20 and more Marathons in Europe You Need to Experience at Least Once

Europe is home to some of the most scenic, fast, and unforgettable marathons in the world. Whether you're chasing a personal record or the sheer thrill of the course, there's a race with your name on it.

From historic capitals to coastal gems, here’s your month-by-month guide to the best marathons in Europe for every type of runner. Some races go beyond the usual 42 km - they tell a story, break records, and stay with you long after the finish line.

Let’s start with the icons you’ve definitely heard of (and absolutely need on your bucket list).

Germany

Berlin Marathon - 27 September 2026

Considered the fastest marathon in the world, Berlin has seen countless world records fall along its pancake-flat course. You’ll glide through wide boulevards, energised by cheering crowds, and finish under the shadow of the Brandenburg Gate. It's a dream race for speed chasers and history lovers alike.

United Kingdom

London Marathon - 26 April 2026

This World Marathon Major is as much a royal sightseeing tour as it is a race. Pass by Buckingham Palace, cross Tower Bridge, and soak in the electric atmosphere. A must for runners who love vibrant crowds and iconic sights.

France

Paris Marathon - 12 April 2026

Imagine crossing the Eiffel Tower on your route, gliding past the Seine, and ending your race in Bois de Vincennes. The Paris Marathon is scenic, smooth, incredibly popular and one of Europe’s largest races. Bonus? It’s perfect for first-timers aiming to tick off an iconic race without extreme elevation.

Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris 2026

dom 12 apr 2026, 08:00 • Avenue des Champs-Élysées, FR

Greece

Athens Marathon - 9 November 2026

Run in the literal footsteps of history. The course takes you from Marathon to the historic Panathenaic Stadium, where the ancient Olympic Games were once held. It’s not the flattest, but it’s one of the most meaningful races you’ll ever do.

42nd Athens Marathon The Authentic

dom 9 nov, 09:00 • Panathenaic Stadium, GR

Norway

Midnight Sun Marathon - 20 Juni 2026

Ever run a race at midnight… under full daylight? This summer event in Tromsø, above the Arctic Circle, offers a surreal experience. Expect stunning fjords, snow-capped peaks, and a sky that never goes dark.

More Must-Run Marathons Across Europe – Scenic Routes, Fast Tracks & Hidden Gems

Netherlands

TCS Amsterdam Marathon - 19 October 2025

Starting inside the historic Olympic Stadium, this autumn marathon follows a scenic, fast route through Amsterdam’s city center and parks. Perfect for first-time runners and those aiming for personal bests, it offers cool weather and beautiful canal views throughout October.

TCS Amsterdam Marathon & Halve Marathon 2025

18–19 ott • Amsterdam, NL

Rotterdam Marathon - 12 April 2026

Another Dutch gem, Rotterdam is widely praised as a fast and friendly course. The supportive locals line the streets, and the weather is usually just right for running. This one’s all about speed and runners often aim for their next marathon goal here.

NN Marathon Rotterdam 2026

dom 12 apr 2026, 07:00 • Rotterdam, NL

Leiden Marathon – 17 May 2026

The Leiden Marathon offers a quintessential Dutch running experience - charming, scenic, and remarkably well-organized. Starting in the historic city center, the route winds past canals, windmills, tulip fields, and small villages before looping back through Leiden’s cobbled streets. It’s flat, fast, and friendly - ideal for runners chasing a personal best while soaking in the calm beauty of the Netherlands in spring bloom.

Germany

Hamburg Marathon – 26 April 2026

Germany’s oldest city marathon offers a scenic, coastal-style route that blends urban buzz with natural beauty. Starting near the congress center, you’ll pass the Elbphilharmonie, Alster Lake, and Reeperbahn before finishing at the Karolinenviertel. Fast, well-organized, and lined with enthusiastic locals this is the perfect marathon for spring.

