Some people travel for food, some for sightseeing.
But runners?
They travel to chase a different kind of high. The start line nerves. The mid-race grit. The finish line tears. There’s a rhythm to it that only runners know.
And no matter where you are in the world, that feeling of pushing your limits, surrounded by strangers who suddenly feel like family, is universal.
I’m not a pro athlete. I’ve never won a race. But I’ve run in dusty city lanes, hilly towns, and crowded streets with bibs pinned to my shirt and dreams in my heart.
And like most runners, I’ve obsessively read about marathons, noted down race dates, watched vlogs, and read race recaps like bedtime stories.
This blog isn’t just a list, it’s a map for everyone who loves a good run in new neighborhoods (or cities). It’s for anyone who’s dreamt of combining their love for running with their love for the world. Each marathon listed here has been picked after deep research, personal fascination, and listening to dozens of real runners’ stories.
These aren’t just races, they’re chapters in the runner’s bucket list.
So tie your laces, even if just in your mind, and let’s go on a world tour for the most iconic marathons ever created.
1. Great Wall Marathon
Where? Huangyaguan, China
When? 1 May 2024
This marathon is famous for its extreme challenge. Running 26.2 miles is tough enough, but add over 5,000 steps and you’ve got a real test of stamina and willpower. What makes it special, though, is the scenery, ancient villages, rugged hills, and the incredible Great Wall itself. The views and history around you make the effort feel rewarding.
The course is demanding but also a rare chance to experience a piece of China few visitors get to see up close. If you want a marathon with a unique mix of culture, history, and serious leg work, this one is a perfect pick.
2. Great Ocean Road Marathon
Where? Apollo Bay, Australia
When? 19 May 2024
This marathon offers something pretty rare: a chance to run along one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes. On one side you have the vast Pacific Ocean with waves crashing on the shore, and on the other, thick Australian forests. The cool sea breeze and stunning views make the long distance feel easier.
What’s more, the race is actually longer than a typical marathon at 44 km (about 27.3 miles), so you can proudly say you ran an ultra. It’s perfect for runners who love nature and want a scenic challenge rather than just a fast race.
3. Tokyo Marathon – Japan
Where? Tokyo, Japan
When? Sunday, March 2, 2025
Fast, organized, and filled with cultural charm, Tokyo offers a marathon experience like no other. Everything is pristine: from the race bib pickup to the volunteers bowing as they hand you water.
Running in Tokyo means witnessing the old and new coexist. You run past ancient temples and towering skyscrapers, neon signs and peaceful parks. The crowds are quieter than New York’s, but no less supportive.
You’ll hear polite cheers of “Ganbatte!” (Do your best!) and see children holding handmade signs.
In 2025, Tokyo became the first major marathon to introduce a nonbinary category, a step forward in inclusivity that shows just how progressive and thoughtful this race really is.
And yes, you’ll want to eat everything in sight afterwards. Tokyo is a food lover’s paradise.
4. London Marathon – UK
Where? London, United Kingdom
When? Sunday, April 27, 2025
If you want tradition, great crowd energy, and views straight out of a postcard, the London Marathon is where it’s at. This race has a charm that’s hard to put into words, maybe it’s the cheeky British humor on the signs, or the runners decked out in crazy costumes, or maybe it’s just running alongside the Thames with Big Ben in the background.
The London Marathon is also one of the biggest in the world, with over 40,000 runners taking part every year. Since it started back in 1981, the route hasn’t changed much, and it’s mostly flat, running around the River Thames, making it a good challenge but doable.
You’ll pass famous spots like Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the London Eye, The Mall, St. James’s Palace, The Cutty Sark, Canary Wharf, and Tower Bridge, basically a must-do for anyone who loves a mix of culture, history, and running.
What makes it extra special is that thousands run for charity, adding heart and meaning to the whole event.
The weather in late April is usually pretty kind too, cool and comfortable, with temperatures around the mid-fifties Fahrenheit.
And the crowd? Always loud and super encouraging, making the whole experience feel like one big, joyful celebration.
5. Chicago Marathon – USA
Where? Chicago, Illinois, USA
When? Sunday, October 12, 2025
Flat. Fast. Friendly. Chicago has earned its reputation as one of the best marathons in the running world, and it’s easy to see why. If you’re aiming for a Boston qualifying time, this is the race to bring your A-game. The course is mostly flat, letting you focus on the rhythm of your feet hitting the asphalt without worrying about tough hills.
The race takes you through 29 vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own unique vibe. You’ll hear Mexican music and see dancers in Pilsen, soak in the energy of bustling downtown streets, and enjoy the famous Chicago skyline along the lakefront breeze.
Whether it’s your first time or you’re a regular, the diversity of runners and cheering crowds makes the city feel like home.
Starting and finishing at Grant Park by the lakeshore, the route passes through iconic spots like Lincoln Park, the Magnificent Mile, Union Station, and Chinatown. With around 45,000 runners and hundreds of thousands of fans, the atmosphere is electric from start to finish.
And when you cross that finish line, trust me, deep-dish pizza tastes like the best reward ever.
6. Boston Marathon – USA
Where? Boston, Massachusetts, USA
When? Monday, April 21, 2025
Boston is not for the faint-hearted.
