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Runners' 25 favourite cities

Put on your running shoes and join us on a tour of the 25 most popular cities for JOOKS running fans!



1. Edinburgh



Exceptionally rich in culture and history, Scotland's capital is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. To run in Edinburgh is to soak up the atmosphere of intrigue and mystery that reigns there, from the castle to the Palace of Holyrood.


Our favourite route: From the center to Dean Village. This comprehensive 13-kilometre route will take you through the old town and the new, taking in all the must-see sights of Scotland's capital.


From pain to gain: because running takes its toll, there's nothing like a good meal to restore your strength. And in Edinburgh, it's impossible to miss the famous haggis, stuffed sheep's belly, a traditional Scottish dish if ever there was one. It may not look appetising, but its flavour will quickly convince you otherwise!


2. Chicago



The third largest city in the United States, Chicago is the world capital of modern architecture, but it's also a city of culture and art. Running in Chicago means enjoying the meeting of urbanity and nature, from the Willis Tower to the shores of Lake Michigan.


Our favourite route: Between land and lake. With this route, you'll find just the right balance between the hustle and bustle of Chicago's finest avenues, the calm of Millennium Park and the charm of the shores of Lake Michigan.


From pain to gain: small appetites, pass your way! Deep-dish pizza, invented in Chicago in the 1940s, is THE city's speciality, and it's not for the faint-hearted. It's a kind of pie with a generous topping made from cold meats and several types of cheese. Not very light, but delicious!


3. Prague



Prague, nicknamed the city of a hundred towers, is so rich in architecture that its entire historic centre is a World Heritage Site. Running in Prague means getting lost in a maze of streets and squares surrounded by Baroque buildings.


Our favourite route: Prague, land of legends. This route is a little off the beaten track, allowing you to explore the pretty streets of Prague while soaking up the mysteries, legends and strange stories that abound in the golden city.


From pain to gain: if you fancy a sweet treat after your run, trdelník is just what you need! This tube-shaped pastry, baked on a spit, can be eaten plain, with chocolate or jam, or even filled with ice cream in summer. Something for everyone!


4. Marrakech



With its markets filled with the scents of the Orient, its countless palaces, its lush gardens and its sublime mosques, the Ochre City is a bewitching city that combines tradition and modernity. Running in Marrakech is a promise of incomparable sensations, from Jemaa El-Fna square to the Jardin Majorelle.


Our favourite route: In the heart of Marrakech. This route takes you on a 5-kilometre tour of the must-see sights of the red city. Drive through the medina and marvel at the magnificent Koutoubia Mosque, the exceptional Bahia Palace and the architectural gem that is the Ben Youssef Medersa.


From pain to gain: if the gastronomy of Marrakech, and Morocco in general, is not lacking in colourful specialities and rich in flavour, your run will surely have made you thirsty. Mint tea is an essential part of any trip to Morocco. Enjoy this moment of relaxation, a symbol of sharing and conviviality. And if you're feeling peckish, you can always accompany it with some pastries ;)


5. Berlin



From Museum Island to Alexanderplatz, via the Brandenburg Gate, running through Berlin will take you through seven centuries of German history. From the electorate of Brandenburg to the fall of the Wall, every street corner in the city centre recalls a significant event.


Our favourite route: Stroll through the Großer Tiergarten. An ideal way to get some fresh air, this route takes you through the German capital's Central Park, passing by some of the city's most iconic landmarks, including the famous Brandenburg Gate.


From pain to gain: invented by a Berlin woman, Herta Heuwer, currywurst is one of the culinary symbols of the German capital. This grilled or boiled sausage, usually served in slices and accompanied by a tomato and curry sauce, is a perfect snack for the end of a run!


6. Montreal



The perfect blend of French-speaking and North American culture, Quebec's largest city welcomes more than ten million tourists every year. Running in Montreal means discovering a city of contrasts, where the pace of life is both gentle and lively.


Our favourite route: From the Old Port to Mont Royal. This route takes you from the banks of the St Lawrence to the famous Mont Royal, via the city centre. Don't miss the breathtaking view of the city and the river from the lookout point on Mont Royal. But be careful, it's a climb!