Haspa Marathon Hamburg 2026

dom 26 apr 2026, 08:30 • Hamburg Messe Eingang West, Halle A3, 20357 Hamburg, Germany, DE

Dresden Marathon – 18 October 2026

A lesser-known gem on Germany’s marathon calendar, the Dresden Marathon takes runners along the River Elbe and through the city’s baroque heart. You’ll cruise past landmarks like the Zwinger Palace and Semperoper in a relaxed, flat course ideal for both first-timers and experienced marathoners chasing negative splits. Expect a calm atmosphere and flawless German logistics.

Dredsden Marathon 2026

24–25 ott • Vicky Leandros, DE

Greece

Rhodes Marathon – 26 April 2026

Run your marathon by the Mediterranean with the Rhodes Marathon, a scenic and fast coastal route around the island of Rhodes, Greece. Starting in Eleftherias Square, the course winds along the shoreline, past the medieval Old Town walls, and through palm-lined boulevards before looping back to the historic center. It’s a flat, sunny race that mixes ancient history, sea views, and Greek island charm - perfect for runners looking to pair performance with a holiday atmosphere.

Rhodes Marathon 2026

dom 26 apr 2026, 07:30 • Rhodes, GR

Norway

Oslo Marathon – 19 September 2026

The Oslo Marathon offers a crisp Scandinavian running experience through Norway’s vibrant capital. The route takes you along the Oslofjord waterfront, through the city center, and past landmarks like the Royal Palace and Akershus Fortress. Cool autumn air, smooth tarmac, and strong local support make it a balanced mix of speed and scenery - ideal for those who thrive in fresh, northern conditions.

Oslo Marathon 2026

sab 19 set 2026, 07:00 • Oslo, NO

Spain

Valencia Marathon - 7 December 2025

Held in early December, the Valencia Marathon is a flat, sea-level race known for speed. The wide roads, mild temps, and roaring Spanish crowds make it a favourite among European marathons.

Marathon Valence

dom 7 dic, 08:00 • Valencia, ES

Seville Marathon - 15 February 2026

February’s answer to a spring PR. The Seville Marathon is known for its near-zero elevation, smooth road surface, and enthusiastic crowds. Plus, you’ll run past some of Andalusia’s most iconic sights, from cathedrals to palm-lined avenues.

Rhodes Marathon 2026

dom 26 apr 2026, 07:30 • Rhodes, GR

Barcelona Marathon – 15 March 2026

Barcelona Marathon delivers a perfect blend of speed, culture, and coastal charm. Starting and finishing at Plaça d’Espanya, the route weaves through the city’s wide boulevards, past icons like Sagrada Família, Camp Nou, and the Arc de Triomf. With mild spring weather, a flat profile, and lively street music at nearly every corner, it’s one of Europe’s most vibrant urban marathons - built for fast times and unforgettable atmosphere.

Barcelona Marathon 2026

15–16 mar • Barcelona, ES

Switzerland

Jungfrau Marathon - 5 September 2026

A bucket-list challenge with a view. Starting in Interlaken and climbing toward the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks, this race is more about the journey than the finish time. The reward? Epic alpine views that’ll make your quads (almost) forgive you.

Jungfrau Marathon 2026

05–06 set • Interlaken, CH

Hungary

Budapest Marathon - 11 October 2026

Run across the Chain Bridge, through Buda and Pest, and along the Danube River. The Budapest Marathon is a feast for the eyes and a highlight in the Eastern European racing calendar. It’s especially popular in early October, offering crisp air and dramatic architecture.

Sweden

Stockholm Marathon - 30 May 2026

A midsummer marvel weaving across islands and historic neighbourhoods. The two-lap course gives runners a real sense of the city, from leafy parks to royal palaces. Don’t let the beauty fool you - this one has a few sneaky hills.

Stockholm Marathon 2026

sab 30 mag 2026, 12:10 • Stockholm, SE

Portugal

Lisbon Marathon - October 2026

Start by the Atlantic Ocean and end in the heart of Lisbon. The Lisbon Marathon is scenic, coastal, and typically held in sunny October. A great pick if you’re chasing both scenery and a solid time.