It’s the world’s oldest annual marathon (since 1897), and you need a qualifying time to get in, unless you’re running for charity. But if you do make it, the experience is unlike anything else.
The course is hilly and tough, with Heartbreak Hill around mile 20 testing even the most seasoned runners.
But the support? Unmatched.
Wellesley College girls famously scream at full volume. Families line the route with orange slices and signs that say “You got this!”
There’s a deep emotional undercurrent, too.
Especially after the 2013 tragedy, running in Boston has become a symbol of resilience. The moment you turn right on Hereford and left on Boylston and see the finish line, it’s spine-tingling.
7. The Great Wall Marathon – China (You Can’t Miss This One!)
Where? Tianjin, China
When? Thursday, May 1, 2025
Okay, let me tell you, I’ve seen this one in action, and no matter how mentally prepared you think you are… nothing compares.
This isn’t your regular city road race. The Great Wall Marathon is an experience. It’s tough, raw, unforgettable, and honestly, it gives you goosebumps.
You’re not just running 26 miles here. You’re climbing more than 5,000 actual stone steps. YES- steep, ancient, uneven steps, that make your legs scream and your heart pound.
The race starts and ends in Yin and Yang Square, right near the Huangyaguan Fortress, and the first big test? A 2.5-mile climb straight to the Wall. From there, it’s full-on warrior mode.
And the views? Oh, the views. Sunrise spilling over the ancient stones, mountain air hitting your face, and the sheer realization that you’re running on one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
At some points, the path turns into crumbling rubble, loose gravel, or steps that seem to go on forever, it literally feels like the Wall is testing you and your shoes. This is where I recall this advice from Adam Martin of MDS- “every milligram you add to or take away from your shoes will make your run better or worse.” In one of his blogs on Cross Country Running, he talked in detail about how a 113 grams of weight difference in shoes can make you lift an additional 1,017 kilograms over a six mile run.
8. Walt Disney World Marathon – Florida
Where? Orlando, Florida
When? 12 January 2025
If you grew up loving Disney (let’s be honest, who didn’t?), this one’s a total dream come true. The Walt Disney World Marathon is not just a race, it’s a magical ride through your childhood.
You get to run a full 26.2 miles through all four Disney Parks, from Magic Kingdom to Epcot, Animal Kingdom to Hollywood Studios. The course is flat, fun, and filled with surprises at every corner. Expect Mickey, Goofy, and maybe even a princess or two cheering you on as you zoom past the iconic Cinderella Castle.
The vibe? Absolutely electric. There’s music, dancing, costumes (yes, people dress up!), and so many photo ops that you might forget you’re running a marathon. It’s perfect whether you’re racing for a personal best or just soaking up the pixie dust.
There’s something magical about feeling like a kid again while doing something as powerful as running a marathon. It’s fun, supportive, and downright heartwarming. Your legs will ache, sure, but your heart? Full.
And if 2025 doesn’t work for you, don’t worry.
The next magical weekend is already set: 7–11 January 2026. Plenty of time to plan that dream race-cation!
9. The Big Five Marathon – South Africa
Where? Lakeside Lodge, Polokwane, Limpopo, South Africa
When? Saturday, June 14, 2025
If you’re bored with city streets and want something that screams adventure, this is it.
The Big Five Marathon runs right through a South African game reserve, where you might spot elephants, lions, rhinos, and more while clocking your miles.
No fences. No barriers. Just you, the wild, and one epic route.
It starts and ends at Lakeside Lodge and takes you past stunning landmarks like the Entabeni Monolith, Hanglip View Point, and Yellow Wood Valley. The terrain is rugged, the downhills burn, and the uphills demand everything you’ve got, but the views and the experience? Unmatched.
This isn’t just a race, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime story. And trust me, you’ll never forget it.
10. Rio de Janeiro Marathon
Where? Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
When? Saturday, June, 21, 2025
If there’s one race that feels like a holiday and a workout rolled into one, it’s this. The Rio Marathon kicks off with 10,000 runners on Flamengo and cruises along the coastline, passing Ipanema, Leblon, Botafogo, and the famous Copacabana beach.
The route is scenic, tropical, and full of energy.
And as you near the finish line, you’ll spot Christ the Redeemer watching over you from Corcovado, talk about a spiritual boost!
The weather is warm and humid (around 78°F), so wear your lightest gear and get ready to sweat it out in style.
Ready to Lace Up and Chase a Dream?
So, what do you think, feeling that itch in your feet yet?
Whether you’re a medal-collector with stories etched in sweat and race bibs, or someone who still gets butterflies thinking about a 10K, one thing’s for sure: marathons are more than just long-distance runs.
They’re emotions. Adventures. Memories waiting to be made.
Every race on this list is more than a location and a date, it’s a story waiting for you to write the next chapter.
You might run past a roaring lion in South Africa. Or wave at Mickey Mouse mid-stride. Or find yourself tearing up as you cross the finish line under Rio’s golden sky.
And hey, maybe the Great Wall will humble you a little (okay, a lot). But isn’t that the whole point?
Running connects us to our bodies, to the world, and to people we’ve never met but instantly understand.
So bookmark this. Revisit it. Dream a little. Plan a lot.
Because one day, you’ll look back and say:
“I didn’t just run marathons. I ran the world.”
See you at the start line.