From pain to gain: what better way to recharge your batteries after a long run through the streets of Montreal than with the famous poutine? Made up of chips, cheese and a slightly spicy brown sauce, poutine isn't exactly a healthy dish, but it's still surprisingly comforting!


7. London



Founded by the Romans almost 2000 years ago, London is now one of the world's most important cities. The city is home to a number of world heritage sites, so a trip there will take you to the Palace of Westminster, Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge and Big Ben.


Our favourite route: London mews. A little way from the city centre, this route will take you through the small terraced houses built in the 18th and 19th centuries that are hidden away in the capital's upmarket districts. A charming route, far from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.


From pain to gain: impossible to taste English cuisine without tasting the famous fish and chips, fish fried in batter and accompanied by chips. If your run has whetted your appetite, don't miss out on this classic British dish!


8. New York City



Running around New York City, made up of 5 boroughs, is an opportunity to discover the achievements of a resolutely modern and frenetic urbanism. From the skyscrapers of Manhattan to the brownstones of Brooklyn, come and route the Big Apple with us!


Our favourite route: Big Apple. With this long route of over 20 kilometres, you won't miss any of Manhattan's must-sees: Central Park, the Flatiron Building, the One World Trace Center and many more!


From pain to gain: a true culinary melting pot, the Big Apple boasts an incredible diversity of restaurants and gastronomies. But New York wouldn't be New York without its street vendors. Pretzels, soups, chilli con carne... you'll find it all, but the real institution is the hot dog. Easy to take away, quick to eat, the hot dog is the ideal snack at the end of a run!


9. Paris



Ranked in 2017 as "the most elegant city in the world", the French capital is the country's architectural and cultural symbol. Running in Paris means living in the heart of this fashion capital, filled with world-famous monuments, from the Eiffel Tower to the Arc de Triomphe.


Our favourite route: The heart of Paris will beat within you. Take this route along the banks of the Seine and discover the quays of the capital as you've never seen them before. From the Louvre to the Trocadéro, enjoy a moment of relaxation along the water.


After the effort, the comfort: it's well known that France is the country of gastronomy. There are so many specialities and traditional dishes, it would be hard to choose just one. But if you want to indulge yourself without feeling too guilty, try a macaroon. With chocolate, pistachio or liquorice, these moist little cakes will delight every taste bud.


10. Lisbon



The Portuguese capital, located at the mouth of the Tagus River, boasts imposing vestiges of medieval architecture. Running in Lisbon means admiring the Belem Tower or the sumptuous Hieronymites monastery, while enjoying the coolness of the seaside.


Our favourite route: Lisbon's azulejos. On this themed route, admire the most beautiful decorated façades in the Portuguese capital and learn more about this age-old decorative art.


After effort comes comfort: Portugal has no shortage of specialities, but Lisbon has its own world-famous recipe: pastéis de nata. These little pastry flans in the form of tarts, created by the monks of Belém, are the ideal little snack to give you a boost after your run.


11. Tokyo



Modern Tokyo rubs shoulders with the remnants of the ancient Edo, at the heart of a megalopolis that forms the most densely populated urban area in the world. Running in Tokyo means changing worlds several times in the same run, from the historic district of Asakusa to the Shibuya Crossing.


Our favourite route: The Japanese capital. This 18-kilometre route will take you past all the city's must-see sights. You can marvel at the many temples, appreciate the modernity of the Shibuya district and experience the originality of Harajuku.


From pain to gain: you've certainly eaten plenty of it in Japanese restaurants in your country, but nothing beats sushi from Japan. Make the most of your run in the Japanese city to sample some of the best sushi in the world: expertise, quality ingredients, many different varieties... Don't miss out!


12. Sydney



Sydney may not be Australia's capital, but it's undoubtedly the country's most attractive city. Running in Sydney means exploring the thousand and one facets of a city that looks like a paradise on earth.


Our favourite route: Sydney essentials. This route allows you to discover the historic heart of the city and its iconic monuments in just 5 kilometres. From the iconic Opera House to the famous Harbour Bridge, let yourself be enchanted by the coolest city in the world.


From pain to gain: low in calories and packed with omega-3 and proteins, kangaroo meat is one of the healthiest in the world. As a hamburger, kebab or classic steak, let yourself be tempted by this typically Australian dish!