EDP Lisbon Half Marathon 2026

dom 8 mar 2026, 09:30 • Ponte 25 de Abril, PT

Italy

Maratona di Roma - 22 March 2026

Run past the Colosseum, Vatican, and Roman Forum all in a single morning. The cobblestones make it a bit tougher, but the vibes? Impeccable. It’s a historic course through one of Europe’s most legendary cities.

Maratona di Roma 2026

dom 22 mar 2026, 08:00 • Roma, IT

Czech Republic

Prague Marathon - 3 May 2026

This spring race has it all: Gothic spires, bridges over the Vltava, and cobblestone streets lined with music. It’s not the fastest, but it’s wildly beautiful. Expect charm, beer at the finish, and a post-race party you won’t forget.

Prague International Marathon 2026

dom 3 mag 2026, 09:00 • Prague, CZ

Spain

Barcelona Marathon - 15 March 2026

Flat, fast, and sunny, the Barcelona Marathon is held in March and takes runners through Gaudí-lined boulevards. It’s big but not overwhelming, with a course that’s great for spotting iconic monuments like La Sagrada Familia.

Barcelona Marathon 2026

15–16 mar • Barcelona, ES

Belgium

Antwerp Marathon - 19 October 2025

An October race that winds through the city’s industrial - chic landscape. It’s relatively flat, and the afterparty features - what else? - craft beer. One of Belgium’s most fun and accessible popular events.

TREK Antwerp Marathon 2025

dom 19 ott, 09:00 • Rijnkaai 150, 2000 Antwerpen, BE

Brussels Marathon – 4 October 2026

The Brussels Marathon combines urban grit with European grandeur. Starting at Parc du Cinquantenaire, the course takes you past the European Parliament, through leafy boulevards, and along stretches of green parkland before finishing in the heart of the city. Expect rolling hills, cool autumn air, and a passionate crowd - a challenging yet rewarding course that captures the political and cultural heartbeat of Europe.

Brussels Airport Marathon & Half Marathon 2026

04–05 ott • Stade Roi Baudouin | Koning Boudewijnstadion, BE

Denmark

Copenhagen Marathon - 10 May 2026

Big city energy, small race vibes. The Copenhagen Marathon is loved for its friendly crowds, smooth logistics, and eco-friendly setup. A solid choice for May, especially if you want a cool, coastal vibe.

Copenhagen Marathon 2026

dom 10 mag 2026, 09:30 • Copenhagen, DK

FAQs About European Marathons

1. What is the best marathon ? It depends on your goals. For speed: Berlin. For history: Athens. For scenery: Jungfrau. For energy: London or Paris.

2. What are the flattest marathons? Valencia, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Seville are among the flattest- ideal for a personal record.

3. Which marathons are part of the World Marathon Majors? In Europe, the Berlin Marathon and London Marathon are part of the World Marathon Majors series.

4. What is the marathon distance? A marathon is officially 42.195 kilometers (26.2 miles). Some events also offer a half marathon option.

5. When is the best time to run a marathon ? Peak seasons are April–June and September–November. Avoid midsummer unless you're ready for heat.

6. Can beginners run these marathons? Absolutely. Races like Paris, Valencia, and Copenhagen are beginner-friendly and well-organized.

7. Where are the most scenic marathons? Try Loch Ness, Jungfrau, Stockholm, Lisbon, or the Midnight Sun Marathon for epic views.

9. What is the most historic marathon ? The Athens Marathon is the original route - from Marathon to the historic Panathenaic Stadium.

10. Can I find marathons with entertainment and big crowds? Definitely London, Berlin, and Barcelona are known for crowd support, music, and a festive atmosphere.

Ready to Pick Your Next Marathon?

Europe has a marathon for every type of runner, whether you're chasing a world record, looking for iconic sights, or simply want to enjoy the atmosphere of a legendary event.

So lace up, start training, and plan your next destination race. And if you need to buy or sell tickets for sports events, festivals, or concerts during your trip, don't forget to check TicketSwap.