Run the Athens Half Marathon or 5K, then trade the energy of race weekend for three days of outdoor adventure, local food, and Cretan culture.

We’ll begin in Athens with a private tour of the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum, shared meals, and time to explore before race day. After celebrating at the finish line, we’ll fly together to Chania for a change of pace.

In Crete, our local partners at Fit in Crete will take us beyond the city for a guided gorge hike, a wine or olive-oil tasting, and kayaking. We’ll share Cretan meals, experience traditional dancing, and leave time to wander Chania’s harbor and old town.

Hosted by NYC-based running coach Noa Besner, who has completed 22 marathons around the world, this small-group trip brings runners together for more than the race. Expect five nights across Athens and Chania, thoughtfully planned activities, and time to enjoy both places at your own pace.

Paces & Places, powered by Get Uncomfy, curates and hosts small-group destination race trips for runners who love exploring incredible places alongside an amazing crew.

Arrive in Athens and make your way to our centrally located hotel. Settle in, take a walk through the neighborhood, or relax after your journey.

Evening: Gather for a welcome dinner at a traditional Greek taverna. Meet your fellow runners over good food and get ready for a week of running and exploring Greece together.

Early morning: Join Noa for an easy shakeout run before breakfast.

Morning: Explore the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum on a four-hour private tour with a licensed guide. Get to know the history behind some of Athens’ most remarkable landmarks.

Afternoon: Enjoy a group lunch, then take time to explore the city and pick up your race bib.

Early evening: Gather for a pre-race dinner before turning in for a good night’s rest.

Morning: It’s race day! Take on the Athens Half Marathon or 5K, with Noa and your fellow travelers there to cheer you on.

Afternoon: Celebrate together over a post-race lunch, then take our private group transfer to Athens Airport.

Evening: Fly together to Chania, Crete. Our local partners will meet us at the airport and take us to our hotel for check-in. We’ll gather for dinner after arrival, with timing based on our flight.

Early morning: Join Noa for an easy recovery run before breakfast.

Daytime: Head to Falasarna with Fit in Crete for a guided kayak tour past a reef, rocky cliffs, and a WWII shipwreck, while learning about the history of ancient Falasarna. Stop for lunch at a local taverna before returning to Chania.

Evening: Enjoy a group dinner and time to unwind.

Early morning: Join Noa for an optional short run before breakfast, or enjoy a slower start.

Daytime: Hike Agia Irini gorge with our local guides. This easy, mostly downhill walk takes about three to four hours through the forest below the Lefka Ori mountains. After lunch at a local taverna in Sougia, spend time by the clear water near the caves before returning to Chania.

Evening: Gather for our final group dinner and traditional Cretan dancing.

Early morning: Join Noa for an optional short run before breakfast, or enjoy a leisurely start to your last day in Chania.

After breakfast, take some free time to explore the old town or stroll along the harbor before checking out. We’ll arrange your transfer to Chania Airport for your journey home.