Running is booming around the globe. Race bibs sell out quickly, and major marathons attract more participants every year. This growing love for running does not stop at the finish line at home. During holidays and city trips, running shoes are increasingly packed for a so-called runcation: a trip where a city is explored actively, by running or walking.
That’s why KLM set out to discover where active travelers around the world prefer to clock their performance. Based on online data from sources including social media and running communities, a top 8 has been compiled of cities that truly embody the spirit of running. These destinations combine iconic routes, an energetic running culture, and a vibrant urban atmosphere that invites exploration on foot.
Top 8 running destinations
#8 Austin: Hitting your stride in the live music capital
More than just great BBQ and live music, this Texan city is, according to social media, an emerging running hotspot with a relaxed vibe. The Lady Bird Lake Trail is a must-run: a green oasis in the heart of the city, where you meet local runners and enjoy the sunset. Don’t forget to explore the numerous parks and green paths as well. With a growing marathon community and an outdoor mentality, Austin is the perfect place to combine a running routine with a unique city trip.
#7 Paris: Logging the heartbeat with the Eiffel Tower as motivation
The city of love is also the city of running the distance! Every year, the Paris Marathon attracts thousands of runners, but even outside this event, Paris is a paradise for active travelers. Runners enjoy the Seine with the Eiffel Tower in the background, or the quiet paths of the Bois de Boulogne. City wanderers love to get lost in the atmospheric neighborhoods of Montmartre and Le Marais. Discover the magic yourself!
#6 Tokyo: Pushing your limits between skyscrapers and temples
Tokyo, a city of contrasts, is more than just neon lights and high tech. Here you find a surprising combination of modern urban energy and serene, green training spots. The route around the Imperial Palace is a popular meeting place for runners of all levels. And the Tokyo Marathon? It is known for perfect organization and incredible atmosphere. Walk through the quiet parks of Shinjuku Gyoen and discover another side of this vibrant metropolis.
#5 Chicago: Breathtaking running along the shores of Lake Michigan
This "Windy City" offers runners and walkers a breathtaking setting. The Lakefront Trail, with unforgettable views of Lake Michigan and the iconic skyline, is an absolute must-do. Chicago is also home to one of the World Marathon Majors, confirming its athletic status. Additionally, Chicago has a thriving trail running scene!
#4 Berlin: Running through the city with history beneath your feet
This city with a rich history and a rebellious vibe is a surprising destination for runners. The wide boulevards and numerous parks, such as Tiergarten, invite long runs. The Berlin Marathon is known for fast times and a relaxed atmosphere. But Berlin has more to offer: discover the street art during a run through the alternative neighborhoods, or explore the green surroundings on the city’s outskirts. Berlin is hip, happening and runner-friendly!
#3 New York City: Running in a movie set
A city that never sleeps, a dream for every runner. Central Park is an iconic location, but there is so much more to discover. Run along the Hudson River, explore the streets of Brooklyn, or brave the bridges with views of the skyline. The New York City Marathon is an unforgettable experience, but the many local running clubs also create a lively running scene in New York.
#2 Boston: Jogging through the city in the footsteps of legends
This birthplace of American history breathes running. The Boston Marathon is the oldest annual marathon in the world, and the city has a tight-knit running community. The Charles River Esplanade is a beautiful route along the water. But Boston also has hidden gems: discover the historic neighborhoods on a walk, or explore the green parks on the city’s outskirts. Boston combines history with an active lifestyle.
#1 London: The epicenter of the running world
Endless possibilities for runners can be found in London. From quiet laps along the Thames, challenging hills in Greenwich Park to iconic routes along Hyde Park and Tower Bridge; every run here is a new adventure. The vibrant running culture is felt everywhere, partly thanks to the world-famous London Marathon and the numerous local running clubs that welcome everyone with open arms. And leisurely strollers? They enjoy the green parks and city routes with breathtaking views of historic landmarks. London is ready to be discovered on foot or by run!
Just outside the top 8, but worth mentioning: Amsterdam as a running city
These are the top 8 most popular running destinations on social media, with London convincingly in first place. Amsterdam ranks 14th and deserves an honorable mention. The city effortlessly combines green parks, quiet paths, and long, flat routes with a typical urban atmosphere. From a lap around Vondelpark to training for your endurance run in the Amsterdamse Bos or along the canals: Amsterdam remains a running destination where variety and fun always come together.
From cabin to kilometers: KLM Purser and runner Michael de Vos on running abroad
Michael’s main advice is to consciously take it easy when running abroad. His motto sums it up perfectly: “to run faster, you have to be able to run slowly.” A slower pace allows you to better experience your surroundings and helps your body gradually adjust to a different climate and temperature. The same principle applies to when dealing with jet lag, according to him: start with relaxed runs, seek natural light early in the day, and only later build up kilometers and speed. For longer runs, Michael recommends planning routes past highlights in advance or using the ‘turn around’ function on a sports watch.
Michael's favorite destinations stand out because of what they offer along the way: Singapore for its iconic sights within a single run, Vancouver for the fresh air and impressive nature, and Sydney with a unique route along the Opera House. Also, Los Angeles, Cape Town, Barcelona, and Amsterdam remain favorites thanks to hills, coastlines, beaches, and green parks that make every run special. Follow Michael via TikTok (@michaeldevos) and Instagram (@michaeldevos_) to get a glimpse of his running adventures abroad!
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