Rome Sports & Outdoors Tips by Lacristina

When in Rome, Where to Jog?

So you brought your running shoes to Rome? Well, if walking ten miles a day just doesn't get your heart pumping enough, and you need your endorphin fix, the best place in Rome to run is the Villa Borghese. It's the big green expanse that appears just to the northeast of the Spanish Steps on most Rome maps. It's lovely, green, peaceful, and usually not very crowded, especially early in the morning. Most of your fellow joggers will be expat Brits and Americans. But I once actually saw an Italian woman jogging. I know because she was wearing a matching silk top and silk scarf! Really!

For a great view, run over to the Pincio Gardens as far west as you can, to the Piazza del Popolo Overlook. WOW!

The park is home to many sites, most important of which is the Galleria Borghese, which you MUST go see, even if it's your first trip. Please see my tip on the Galleria Borghese - you'll be so glad you went!

Equipment: Just your shoes and shorts. But please, don't go shirtless. The Romans will be horrified!

Address: Villa Borghese, northeast corner of most Rome maps

Directions: The best way to get to the Villa Borghese is to follow Via Veneto to the Porta Pinciana gate in the Aurelia Walls, and cross over to the park.

Theme: Other