Valencia is considered one of the greenest cities in Spain – thanks in no small part to the Jardín del Turia, one of the longest urban parks in Europe. This 10-km route leads from the cruise terminal through the Jardín del Turia, past L'Oceanogràfic and the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències, and further into the park before returning along the same path.
The route starts near the cruise terminal. Depending on your berth a port shuttle may be needed. The entrance to the Jardín del Turia is reached after around one kilometre.
From here the route runs entirely through the Turia Garden. The wide, well-maintained paths and extensive green spaces provide ideal conditions for running and walking. Along the way the route passes L'Oceanogràfic – the largest aquarium in Europe – and the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències with its impressive architecture by Santiago Calatrava.
Unlike the 5-km loop, this route continues several more kilometres into the park, offering a longer running experience away from the bustle. The turning point lies deep in the Jardín del Turia. From there the route heads back along the same path towards the starting point.
For runners this route offers excellent conditions: flat, well-maintained park paths, little traffic and still exciting views of the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències. Thanks to its length and level surface it is particularly well suited for longer runs and tempo training.
The route combines wonderfully with some of Valencia's most famous attractions. As the route passes directly by L'Oceanogràfic, a visit to the largest aquarium in Europe right after the run is a natural fit. With a ticket booked in advance entry is quick and hassle-free.
Those who want to discover more of Valencia afterwards can join a guided cycling tour taking in the 25 most beautiful sights in the city. The tour starts in the centre, which is a few kilometres from the port.
The route starts near the cruise terminal. Depending on your berth a port shuttle to the start may be needed.
The route can be followed either directly via the map on this page or by importing the GPX file into a navigation app like Komoot. Navigation via the GPX file is recommended, as it is considerably more precise and provides clear GPS guidance while running. Once the GPX file has been saved in the app, the map can usually also be used offline. It is recommended to test the navigation in flight mode without active Wi-Fi in advance.
Tip: If your mobile provider does not offer roaming in Spain or only at high cost, a global data plan is a good option for cruises, for example from eSIM.sm (advertisement).
The route runs mostly through the Jardín del Turia, which is considered very safe and is regularly used by runners, cyclists and walkers.
As the route is set up as an out-and-back, the distance can be shortened at any point by turning around. Allow plenty of buffer time, especially for runs in the afternoon. It is also worth saving the ship's phone number in advance for emergencies. Uber and Bolt work well in Valencia.
Public toilets and a drinking water fountain are available in the Jardín del Turia.
The route runs mostly along asphalt and compacted park paths. Normal running shoes are sufficient. Sun protection, enough water and a navigation device are also recommended. A payment option is also useful, as in Valencia you can usually pay by card or smartphone as well.