40 European Marathons in Capital Cities

Looking for your next marathon in Europe? Planning to run one marathon in each of the European capitals? This could be an interesting challenge for more than a year and a bucket-list idea!

Running a marathon in Europe is a great opportunity to discover a new destination.

Our brief guide to capital marathons in all European countries will help you get a general idea of the races so you can plan your own running journey.

1. Lisbon Marathon

Place: Lisbon, Portugal
Date: October
Number of Participants: 24 500
Distance: 42K, 21K, 8,5K
Entry Fee: € 30-75
Registration

The route of the Lisbon Marathon is recognized as one of the most beautiful in the world. From 2013 to 2017 the marathon was part of the Rock’n’Roll series.

The start is located in the ancient town of Cascais, runners can get there by train or bus for free. The course runs along the Atlantic Ocean and finishes at Praça do Comércio in the center of Lisbon.

Although Lisbon is hilly, the course is mostly flat and fast, but note that it may still be quite hot in October.

The half marathon and mini-marathon courses are different: the races start in the middle of Vasco da Gama Bridge.

After the race, visit the castles of Sintra, check out Cabo de Roca, try some seafood in numerous restaurants in Lisbon, or spend a day or two in Porto exploring old wine cellars.

2. Madrid Marathon

Place: Madrid, Spain
Date: April
Number of Participants: 27 500
Distance: 42K, 21K, 10K
Entry Fee: € 18-80
Registration: rocknrollmadridrun.com

The Madrid Marathon is included in the Rock’n’Roll series, which guarantees fun and loud music while running.

Its touristic course is slightly hilly and winds through the heart of Madrid, through residential areas, and the city’s famous landmarks.

The main place of attraction in Madrid is the Prado Museum. The city is also known for a dozen of markets, surrounded by numerous cafes and restaurants, where you should try Spanish tapas.

But remember about the siesta: restaurants are usually closed between lunch and dinner. The terrace of El Corte Ingles department store offers excellent views of the city.

The marathon was awarded IAAF Road Race Gold Label.

3. Travessa d’Encamp

Place: Encamp, Andorra
Date: June
Number of Participants: 1000
Distance: 126K, 84K, 42K, 21K, 12K, 7K
Entry Fee: € 25-80
Registration: otsosport.com

Andorra is located in the Pyrenees between France and Spain. Probably, for this reason, the country does not host a classic road marathon.

For those who set out to run a race in Andorra, it will not be easy, because the oldest running event in the country is a mountain ultra trail the Travessa d’Encamp held since 1983.

Ultra distances aside, runners can opt for short races. For those who have got experience in mountain races — 42 km and a total elevation gain of 3039 meters (9970 ft). This is already quite a serious challenge, which takes up to 9 hours to finish.

Andorra is famous mainly for winter skiing, but the Pyrenees are no less beautiful in summer: you can also try rock climbing or cycling.

Another attraction of Andorra is shopping. Due to low taxes, prices here are more attractive than in the rest of Europe, and the concentration of stores in one place will save you a lot of time.

4. Paris Marathon

Place: Paris, France
Date: April
Number of Participants: 55 000
Distance: 42K
Entry Fee: € 89-119
Registration: schneiderelectricparismarathon.com

The Paris Marathon is undoubtedly one of the most popular and fascinating marathons in the world, and Paris itself needs no advertising at all. The marathon has a rich history dating back to 1986.

The modern edition starts right on the Champs-Élysées and finishes just after the Bois de Boulogne.

The marathoners run through the Place de la Concorde, down the Rue de Rivoli to the Louvre, Place de la Bastille, Notre Dame de Paris, along the river Seine, passing the Trocadero and, of course, the Eiffel Tower.

While the course covers many landmarks, almost a third of it goes through a park area.

Early bird entries sell out very quickly. On Saturday before the main race, there is a 5K Breakfast Run with croissants after the finish line.

Paris is truly huge and has an enormous amount of sights. Although the Montmartre area and the Basilica of the Sacré-Coeur will not leave anyone indifferent, do not limit yourself to the popular places.

Visit some off-the-beaten-path corners of the city to find real hidden gems and fall in love with it even more.

Note: running a race in France requires a medical certificate, check the requirements beforehand.

The marathon was awarded IAAF Road Race Gold Label.

5. Brussels Marathon

Place: Brussels, Belgium
Date: October
Number of Participants: 10 000
Distance: 42K, 21K, 5K
Entry Fee: € 18-90
Registration: brusselsairportmarathon.be

The course of the Brussels Marathon and Half Marathon will be appreciated by those who love uphills.