13. Oxford



Famous for its university, which makes it the seat of learning and knowledge in England, Oxford has a special historic atmosphere and is full of sumptuous buildings. Running in Oxford means running through streets steeped in history and close to nature, from the University to the banks of the River Cherwell.


Our favourite route: The City of Dreaming Spires. Explore the historic heart of Oxford and then get away from the city centre for a while by following the River Thames on this ten-kilometre route. You'll love the charm of this so-British city!


From pain to gain: if tea is not originally English, it has nonetheless become one of the pillars of British society. The English drink it throughout the day, but the real ritual in Britain is Five o'clock tea... which you can accompany with a few scones if your run has whetted your appetite ;)


14. Munich



Munich is one of the few landlocked cities where you'll come across surfers, boards and wetsuits included. When you go for a run in Munich, you'll discover their favourite spot, as well as the impressive Nymphenburg Castle and the futuristic BMW headquarters.


Our favourite route: The secret capital. This route takes you through the streets of Bavaria's capital, discovering its Baroque architecture, grand squares and magnificent parks.


From pain to gain: a trip to Munich would not be complete without tasting one of the many varieties of beer available in the country. Blonde, dark, white or amber, you'll be spoilt for choice. Drink in moderation, of course!


15. Namur



Situated at the confluence of the Sambre and Meuse rivers, Namur is the heir to an ancient Roman city. Running in Namur means meeting the noble houses that succeeded one another, and admiring its rich architectural heritage. But you can also enjoy its many festivals, in the heart of a modern and active city!


Our favourite route: Urban art in Namur. Discover the many works of art that line the streets of the Walloon capital on this unusual route. A veritable open-air gallery, the city is demonstrating its desire to integrate contemporary art into urban planning.


From pain to gain: when it comes to gastronomy, snails are often associated with France (the world's biggest consumer), but Namur also has its own speciality based on gastropods. Raised, produced and processed exclusively at the Vieux-Tilleul farm, Petits-Gris are sure to delight snail lovers!


16. Cassis



A former Roman trading post, Cassis has a colourful fishing port, creeks and picturesque town centre. A major running destination, the town attracts thousands of runners every year for the famous Marseille-Cassis race. Running in Cassis means plunging into the heart of the Calanques National Park, from the fortified castle to Cap Canaille.


Our favourite route: Between land and sea. Come and discover the centre of this pretty seaside resort and marvel at the sublime calanque of Port-Miou. Along the way, you'll enjoy superb panoramic views while learning more about the Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Voyage chapel and the Tribunal de Pêche.


From pain to gain: while Provence is renowned for its rosé, the town of Cassis stands out for its many award-winning white wines. To recover after your run, share a moment of conviviality over a glass of dry, fruity Cassis white wine. Cheers!


17. Kyoto



Once the imperial capital of Japan, Kyoto is packed with sanctuaries, temples and monuments listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Running in Kyoto is like stepping back in time, from the Gion district to the Golden Pavilion.


Our favourite route: North of Kyoto. Get away from the hustle and bustle of Kyoto city centre for this route that will take you to the city's most beautiful shrines. From the temple of Kinkaku-ji to that of Kitano Tenman-gū, enjoy a moment of serenity.


From pain to gain: for a sweet break before or after your run, try one of Kyoto's specialities: yatsuhashi. This small triangular cake filled with red or white bean purée, light and not very sweet, is a perfect accompaniment to Japanese tea.


18. Lille



Still nicknamed the "Capital of Flanders", Lille has had an eventful history from the Middle Ages to the French Revolution. You can't run in Lille without taking the classic run in the Parc de la Citadelle, but don't forget to take a stroll through the rich city centre too!


Our favourite route: Downtown and Euralille. This route combines past and present, history and modernity. From the Porte de Paris to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, you'll love it!


From pain to gain: object of a gastronomic cult in the region, the welsh is a very greedy dish composed of cheese, bread, beer and ham, often accompanied by chips. A little heavy before you set off for a run, but a great reward after a hard effort!


19. Brussels



The Belgian capital is a city of many parks and forests. Our routes will take you on a run through Brussels, from the Bois de la Cambre to Woluwe Park, via the historic centre.


