Running in Italy
 

I'll be in Italy for 3 weeks and don't want to fall behind in my mileage. I'm actually looking forward to running in some beautiful locations. In a travel guide I found a route in Venice, I'm not too worried about Florence - stick to Via de' Calzaiuoli and other pedestian zones, but what about Rome? Anyone run in Rome? Online I found a group that will run with you - for 74 Euro! That's a little too rich for my cheap, Rick Steves blood. I really like running in the streets (or sidewalks) and am not a fan of park running - any ideas would be apprecitated. I just have to make sure I get that running picture with the Colosseum in the background - even if it is faked :o) Thanks!

I like to stay in the area near the Borghese Gardens and run there. I have not found many pedestrian friendly areas in the center and the gardens do not open to 10 (I am an early morning runner) but they are pretty and safe. There are sidewalks there but not sure if that works for you.

Running is not as popular IME in Italy as in some other European countries and I never really see a lot of others out and about.

In Florence I like to run along the Arno before it gets busy and also in the Oltrarno towards the University. I often stay near Piazza della Liberta and there are some very nice wide avenues that make for a pleasant early morning run there as well.

Thanks! - I've heard the Borghese Gardens are a good place to run - but 10:00 is a little late - Didn't think about running along the Arno - good idea.

Hi Senorarroz - My cousin regularly runs around the lake at Castel Gandolfo - just outside Rome. Very scenic ...

Steve

I enjoy my run along the Arno at first light and have the added pleasure of watching the city wake up. It is really pretty quiet then. I run away from the center and there are also some wide avenues to run once you pass about 5 bridges or so away from Ponte Vecchio.

If you want a real work out with elevation, you can run up to San Miniato above Piazzale Michelangelo.

On the way back to my hotel I stop in whatever bakery catches my fancy and have a cappuccino or two. Lots of the locals are coming in for one about that time so I feel like one of them - it's fun actually and a part of my day I always look forward to. I bring something decadent back to my husband who likes to sleep in and often buy some nice crusty bread to enjoy for breakfast.

Time to plan my next trip I think!