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Runners' 25 favorite cities

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


1. Edinburgh



With its exceptional cultural and historical richness, the capital of Scotland is without a doubt 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 Holyrood Palace.


Our favorite route: Downtown to Dean Village. This comprehensive 13-kilometer route will take you through the old and new city, passing all the must-see places in Scotland's capital.


From pain to gain: because running is tiring, there is nothing like a good meal to regain strength. And in Edinburgh, it's impossible to miss the famous haggis, or stuffed sheep's stomach, a traditional Scottish dish if ever there was one. If its appearance is not necessarily appetizing, its taste 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 is 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 favorite route: Between land and lake. With this course, find the right balance between the excitement of Chicago's most beautiful avenues, the calm of Millennium Park and the charm of the shores of Lake Michigan.


From pain to gain: small appetites, pass your way! The Deep-dish pizza, invented in Chicago in the 40's, is THE specialty of the city and it is not made for small hungers. This kind of pie with a generous topping is composed of cold meats and several types of cheese. Not very light but delicious!


3. Prague



Prague, nicknamed the city of a hundred towers, has such a rich architectural heritage that its entire historic heart is a World Heritage Site. To run in Prague is to get lost in a maze of streets and squares surrounded by baroque buildings.


Our favorite route: Prague, land of legends. This route is a little off the beaten track and will allow you to discover the beautiful streets of Prague, while soaking up the mysteries, legends and other strange stories that are legion in the golden city.


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


4. Marrakesh



With its markets with the scent 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 the promise of incomparable sensations, from the Jemaa El-Fna square to the Majorelle Garden.


Our favorite route: In the heart of Marrakech. This route will take you to the discovery of the must-see places of the red city in only 5 kilometers. Cross the medina and marvel at the magnificent Koutoubia Mosque, the exceptional Bahia Palace or the architectural jewel that is the Ben Youssef Medersa.


From pain to gain: if the gastronomy of Marrakech, and Morocco in general, does not miss colorful and rich in flavor specialties, your run will surely have made you thirsty. Mint tea is an essential part of any trip to Morocco. Enjoy this moment of relaxation, symbol of sharing and conviviality. And if you feel hungry, you can always accompany it with some pastries ;)


5. Berlin



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


Our favorite route: Stroll through the Großer Tiergarten. Ideal for getting some fresh air, this route will have you exploring the German capital's Central Park, while 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, the 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



A perfect blend of French 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, between the sweetness of life and the effervescence.


Our favorite route: From the Old Port to Mount Royal. This route will take you from the shores of the St. Lawrence to the famous Mount Royal, passing through downtown. Don't miss the breathtaking view of the city and the river from the lookout of Mount Royal. But beware, it's a climb!


From pain to gain: what is better than the famous poutine to recharge your batteries after a long run in the streets of Montreal? Composed of fries, cheese and a slightly spicy brown sauce, the poutine is not really a dietetic dish but it is still very comforting!


7. London



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


Our favorite route: London mews. A little away from the city center, this course will make you discover these small terraced houses built in the 18th and 19th centuries which are hidden in the posh districts of the capital. A route full of charm, far from the hustle and bustle of the heart of the city.


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


8. New York



Running in New York City, composed 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", the typical dwellings of Brooklyn, run through the Big Apple with us!


Our favorite route: Big Apple. With this long route of more than 20 kilometers, 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: true culinary melting pot, the Big Apple has an incredible diversity of restaurants and gastronomy. But New York would not be New York without its street vendors. Pretzels, soups, chili con carne... you will find everything, 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 architectural and cultural symbol of the country. 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 favorite route: The heart of Paris will beat in you. Walk along the banks of the Seine with this tour that will make you discover the quays of the capital as you have never seen them before. From the Louvre to the Trocadero, enjoy a moment of relaxation along the water.


From pain to gain: it is well known that France is the country of gastronomy. The specialties and traditional dishes are legion, so it would be difficult to choose just one. But if you want to treat yourself to a little gourmet pleasure without feeling too guilty, go for a macaroon. With chocolate, pistachio or licorice, these small soft cakes will delight all the taste buds.


10. Lisbon



The Portuguese capital, located at the mouth of the Tagus River, has impressive vestiges of medieval architecture. Running in Lisbon, while enjoying the coolness of the seaside, is to admire the Belem Tower or the sumptuous Hieronymites monastery.