The start and finish area is located in the city center, a part of the marathon distance runs through the east of Brussels and the suburb of Tervuren.

The European Union capital is full of landmarks: you can admire its beautiful fall parks, visit the Atomium, the Mini-Europe Park and of course find all the famous statues: peeing boy, peeing girl, and peeing dog.

Belgium is a relatively small country, so after a walk around Brussels, explore some of the most beautiful and cozy towns, such as Antwerp, Ghent and Bruges, or go to Ostend to stroll by the sea.

Don’t forget to taste mussels, famous Belgian beer and chocolate.

The Brussels Marathon is AIMS Certified.

6. Night Marathon Luxembourg

Place: Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
Date: May
Number of Participants: 15 000
Distance: 42K, 21K
Entry Fee: € 33-72
Registration: ing-night-marathon.lu

For those who enjoy running at night, the Luxembourg Marathon will be a real find. Marathoners and half marathoners start at 7 pm and finish already in the dark.

Due to the specific landscape of the city, the course is rather hilly, especially the last kilometers, and winding, as it passes through numerous small narrow streets of the old town.

During the marathon, the classic representative of «Old Europe» Luxembourg comes to life. At the same time, there is also a samba festival.

In addition to the unusual race, you can get a unique experience by visiting the Casemates Petrus and Bok —many kilometers of dungeons in the rock with a rich history.

7. Amsterdam Marathon

Place: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Date: October
Number of Participants: 42 000
Distance: 42K, 21K, 8K
Entry Fee: € 16-75
Registration: tcsamsterdammarathon.nl

One of the oldest marathons in Europe has been held since 1975. The fast and scenic course begins and ends at the newly refurbished Olympic Stadium.

The marathoners run through the arch of the Rijksmuseum, which houses works of art by Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Vermeer, cross Amsterdam’s largest park Vondelpark twice and follow the Amstel River passing traditional Dutch mills as well as the modern Zuidas district.

The marathon organizers have left the heart of the city for tourists: the area from the main station to Rembrandt Square can be explored endlessly.

Take the narrow streets and walk along the canals, visit a cheese shop, find a kiosk with herring — the one next to the Flower Market is open until late, and buy delicious souvenirs, such as Dutch sweet waffles.

The Amsterdam Marathon is a World Athletics Platinum Label Road Race.

8. London Marathon

Place: London, UK
Date: April
Number of Participants: 40 000
Distance: 42K
Entry Fee: £ 80
Registration: tcslondonmarathon.com

The London Marathon is part of the World Marathon Majors, along with Boston, Berlin, New York, Chicago, and Tokyo. I

t is quite difficult to get into: you can enter a public ballot, though the number of places is limited, or a charity program, or join a tour of one of the approved tour operators.

Running across London on the legendary course is probably every runner’s dream.

Lucky runners start in Greenwich, run the docks and the famous Cutty Sark, along the south bank of the Thames, passing the iconic Tower Bridge, the Canary Wharf and City, the Victoria Embankment, historic Westminster, and finishing at St James’s Park.

These are the main, but by no means all, attractions in London.

Everyone can find their favorite neighborhood or museum, cozy cafe or elegant restaurant, quiet park or trendy club. You will definitely want to come back to London, and taking part in the London Marathon can be one of the highlights of your trip.

The London Marathon was awarded the IAAF Road Race Gold Label.

9. Dublin Marathon

Place: Dublin, Ireland
Date: October
Number of Participants: 19 500
Distance: 42K
Entry Fee: € 70-90
Registration: irishlifedublinmarathon.ie

The largest marathon in Europe, after London, Berlin, and Paris, is very popular — don’t wait too long to enter or it might run out of places.

Its interesting course goes through all the major attractions and parks, including the huge Phoenix Park, while the start and finish area is conveniently located in the center.

After the race, Dublin Castle, Trinity College Library, and the Guinness Beer Museum are worth visiting. You can learn all about leprechauns in the National Leprechaun Museum of Ireland and have fun in the numerous bars and restaurants of the Temple Bar neighborhood.

The marathon is the culmination of the series that includes July’s South Dublin 10K, the Frank Duffy 10 Miles, and SSE Airtricity Dublin Half Marathon.

The Dublin Marathon is AIMS certified.

10. Helsinki City Marathon

Place: Helsinki, Finland
Date: May
Number of Participants: 14 000
Distance: 42K, 21K, 5K
Entry Fee: € 32-96
Registration: helsinkicityrunningday.fi

The course of the Helsinki City Marathon, held since 1981, has two almost identical laps. It rarely gets hot in May, so the chance to run in comfortable weather conditions is great.

