I, like so many of you reading this, enjoy running. It’s a great way to stay in shape, it can be a great social experience, and I think there is no better way to explore a new city. I want to share just such an experience I had on a run through Rome vacationing with my family.

I looked at a map to get a general idea of the area I wanted to cover then I walked out of the hotel lobby and hit the cobblestone streets running as I made my way toward the Spanish Steps. From there, I headed to the river, or Fiume Tevere. There was a running path just about level with the river, and I got on that path, one level below the city. What a view from the river of Roman history as I ran along that path. There were not many runners crowding the path and the sunny warm weather was perfect. I had my Garmin running because I had a distance in mind, but no time goal and wanted the sites of the city to guide my run. I had a map that I loosely followed.

I ran along the river for a few miles and took in the grandeur of the Castel Sant’Angelo, among other historic structures and surfaces. Stretching out in front of me was the sprawling Circus Maximus where the Romans held great chariot races. As I continued, I took in the Arch of Constantino and of course the breathtaking Colosseum! As I headed back to the hotel, I saw the beautiful Altar of the Fatherland and ran by the Trevi Fountain, which unfortunately was undergoing some restoration. It was then back to the hotel to get cleaned up and meet up with my family for some official touring activities. It was an amazing trip, but that run was unbelievable, one that I will reflect on for years to come.