Florence is steeped in history, art, architecture and music around every corner. With an abundance of sights and sounds it is easy to get lost in the city centre, but there are exciting opportunities to see the highlights in an unconventional and active way.
Every year a marathon takes place in November, bringing together runners from around the globe, a way to experience the old streets of Florence, dashing past the globally admired architecture and art that makes the Tuscan capital tug at the heartstrings.
Runners as they leave piazza Duomo. Ph. Studio SAB 2017
If a marathon sounds daunting there are other ways of getting involved, with year-round events that do not require medical certification. Whether you are a passionate runner or simply up for a leisurely stroll around the city, there is something for everyone.
On Sunday, April 30, 2017, check out the 45th annual Guarda Firenze event, where runners can sign up to do a 10km run across the Ponte Vecchio, up viale Michelangelo and see the unparalleled sights of the city centre that only piazzale Michelangelo can offer. Registration costs just 10 euro for adults, is free for under 14s and you can sign up before 9am on the race day in piazza Duomo. There is even a Mini-Guarda Firenze 3km run for children, so the whole family can get involved. If running is a step too far, there are 3km and 6km walks for a similar experience.
One of the oldest racing traditions in Florence is the Notturna di San Giovanni, with the 77th edition held on June 17. The only evening race in Florence starts with the more recent addition of a relay race around the Duomo before racers embark on a breathtaking 10km evening run past the Florentine monuments. As with the Guarda Firenze there are also non-competitive walks the same evening.
Keep an eye out for more events at firenzemarathon.it.
All event registration can done directly through Firenze Marathon by phoning +39 055 5522957, emailing staff@firenzemarathon.it or at Firenze Marathon – c/o Asics Firenze Marathon Stadium, viale Manfredo Fanti 2, 50137 Firenze, Monday–Friday, 9:30–1pm and 2:30–6pm.
