I am the founder of CorrerJuntos. A triathlete and recreational runner from Andalusia, I have been racing across Spain for years and I'm building from Huelva an app that connects runners so no one has to train alone. In 2026 the calendar is fuller than ever: more than 3,000 races scattered across Spain, from major international events to small village races with their own special charm.
This guide gathers the 24+ most important running races in Spain for 2026, organized month by month so you can plan your season. Marathons, half marathons, iconic 10K, trail and popular races — everything you need to make sure you don't miss a single one.
3,000+
Popular races in Spain per year
RFEA
4.5M
Federated and recreational runners in Spain
CSD 2025
47,000
Participants at Rock 'n' Roll Madrid
Largest race in Spain
10€–90€
Price range by distance
10K → Marathon
Why 2026 is the year for races in Spain
Running in Spain is having a golden moment. Participation numbers break records year after year, and 2026 is no exception. The Valencia Marathon Trinidad Alfonso has been ranked one of the fastest in the world, the Behobia-San Sebastián sells out bibs in hours, and races like the San Silvestre Vallecana gather more than 40,000 runners.
What makes the Spanish calendar special is the variety: from urban races in Madrid and Barcelona to mountain trails in the Pyrenees and the Canary Islands, plus charity races, night events and festive 10Ks. There is a race for every runner, regardless of your level. And if you are visiting Spain or living here as an expat, racing is one of the best ways to experience local culture and meet the running community.
April 2026
AprilApril marks the start of the strong spring season. With ideal running temperatures, it's the month for big marathons and the first outdoor races of the year.
| Race | City | Date | Distances | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mann-Filter Zaragoza Marathon | Zaragoza | Apr 12 | 42K, 10K | ~10,000 |
| ASICS Penyagolosa Trails | Castellón | Apr 18 | 106K, 60K | ~3,000 |
| Santa Eularia Ibiza Marathon | Ibiza | Apr 18 | 42K, 22K, 12K | ~3,000 |
| Vías Verdes Girona Marathon | Girona | Apr 25 | 42K, 30K, 21K, 10K | ~4,000 |
| Zurich Rock 'n' Roll Madrid | Madrid | Apr 26 | 42K, 21K, 10K | ~47,000 |
May 2026
MayMay brings spectacular trail races and major women's events. The Transvulcania on La Palma and the legendary Zegama-Aizkorri are bucket-list entries for trail runners worldwide.
| Race | City | Date | Distances | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transvulcania La Palma | La Palma | May 9 | 73K, 47K, 24K, 14K | ~3,000 |
| Carrera de la Mujer Madrid | Madrid | May 10 | 6.3K (women) | ~38,000 |
| Cursa El Corte Inglés Barcelona | Barcelona | May 10 | 10K | ~40,000 |
| Zegama-Aizkorri | Zegama | May 17 | 42K (mountain) | 225 (lottery) |
| Volta a Peu Valencia | Valencia | May 17 | 6.2K | ~15,000 |
July 2026
JulySummer brings ultra trail running to the Pyrenees, with the prestigious UTMB World Series stopping in Spain.
| Race | City | Date | Distances | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HOKA Val d'Aran by UTMB | Val d'Aran (Pyrenees) | Jul 1-5 | 105K, 55K, 40K, 20K | ~5,000 |
September 2026
SeptemberThe Mediterranean autumn opens the second running season. Cooler weather and beautiful coastal courses.
| Race | City | Date | Distances | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cursa de la Mercè Barcelona | Barcelona | Sep 21 | 10K, 5K, 2K | ~14,500 |
October 2026
OctoberOctober is when the autumn season hits full speed. Half marathons, marathons, night runs — perfect month for personal bests.
| Race | City | Date | Distances | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TotalEnergies Bilbao Night Running | Bilbao | Oct 17 | 21K, 10K (night) | ~10,000 |
| TUI Palma Marathon Mallorca | Palma de Mallorca | Oct 18 | 42K, 21K, 10K | ~10,000 |
| Valencia Half Marathon | Valencia | Oct 25 | 21K | ~25,000 |
November 2026
NovemberThe biggest month of the season. From Andalusia to the Basque Country, almost every weekend features a major race.
| Race | City | Date | Distances | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Generali Málaga Marathon | Málaga | Nov 8 | 42K, 21K | ~8,000 |
| Behobia-San Sebastián | San Sebastián | Nov 8 | 20K (Irún-Donostia) | ~28,000 |
| Cursa Bombers Barcelona | Barcelona | Nov 9 | 10K (charity) | ~12,000 |
| Zurich San Sebastián Marathon | San Sebastián | Nov 22 | 42K, 21K, 10K | ~10,000 |
| Carrera de la Mujer Barcelona | Barcelona | Nov 22 | 6.3K (women) | ~30,000 |
| Seville Half Marathon | Sevilla | Nov 29 | 21K | ~12,000 |
December 2026
DecemberThe grand finale of the season: the world's fastest marathon and the most iconic New Year's Eve races.
