Plan a runcation in Sweden
Have you also discovered the appeal of running? Then why not take it one step further and plan a runcation – a running vacation where you take part in a race while discovering somewhere new. Sweden offers everything from city races with cheering crowds to mountain events with more challenging terrain. Not only do you get a goal to train towards, you also get the chance to combine running with travel and new experiences. Here are our tips for planning a runcation in Sweden.
Which race is right for you?
The first step when planning a runcation is choosing the type of race you want to run. In Sweden, there are plenty of options – from shorter distances to half marathons, marathons and ultramarathons.
Think about what you are looking for. Do you want to run with crowds and a lively atmosphere along the route, or are you more drawn to nature and varied terrain? There are also races that start in the evening, as well as flat courses for those who would rather avoid uphill sections.
Whatever you prefer, Sweden has several destinations where you can find a race that suits you.
Photo: Jonas Persson
Choose a destination in Sweden
Once you have decided what type of race you want to run, it is time to choose where. Many cities in Sweden host annual races, each with its own atmosphere and experience.
In Stockholm and Gothenburg, you will find races with cheering crowds, a lively festival feel and routes that take you through different parts of the city. Malmö offers flat courses and proximity to the sea, while Åre brings mountain scenery and more varied terrain.
Choose a destination that suits both your running and the experience you want from the trip – and take the opportunity to discover more once you are there.
Popular races in Sweden
Stockholm
Lidingöloppet
The world’s largest cross-country race and part of En Svensk Klassiker. A challenging course awaits, with trails, hills and beautiful scenery. If you are taking part, you can book hotels with us at exclusive rates – see more here.
Book your stay for Lidingöloppet
Stockholm Marathon
One of Europe’s largest marathons, taking you through Sweden’s capital – from the city centre to green spaces – before finishing at the classic Stockholm Stadium. If you prefer a shorter distance, the popular Stockholm Half Marathon is also an option.
Midnattsloppet
A late-evening race where music, cheering crowds and a lively atmosphere carry you through the course. Choose from 5, 10 or 21 kilometres. Midnattsloppet is also held in Gothenburg and Malmö.
Gothenburg
Göteborgsvarvet
One of the year’s great running celebrations in Gothenburg. This popular half marathon takes you through several of the city’s districts, with music, cheering crowds and the unmistakable Göteborgsvarvet atmosphere carrying you along the way. Every year, the race brings together more than 50,000 runners and hundreds of thousands of spectators who line the course to cheer them on.
Midnattsloppet
In Gothenburg, Midnattsloppet takes you through central parts of the city, with both the start and finish at Gustaf Adolf’s Square. Choose between 5 and 10 kilometres, and enjoy the atmosphere all the way along the route.
Malmö
Malmö Marathon
A city race with the start and finish at Ribersborg Beach. The flat course is ideal if you are looking to run fast, taking you through parks, city streets and along the waterfront.
Midnattsloppet
The popular Midnattsloppet also takes place in Malmö. Choose between 5 and 10 kilometres, with the start and finish at Stortorget in the heart of central Malmö.
Åre
Åre fjällmaraton
A full week of mountain running, with distances ranging from 8 kilometres to marathon – and mountain races of up to 100 kilometres. Expect varied terrain, spectacular scenery and the unmistakable feeling of running through the mountains.
Book your hotel ahead of the race
Once you have chosen the race you want to run, it is time to start training – and to plan the rest of your trip. A good tip is to book your stay well in advance, so you have a comfortable place to return to after the race.
Explore the city
The race will naturally be a big part of both the trip and the planning, but there is plenty more to discover in the city you are visiting. Sweden offers everything from sights and history to nature and local experiences. Wherever you go, there is no shortage of things to see and do. Take the opportunity to explore more of the destination before or after the race – or both.
Recover after the race
After the race, your body needs time to rest. Take it easy, refuel and give yourself space to recover from the day’s efforts.
A comfortable stay can make all the difference. Being able to get back easily, unwind and have everything you need close at hand makes recovery that little bit smoother. Let the hotel become part of the journey – a place to slow down and regain your energy.
Restaurants in Sweden
After the race, refuelling is essential. It is also the perfect opportunity to discover new restaurants in the city you are visiting.
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