The best places for jogging and running in Attica
Many people’s favourite pastime, a feeling of freedom, health and contact with nature or the city: in Attica jogging and running become a true pleasure, whether in the lush green parks and mountainous routes a few minutes away from Athens city centre, or along the stunning coastline and the unique islands of Attica, by the sea. Let’s run!
Probably the most enchanting route in Athens! Is there anything more delightful than run with a view of the Sacred Rock, in an area that is famous for its beauty? From Apostolou Pavlou and Dionyssiou Areopagitou streets to the Anafiotika neighbourhood and around Filopappos hill, alternations in landscapes and images will astonish you. The more experienced runners should definitely try the ascent to the hill, for a more demanding dirt route.
Above Kallimarmaro Stadium there is a place shaped like a horseshoe, which is specially landscaped with dirt, making it ideal for running. Favourite spot of the Athenians for jogging and running, mainly in the evening, with views of the lit Acropolis. For more… advanced runners, Ardittos hill is recommended, right by the Stadium.
At the most central spot of the city, accessible in every way, the National Gardens are a popular place for relaxed running. Green and very pleasant environment, with dense shade from the trees and plants, which makes the Gardens an excellent choice for warm days. The route behind Zappeio Megaro is highly recommended.
Also central, however a bit more challenging. The route to the theatre is fairly uphill, and is recommended to the well-trained runners, who will be rewarded by the majestic view of the whole Attica basin. For beginners, a good alternative is Lycabettus ring road, which offers a smooth route of 3 kilometres.
Covering an area of 277,000 sq. metres, Pedion Areos is one of the biggest public parks in Athens. It features a multitude of routes, asphalt and dirt, to choose the one you prefer, while the small incline of the ground makes the park ideal for beginners. It is green heaven in the centre of the city, with many spots to rest and well-kept flowery paths.
On the eastern part of Hymettus, above the Papagos intersection, there is a beautiful road with small incline that is perfect for long runs. In merely 20 minutes from downtown Athens, the “Hymettus Fork”, as it is called, is favourite meeting point of runners, hikers and trekkers, leading to beautiful asphalt routes and paths that run next to bushes, pines and firs.
It was the epicenter of the world when it hosted many of the Athens 2004 Olympic Games sports. The space is ample and offers many choices. We suggest the 3 km route that runs along the perimeter, mainly with excellent quality dirt terrain, which is ideal for running. A second recommended route is 1 km long, also dirt and totally flat.
Attica Park (Attiko Alsos)
Two hills, lush green from pines, cypresses and all types of smaller trees and bushes, scattered benches, fountains and plenty of shade. Attiko Alsos offers routes for… multi-speed running. The asphalt circular route of about 1,500 metres along the perimeter of the park will reward you with a majestic view of the whole Attica.
Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre
The vast and stunning spaces of SNFCC, which is the new hot running spot just outside Athens city centre, take jogging and running to a whole new level! The awarded Park at SNFCC offers the ideal place for exercise, with dirt and paved routes, and different levels of incline, for all types of… stamina.
Flisvos Park – Marina
In south Attica, sports go hand in hand with sea breeze. Running by the water and the boats at Flisvos Marina, or in the park for a quieter atmosphere. A stunning and absolutely relaxing area!
Peiraiki – Freatida – Kastela: The recommended route starts from the Hellenic Naval Academy and ends at “Votsalakia” beach in Kastela. Relaxed jogging with small inclines, but mainly with breathtaking view of the sea!
SEF (Peace and Friendship Stadium)
The park next to the Peace and Friendship Stadium is ideal spot for jogging and running. It also marks the starting point for those who prefer the long coastal route to Edem beach, which runs alongside the tram lines.
Agios Kosmas
Agios Kosmas National Youth Athletic Center in Elliniko is an established meeting point for runners, since its 2.7 km route has been exclusively made for running.
Plateia Nerou
Located between the Tae Kwon Do and Beach Volley stadiums in Faliro, Plateia Nerou offers a vast, open space right by the sea, with views of Flisvos Marina and Averof Battleship. Run on paved and asphalt terrains, right by the water!
Probably the most stunning seaside route in Attica, winter or summer. Right by the sea, in an area that is famous for its beauty, the route starts in Kavouri and ends in Lemos Vouliagmeni. It is 10 km long and is quite demanding, however you can adjust it to your liking, setting a different starting point or running only parts of the route, such as the very pretty paved part in Megalo Kavouri.
Enchanting routes along stunning cobbled streets and in picturesque villages, in pine covered hills or by the sea; the frequent alternations in landscapes offered by the islands of Attica make running a very special experience! Aegina, Agistri, Poros, Spetses, Hydra, Kythera… choose your own favourite route and enjoy images that are truly hard to forget!
Photo Credits: Athens, Acropolis © GNTO/Y. Skoulas
