Short Haul/long Haul
Verona Marathon and Philadelphia Half
Verona Marathon ITALY, NOVEMBER 18
One of the most beautiful cities in Italy, Verona is also a hidden-gem option for an autumn marathon in lovely weather. Close to 4,000 runners are expected this year, of which roughly one sixth will be from outside the country. You’ll get plenty of views of florid Renaissance architecture, pass through the huge gates that formed part of the city’s fortifications in the 14th century, run along the ancient Via Postumia, which, in Roman times, connected the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Adriatic Sea, before finishing in the Piazza Bra, right in front of the magnificent 2,000-year-old amphitheatre.
Flights Various airlines fly direct to Verona from UK airports, from £110
While you’re there… see the balcony where Romeo expressed his eternal love for Juliet by visiting the 13th-century house on Via Cappello. veronamarathon.it/en
Philadelphia Half Marathon UNITED STATES, NOVEMBER 17
Part of a weekend running festival, this 13.1-miler was overhauled last year and the new route includes so many stunning sights along the way that we can’t fit them all in. Here is just a sample: Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, Benjamin Franklin’s grave and the United States Mint.
Flights Aer Lingus flies direct from London Gatwick, from £450rtn
While you’re there… do what any true Rocky fan would do – run triumphantly up the 72 steps outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art (see below) and jump up and down, arms aloft. Then go looking for Apollo Creed and swap trash talk. philadelphiamarathon.com