The best races for your first 10K

Running 10 kilometres for the first time is one of the most memorable milestones for a new runner. It is a genuine endurance challenge that requires preparation, while remaining achievable for people who already run consistently and are ready to progress beyond 5K.

Choosing the right event can make that first experience even more rewarding. An accessible course, a welcoming atmosphere, a comfortable cut-off time and reliable organisation can reduce race-day nerves and allow you to focus on enjoying the experience and reaching the finish line.

We have selected several 10K races taking place over the coming months that could be excellent options for reaching this milestone.

37th Corrida da Festa do Avante!

6 September 2026 | Amora

The Corrida da Festa do Avante! is an interesting choice for runners looking for an affordable community event with an atmosphere that feels different from a large commercial race.

Its 10K course is officially approved by the Portuguese Athletics Federation. It begins on Avenida Silva Gomes in Amora, heads towards Quinta da Atalaia and then returns to the starting area. The event welcomes both affiliated athletes and individual runners.

For a first-time 10K runner, its community atmosphere and accessible entry fee can help make the experience feel more relaxed.

Why it could be a good first race:

• Inclusive community atmosphere
• Officially approved course
• Affordable registration
• Around six weeks to prepare

👉 View the 37th Corrida da Festa do Avante! on RaceFinder.

Corrida do Tejo

13 September 2026 | Algés–Oeiras

The Corrida do Tejo is one of Portugal’s most iconic 10K road races. Its course follows Avenida Marginal, beginning near Algés railway station and finishing close to Praia da Torre in Oeiras.

Runners start in waves based on their expected pace, helping everyone run alongside participants with similar goals. Its two-hour cut-off also makes the race accessible to recreational runners and those who want to complete the distance without excessive time pressure.

Participants also benefit from on-course hydration, free travel on the Cascais railway line on race day and a bag-transfer service between the start and finish.

Why it could be a good first race:

• Iconic riverside course
• Starting waves organised by pace
• Comfortable two-hour cut-off
• Strong event infrastructure

👉 Discover the Corrida do Tejo on RaceFinder.

Auchan Run

19 September 2026 | Jamor, Oeiras

The Auchan Run takes place at the National Sports Centre in Jamor and includes a 10K race, a 5K walk and several children’s events.

The main race starts at 6 pm and has a two-hour maximum duration, giving runners with different experience levels enough time to complete the course. Its combination of running, walking and children’s activities also makes it suitable for those who would like to attend with friends or family.

Why it could be a good first race:

• Two-hour cut-off
• Early-evening start
• Family-friendly programme
• Alternative distances for accompanying friends and relatives

👉 View the Auchan Run on RaceFinder.

Corrida do Centenário

20 September 2026 | Silveira, Torres Vedras

The Corrida do Centenário celebrates the 100th anniversary of the parish of Silveira and offers both a competitive 10K race and a non-competitive 10K walk.

The race begins at 9:15 am and includes official timing, insurance, hydration and an event T-shirt. Participation in the running event is limited to 1,000 people, which may provide a less crowded experience than a major urban race.

It is also an affordable option: the 10K entry costs €5 and can be booked directly through RaceFinder.

Why it could be a good first race:

• Community and celebratory atmosphere
• Limited number of runners
• Official timing and results
• Affordable RaceFinder registration

👉 Book the Corrida do Centenário through RaceFinder.

Bimbo Global Race

27 September 2026 | Belém, Lisbon

The Bimbo Global Race combines running, social impact and a family-friendly atmosphere in one of Lisbon’s most recognisable locations.

The programme includes a 10K race, a 5K run, a walk and children’s races. The 10K uses a fast, flat riverside route, starting and finishing at Praça do Império in Belém, with water available at kilometre five and at the finish.

The participant kit includes a technical T-shirt, race bib, timing chip, drawstring bag with products and a finisher medal. The variety of distances also means that friends and relatives can join the event without having to complete the full 10K.

Why it could be a good first race:

• Flat and potentially fast course
• Festive, family-friendly atmosphere
• Finisher medal
• Several distances at one event
• Registration through RaceFinder

👉 Check the Bimbo Global Race on RaceFinder.

10th Grande Prémio do Vale Grande

5 October 2026 | Odivelas

The Grande Prémio do Vale Grande is a road-running event offering 10K and 5K races, a walk and children’s competitions.

The 2026 edition is limited to 1,000 participants and offers several hydration points along the course. The 10K participant kit includes a technical T-shirt, race number, timing chip and finisher medal. A community gathering with traditional food and drinks is also planned after the race.

It is a strong option for runners who would like more time to prepare and complete their first 10K at the beginning of autumn.

Why it could be a good first race:

• Additional preparation time
• Several hydration points
• Medal for every finisher
• Community atmosphere after the race
• Registration through RaceFinder

👉 Book the Grande Prémio do Vale Grande through RaceFinder.

Grande Corrida A Previdência Portuguesa

18 October 2026 | Coimbra

For runners looking for a smaller event and an officially certified course, the Grande Corrida A Previdência Portuguesa could be an excellent choice.

The 10K takes place at the Coimbra Agricultural College and uses a course certified by World Athletics and the Portuguese Athletics Federation. The event welcomes individual athletes and club representatives across junior, senior and veteran categories.

At only €5 for the main race, it is also one of the most affordable options in this selection and can be booked directly on RaceFinder.

Why it could be a good first race:

• Officially certified course
• Smaller, locally focused event
• Affordable entry
• Almost three months to prepare
• Direct booking through RaceFinder

👉 Book the Grande Corrida A Previdência Portuguesa through RaceFinder.

How to choose your first 10K

There is no single perfect event for every runner. Your choice should be based on what will help you feel most confident when you reach the start line.

A flat course may feel more manageable if the distance itself is your main concern. A larger event can provide more entertainment and crowd support, while a smaller race may offer a calmer and less intimidating experience.

Before registering, check:

• The race cut-off time
• The course profile and elevation
• The location of hydration points
• Transport and parking options
• Race-number collection arrangements
• The distance you will need to travel to the event

Your finishing time should not be the priority in your first 10K. Control your pace, enjoy the atmosphere and cross the finish line feeling proud of what you have achieved.

Ready for your first 10K?

Choose an event, add it to your calendar and turn the coming weeks of training into a clear and motivating goal.

Explore all the 10K races available on RaceFinder and find the one that best matches your location, schedule and experience.

Get 30% off your registration

For eligible events booked through RaceFinder, use the code:

10KM

to receive 30% off your entry.

The discount applies only to participating events and is subject to each race’s conditions and availability.