you could join and a very active scene both on the court and socially.
Valencia offers a high variety of activities and regardless of where you decide to live you will not be far from them. So what are you waiting for — get out there and get involved whatever level of fitness you are.
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