Run the world’s most iconic marathons

As any runner will tell you, no two marathons are alike. While they might generally measure the same distance, just about everything else differs from race to race.

The top considerations for a destination marathon are, understandably, the climate and view. After all, if you’re going to bust a gut running 42.2km – the famous 26 miles – you might as well have something life-affirming to look at.  

We’ve chosen some bucket-list marathons that unfold next to and across some of the most beautiful landscapes on the planet. Read on for your 2025 marathon calendar – and when you need to register to secure your starting spot in the race of a lifetime.

1. Tokyo Marathon

The Tokyo Marathon offers the perfect opportunity to challenge yourself and experience the city in one place. Held each spring, with both the full 42km distance and a shorter 10.7km to enter, the Tokyo Marathon takes marathon runners through a fascinating cross-section of the capital’s history – from the famed red lantern gate at Asakusa to the chrome skyscrapers of Ginza and, cherry blossom -filled Ueno to bustling Nihombashi.

Race date: 26 February 2026
When to enter: Registration for the 2027 Tokyo Marathon ballot should open mid-August 2026. Find out more here .

2. London Marathon

Ever dreamed of running across Tower Bridge? The iconic landmark is just one of the many landmarks that participants see during the London Marathon , one of the Abbott World Marathon Majors. The race doubles as the ultimate tourist sightseeing route, beginning in southeast London, leading through charming Greenwich and past the historic Cutty Sark before winding along the Thames into central London as sights like the Shard, London Eye and more zip past. The finish line is outside Buckingham Palace, so you might be lucky enough to spot the royals watching the festivities unfold.

Race date: 26 April 2026
When to enter: Registration for the 2027 London Marathon ballot should open April 2026. Find out more here .

3. Boston Marathon

Also an Abbott World Marathon Major, Boston hosts the longest-running marathon in the world: this year, 30,000 runners will celebrate the event’s 127th birthday. Runners set off in the sleepy town of Hopkinton, then pace through charming countryside, small towns and gorgeous natural scenery before they meet the finish line in central Boston. The qualifying standard is high here, but it’s one of the most exhilarating events at which the world’s greatest runners are sighted.

Race date: 20 April 2026
When to enter: Registration for the 2027 ballot should open November 2026. Find out more here .

4. Angkor Wat Marathon

Race through history at Angkor Wat, one of the few events held within a Unesco World Heritage site. This unforgettable run transforms Cambodia’s iconic Angkor Wat temple complex into a spectacular course winding through the Angkor Archaeological Park. Participants wind through many of its stunning ruins, including Bayon Temple, the overgrown Tomb Raider temple Ta Prohm and, of course, the namesake “city of temples” all set against lush jungles and a serene river. Whether you’re tackling the remarkably flat full marathon or dipping your toes into long-distance running with the 21km option, Siem Reap’s historic backdrop makes this race a truly atmospheric experience. 

Race date: 2 August 2026
When to enter: Registration for the 2027 Angkor Empire Marathon and Angkor Wat International Half Marathon should close June 2026. Find out more here .

5. Great Wall Marathon

Potentially the only marathon you can see from space, this marathon needs little explanation. This race along the Great Wall of China , on the outskirts of Beijing , is a rare chance to run atop one of the wonders of the world. Choose either the half or full marathon distance, beginning at the Great Wall’s Yin and Yang Square and featuring steep climbs and descents, including the nail-biting 700m-high Goat Track. You’ll certainly feel the burn afterwards, thanks to the 5,614 steps, but the impressive views and guaranteed bragging rights will be motivation to keep climbing.

Race date: 16 May 2026
When to enter: 2026 registration is now open. Find out more here .

6. Sydney Marathon

The newest World Marathon Major, Sydney offers one of the most breathtaking courses on Earth. Starting in the city center, you’ll dash across the iconic Harbour Bridge, then cruise past sparkling waterfronts and lush parks before finishing at the Opera House. With postcard-perfect scenery and the easiest Major entry, Sydney is your golden ticket to join the global running scene – without as much of the lottery stress.

Race date: 30 August 2026
When to enter: Registration for 2027 Sydney Marathon ballot should open in September 2026. Find out more here .

7. Hong Kong Marathon

Hong Kong ’s cityscape is known the world over, but there’s no perspective quite like running through it. The Hong Kong Marathon route takes you up, down and around the city by road – and even under the harbour by tunnel – while the modern metropolis provides an unforgettable backdrop for one of the most oversubscribed runs on the calendar.  

Race date: 18 January 2026
When to enter: Registration for 2027 should begin in summer 2026. Find out more here .

8. Rock ’n’ Roll Las Vegas Marathon

Las Vegas has put its own glitzy spin on the marathon . This amped-up “party race” starts in the late afternoon and continues into the night as the city comes alive, and the entire route is packed with DJs, bands and other entertainment to keep your spirits high as you pound past. There’s a half marathon, 10km and 5km run to choose from, and each route takes runners along Vegas’ famed Strip past all its most famous sights, including the fountains of The Bellagio and Paris Las Vegas’ twinkling Eiffel Tower. Once you’ve crossed the finish line, you’ll celebrate in style: the event entry includes deep discounts to Vegas’ most popular entertainment shows – whether that’s magic tricks, musicals or megastars-in-residency.

Race date: 21 and 22 February 2026
When to enter: Registration for 2026 is now open. Find out more here .

9. Big Five Marathon

Lace up tight to cross South Africa’ s Entabeni Safari Conservancy and speed through the habitat of the famous “big five” animals: elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard. As if you needed any more motivation to go faster, the Big Five Marathon course doesn’t separate runners from wildlife – but, perhaps thankfully, it’s the docile, vegetarian antelope that you’re most likely to see up close.

