ARE YOU AN AVID RUNNER? FIND THE TOP SPOTS TO EXERCISE SO YOU CAN STAY FIT AND HAVE FUN DURING YOUR NEXT EUROPEAN GETAWAY.
On a vacation to Europe, you're guaranteed to see some of the most historic and beautiful landmarks, cities, and landscapes if you follow a tourist's guidebook. But if you take a few runs on your trip, you will notice that there is twice as much to discover off the beaten path.
Besides, running can keep you fit, make you feel like part of a community, and help you familiarize yourself with a new place. Just don't forget to pack a Pack-It Shoe Locker and Wet Dry Fitness Locker in your bag, so you can keep your dirty sneakers and workout attire away from your clean clothes.
So when you're planning your next European trip, try heading to one of these amazing destinations across the pond. Go during the spring, summer, or fall, when temperatures won't be too chilly. Then lace up your shoes and have fun!
Trentino Alto Adige, Italy
Just a train ride away from Venice, this small Italian city—which is nestled in the Dolomites region of the Alps—is a haven of dirt trails with killer views. Trentino Trail Running offers different paths that feature all types of terrain.
London, England
After hosting the 2012 Olympics and one of the largest marathons in the world, there is something special about running along the Thames, past Buckingham Palace, and under the shadow of Big Ben that will make for a memorable run. City Jogging Tours makes sure that you can see what you want at your own pace.
Chamonix, France
The epicenter of trail running, this quaint, alpine village sits at the foot of Mont Blanc, which marks the three-way border of France, Italy, and Switzerland—so you can run in three countries in one day on challenging, mountainous terrain. Since the Alps can be a tough terrain for even experts, hiring a guide, such as one from Run Bum Tours , can help you have a safer and more enjoyable run.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Since bikes and buses are banned in some areas of the city, your feet are your best mode of transportation in Amsterdam. Tourist Run Amsterdam is a company that will take visitors on a one-hour running tour that highlights sights such as the famous Waterlooplein flea market, the Heineken Brewery Headquarters, the Anne Frank House, and the Royal Palace on the Dam.
Santorini, Greece
The cities of Fira and Oia are connected by a six-mile cobblestone and dirt road on the beautiful Mediterranean island, allowing you to run alongside the blue waters and white buildings with amazing views. The path is easy to find and simple enough that you can guide yourself along and take in the fresh ocean air.
Berlin, Germany
The Berlin Marathon is one of the most famous marathons in the world, thanks to its impressively fast competitors and its prizes (a brand-new BMW and lots of cash!). Running in Berlin will show you the city's many gardens, and you can get a history lesson firsthand as you cross East and West Berlin, where the Berlin Wall once stood. Mike's Sightseeing Berlin is one tour company that can guide you through all of it.
Lisbon, Portugal
The oldest city in Western Europe, Lisbon has plenty of historical landmarks to look at while you run. In fact, Go Running Tours offers a 4.5-mile route that allows you to run past the National Pantheon, Terreiro do Paço, and the Graça and Alfama old quarters.
Mata-Solana, Spain
This small village, which sits just a few hours outside Barcelona, offers hills that make for an intense workout. It also provides amazing vistas that overlook Spain's rugged countryside. The Cova Negra trail leads you through an area that's marked with lakes, pine forests, and caves.
While Eagle Creek is here to provide tips and insights on travel, we cannot accept any responsibility for any potential consequences arising from the use of this information. Always conduct your own research and use your best judgment.
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