Discover the best marathons in Europe
Whether you’re a professional runner, preparing for your first race or just spectating, Europe hosts exciting competitions each year. From Berlin’s iconic marathon and Mont Saint-Michel's charming scenery to Paris’ unique atmosphere, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Explore the best European marathons in our comprehensive guide and prepare for an unforgettable event.
Visit GetYourGuide to find unforgettable activities to expand your itinerary.
Best marathons in France
Thinking of running your first marathon in France? These are some of the best ones:
Paris Marathon – The Paris Marathon has the second-most finishers in the world. It was founded in 1896 but adopted its current format in 1976. Its panoramic course runs through the French capital’s heart, starting along the Champs-Élysées and finishing on Avenue Foch.
Mont Saint-Michel Marathon – The Mont Saint-Michel Marathon promises wonderful landscapes at every turn. The course is completely flat, meaning you can see the finish line right at the start. It was established in 1998 and begins in Cancale, passing through charming rural villages and along the coastline.
Marathon du Médoc – The Marathon du Médoc passes through Médoc’s vineyards in the Gironde. It’s considered the world’s longest run because of its action-packed itinerary, which includes 50 orchestras, 23 wine-tasting stalls, oyster tasting at the 38th kilometre and steak tasting at the 39th kilometre.
Best marathons in Germany
Germany is home to many pockets of natural beauty, and running through them is the best way to explore. Below are some of the country’s most thrilling marathons.
Hamburg Marathon – Unarguably one of the best European marathons, the Hamburg Marathon has a Gold Label from World Athletics. Established in 1986, it begins at Hamburg Messe, past the Dancing Towers, and continues along Elbchaussee, a scenic boulevard along the River Elbe.
Berlin Marathon – Established in 1974, the Berlin Marathon attracts runners from all over the world thanks to its sightseeing-packed course. The course passes through the heart of the German capital and is mainly flat, meaning it produces fast performances.
Frankfurt Marathon – Known for being Germany’s longest-established marathon, the Frankfurt Marathon was founded in 1981, five years after the New York City Marathon. It snakes past the city’s main landmarks, including the iconic Messeturm (Trade Fair Tower) and the Alte Oper.
Best marathons in Holland
Running through Holland’s beautiful countryside is one of life’s finest experiences. Below are our top picks of the country’s best marathons.
Rotterdam Marathon – Ranked among the world’s top 10 marathons by Runner’s World magazine, the Rotterdam Marathon is unmissable. The race was founded in 1983 and still produces some of the fastest performances thanks to its flat course and favourable weather conditions. In fact, three world records have been set here!
Amsterdam Marathon – Amsterdam lights up on marathon day. The event has a Platinum Label from World Athletics. Its course passes the Dutch capital’s iconic landmarks and travels along charming canals. The half marathon and the 8 km race occur on the same day.
Eindhoven Marathon – Established in 1959, the Eindhoven Marathon is one of Holland’s best races in terms of fast performances. The course begins and finishes in Eindhoven’s heart, passing popular sights like the Philips Museum and Saint Catherine’s Church.
Best marathons in Belgium
Belgium hosts some of the best European marathons, and our favourites are listed below.
Ghent Marathon – Held in Ghent since 2017, the Ghent Marathon is an exciting race that attracts runners from across Europe. The attraction-packed course passes by Saint Nicholas' Church, Keizerpark and the Ghelamco Arena, following the Ringvaart Canal.
Antwerp Marathon – The residents of Antwerp come together on marathon day. The race was founded in 1980 and has been held in April since 2007. The course starts at the Left River Bank and continues towards the northern part of the city, past the old town, finishing in the Grote Markt.
Brussels Airport Marathon – The Brussels Airport Marathon was held for the first time in 1984 but was paused between 1995 and 2003. It was restarted in 2004 in its current format and is now part of the ING Running Tour. The course is a loop that starts and ends near Brussels Park.
Our routes
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