Fitness Fans Flock to 'Runcations' Worldwide

Travelers use 'running concierges' to plan active vacations focused on running routes and experiences.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 2:46am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A textured oil painting in the style of Vincent Van Gogh, depicting runners on a winding coastal trail overlooking the sea, capturing the adventurous spirit of a fitness-focused vacation.Runners on a scenic coastal trail embody the active and immersive spirit of a 'runcation' vacation.Denver Today

Travelers from the U.S. are increasingly booking 'runcations' - vacations centered around running and fitness activities - at destinations around the world. These trips often feature custom running routes, guided runs with local experts, and other active experiences tailored to runners' interests.

Why it matters

The rise of 'runcations' reflects a broader trend of health-conscious travelers seeking more active and immersive experiences on their trips, moving beyond traditional sightseeing. This creates new opportunities for tourism providers to cater to the needs of this growing segment of fitness-focused travelers.

The details

On a recent trip to Greece, Elizabeth Arnold and her daughter from Denver, Colorado, spent their vacation running along coastal trails on the island of Sifnos, rather than sunbathing or visiting historical sites. Arnold said she typically avoids Caribbean destinations because 'it's really hard to run on some of those islands.' Instead, she and other travelers are booking 'runcations' that feature custom running routes, guided runs with local experts, and other active experiences tailored to runners' interests.

  • In August 2021, Elizabeth Arnold and her daughter visited Greece from Denver, Colorado.

The players

Elizabeth Arnold

A traveler from Denver, Colorado who booked a 'runcation' to Greece with her daughter.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The rise of 'runcations' highlights how health-conscious travelers are seeking more active and immersive experiences on their trips, moving beyond traditional sightseeing. This creates new opportunities for tourism providers to cater to the needs of this growing segment of fitness-focused travelers.