Our favorite route: The azulejos of Lisbon. With this thematic tour, admire the most beautiful decorated facades of the Portuguese capital and learn more about this thousand-year-old decorative art.


From pain to gain: Portugal does not miss specialities but Lisbon has its own recipe with the world fame: the pastéis de nata. These little pastry flans in the form of tarts, created by the religious of Belém, are the perfect little snack to give you a boost after your run.


11. Tokyo



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


Our favorite route: The Japanese capital. This great course of almost 18 kilometers will take you through all the unmissable places of the city. You will be able to marvel at the numerous temples, appreciate the modernity of Shibuya district and experience the originality of Harajuku.


From pain to gain: you have certainly eaten a lot in Japanese restaurants in France but nothing beats the sushi of Japan. Take advantage of your run in the Japanese city to taste the best sushi in the world: know-how, quality of ingredients, many different varieties... Don't miss it!


12. Sydney



Sydney may not be the capital of Australia, but it is without a doubt the most attractive city in the country. To run in Sydney is to explore the thousand and one facets of a city that looks like a paradise on earth.


Our favorite route: The Essential Sydney. This route will take you through the historic heart of the city and its iconic landmarks in just 5 kilometers. 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 full of omega-3 and proteins, kangaroo meat is one of the healthiest in the world. Whether it's a hamburger, a skewer or a 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 historical atmosphere and is full of magnificent 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 favorite route: The City of Dreaming Spires. Explore the historic heart of Oxford and then stroll along the Thames River for a few miles to get away from the city center. You'll fall in love with the charm of this so British city!


From pain to gain: if, originally, tea is not English, it has nevertheless become one of the pillars of British society. The English drink it all day long but the real ritual in Great Britain is the Five o'clock tea... which you can accompany with some scones if your run has given you an appetite ;)


14. Munich



Munich is one of the few landlocked cities where you'll come across surfers, board and wetsuit included. When you go for a run in Munich, you will discover their favorite spot, but also the impressive Nymphenburg castle and the futuristic BMW headquarters.


Our favorite route: The secret capital. This course will take you through the streets of Bavaria's capital city, discovering its baroque architecture, its large squares and its beautiful parks.


From pain to gain: a trip to Munich would not be complete without tasting one of the many varieties of beer that exist in the country. Lager, dark, white or amber, you will be spoilt for choice. To be consumed in moderation, of course!


15. Namur



Located at the confluence of the Sambre and the Meuse, Namur is the heir of an ancient Roman city. To run in Namur is to meet the noble houses that succeeded one another, and to admire its rich architectural heritage. But also appreciate its numerous festivals, in the heart of a modern and active city!


Our favorite route: Urban art invites itself to Namur. Thanks to this unusual itinerary, discover the numerous works of art that line the streets of the Walloon capital. A real open-air gallery, the city shows its will to integrate contemporary art in the urban development.


From pain to gain: in gastronomy, we often associate snails with France (which is indeed the first world consumer) but Namur also has its specialty based on gastropods. Raised, produced and processed exclusively at the Vieux-Tilleul farm, the Petits-Gris will delight snail lovers!


16. Cassis



A former Roman trading post, Cassis seduces with its colorful fishing port, its creeks and its picturesque city center. High place of running, the city gathers every year thousands of runners for the famous Marseille-Cassis. Running in Cassis means diving into the heart of the Calanques National Park, from the castle to the Cap Canaille.


Our favorite route: Between land and sea. Come and discover the center of this pretty seaside resort and let yourself be amazed by the sublime calanque of Port-Miou. All along this route, you can enjoy superb panoramas while learning more about the Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Voyage chapel or the Fishing Court.


From pain to gain: if Provence is famous for its rosé, the city of Cassis stands out with many award-winning white wines. To recover from your emotions after your run, share a moment of conviviality around a glass of white wine of Cassis, dry and fruity. Cheers!


17. Kyoto



Once the imperial capital of Japan, Kyoto is full of shrines, temples and monuments classified as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Running in Kyoto is like stepping back in time, from the Gion district to the Golden Pavilion.