The marathon finishes at the iconic Olympic Stadium.

After the race, it’s worth stopping by Market Square for an inexpensive local snack (try local fish soup), souvenir shopping, and a boat trip to islands like Suomenlinna.

The Helsinki City Marathon is AIMS certified.

11. Stockholm Marathon

Place: Stockholm, Sweden
Date: June
Number of Participants: 20 000
Distance: 42K, 5K
Entry Fee: € 99-117
Registration: stockholmmarathon.se

Another scenic marathon for those who dream to finish in a real Olympic stadium. The updated course now runs in a single lap through the main districts of Stockholm past City Hall, the Royal Palace, city parks, across the Vasa Bridge, and other ancient and modern parts of the city.

A flat, fast, cool marathon with good spectator support will remain in your memory for a long time.

Stockholm has many interesting museums to choose from. Among them are the Vasa Ship Museum, the Nobel Museum, the ABBA Group Museum, the Viking Museum, and many others.

The city itself is situated on 14 islands: you can just walk across endless bridges and explore old city alleys.

If you’re interested in contemporary art, head out to the galleries of the world capital of design. Grab a bite to eat at one of the many food trucks found on every street: traditional Swedish meatballs are a must-try dish.

The Stockholm Marathon is AIMS certified.

12. Oslo Marathon

Place: Oslo, Norway
Date: September
Number of Participants: 25 000
Distance: 42K, 21K, 10K
Entry Fee: 430-885 Norwegian kroner
Registration: oslomaraton.no

The first thing Norway is associated with is its amazing fjords. The Norwegian capital is located on the banks of the Oslo Fjord, and a significant part of the Oslo Marathon course runs along it.

The course has two laps running through parks, quiet residential areas, and the city center with the main attractions like the Opera House, the Royal Palace, the Vigeland Sculpture Park, the Town Hall, and Akershus Fortress.

Oslo is a big, but cozy and relaxed city, here you can just walk along the streets and parks. Undoubtedly the main treasure of the country is its nature.

The north of the country is best visited in summer, while the southern part can be explored in September.

The Oslo Marathon is AIMS certified.

13. Copenhagen Marathon

Place: Copenhagen, Denmark
Date: May
Number of Participants: 9 100
Distance: 42K
Entry Fee: € 104-111
Registration: copenhagenmarathon.dk

The Copenhagen Marathon is a perfect choice for those who want to run a flat fast marathon in Europe in spring.

The course covers the very center and the main residential areas of Copenhagen and introduces runners to both classic and modern Scandinavian architecture.

Copenhagen is considered one of the most expensive cities in the world. Despite this, the city has a whole list of free attractions. For English-speaking tourists, there are free daily walking tours, as well as some museums and parks.

In search of a memorable experience, head to the Free City of Christiania, a neighborhood in the center of Copenhagen with its own customs and laws.

The Copenhagen Marathon is AIMS certified.

14. Reykjavik Marathon

Place: Reykjavik, Iceland
Date: August
Number of Participants: 10 000
Distance: 42K, 21K, 10K
Entry Fee: 5200-13600 Icelandic kroner
Registration: rmi.is

The Reykjavik marathon course is unique and extremely beautiful. It runs through the city center, along the ocean coast overlooking waterfalls, mountains, and glaciers, through a valley with salmon rivers and forest trails.

Locals come out of their homes to support the runners, and the whole atmosphere is very friendly and peaceful. On top of that, the weather in August is perfect for running with a light breeze from the ocean.

Few runners fly to Iceland just to run a marathon. Linger for the Reykjavik Culture Night (Menningarnótt) and have fun all night long, then travel around Iceland and enjoy the unique beauties of this magical faraway land.

The Reykjavik Marathon is AIMS certified.

15. Berlin Marathon

Place: Berlin, Germany
Date: September
Number of Participants: 40 000
Distance: 42K
Entry Fee: € 108
Registration: bmw-berlin-marathon.com

The Berlin Marathon is part of the World Marathon Majors, and it is the race every runner should join at least once in a lifetime.

It is not easy to get in: like in London, you can enter a public ballot, a charity program, join a tour or qualify based on the results of your previous marathons (check the requirements on the race website).

Registration for next year’s event opens shortly after the end of the marathon, so stay tuned and don’t miss the entry period.

The marathon expo is held in the hangars and runway of the old Templehof Airport. On Saturday together with 11,000 runners join the Breakfast Run 6K — for free.

