International tour operator Contiki says people certainly don’t need to simply put their feet up all day long when vacations roll around.
The-tour operator – which caters to those aged 18 to 35 – has announced an industry-first “Run Club” travel style for fitness enthusiasts and social adventurers, with itineraries allowing young travellers to explore some of Europe’s iconic destinations while connecting with fellow runners.
“From a scenic jog around the crystal-clear waters of Lake Lucerne to local parks in Amsterdam and Florence and the picturesque vineyards of the Beaujolais wine region, each route offers a unique blend of fitness, exploration, and cultural immersion,” Contiki says.
“Run Clubs represent more than a fitness trend for our 18-35 audience – they’re a way to connect, explore, and build community in an increasingly fragmented, online world,” says Contiki CEO Adam Armstrong. “The appetite for active trips with Contiki is increasing as bookings on our active itineraries surged 105% from 2023 to 2024. Whether along the Mediterranean coastline in France or through Austria’s breathtaking Alps – group runs always emerged as trip highlights.”
Contiki’s 2025 Run Club features two itineraries showcasing cultural hotspots, taking in iconic sites such as the Eiffel Tower or Colosseum along the way. European Highlights offers a mix of morning runs, including along vineyard trails in the Beaujolais Wine Region, coastal paths along the French Riviera and park jogs in Amsterdam. “Recovery activities,” like wine tasting at a private château, exploring Monaco’s glamour and indulging in Tuscan cuisine are included. Participants will also cycle through the quaint Dutch town of Edam and visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa on the Aug. 25 to Sept. 7 trip.
European Whirl Plus offers daily runs mixed with cultural exploration, including scenic jogs through Berlin’s Tiergarten, Prague’s Vltava riverside and the alpine trails of the Austrian Tyrol. Viewing historical landmarks like the Berlin Wall, the Dresden Opera House and ancient Roman ruins will be included, while a gondola ride in Venice and wine tasting in Lucerne are planned on the Sept. 7-25 itinerary.
The Run Club trips will be led by what the company calls “expert Trip Managers, who bring a unique combination of running enthusiasm and in-depth destination knowledge.”
But Geneva-based Armstrong makes it clear that those who sign up for the tours won’t have to pound pavement if they don’t wish to.
“Group runs are scheduled every other day but remain completely optional,” he says. “Travellers have the flexibility to rest when needed or can add additional runs if they choose. For instance, on the 14-day European Highlights tour, there are eight group runs and one group bike tour, alongside two travel days for arrival and departure and two designated rest and recovery days.
“Everyone is welcome, whether they’re a seasoned runner, a beginner, or just curious to give it a try. At the start of each trip, the Trip Managers will discuss experience levels and pacing to ensure every traveller can find their group and feel comfortable.”
And Armstong makes it clear that trip participants won’t be hurtling past the types of attractions that lured them to Europe in the first place, barely getting a glimpse of storied sites.
“Our runs are designed to enhance the travel experience, not race through it,” he states. “Each route is curated to showcase iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and stunning scenery, with ample opportunities to pause and soak it all in. Whether it’s capturing the perfect photo of the Eiffel Tower, or taking a moment to breathe in the serenity of Lake Lucerne, we ensure that every run is as much about exploration and connection as it is about fitness.”
Faster groups may cover more ground during runs, but they will have free time built into the itinerary to revisit places that catch their eye.
The tour operator says the Run Club concept could be added to itineraries in other destinations if interest and demand warrants
“Fitness is an integral part of life for many of our travellers worldwide, and Canada is no exception,” Armstrong reports. “With Canadians being avid international travellers and Europe remaining a top destination, we see a natural overlap in their desire to combine exploration with staying active.”
Meanwhile, Armstrong says just because an individual is on vacation doesn’t mean he or she should laze their days away relaxing non-stop.
“Vacations can be whatever you make them, and for many of our travellers, that includes staying active,” he adds. “Fitness has become a social connector, especially among Gen Z. In a popular fitness tracking app, Strava’s recent trend report, global participation in running clubs surged by 59% last year, with respondents saying they made new friends through group workouts or went on a date with someone they met through exercise. For them, vacations aren’t just about relaxation – they’re an opportunity to connect, explore, and share experiences through activities they love.”