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


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


18. Lille



Still known as 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 Citadel Park, but consider walking through the rich downtown area as well!


Our favorite route: The center and Euralille. This run combines past and present, history and modernity. From the Porte de Paris to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, you will be amazed!


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 French fries. A bit heavy before going for a run, but a great reward after a big effort!


19. Brussels



The Belgian capital is the city of many parks and forests. Our routes will take you running in Brussels, from the Bois de la Cambre to the Woluwe park, passing by the historical center.


Our favorite route: Brussels, capital of comics. Let us guide you through the streets of the Belgian capital to meet the most emblematic characters of the comic strip: Tintin, Asterix, Lucky Luke ... more than sixty frescoes are scattered throughout the city center!


From pain to gain: once your run is over, why not stop in one of the many French fry shops of the city to taste THE Belgian specialty par excellence? If the French and the Belgians argue about the origin of French fries, it is undeniable that Belgian fries are a real treat!


20. Vancouver



Nestled between the mountains and the ocean, Vancouver is filled with beautiful buildings and breathtaking scenery. Take a run through one of the world's most livable cities, from historic Gastown to Stanley Park.


Our favorite route: Vancouver from one end to the other. The beautiful scenery of Vancouver will reveal itself to you on this run through the streets of the city and along English Bay and False Creek and is sure to make you fall in love with the Canadian city.


From pain to gain: object of several festivals in Vancouver, the sockeye salmon is a must of the gastronomy of British Columbia. Grilled, baked, in a salad or sashimi, there is something for everyone!


21. Los Angeles



Los Angeles, the second largest city in the United States, is a sprawling city that stretches from the San Gabriel Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. It is therefore possible to run, ski and swim in Los Angeles in the same day!


Our favorite route: Downtown Los Angeles #2. Far from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, this route will take you to the historic center of the city of angels, El Pueblo, but also to the museum of contemporary art or the famous Staples Center, home of the Lakers basketball team.


From pain to gain: strongly influenced by the many cultures which compose it, the gastronomy of the Golden State is tasty and surprising. After your run, let yourself be tempted by a ramen burrito, a simple rolled tortilla filled with noodles, eggs, steak and shallots. A real melting pot of flavors!


22. Barcelona



Running in Barcelona, between the Guell Park and the Sagrada Familia, will transport you to a real open-air museum dedicated to the work of Gaudi. The city is full of majestic historical buildings, and on its modern seafront tourists and surfers mix.


Our favorite route: Sant Andreu. If you want to explore Barcelona in a less conventional way and get away from the touristy places, this route is for you. Discover one of the city's oldest neighborhoods and let the history of this ancient village take over!


From pain to gain: on the way back from your run, stop to taste the famous crema catalana, star of the Catalan desserts. Much lighter than the French crème brûlée, this little 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 classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Running in Tel Aviv means immersing yourself in a multicultural city, from the historic Jaffa district to Rothschild Boulevard.


Our favorite route: A trip to Jaffa. Take in the sights of Tel Aviv on this ten-kilometer tour that will take you along the sea to the city's oldest neighborhood, Jaffa.


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


24. Nancy



Located between the Haye forest and the Meurthe river, Nancy is an amazing city. Mixing Classical, Renaissance, Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles, the city surprises by its diversity and abounds in remarkable sites. Go for a run through the capital of the Dukes of Lorraine, from the Place Stanislas to the Parc de la Pépinière!


Our favorite route: Treasures of Industry. This route is a little off the beaten track and will allow you to discover the city of Nancy from a different angle. From the old tobacco factory to the Daum crystal factory, the treasures of the city's industrial heritage will no longer hold any secrets for you!


From pain to gain: not to be confused with its Parisian counterpart, the Nancy macaroon is a sweet almond flavored mignardise, both crunchy and soft. Enough to make your mouth water!


25. Hong Kong



Hong Kong, whose name means "fragrant port", 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 favorite route: Hong Kong Island. This 10 kilometer walk will lead you to the top of Victoria Peak, where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the skyscrapers and the harbor. But beware of the incline!


From pain to gain: Chinese counterparts of the Spanish tapas, dim sum are small salted or sweetened dishes cooked in the steam which Hongkongers love. Ideal for a quick meal after your run.


Find all these cities and around 300 others on the JOOKS application!



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