Join us for the Venice Marathon / 25-29 October 2024 

Dates: 25-29 October, 2024 

Lace up your running shoes and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Venice!  

Picture this: the crisp autumn air, the scenic countryside, and the thrill of participating in the Venice Marathon on October 27th. What’s more you can choose: Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10 k or be a supporter. The choice is yours.

It’s not just a race; it’s an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. Participants will have the opportunity to run through the historic streets of Venice, passing iconic landmarks such as St. Mark’s Square and the Grand Canal. With its flat course and breathtaking views, the Venice Marathon offers both seasoned runners and first-timers the chance to challenge themselves while taking in the beauty of this unique city. 

Join us for a 4-night trip from October 25th to 29th, where we’ll not only conquer the marathon but also explore the charming countryside and indulge in the beauty of Venice. We will stay in Hotel Villa Franceschi, beautiful country house hotel run by the Dal Corso family, boasting beautiful gardens, a refreshing pool, and an exceptional restaurant. The hotel is fantastic and the staff are wonderful. www.villafranceschi.com

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting your journey, this trip is perfect for anyone looking to challenge themselves and create lasting memories. If you’re not quite prepared for the full marathon, there’s no need to fret—they also provide options for a half-marathon or a 10k, which are less demanding alternatives. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel as you cross that finish line in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. 

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, bring your determination, and join us for an incredible adventure filled with laughter, camaraderie, and the joy of running. Let’s make October 27th a day to remember as we run through the streets of Venice together! 

Venice Marathon – Outline Itinerary 

Fri, 25th Oct:  

• On arrival at Venice Airport we will provide private car & driver service to country house hotel.
• Our favourite partner property: www.villafranceschi.com 
• Welcome drinks party starting at 7 pm, where you can unwind, chat about the marathon, and get to know your fellow runners in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s the perfect opportunity to build camaraderie before the big event.   

Sat, 26th Oct:  

• Breakfast by the pool!  
• Transport into Venice to pick up race number / register etc  
• Afternoon free in Venice to explore the city. Transport back to hotel later.
• Evening pre-marathon special dinner (suitable for runners)!

Sun, 27th Oct:  

• Wake up early for breakfast and prepare for the Venice Marathon.  
• There will be a driver to take you to the starting point of the run.  
• Participate in the marathon, soaking in the energy and atmosphere of this iconic event.  
• After the marathon, we will have a photo session to celebrate this precious moment.  
• Transport back to Villa Franceschi  
• Spend the rest of the day relaxing and recovering from your marathon efforts!  

Mon, 28th Oct:  

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel.   
• Spend the day at leisure, either exploring more of Mira (the local village) or simply relaxing at the hotel by the pool.  Alternatively head into Venice for a gentle stroll.
• In the evening, we will have our farewell dinner at a local trattoria, reminiscing about your and our achievements at The Venice Marathon.

Tue, 29th Oct:

• Check out of your accommodation at Hotel Villa Franceschi.  
• Transport is included to Venice Airport for your departure flight.
• Don’t forget to take your cherished memories of your Italian adventure home!  
• Arrivederci – ci vediamo presto!  

Practical information – what’s included: 

• 4 nights at Hotel Villa Franceschi 
• Transfers on arrival and departure from Venice Airport to hotel
• Breakfast daily and 2 dinners with special menu for runners
• Transport to/from Registration point to register and collect race number.
• Transfers to starting point of Marathon at Villa Pisani
• Afternoon free in Venice with transport back to hotel. 
• An experienced marathon runner is in our group and several of the staff are planning on running the 10k – so you will not be alone.
• We will provide local support, pharmacy visits, directions, suggestions for warm-up runs etc. 
• Numerous surprises and added extras, as we think of them! 
• A choice of room types (see below) 

The cost of the trip depends on room category selected at the hotel: 

Prices start from: 

• € 995 pp / 2 people sharing a classic twin or double room (3 rooms at this price)
• € 1250 pp / 2 people sharing superior double or twin (6 rooms at this price)
• € 1495 pp / 1 person in a Double room for single use  
• € 1650 pp / 2 people sharing a Junior Suite

To book: 

Contact janet@grand-tourist.com or bilge@grand-tourist.com or lucy@grand-tourist.com for more details and to chat through your exact requirements. Grand Tourist offers truly tailor-made travel. 

To sign up for the marathon, you can follow this link: Venice Marathon. Don’t worry if you’re not ready for the full marathon yet—they also offer a half-marathon or a 10k, which are easier. Additionally, we have a small discount code available. If you haven’t signed up yet, please contact us for the possibility of a discount. 

Not included: 

• Flights are not included. You’ll need to fly in/out of Venice Marco Polo Airport. 
• There are numerous flights to Venice; British Airways, Easy Jet, Ryan Air, Jet2.
• For American guests, fly in on; Delta, United, American. 
• Travel insurance is compulsory – please see our T’s & C’s. 
• Entry into the Venice Marathon is not included – you can enter here: www.venicemarathon.it

• Items of a personal nature, room service, laundry, minibar – not included. 
• Any Lunches/dinners not mentioned in the itinerary above.
• Tips for guides and drivers are much appreciated. Allow € 20-30 per day for gratuities. 

GALLERY OF IMAGES – from the Venice Marathon, 2022: Venice Marathon 2022

• LAST WORD OR TWO…..  Venice is a city to explore at leisure. It’s a miraculous city marooned between land and sea. Take some time to read the many articles written by ‘The Educated Traveller’ aka Janet Simmonds on the city that she has loved and appreciated for more than four decades….. 

Below there is a suggested list of articles about Venice that you may enjoy:

• VENICE MARATHON AT VILLA PISANI 
• Venice Marathon Site – official 
• Venice – Botticelli in Venice – seriously? 
• Venice and Film  (A brief history of the Venice film festival) 

Venice Marathon – the route:

• Published: 10th May 2024
• Updated: 3rd July, 2024