Our favourite route: Brussels, capital of comics. Let us guide you through the streets of the Belgian capital to meet the most emblematic comic strip characters: Tintin, Asterix, Lucky Luke... over sixty frescoes are dotted around the city centre!


From pain to gain: once you've finished your run, why not stop off at one of the city's many chip shops to sample THE quintessential Belgian speciality? The French and Belgians may argue about the origin of chips, but there's no denying that Belgian chips are a real treat!


20. Vancouver



Nestled between the mountains and the ocean, Vancouver is full of sublime buildings and breathtaking scenery. Go for a run in one of the world's most liveable cities, from historic Gastown to Stanley Park.


Our favourite route: Vancouver from one end to the other. The sublime landscapes of Vancouver will reveal themselves to you on this route through the streets of the city and along English Bay and False Creek, and you're sure to fall under the spell of the Canadian city.


From pain to gain: the subject of several festivals in Vancouver, sockeye salmon is an essential part of British Columbia's gastronomy. Grilled, baked, in a salad or sashimi, there's something for everyone!


21. Los Angeles



Los Angeles, the second most populous city in the United States, is a sprawling city stretching from the San Gabriel Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. So you can run, ski and swim in Los Angeles all in the same day!


Our favourite route: Downtown Los Angeles #2. Far from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, this route takes you through the historic centre of the City of Angels, El Pueblo, as well as the Museum of Contemporary Art and the famous Staples Center, home of the Lakers basketball team.


From pain to gain: strongly influenced by the many cultures that make it up, the gastronomy of the Golden State is tasty and surprising. After your run, try a ramen burrito, a simple rolled tortilla filled with noodles, eggs, steak and shallots. A real melting pot of flavours!


22. Barcelona



Running in Barcelona, between the Park Guëll and the Sagrada Familia, will transport you to a veritable open-air museum dedicated to the work of Gaudi. The city is full of majestic historic buildings, and its modern seafront is a melting pot of tourists and surfers.


Our favourite route: Sant Andreu. If you want to explore Barcelona in a slightly less conventional way and get away from the overly touristy areas, this route is for you. Discover one of the city's oldest districts and let yourself be carried away by the history of this ancient village!


From pain to gain: on the way back from your run, stop off to taste the famous crema catalana, the star of Catalan desserts. Much lighter than the French crème brûlée, this delicately lemony treat will make you melt with pleasure!


23. Tel Aviv



A booming tourist destination, the White City is a young, modern, dynamic metropolis whose Bauhaus architecture has been listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Running in Tel Aviv means immersing yourself in a multicultural city, from the historic district of Jaffa to Rothschild Boulevard.


Our favourite route: A trip to Jaffa. Take in the sights of Tel Aviv on this ten-kilometre route along the sea to the city's oldest district, Jaffa.


From pain to gain: if you're feeling a little hungry after your run, there's nothing better than pita bread dipped in hummus. This creamy chickpea purée is an integral part of the Israeli culinary scene. There are as many recipes as there are families in Israel, so you're bound to find one that suits you!


24. Nancy



Situated between the Haye forest and the Meurthe river, Nancy is an astonishing city. Blending Classical, Renaissance, Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles, the city is surprisingly diverse and full of remarkable sites. Take a run through the capital of the Dukes of Lorraine, from Place Stanislas to Parc de la Pépinière!


Our favourite route: Industrial treasures. This route is a little off the beaten track and will give you a different perspective on the city of Nancy. From the old tobacco factory to the Daum crystal works, the city's industrial heritage treasures will hold no secrets for you!


From pain to gain: not to be confused with its Parisian counterpart, the Nancy macaroon is a sweet treat with a sweet almond flavour, both crunchy and soft. It's sure to make your mouth water!


25. Hong Kong



Hong Kong, whose name means "fragrant harbour", is one of the four Asian dragons. To run in Hong Kong is to discover a city of incomparable density, linked to its historically landlocked position. Its frenetic urbanism contrasts with the nature that surrounds it.


Our favourite route: Hong Kong Island. This 10-kilometre route takes you to the top of Victoria Peak, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the skyscrapers and harbour. But beware of the gradient!


From pain to gain: the Chinese equivalent of Spanish tapas, dim sum are small savoury or sweet steamed dishes that Hong Kongers love. Ideal for a quick meal after your run.



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