The World's Most Scenic Marathons Worth Travelling for in 2025
From the rugged trails of the Himalayas to the winding coastal roads of California, these marathons promise runners some of the most varied and dramatic landscapes on Earth. Every marathon has its uniqueness, shaped by location, terrain, and atmosphere, making each event a unique experience despite the universal 42.2km distance.
For those looking to combine endurance with exploration, the setting often plays a pivotal role in choosing a race. Factors like climate and scenery can transform a marathon into a memorable journey. This guide to the most scenic marathons worth travelling for in 2025 features routes that showcase beautiful destinations and challenge runners of all levels.
Kilimanjaro International Marathon – February 23
Image Credit: Instagram @kilimanjaromarathon
Set against the backdrop of Africa’s highest peak, the Kilimanjaro International Marathon offers a unique and exhilarating running experience. The full marathon (42.2km) begins and ends at MoCU Stadium Grounds in Moshi, while the half marathon (21.1km) starts on Sokoine Road and finishes at the same stadium. A 5km fun run is also available, supporting the Tumaini la Maisha charity. Runners are immersed in the beauty of Tanzania’s natural landscape, making this one of the most scenic marathons in the world.
For more information, visit the official website here.
Tokyo Marathon – March 2
Image Credit: Tokyo Marathon Foundation
As one of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, the Tokyo Marathon is a highlight of the global marathon calendar. The race features a 42.2km marathon and a 10.7km event, accommodating runners of all abilities, including wheelchair participants and athletes with disabilities. The marathon starts at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and winds through landmarks such as Nihombashi, Asakusa Kaminarimon Gate, and Ginza. It finishes near Tokyo Station.
For more information, visit the official website here.
Run Rome The Marathon – March 16
Image Credit: Run Rome The Marathon
Experience the Eternal City like never before at Run Rome The Marathon. The 42.2km route takes you past Rome‘s landmarks, including the Colosseum, the Arch of Constantine, Piazza Navona, and the Spanish Steps, ending at the Imperial Forums. Fitwalkers are also welcome to participate, enjoying the sights at a relaxed pace. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a beginner, this famous marathon offers a cultural journey through history.
For more information, visit the official website here.
The Boston Marathon – April 21
Image Credit: Marathon Tours & Travel
The Boston Marathon is one of the most famous marathons in the world and a key part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors. The point-to-point course starts in Hopkinton and goes through rural Massachusetts before ending in downtown Boston. Renowned for its competitive entry standards, the Boston Marathon is a prestigious event that attracts top runners and enthusiasts from around the globe.
For more information, visit the official website here.
Big Sur International Marathon – April 27
Image Credit: Facebook @Big Sur International Marathon
Widely regarded as one of the most scenic marathons in the US, the Big Sur International Marathon is a point-to-point course along California’s Highway 1. The route showcases towering redwoods, dramatic ocean views, and the Bixby Bridge, where runners are serenaded by a grand piano performance. Participants supporting RUN FOR AUTISM contribute to vital research and resources, making this a meaningful and beautiful race.
For more information, visit the official website here.
The Great Ocean Road Marathon – May 17 / 18
Image Credit: Great Ocean Road Runfest
Taking place along Australia’s well known Great Ocean Road, this event offers distances for all abilities. Including a 23km half marathon and a scenic 12km trail run. Though the 44km and 60km marathons are currently sold out, participants can join the waitlist or explore shorter routes. The festival also features a 5km/10km walk for those looking to embrace the coastal beauty at a relaxed pace.
For more information, visit the official website here.
The Great Wall Marathon – May 17
Image Credit: Facebook The Great Wall Marathon
Dubbed one of the toughest marathons in the world, The Great Wall Marathon in Huangyaguan, China, combines history with an intense challenge. Participants conquer 5,164 steps along the Great Wall, traverse local villages, and tackle hilly terrain. With options ranging from a full marathon to an 8.5km fun run, this famous marathon offers a truly unique running experience.
For more information, visit the official website here.
Everest Marathon – May 29
Image Credit: Everest Mountain
Celebrate the historic Everest ascent by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay with the Everest Marathon. Starting from Everest Base Camp, participants tackle rugged trekking trails across breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. Distances include a full marathon, a half marathon, and a 70km ultra-marathon for those seeking an extra challenge. All routes end at Namche Bazaar with stunning mountain views throughout.
For more information, visit the official website here.
The Big Five Marathon – June 14
Running through South Africa’s Entabeni Game Reserve, The Big Five Marathon brings you up close to wildlife, including lions, elephants, and rhinos, with no fences or barriers in sight. This marathon and half-marathon blends adventure with the beauty of the African savannah, making it a bucket-list event for runners seeking something truly extraordinary.
