Valentine’s Day ideas; the most romantic cities to run marathons in

Happy Valentine’s Day! What better way to treat the runner in your life than with a marathon package in some of the most beautiful cities and countries in the world. Here’s a selection of some romantic cities we highly recommend.

London

As one of the most famous and iconic cities in the world, London has something for everyone, including couples. It also has two of the most famous running events in the world; the TCS London Marathon and Royal Parks Half Marathon.

London has much to see and explore throughout the year. If it’s restaurants and bars you want, the perfectly located Soho District in the center of London is ideal for superb food and drinks. You can catch a theater performance or treat a loved-one with a special gift from London’s West End, or check out the sights, sounds and smells of the trendy East End around Brick Lane. London also has several beautiful parks for romantic strolls with your loved ones.

If strolling isn’t enough for you, why not take part in the Royal Parks Marathon? Viewed as one of the most beautiful half marathons in the world, the 13.1mile course leads its 16,000 participants through four of London’s eight Royal Parks, including Hyde Park, The Green Park, St James’s Park and Kensington Gardens. Check out our 2024 packages here.

Amsterdam

There are few cities in the world more romantic than Amsterdam, indeed it is reputed to be the third most romantic city in the world behind New York and Paris! With beautiful tree-lined waterways, gorgeous traditional Dutch architecture and plenty of tourist attractions it is the perfect place to wander around with your loved one.

As a great European city to, you can experience some of the 165 canals that make up the Dutch capital, viewing the 16th century buildings and houseboats as you serenely travel through the city. Alternatively, if you and your significant other are nature lovers, the city’s main park, Vondelpark, is a beautiful setting, perfect for walking in the autumn months around the time of the Amsterdam Marathon.

Marathon Tours & Travel’s Amsterdam Marathon 2024 packages include a conveniently located hotel for the race events.

Cape Town

Purportedly the fifth most romantic city in the world and regularly the winner of the best city in the world, Cape Town has plenty to see, do and experience. The 2024 Cape Town Marathon takes place in October and this world-renowned city on the tip of South Africa is the perfect place to catch some winter sun with your partner.

Cape Town experiences some beautiful weather, with temperatures averaging between 21 and 27 degrees year round and the peak season coming to an end just after the Cape Town Marathon. There are beautiful sights throughout the city and wider area, with stunning natural landscapes such as the incredible Table Mountain, a world heritage site. If you want to treat your significant other to a meal out, Cape Town has a fantastic and vibrant restaurant and bar scene which has been voted the third best in the world.

There is plenty to see and do during your stay with lots of internationally acclaimed restaurants, shops and attractions to visit. Marathon Tours & Travel offers four or five-night packages staying at deluxe accommodations, located within the course limits and the heart of the city center. Stay longer and join our popular Shamwari Game Reserve extension for a safari experience!

Rio de Janeiro

Sun, sights and stunning beaches, what’s not romantic about Rio de Janeiro? Arguably Brazil’s most famous city, the beaches, feel-good party atmosphere and incredible scenery are a draw for tourists from around the world, and plenty of couples flock there to experience Rio’s joys.

Sunsets and walks along its numerous beaches is one of many things Rio has to offer for your getaway romantic weekend. Whether you’re heading to the iconic Copacabana beach or another lesser-known beach, there’s so much to see, hear and smell, with live sports, street food and surfing all on offer as you stroll! If beaches aren’t your thing, drink some of the finest cocktails anywhere in the world in Rio’s vibrant bar scene or take in one of the most iconic sights in the world – the Christ the Redeemer statue.

Now is the time to experience South America’s most beautiful city and run along its famous coastline at the Rio de Janeiro Marathon. The name of the city is synonymous with sun, fun and rhythm of the sensuous samba. Few places on earth can match the hospitality, natural charm, beauty and excitement of this city. Take a look at our Rio Marathon 2024 packages here.

Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands

Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and the gothic charm of the Scottish capital proves alluring for millions of tourists every year. Whether you’re cozying up from the cold weather in one of its charming cafes or taking in the majestic nature of the omnipresent castle, Edinburgh is a fascinating city with so much to see and do.

Romantic highlights in this historic city are easy to come by. You could watch the sunset from the centrally-located Carlton Hill, or if you’re feeling adventurous, take in the views from the dominating Arthur’s Seat. Not many people would associate Edinburgh with beaches, but Portobello Beach lies within easy travelling distance of the city center and is the perfect place for a romantic walk.

The 2024 Baxters Loch Ness Marathon is the perfect opportunity to run with a partner or loved-one in Scotland, with the event offering a 5K, 10K and marathon distance. Our seven-night “Experience Scotland” package offers you the chance to explore this beautiful country starting with Edinburgh, then onto the Scottish Highlands where the race is held. Our package includes accommodation, daily activities and MTT Hosts throughout your stay. You can view our package here, which opens soon!

Looking to run a half marathon? View our full range of half marathon packages here…

Looking to run a marathon? View our full range of marathon packages here…