10 of the best marathons around the world
With thousands of marathons happening globally each year, deciding which one to enter can be a challenge in itself. Of course there's the iconic World Marathon Majors (albeit not the easiest to secure yourself a spot in), but theres's so many others, too, each delivering their own special 26.2 experience.
So, if you're planning your next holiday or big adventure and fancy merging it with your next marathon, be sure to check out our selection of the 10 best marathons around the world taking place in the next year.
Choose your event, download your training plan and get prepared for a running adventure that could change your life.
Great Wall Marathon
Where? Huangyaguan, China
When? Wednesday 1 May 2024
Since its inception in 1999, the Great Wall Marathon has become known as one of the world’s most challenging marathons. And for good reason. Because alongside covering 26.2 miles, you'll have to walk up 5,164 steps. Thankfully, the route is as picturesque as it is punishing, weaving through local villages and showcasing some of China's most spectacular countryside.
Great Ocean Road Marathon
Where? Apollo Bay, Victoria, Australia
When? Sunday 19 May 2024
Most people choose to travel the Great Ocean Road by car. But runners are not most people. Seize the chance to travel this classic coastal highway by foot in a marathon that will be breathtaking in every sense. The Great Ocean Road stretches along the sand-strewn southern coast of Australia and is hemmed in by expansive greenery on one side and lush blue sea reaching the horizon on the other. The ‘marathon’ is actually 44km (27.3 miles), so you can justifiably claim to have run an ultra, too. Bonza!
Stockholm Marathon
Where? Stockholm, Sweden
When? Saturday 1 June 2024
A top European race, the Stockholm Marathon takes runners through the streets of the Swedish capital built on 14 islands. It’s a two-lap course that takes in the very best of Stockholm – from the forests of the Djugarden Ryal Park to the House of Parliament – with much of the route being on the city’s numerous canal paths. The race finishes at the 1912 Olympic Stadium, home to a whopping 83 track and field world records, so keep a little in the tank for a sprint finish.
San Francisco Marathon
Where? San Francisco, United States
When? Sunday 28 July 2024
Along this route you’ll take in the views of San Fran Bay from the Golden Gate Bridge, pass iconic parks and neighbourhoods, such as Fisherman’s Wharf and the Marina Green, and stride past Major League sports stadiums including the homes of the Golden State Warriors and the San Francisco Giants. Enjoy the generous and loud support – and celebrate with one of the city’s famed burritos after.
Angkor Empire Marathon
Where? Siem Reap, north-western Cambodia
When? Sunday 4 August 2024
And now for something completely different. Head to Cambodia to take part in a marathon set in a World Heritage site of serious historical and archaeological significance. The route starts and finishes in front of the Central Sanctuary of Angkor Wat. Along the way, you’ll pass temple complexes and some of the world’s largest religious monuments. Previous runners have described the route as 'magical' and the experience as 'unforgettable'. Find out why for yourself.
Marathon du Médoc
Where? Medic region in France, near Bordeaux
When? Saturday 7 September 2024
Calling all wine-loving runners: if you need an incentive in the form of an alcoholic beverage to get around the 26.2 miles, this is the race for you. The 38th edition of the French wine-athon is a fun, active way to see out the summer months. Forget water stations, this boozy marathon has 23 wine-tasting stations along the course, which threads along the vineyards of Médoc in the Gironde. Always run responsibly.
Rimi Vilnius Marathon
Where? Vilnius, Lithuania
When? Sunday 8 September 2024
First introduced in 2001, the Rimi Vilnius Marathon is one of the fastest growing marathons in the Baltics and the biggest running event in Lithuania. The route stretches through the World Heritage-listed old town, which preserves an impressive collection of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and classical buildings, and passes green parks and the riverbank of Neris. You won’t be short of scenery, that’s for sure.
Hà Giang Discovery Marathon
Where? Hà Giang, Vietnam
When? Sunday 6 October 2024
Many tourists complete the Hà Giang loop on a motorbike, but this marathon event allows you to discover some of the best of Hà Giang on foot through mountainous trails and scenic country roads. This marathon is perfect for those seeking a challenge while still allowing time to soak in the sights and sounds of the northeast region.
Walt Disney World Marathon
Where? Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida
When? Sunday 12 January 2025
Covering 26.2 miles through all four Disney Parks, an array of Disney characters and the iconic castle can be spotted along this generously flat route. The energy of the Disney World Parks make for a great, supportive running environment. Transporting you back to the magical memories provided by Disney in childhood, this race will make your younger self proud.
Great Welsh Marathon
Where? Carmarthenshire, Wales
When? Sunday 16 March 2025
Offering sea views and salty fresh air along Llanelli’s flat Millennium Coastal Path, the Great Welsh Marathon showcases the beautiful southern coastline of Wales. The country's oldest marathon starts and finishes at Pembrey Country Park and follows an out-and-back route. It's pancake flake but, being coastal, is at the mercy of the wind. You can find more of the best UK marathons here.
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