For more information, visit the official website here.
Midnight Sun Marathon – June 21
Image Credit: Instagram @midnight_sun_marathon
Held in Tromsø, Norway, the Midnight Sun Marathon is a bucket-list event that offers runners an incredible experience. Taking place under the midnight sky, the 42.2km course starts in Tromsø’s city centre and crosses the Tromsø bridge, providing views of the Tromsdalstinden and the Arctic Cathedral. The route continues through Tromsdalen, passing breathtaking landscapes, and snow-capped mountains, before looping back to the city centre. With favourable weather, participants may run beneath the midnight sun, adding to the race’s charm.
For more information, visit the official website here.
Angkor Empire Marathon – August 3
Image Credit: World’s Marathons
Held in the Angkor Wat temple complex in Siem Reap, Cambodia, this marathon lets runners explore one of the world’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Distances include 3km, 10.5km, a half marathon, and a full marathon, with routes passing by ancient ruins and historical monuments.
For more information, visit the official website here.
Patagonian International Marathon – September 6
Image Credit: Instagram @patagonianmarathon
Held in Torres del Paine National Park in Chile, the Patagonian International Marathon is an adventure through one of the most remote and beautiful regions on Earth. With 42km, 21km, and 10km distances, runners are treated to views of jagged peaks, glaciers, and turquoise lakes, making this one of the most scenic marathons for nature enthusiasts and beginners alike.
For more information, visit the official website here.
Jungfrau Marathon – September 5 / 6
Image Credit: Instagram @jungfraumarathon
Set in Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland the Jungfrau Marathon is a challenging uphill race that ascends nearly 2,000 meters. Starting in Interlaken and finishing at 2,320 meters near the Jungfrau ski resort, the course offers incredible views of the Alps, including the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.
For more information, visit the official website here.
Ladakh Marathon – September 14
Image Credit: Facebook @Ladakh Marathon
The Ladakh Marathon, set in the high-altitude landscapes of northern India offers a once-in-a-lifetime challenge for experienced runners. The 42km route takes participants through the stunning terrain of the Himalayas, passing monasteries, rivers, and landmarks like Stakna Monastery.
For more information, visit the official website here.
Athens Marathon: The Authentic – November
Image Credit: Facebook @Athens Marathon. The Authentic
Celebrate the origins of the modern marathon with Athens Marathon: The Authentic. Following the historic route from Marathon to Athens, this race embodies the spirit of ancient Greece. Key landmarks include the Marathon Tomb, Nea Makri, and the finish line at the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first modern Olympics were held.
For more information, visit the official website here.
The New York City Marathon – November 2
Image Credit: Instagram @nycmarathon
Spanning all five boroughs, the TCS New York City Marathon is the world’s largest marathon and a highlight of the Abbott World Marathon Majors. With over 55,000 finishers in recent years, it’s a celebration of endurance, community, and the dynamic energy of New York City. The course begins on Staten Island, crosses the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, and passes through Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, and the Bronx before finishing in Central Park. Entry can be secured through a lottery, the “9+1” program, or charity fundraising, making it accessible to runners from all over the world.
For more information, visit the official website here.
Queenstown Marathon – November 2025
Image Credit: Instagram @queenstownmarathon
Taking place in New Zealand’s Queenstown Lakes region, the Queenstown Marathon offers multiple distances to suit all abilities: the full marathon, the half marathon, 10km, and a 3km kids’ run. The course highlights the area’s natural beauty, passing through Millbrook Resort, Arrowtown, Lake Hayes, the Shotover River, and Lake Wakatipu before finishing in the heart of Queenstown. With 70% of the route on smooth, hard-packed trails and 30% on roads, the course is primarily flat.
For more information, visit the official website here.
Antarctic Ice Marathon – December 13
For those seeking the ultimate challenge, the Antarctic Ice Marathon is an extraordinary event. Set on the Union Glacier in Antarctica, this race spans 42.2km, with participants braving extreme conditions, including icy terrain, sub-zero temperatures, and strong winds. A half marathon option is also available. The registration includes private jet transport, accommodations, and a chance to run in one of the world’s most remote and scenic locations.
For more information, visit the official website here.
Mt.Fuji International Marathon – December 14
Image Credit: Mt.Fuji International Marathon
This marathon circles Japan’s Mount Fuji, with the full marathon covering 42.2km and a charity fun run option of 10.5km. Offering breathtaking views of Kawaguchiko, and the surround landscapes, the Mt. Fuji International Marathon provides riders with an unforgettable experience at the foot of Japan’s most famous peak.
For more information, visit the official website here.
[Hero and Featured Image Credit: Facebook – The Great Wall Marathon]
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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