Running in Italy

Why trail run in Italy

Italy offers a diverse range of trail running options, from the rugged peaks of the Dolomites to the rolling hills of Tuscany and the rugged coastline of Sardinia. Trail running in Italy can be a great way to explore the country’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

When to trail run in Italy

The best time to trail run in Italy depends on the region, but in general, the best time to trail run in Italy is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the trails are less crowded. Summer can be too hot in some regions but can be perfect in others, like the mountain regions.

Popular trail running cities in Italy

Some popular trail running cities in Italy include the Italian Alps, the Apennine Mountains, and Sardinia. These regions offer a variety of trails for runners of all skill levels, as well as a vibrant running community.

Run experiences in Italy

Run adventures in Italy

Amazing Running Tours – Dolomites – Experience the Dolomite Mountains of the Italian Alps in this 5-day running tour through the Alta Via N.1 trail. Throughout the run adventure, you can stay in rifugios on the mountain, enjoying private accommodations each night, or book custom, luxury accommodations

Holimites – Alta Via 1 – For a more accessible (but still challenging!) Dolomite run adventure, head for this 5-stage run of Alta Via 1 that covers 87 kilometers and has over 6,000 m of climbing along the Dolomites.

Holimites – Alta Via 2 – For one of Holimites’ most challenging Dolomite-based adventures, try taking on Alta Via 2, a 5-stage tour that covers 115 km with over 6,000m of gain.

Holimites – Trail Running Best of Alta Via 1 & 2 – Cover 85 kilometers and endure 5,000 meters of gain on this 6-stage tour through UNESCO Heritage Dolomites’ most renowned Natural Parks.

Holimites – Trail Running Traverse – Hit all of the Dolomite’s most famous locations in one East-to-West traverse, from the Sesto di Pusteria at the foot of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, through the Fanes, Sennes, Braies and Puez-Odle Natural Parks, then finish at the Alpe di Siusi meadows.

Run the Alps – Courmayeur to Chamonix Trail Run – This weeklong running adventure starts in the Italian village of Courmayeur, heads through Switzerland and ends up in Charmonix, home of the legendary UTMB series of trail runs.

Run the Alps – Italian Dolomites Tour – This 8-day run adventure takes you from village hotel to village hotel (including one remote mountain inn) as you soak in spectacular views of the region along smooth single-track and technical terrain.

Runcation – Cortina Runcation: Best Trail Runs in the Dolomites – Explore all of the trails that make the Dolomites such an unmatched running destination, including special routes and visits to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Sorapiss Lake, the Cinque Torri, and more.

Runcation – Dolomites Hut to Hut – Take on the UNESCO World Heritage Italian Dolomites in this gorgeous running retreat. Featuring a hut-to-hut style run along Alta Via 1, you’ll enjoy a week of challenging runs, scenic vistas, and fresh Italian food and drinks… and a constant supply of mountain sunrises and sunsets.

Run camps in Italy

Trail Running Movement – Discovery Stage 5 Terre

Trail Running Movement – Endurance Stage 5 Terre

Trail Running Movement – Aosta Valley

Trail Running Movement – Versilia – Av Apuane Park

Run retreats in Italy

Holimites – Dolomites Trail Running + Wellness Retreat – Combine breathtaking trails in the Italian Dolomites with luxurious four-star hotels of Sud-Tyrol for a run treat that’s equal parts challenge and relaxation. Traverse the trails of this UNESCO World Heritage Site during the day, then enjoy some great winding down with spas, conversation, and wine.

Run Wild Retreats – Italian Dolomites Trail Running Retreat – Take on the Dolomites in this 7-day trail running retreat that includes luxury wellness hotels, mindful running, spas and pampering, gourmet Italian food, a focus on mindfulness, and explorations of both Alta Via 1 and 2.

Italy run travel in 2023

Click here to see which run experiences are happening in Italy in 2023.

Bucket list trail races in Italy

Some bucket list trail races in Italy include the Dolomites Skyrace, the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc Italy, and the Limone Extreme Trail. These races offer challenging and scenic routes, as well as a true adventure experience.

More about running in Italy

Here are our recent stories about running experiences in Italy.