In Berlin, you will find an absolutely flat and fast course, wide streets, continuous line of loud spectators from the very first to the very last kilometer.

The finish line deserves special attention — the runners pass right through the legendary Brandenburg Gate into Tiergarten Park. This is a race to remember.

Berlin is a city of contrasts with unique neighborhoods and a cool atmosphere.

The Berlin Marathon was awarded IAAF Road Race Gold Label.

16. Prague Marathon

Place: Prague, Czech Republic
Date: May
Number of Participants: 10 600
Distance: 42K
Entry Fee: € 60-175
Registration: runczech.com

The organizers of the RunCzech Running League, which includes the Prague Marathon and several other races, have done a lot in recent years to make the race popular in the global running community.

The entries are sold out very quickly, so do not hesitate to register.

In addition to the classic marathon distance, you can run the race in a team with a partner, splitting the distance in half.

The marathon course goes through the old town across the tourist-free Charles Bridge overviewing the most beautiful landmarks along the Vltava River.

The start and finish area is right on Old Town Square, where the famous postcard astronomical clock is located.

Blooming Prague in spring is truly magical. Climb Petřín Hill to see the observation tower before the race. After the marathon, try delicious local meals and world-famous Czech beer.

The Prague Marathon was awarded IAAF Road Race Gold Label.

17. Vienna City Marathon

Place: Vienna, Austria
Date: April
Number of Participants: 41 000
Distance: 42K, 21K, 10K
Entry Fee: € 34-105
Registration: vienna-marathon.com

After the end of the ball season, beautiful Vienna welcomes runners to the Vienna City Marathon and a unique pasta party on Saturday before the race at the City Hall (tickets must be purchased separately).

The marathon starts from the UN headquarters on the left bank of the Danube, then the course crosses the 864-meter Reichsbrücke Bridge, and the runners get to the right bank of the Danube to the sound of Strauss waltz, running through Prater Park past the old Ferris wheel, then along the Vienna Opera House to Schoenbrunn Palace, and back past the Town Hall and Vienna University, before finishing opposite the Burgertheater.

Museum lovers can head to the museum quarter. Those who have already seen the Hundertwasser House can walk to the Spittelau incinerator.

Hungry runners will definitely enjoy Viennese sausages as a snack, Viennese schnitzel for lunch, and a Sacher cake with Viennese coffee for dessert.

The Vienna City Marathon was awarded IAAF Road Race Gold Label.

18. Zurich Marathon

Place: Zurich, Switzerland
Date: April
Number of Participants: 11 000
Distance: 42K, 10K
Entry Fee: 49-169 Swiss frank
Registration: zuerichmarathon.ch

The capital of Switzerland is Bern, but the biggest city marathons are held in Lausanne, Lucerne, and Zurich. Zurich would be an excellent choice for personal records — the course, unlike Lausanne, is very flat and runs most of the time along Lake Zurich with a U-turn at 25 km.

Everything in Zurich is ancient — visit the monasteries of Fraumuenster and Grossmünster, walk to St. Peter’s Church, and take the funicular up to the observation deck. You can also drive to neighboring Lucerne or head to the beautiful Alps.

The Zurich Marathon is AIMS certified.

19. Rome Marathon

Place: Rome, Italy
Date: April
Number of Participants: 16 000
Distance: 42 км
Entry Fee: € 55-110
Registration: runromethemarathon.com

For those who love Italy, running a marathon in the “eternal city” is a must. And whoever doesn’t love it yet will definitely fall in love after the race.

Just imagine: you will see the Colosseum and all the iconic places in Rome on the run. Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, St. Peter’s Basilica — these names are familiar even to those who have never been to Rome.

Despite the fact that Rome stands on seven hills, the course is mostly flat, but some fairly narrow streets, as well as cobblestones, may affect your speed.

There are so many places of interest in Rome that there will always be something to do before and after the race.

Plan your walking tour in advance or just go anywhere and get lost — in cities like Rome, you will most probably end up in unexpected, but very interesting places.

Please read the entry conditions for foreign runners carefully — an additional Runcard fee will be required for those who are not members of an IAAF-recognized running club, as well as a special medical certificate.

The Rome Marathon was awarded IAAF Road Race Silver Label.

20. Malta Marathon

Place: Mdina to Sliema, Malta
Date: February
Number of Participants: 5000
Distance: 42K, 21K
Entry Fee: € 35-55
Registration: maltamarathon.com

There is a series of running races in Malta, and the most important one is the marathon in February. The course may vary slightly, but the start and finish places remain Mdina and Sliema. Make sure to book the bus to the start in Mdina in advance.

