Whether at home or traveling, running is a great way to explore. It’s also a good method for finding your bearings.
In addition to avoiding long lines for buses and train tickets, your run may lead you away from the main streets and tourist trails, granting you the opportunity to discover something unexpected. Moreover, if you’re jet-lagged and venture out early enough, you can enjoy the city almost to yourself. Of course, the concern of getting lost or finding yourself in an unfamiliar neighborhood exists, but with some planning and a mobile phone, you can discover fantastic running routes wherever you travel.
1. Use Technology
A phone can be a runner’s key to the city. Apps like MapMyRun allow you to explore recommended running routes worldwide. However, since these runs are uploaded by individuals, you may prefer a more curated service such as greatruns.com, which offers detailed descriptions of running routes in over 400 cities. The RunGo app also features runs starting from hotels, providing spoken directions to reduce interruptions during your run.
A popular option is using the heatmap on the Strava app, highlighting the most frequented routes by local runners. If a route appears tempting on the map, yet has no Strava activity, it’s best to avoid it. The Suunto app has a similar heatmap feature, as does the mapping tool within Garmin Connect.
If using your phone for navigation, remember to stop when checking directions, as running while looking at your phone can lead to accidents. A phone hand holder is useful, allowing quick glances without risk. If rain threatens, consider putting your phone in a case or a clear bag for protection.
2. Reach Out to the Local Running Community
Many towns and cities worldwide have running communities that welcome newcomers. Most running clubs maintain web pages or social media accounts, so if you’re feeling social, consider reaching out to learn about their running schedules. Local runners often know the best routes and generally accommodate various paces.
If you can’t find a group, try contacting an independent local running store, often staffed by passionate runners who enjoy sharing routes and may hold group runs. Moreover, many major cities boast options like the Nike+ Run Club or Adidas Runners.
If socializing after a run appeals to you, consider the Hash House Harriers, a group known for combining running with social events. Their branches span the globe, exploring intriguing, less-traveled areas. To find a local group, visit gthhh.com.
3. Go It Alone
Running alone provides flexibility in both timing and pace. While traveling, consult your hotel or host for potentially unsafe areas to avoid. A helpful tip is to locate the nearest body of water—like a river or canal—and run alongside it, as this often provides enjoyable routes that are easy to follow back. For a no-fuss option, consider running laps in a nearby park.
For more ambitious routes, checking them out on Google Streetview can help familiarize you with key landmarks to avoid missing. If safety is a concern, consider early morning runs around 6am. If running at night, wearing reflective clothing and carrying a torch can enhance visibility, especially in less urban areas.
Always carry cash and a credit card, allowing for transportation back to your starting point if needed. Many GPS watches have a “return to home” feature, allowing for easy navigation back to your lodging.
However, don’t worry too much about getting lost—discovering unexpected places can lead to exciting new experiences.
4. Take a Tour
If planning seems overwhelming, many cities now provide organized running tours. You can simply show up and run alongside a knowledgeable local for a fee, often culminating in a meal or drink together afterward. To find a tour, simply search online for running tours in your destination or refer to runningtours.net.
Note: This article was first published in July 2019 and last updated in December 2020.
