The running scene in Porto is booming. With historical buildings, winding streets, and its proximity to the coast and the Duoro river, running is a great way to view all the sights that the city has to offer. Many of the guests on our guided running tours ask about the Porto marathon. This blog lists the main running races in the city, from the marathon and half marathon to some of the shorter races. If you’re visiting Porto soon, be sure to bring your running shoes and check out the city on the run.
PORTO MAIN RUNNING RACES
Half marathon
Date: 17 September 2023
It is the 16th half marathon this year, distinguished with the Bronze Level by the IAAF. The route is along the Douro River, giving you the opportunity to enjoy both sides of the river, Porto and Gaia.
This organization has a growing number of participants every year, national and international athletes. Zersenay Tadese (Eritreia) holds the best men’s mark, 59’30sec. Monica Jepkoech (Kenia) holds the best record among women: 69’23sec.
If you are trying to beat your personal best, or simply spend a relaxing weekend on a Sunday morning running, running this half marathon could be perfect for you!
Marathon
Date: 5 November 2023
It is the 19th event. It is also distinguished with the Bronze Level by the IAAF. As with the half marathon, the route is mainly along the beach and Douro River.
Porto’s marathon has athletes from around the world. In 2018, there were 30 nationalities registered, and of course, the winners were from Africa. The best time for men was 02:09:05 by Robert Chemonges (Uganda), and for women 02:26:58 by Monica Jepkoech (Kenya).
On the same day, with the same organization, there is the Family Race 15KM. It is like a “warm up” for the ones who are dreaming about the marathon and have the opportunity to feel the adrenaline that surrounds the starting line on that day!
Smaller Races
Volta a Paranhos 10KM
Date: 8 December 2023
This is a popular race, the oldest one in the north of Portugal. With the races history, “every” local runner is honoured to take part, from beginners with their sons to the veterans. This race is organized by a local football club, SPORT COMERCIO & SALGUEIROS, and it gives us the chance to run in a part of the city out of the normal tourism route.
Cross the River Run
Date: Various
15 km run starting and finishing at Porto City Hall, this run explores the nice and unique spots of the Old Town as well as crossing the river to Gaia.
Sao Silvestre 10KM
Date: TBC
It is the last race of the year, a night race starting at 6pm from the city center, crossing downtown to Boavista. It’s a fun race because of the time of the year, between Christmas and New Year’s Eve. At this time, the city is all decorated with Christmas lights. Although considered a popular race, it is very competitive, and the best time is under 29m. If you are planning to spend New Year’s Eve with us, you should register. It’s a hell of an experience!
Any other tips that you may need you can always contact us on our facebook/Instagram pages, or by e-mail [email protected]
All the best from PORTO!
Francisco
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CAPE TOWN RUNNING RACES 2023