Running is an ideal exercise for a business traveler: it’s free, all you need are your shoes, and it’s a great way to sneak in some sightseeing on an over-scheduled trip. Want to log some miles away from home? Here are some of the best cities for running around the world - and which paths to try out first.
Tokyo
Tokyo is a fantastically runner-friendly city. Tokyo subway stations offer rental lockers to store keys or extra clothes while you jog. The city’s rivers have great paths and excellent views, but the most epic run of all is the sidewalk surrounding the Imperial Palace. It’s about the length of a 5k, and its historic scenery makes it a well-loved spot for runners across Tokyo.
Paris
Does life get any dreamier than a brisk jog through the streets of Paris, complete with hazy views of the Seine and occasional nods from fellow passing runners? No friends, it does not. You don’t need to book a sightseeing tour to take in the highlights of Paris when you can explore with your trusty running shoes. For a wide-ranging tour of the city, set off along the Seine, especially focusing on the pedestrian paths along the water. If you prefer a park run, jog your way through the Jardin de Plantes, the Jardin de Tuileries next to the Louvre, or the Jardin du Luxembourg. Don’t forget to reward yourself with pain au chocolat afterward!
Vancouver
As any nature lover will tell you, Vancouver beckons you outdoors in every direction. It’s no surprise, then, that it’s one of the best cities in the world for outdoor running. Vancouver’s surrounding natural beauty provides ample opportunity to lose yourself in parks and nature trails, though running through the city itself is a great option too. If you’re craving fresh air, you’ll love jogging through Stanley Park, a favorite outdoor space in the city that is home to nearly half a million trees.
New York City
If their ever changing collections of hip, bright-colored spandex gear are any indication, nobody takes running more seriously than New Yorkers. You’ll never get bored on a New York run, because there’s fantastic people-watching and sightseeing around every corner. If you’re looking for a long run, the Hudson River Greenway expands all the way down the west side of Manhattan with breathtaking views of both the city and the river. Another option is the famed Central Park loop, a 6-mile tour of the city’s most treasured park. The Brooklyn Bridge is a legendary running experience, but if you opt for this one, try to show up just after sunrise to avoid crowds and to catch the magical stillness that comes just before the morning rush.
London
You can see so much of London in a relatively short run. Make your way along the Thames to get to know the city up close and personal while taking in London mainstays like the London Eye and Big Ben. For a leafier experience, make your way through Kensington Gardens or Hyde Park - and try not to gawk too much at the beauty of their painstakingly perfect landscaping.
