Running Holidays

Hit the pavement for an early morning run through some of the world’s most beautiful cities

Imagine yourself running in this new city, discovering the mains monuments while practising your favourite sport... What are you waiting for to live this experience? Make your next trip about your passion for running and spend unforgettable holidays!

Destination ideas

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A race in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower

Wake up, have some fresh fruit and cheese for breakfast, get your sneakers on and get ready to work out! This could very well be the standard itinerary for any city, but when you hit the streets in Paris, you'll catch a glimpse of the most beautiful monuments. A few sprints into the training, wait; what's that smell? Oh, it's just the delicious aroma of bread and croissants. This is just the way it goes when travellers are running in Paris.

Why you should go

Running in Paris, crossing the huge boulevards and streets while admiring its many monuments is an exceptional experience for all running enthusiasts. Parisians have created spectacular routes where you get breathless, and not only because of the effort... but by also discovering the " City of Light " with sneakers on your feet!

When to go

  • The best time to run in Paris is between mid-May and mid-September, when the weather is warm and sunny.
  • In spring, its mild climate and its radiant light is without a doubt the perfect time preferred to run in the capital. It is also the time for the Paris marathon.

The climate of Paris is temperate and influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, not too cold in the winter and pleasantly warm in summer.

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What to do

Parisian runners love their city so much, they have created different routes to enjoy Paris while running. Some popular training spots all avid runners should check out are:

  • The Luxembourg Gardens,  the Tulleries and the Siene riverside, are perfect if you don't mind running on pavement
  • Walking by the Siene: It's a must! Like visiting Notre Damme and the book shops around, where you could find ancient editions. Do take note, however, that the trails on the Seine are closed to traffic on Sunday mornings.
  • Eiffel Tower: You can't leave Paris without visiting Eiffel Tower (if you have no fear, you can go to the top and enjoy the awesome views).
  • Montmatre: Save a day to go, this charming area is perfect to stop by and have a ""cafe au lait"". Gourmet lovers are in the right city.

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Paris Runners Map

Surfing in Morocco

A race to the rhythm of Big Ben

Pick up your waterproof jacket because you will need it during your running holidays in London. This city holds one of the most important marathons in the world and is part of World Marathon Majors.

Why you should go

Imagine crossing the London Bridge or hearing the sound of Big Ben at the end of your workout... Discover the British capital on the run, you won't regret it!

When to go

London is a rainy city, but if it is well equipped, it is perfect for runners!

  • The best time of year to visit London is between May and mid -October.
  • It rains frequently but in limited quantities. The days of drizzle outnumber the real showers.
  • The special climate of London is its variability. You can see the sun and rain several times a day.

Good news for runners: It is never too hot!

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What to do

London has a lot of attractions to enjoy.

  • Go running: Explore Regent's Park; Green Park, Beyond the Ritz, and Hampstead Heath, with 791 acres of green grass, swimming pools and trees.. But if you want to see the city while running, your must-attend event is Britain's iconic London Route. This 10k run is celebrated once a year and it's the perfect way to see London's best attractions. Runners will start at Picadilly and will pass The Ritz, St. James's Palace, Trafalgar Square, St. Paul's Cathedral, the unique London Eye, Big Ben and much more!
  • Go vintage shopping: You can go to a couple of markets to buy a second hand treasures.
  • Indulge in local food: Afternoon tea with cupcakes or scons is a good choice but you can also taste international streetfood in Camden.

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London Runners Map

Running through history

As visitors walk into the different parks in Berlin (there are around 16 parks and gardens) it is easy to forget that they are in the second most populous city in the European Union. The German capital is a perfect city for people who love doing outdoor sports and also enjoy exploring the history of a place.

Why you should go

Berlin is an eclectic city full of cultural and historical attractions...

  • If you 're a fan of running then the many huge parks of the city will be the ideal setting for your workouts.
  • After your run, you can visit all their beautiful and interesting museums or go to the best nightclubs in the city.

When to go

  • The period from May to September is ideal if you want to avoid the extreme cold of winter.
  • The continental climate that describes the region in summer is usually dry, but not stuffy. It is perfect for running and sports in general!

It's freezing in winter but it's the best time to go to score the best deals!

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What to do

Berlin has a strong and young history that surprise you in every corner.

  • Running routes: Take a run to the East Side Gallery, sprint past the Spree river or run underneath the arch of the Brandenburg gate, which is also the finish line of Berlin's Marathon.
  • Marathons: Some other important runs for travellers with a competitive edge, apart from the marathon, because let's face it; not everyone is prepared for a challenge that intense, is the 25-K von Berlin. This consists of a half-marathon with nearly 5,000 runners. Then there's the Berliner City Nacht, a 10k run that takes place during a summer night in July.
  • Sightseeing: Walk around Mitte (the heart of the city) and see Brandenburg gate, Berlin's TV tower at Alexander platz, take some pictures at Checkpiont Charlie and eat curry wurst while shopping in Friedrich Strasse.