Race date: 13 June 2026
When to enter: Registration for 2026 is now open and typically closes a month before the race. Find out more here .

10. Loch Ness Marathon

The verdant Scottish Highlands are stunning enough, but on this storied run, you might even glimpse the mythical Loch Ness Monster – or believe you have amid your runner’s high. The Loch Ness Marathon’s waterside route takes you past moorlands and an ancient castle before the finish line appears in Inverness.

Race date: 27 September 2026
When to enter: Registration for 2026 is now open. Find out more here .

11. Queenstown Marathon

New Zealand ’s most scenic race showcases an array of scenery including Millbrook, Arrowtown, Arrow River, Lake Hayes, Old Shotover Bridge, Twin Rivers trail, Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown Gardens. Meanwhile, the Queenstown Marathon ’s largely flat course means it’s as easy on the eyes as it is on the knees.

Race date: 14 November 2026 
When to enter: Registration for 2026 is now open. Find out more here .

12. Mount Fuji Marathon

Renowned for its breathtaking scenery, the Mount Fuji marathon course takes runners on a loop of Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Saiko, offering stunning views of Mount Fuji throughout. The backdrop of the majestic mountain, combined with the picturesque lakes and surrounding landscapes, creates an unforgettable experience for participants.

Race date: 14 December 2025
When to enter: General entry for 2026 should open in June 2025. Find out more here .

13. Paris Marathon

Imagine pounding the pavement through the heart of one of the world’s most romantic cities. The Paris Marathon offers runners a front-row seat to iconic landmarks: start beneath the Arc de Triomphe, glide down the Champs-Élysées, and trace the banks of the Seine with views of the Eiffel Tower shimmering in the distance. The route winds past historic boulevards, lush parks, and elegant architecture, making every stride a postcard-perfect moment. 

Race date: 12 April 2026 
When to enter: Registration for 2027 should begin in April 2026. Find out more here .

14. Amsterdam Marathon and Rotterdam Marathon

The Netherlands delivers two spectacular races, each with its own charm. Amsterdam’s marathon takes you along serene canals, past gabled houses, and through the vibrant Vondelpark, offering a quintessential Dutch experience. Rotterdam , on the other hand, has a famously flat course and cheering crowds that make it a favourite for personal bests. Both cities promise scenic waterways, striking architecture, and a festive atmosphere that turns every kilometre into a cultural journey.

Race date: Amsterdam Marathon will be held on 17 and 18 October 2026, Rotterdam Marathon will be held on 11 and 12 April 2026
When to enter: Registration for the 2026 Amsterdam Marathon opens 20 December 2025. Registration for the 2026 Rotterdam Marathon has closed. Find out more here .

15. Rome Marathon

Running the Rome Marathon is like stepping into a living museum. The Eternal City’s marathon route sweeps past ancient wonders: the Colosseum, Roman Forum and St Peter’s Basilica, all bathed in golden Italian light. Cobblestone streets and piazzas echo with history as you navigate a course that blends antiquity with vibrant modern life. It’s not just a race – it’s an immersion into centuries of art, architecture and culture, with every stride telling a story.

Race date: 22 March 2026 
When to enter: 2026 registration is still open. Find out more here .

16. Shanghai International Marathon

Shanghai’s marathon is a striking fusion of old and new. The course begins along the historic Bund, where historical buildings line the waterfront, before plunging into the futuristic skyline of Pudong with its gleaming towers. Runners experience the city’s dynamic contrasts – traditional gardens and temples juxtaposed with cutting-edge architecture. Add in the energy of one of Asia’s most cosmopolitan cities, and you have a race that feels like a journey through time and innovation. Currently under assessment to become an Abbott World Marathon Major, Shanghai is fast gaining global recognition as a must-run event.

Race date: 29 November 2026 
When to enter: 2026 registration should open in July 2026. Find out more here .

17. New York Marathon

Few races rival the electric atmosphere of the New York City Marathon . This legendary event takes you through all five boroughs, each buzzing with its own character—from Brooklyn’s brownstones to Manhattan’s skyscrapers. The roar of the crowds on First Avenue, the iconic crossing of Queensboro Bridge and the finish in Central Park create an unforgettable experience. It’s a moving celebration of diversity, resilience and the city that never sleeps. 

Race date: 1 November 2026 
When to enter: Registration for the 2026 New York Marathon ballot will open from 4-25 February 2026. Find out more here .

18. Big Sur International Marathon

California’s Pacific Coast Highway is rightly regarded as one of the world’s most stunning drives, but the slower pace of the Big Sur International Marathon allows you to truly soak up the stunning scenery. Breathe in the mountain air as you cruise for a PB on the PCH.

Race date: 26 April 2026 
When to enter: Registration for 2026 has closed, 2027 registration should begin autumn 2026. Find out more here .

19. Great Ocean Road Marathon

Tracing an extra-long 44km coastal route along the bottom edge of southwestern Australia, the Great Ocean Road Marathon begins in Lorne, a two-hour drive outside of Melbourne . The race offers a traffic-free opportunity to soak up the stunning scenery and geological formations while listening to the waves lap at the shore below.

Race date: 26 April 2026
When to enter: Registration for 2026 has closed, 2027 registration should begin autumn 2026. Find out more here .

20. Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon

Starting at Everest Base Camp, the dauntingly elevated Everest Marathon boasts unrivalled views from atop the Himalayas. The annual event marks the day Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary reached the summit in 1953. The good news is that the race takes you down rather than uphill, but the terrain is as tricky as it is jaw-dropping.

Race date: 29 May 2026
When to enter: Registration is open until 30 April 2026. Runners must be in Nepal three weeks before the race to acclimatise to the altitude. Find out more here .

This story was originally published in February 2023 and updated in December 2025.