The Stramilano Half Marathon is one of Italy's oldest and most prestigious half marathons, with roots going back to the late 1970s. It is held in spring, in March, and carries a World Athletics Label and FIDAL 'gold' status; the competitive half is open to licensed athletes, with a separate non-competitive quota for foreign runners. The gun goes at 8:30 in Piazza Castello beneath the walls of the Sforza Castle, and the course then runs through traffic-free Milan streets. The atmosphere is that of a true city running festival. Milan offers the Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, Leonardo's Last Supper, aperitivo along the Navigli canals and La Scala opera house.
An easy run with a local club the day before the race — the best way to shake out the legs and meet the city.