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Berlin Runners Map

The city with the most famous marathon in the world

With one of the longest and most famous marathons in the World, New York is definitely a perfect destination for runners. Completing this run is, apart from a massive challenge, a great way to visit places that you otherwise would not see.

Why you should go

Imagine waking up early morning and going to Central Park to join the local runners who perform their routine every day. Close your eyes and imagine you're running in the countryside, while the dawn makes you glimpse the skyscrapers that remind you that you are in one of the most beautiful cities in the world... Does it feel like a movie? Fly to New York and make this dream a reality!

When to go

  • The "Big Apple" is open to the Atlantic, but it usually has a humid continental climate with a relatively high risk of rain.
  • There is no specific month that will ensure that there's no rain, but what is certain is that the winter months are very cold.
  • If you are planning to visit New York prefer the late summer and fall. 
  • But if you want to see the flowers bloom in the city, visit in Spring.

The best time to visit New york is... any time.

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What to do

There are tons of plans you can do in New York city like visit the Empire State or the Rockefeller Centre to have amazing views of New York's skyline.

  • Runners: The best part is that you don't need to be a professional runner to enjoy the city. Some of the more obvious but inspiring running points is Central Park with stunning views. You can also train and run through the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway, a biking and running path that’s divided into three main parts: Hudson River Greenway, East River Greenway and Harlem River Greenway.
  • Unique experiences: You can go kayaking in Hudson river, eat hot dogs in Coney Island or visit some sets of famous tv shows like Friends or Sex in the City. Don't miss Chinatown and do some shopping!

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New York Runners Map

 

Beat your record in the birthplace of marathons

Athens is the iconic city of the first marathon and of course, the Olympics. Origins of the marathon come from the legend of Pheidippides', who in 490 BC ran from Marathon to Athens to announce victory over the Persian army.

Why you should go

Let's be honest, running a marathon or even to train along a famous road that connects the cities of Marathon and Athens is the dream of every rider, whether professional or amateur.

  • Also saw the birth of one of the oldest events of history, Athens is an ideal destination!

When to go

  • Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit the Greek capital.
  • If you're going to run around Athens, avoid going in summer where the temperature can reach 40° C!

Temperatures and hordes of tourists rise during the summer

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What to do

The city's strong inclinations toward the sport are evidence visitors are guaranteed to enjoy a great run in this eternal city, including the Athens Half Marathon:

  • Marathons: The Athens 10K Race, starts in the town called 'Marathon', where the Nike statue stands symbolizing victory. The race ends in the Panathenaic stadium in Athens where the first modern Olympic games were held in 1896. At almost every stage of the race, local people are standing by the road, motivating the runners. It's a sight to see!
  • Gastronomy: Enjoy local food like feta cheese, fresh salads with cucumber and olives, fish recipes and traditional dessets with honey.
  • Sightseeing: For a spectacular panoramic view of the city, climb Lycabettus Hill. And dont forget to visit Ágora and walk the street of Dionysiou Areopagitou from Acropolis to Keramikos, a peace of Greece (and Mediterranean) culture and history.

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Athens' Runners Map

 

« If you want to win something, run 100 meters. If you want to experience someting, run a marathon. »

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Emil Zatopek

Travel tips for Runners

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your sporting holidays


The perfect shoes
Choosing the correct shoe is very important. Picking the right trainers can be difficult. Pick the shoe that reflects the turf you’ll be running on the most and also best fits the shape of your feet. And remember, you should replace your running shoes after 500 km.

Avoid cotton
Cotton is not a runner’s best friend. Cotton clothes tend to get wet and stinky from excessive sweat. Try using polyester, nylon or special resistant fabrics instead.

Watch your mouth
Ok, SO you’re on holiday and are tempted to indulge. Though perfectly understandable, try and watch what you eat, especially if you are planning on running. Stay healthy and eat plenty. Morning runners, enjoy the hotel’s breakfast: Bread, banana, low fat yogurt and a few nuts will get you ready.

Running in the rain
Don’t let the rain stop you from having a good time. If you’re visiting very rainy cities like London or Paris, check out some of the indoors running options.

Choose the best route
If you are looking for some running routes during your holiday, try googling “sight jogging”, “touristic running” or “sightrunning”. This activity is sure to give you a new and exciting perspective on sightseeing tours. Some runners have also created blogs with unique running routes.

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