| Race | City | Date | Distances | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Valencia Marathon Trinidad Alfonso | Valencia | Dec 6 | 42K | ~30,000 |
| San Silvestre Vallecana | Madrid | Dec 31 | 10K | ~40,000 |
| Cursa dels Nassos | Barcelona | Dec 31 | 10K, 5K | ~15,000 |
Tips for foreign runners racing in Spain
If you're traveling to Spain to race or living here as an expat, these are the things you need to know to register without surprises:
- Federative license: many races require an "RFEA" license to participate. If you don't have one, you can buy a one-day license at registration for 3-5€. No medical certificate required.
- Medical certificate: required for marathons and some half marathons. A simple doctor's letter saying you're fit for endurance sport is enough — doesn't need to be in Spanish, English works.
- Bib pickup: usually 1-2 days before the race at a designated venue. Bring your passport. Some races allow third-party pickup if you give them a signed authorization.
- ID at the start line: not always required, but many races check ID for prizes and age categories. Bring a copy in your phone.
- Hotels sell out fast: book accommodation as soon as you register. Race weekends can triple normal prices.
- Transport: most major Spanish races provide free public transport on race day with your bib. Confirm in the official regulations.
How to pick the right race for you
With 24+ races to choose from, picking your target depends on three factors:
1. Your level and goal
- First-timer or casual runner: stick to 10K races. Great vibes, low pressure, ~12 weeks of preparation.
- Looking for a personal best: choose flat fast courses — Valencia (10K, half, marathon), Seville Half, Málaga Marathon.
- Trail running fan: Transvulcania, Penyagolosa, Zegama-Aizkorri, Val d'Aran by UTMB.
- Experience the local culture: Behobia-San Sebastián, Cursa de la Mercè Barcelona, San Silvestre Vallecana.
2. The time of year
- Spring (April-May): ideal temperatures, longer training options. Best season for first marathons.
- Summer (Jul-Aug): avoid road races, focus on mountain trail in the Pyrenees or Northern Spain.
- Autumn (Oct-Nov): peak season. Best weather and most quality races.
- Winter (Dec-Feb): cooler temperatures, perfect for fast times.
3. Your travel preferences
Coastal cities (Valencia, Barcelona, Málaga, Palma) work well as combined running + holiday trips. Inland cities (Madrid, Zaragoza, Seville) offer pure cultural immersion. Mountain races (Pyrenees, Canary Islands) require specific logistics — rent a car, prepare for altitude.
Train smarter for your race in Spain
Download CorrerJuntos and get a personalized training plan for your distance, plus connect with local runners during your trip.
Download for iOS Download for AndroidFrequently asked questions
What is the best marathon to run in Spain in 2026?
The Valencia Marathon Trinidad Alfonso is widely regarded as the best marathon in Spain and one of the five fastest in the world. Its flat course, ideal December weather and impeccable organization make it the favorite for personal bests.
How much does it cost to register for a popular race in Spain?
Prices vary by distance: 10K races usually cost 10€ to 25€, half marathons 25€ to 50€, and marathons 50€ to 90€. Early bird registrations are typically cheaper.
When do registrations open for popular races in Spain 2026?
Usually 6 to 12 months before the event. Major marathons (Valencia, Barcelona, Madrid) open in January-February and sell out within days or weeks. Popular 10K races usually open 2-3 months before.
Can foreign runners participate in Spanish popular races?
Yes, all major Spanish races welcome international runners. You only need a valid passport or ID and to complete the online registration form. Some races require a federative license (cheap to obtain at the same registration).
What are the best trail running races in Spain?
Spain is a world powerhouse in trail running. The most prestigious are Zegama-Aizkorri (42K with 2,750m elevation), Transvulcania (up to 73K), Val d'Aran by UTMB (up to 105K) and Penyagolosa Trails (up to 106K).
How do I prepare for my first race in Spain?
For a 10K, you need at least 8 weeks of preparation running 3-4 days per week. For a half marathon, plan 12 weeks, and for a marathon 16-20 weeks. Don't jump distances without proper preparation, and arrive at the race well rested.
What is the largest race in Spain?
The Zurich Rock 'n' Roll Madrid is the largest race in Spain by participation, with around 47,000 runners. The San Silvestre Vallecana on December 31 is also massive, with about 40,000 runners gathered for the iconic New Year's Eve 10K.
Founder of CorrerJuntos. Triathlete and recreational runner from Andalusia. Builds from Huelva the app that connects runners across Spain.