The Best Marathons in Europe

Europe is home to some of the best marathons in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned runner looking for your next marathon to conquer or a passionate traveler seeking a new adventure, mixing running and culture is the perfect way to see a new city.

From historic city routes to scenic coastal races, Europe’s marathon calendar is packed with unforgettable experiences. This list highlights the very best marathons in Europe based on course, atmosphere, scenery, organization, and travel accessibility that are worth adding to your bucket list race calendar.

Paris Marathon

Why It’s Special

The City of Light offers more than romance, fashion and food – it’s also one of the most iconic marathon settings in the world. With Parisian landmarks around every corner, this race is perfect for first timers and seasoned marathoners.

Race Details

Held each April, the Paris Marathon begins on the historic Champs-Élysées and winds past sights like the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Eiffel Tower. The course also explores the leafy parks of Bois de Vincennes and Boulogne, providing runners with both city and nature backdrops.

Travel Info

Flights from major UK airports (London, Manchester, Newcastle, Liverpool, and Birmingham) take around 1 hour 20 minutes. Paris is served by two main airports, Charles de Gaulle and Orly.

Insider Tip

Right beside the Champs de Mars and the Eiffel Tower is a sports facility, the Centre Emile Anthoine. Like many sports centres in the Paris area, it has a running track that’s open free to the public from 7-9 PM. It’s a hidden track beside the torrent of visitors with an epic view of the Eiffel Tower.

Sports Tours Package

If you want to take part in this very sought-after event and explore the city of love, join our Paris Marathon tour package for guaranteed entry, centrally located accommodation, a sightseeing tour, on the ground support from our experienced team and more!

Rome Marathon

Why It’s Special

The Rome Marathon is like no other. It is an opportunity for athletes to follow in the steps of Roman Gladiators and experience this city’s unique and charming atmosphere. This European city offers incredible historic sights and monuments that will make a runner’s marathon experience one to remember.

Race Details

This marathon has been around since 1995 and usually takes place in March each year. The route takes athletes on a journey through the city, passing the famous Colosseum, along the Fori Imperiali, towards the Vatican and St. Peter’s Square, where you may see a glimpse of the Pope.

Travel Info

Flights to Rome operate from all major UK airports (London, Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool, Birmingham, Newcastle, etc.) and take around 2 hours and 20 minutes. Rome has two international airports, the Leonardo da Vinci Airport and the Ciampino Airport.

Top Sights to Explore

Rome has a range of experiences to offer tourist, from taking part in a cooking class, ancient ruins, markets and museums. Here are a few of our top picks:

• The original Roman Crypts and Catacombs
• Pizza making class
• Visit the Colosseum with a guided tour
• Vatican Museum

Sports Tours Package

If the idea of running the Rome Marathon has caught your interest, check out our Rome Marathon tour packages. We offer multiple night accommodation packages, meet and greet welcome drinks, race briefing, sightseeing tour, 5k shakeout run, post-marathon celebrations, and of course, guaranteed race entry.

BMW Berlin Marathon

Why It’s Special

Part of the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors, Berlin is one of the fastest marathon courses in the world, and a favorite for those chasing a PB. The flat, fast route, coupled with fantastic crowd support, makes it one of the most popular races globally.

Race Details

Taking place in late September, runners pass historic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag, and the Berlin Wall. With perfect autumn running conditions and elite-level organization, it’s easy to see why records are made here.

Travel Info

Direct flights from London to Berlin take under 2 hours. Berlin Brandenburg Airport connects easily to the city via train or bus.

Insider Tip

Recharge post-race with a peaceful walk or picnic in Tiergarten, Berlin’s expansive park right near the finish line.

Sports Tours Package

Secure your spot in this world-class race with our Berlin Marathon package, including guaranteed race entry, hotels, the biggest after-party in Berlin and full race-week support.

Irish Life Dublin Marathon

Why It’s Special

Warm, welcoming, and full of energy, the Dublin Marathon is one of Europe’s friendliest races. The route offers a mix of Georgian streets, leafy suburbs, and vibrant local support from start to finish.

Race Details

Held in late October, runners take in Phoenix Park, UCD, and finish near Merrion Square. A great option for both first-timers and experienced runners.

Travel Info

Flights to Dublin take under 1 hour from most UK cities, with excellent public transport links from the airport to the city center.

Insider Tip

After the race, head to the Guinness Storehouse or explore the iconic Temple Bar for traditional music and celebratory pints with fellow runners.

Sports Tours Package

Join our Dublin Marathon tour for a race experience that feels like a homecoming – with guaranteed entry, expert support and added perks.

Athens Marathon

Why It’s Special

This is where the marathon began. Literally. Run in the footsteps of Pheidippides on the original route from Marathon to Athens, making this race a true pilgrimage for long-distance runners.

Race Details

Held in November, the Athens Marathon starts in the town of Marathon and finishes in the historic Panathenaic Stadium. The hilly course adds to the challenge, but the history makes it unforgettable.

Travel Info

Flights from London to Athens average around 3.5 hours. The city is well-connected by metro and taxis.

Insider Tip

Visit the Acropolis Museum or take a post-race dip along the Athenian Riviera for the ultimate recovery experience.

Sports Tours Package

Be part of history with our Athens Marathon travel experience – a true bucket list event. With the marathon entry and 10k and 5k races also available to book, it’s a must for every runner.

Valencia Marathon

Why It’s Special

Known as “The City of Running,” Valencia offers one of Europe’s fastest and flattest marathons with perfect warm December weather. It’s a runner’s paradise with a spectacular finish over water on a floating blue carpet at the Museo de las Ciencias.

Race Details

Held in early December, the Valencia Marathon is well-organized and atmospheric. The vibrant crowds and scenic course make it an ideal winter vacation and end-of-year goal.

Travel Info

Flights from the UK to Valencia take about 2.5 hours, with multiple carriers offering direct routes.

Insider Tips

• City of Arts and Sciences – stunning finish line setting and a must-visit
• Turia Gardens – 9km of green space perfect for a shakeout run
• Mercat Central – taste local delicacies post-race
• Serranos Towers – panoramic city views
• Valencia Cathedral – home to a chalice claimed to be the Holy Grail

Sports Tours Package

With guaranteed race entry, hotel stays, and expert support, our Valencia Marathon package is the ultimate way to end your running year on a high.

Why Book With Sports Tours International?

At Sports Tours International, we specialize in creating unforgettable race experiences across Europe and beyond. Our marathon packages include:
• Guaranteed race entries – no ballot, no qualifying time 
• Expert support from experienced reps
• Handpicked hotels in prime locations
• Social events with fellow runners – Welcome drinks, shakeout runs, pre-race briefs, guided expo trips, after parties.
• Optional guided tours and sightseeing extras

Let us take the stress out of race planning so you can focus on what matters – running your best race and making unforgettable memories with Sports Tours.