Mdina is the former ancient capital of Malta, situated on a hilltop. The marathon starts from the bastions of Mdina and heads towards the modern capital Valletta, and more specifically to the fashionable Maltese resort of Sliema nearby.

A distinctive feature of the Malta Marathon is that the course goes downhill all the time — it’s a great opportunity to break your personal record.

You can take a ferry from Sliema to Valletta and back.

21. Monaco Run

Place: Monaco, Monaco
Date: February
Number of Participants: 1000
Distance: 10K, 5K
Entry Fee: from € 10
Registration: monacorun.com

The Monaco Marathon was rebranded the Monaco Run in 2011, nowadays it is a 10K race held entirely inside Monaco. The course is very fast and consists of two laps between Port Hercules and Monte Carlo Bay.

If you look up marathoning on the Côte d’Azur check out the popular and incredibly beautiful marathon Nice-Cannes held in late November.

Note: running a race in Monaco and France requires a medical certificate.

22. Alpin Marathon

Place: Bendern, Liechtenstein
Date: June
Number of Participants: 1200
Distance: 42K, 25K
Entry Fee: 90-120 Swiss frank
Registration: lgt-alpin-marathon.li

Liechtenstein’s only marathon is unique because the course runs through almost the entire state. The first 10 kilometers from the start in the village of Bendern to the capital Vaduz are quite flat, and then the course goes into the Alps past Vaduz Castle.

The total elevation gain is 1870 meters, which is very challenging, and the highest point of the course is 1780 meters. The finish is located in the mountains at the ski resort of Malbun.

Perhaps the best thing to do in Liechtenstein is to walk, relax, enjoy the beauties of nature, and taste local wine.

23. Budapest Marathon

Place: Budapest, Hungary
Date: October
Number of Participants: 27 000
Distance: 42K, 30K, 10K, 5K
Entry Fee: € 8-100
Registration: marathon.runinbudapest.com

The Budapest Marathon is a big running event with a variety of races for everyone. The marathon course changes every year, but always covers the most famous landmarks of the Hungarian capital.

The race is recognized as one of the most picturesque in the world. Runners will cross the Danube several times and run along both Buda and Pest sides.

Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, the biggest and most popular are Széchenyi and Gellert. Spending a couple of hours in these beautiful old baths is a perfect way to recover after the race.

After that take a boat tour on the Danube and eat out in one of the numerous restaurants around the city — local cuisine is substantial, tasty, and inexpensive. Hungarian goulash and Tokay wines are a must-try.

The Budapest Marathon is AIMS certified.

24. Bratislava Marathon

Place: Bratislava, Slovakia
Date: April
Number of Participants: 12 000
Distance: 42K, 21K, 10K
Entry Fee: € 12-42
Registration: bratislavamarathon.com

The Bratislava Marathon course runs in two identical circles around the historical center, Ružinovska Avenue, residential areas, and across the bridge over the Danube.

The weather at this time of the year is usually comfortable, and the course is flat, but be ready for cobblestones under your feet.

However, this marathon may not be suitable for beginners due to the 5-hour limit and intermediate limits that slow runners may not meet.

After the race, hike up the mountain to Bratislava Castle and then wander around the Old Town.

Slovak cuisine combines Czech, German, and Austrian — try garlic soup, fried fish, and famous trdelník with various toppings for dessert.

The Bratislava Marathon is AIMS certified.

25. Bucharest Marathon

Place: Bucharest, Romania
Date: October
Number of Participants: 15 000
Distance: 42K, 21K, 10K
Entry Fee: € 20-60
Registration: bucharest-marathon.com

The course of the Bucharest Marathon takes runners in the direction of the most beautiful neighborhood of the city. Calea Victoriei is the embassy quarter with expensive restaurants and stores, everything here reminds of Paris.

Then the course returns to the city center and passes along the river Dambovita, the finish line is located right in front of the Palace of Parliament, which is the second largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon.

Stroll through the old town and autumn parks. Check out Xenophon Street which is basically a colorful staircase.

A traditional Romanian snack is a kebab or a pastry. For lunch try mamaliga or sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls). If you have time, go to Transylvania and visit the Peles Castle and the city of Brasov.

The Bucharest Marathon was awarded IAAF Road Race Bronze Label.

26. Warsaw Marathon

Place: Warsaw, Poland
Date: September
Number of Participants: 6000
Distance: 42K
Entry Fee: € 50-95
Registration: maratonwarszawski.com

Poland’s oldest marathon, first held in 1979. The course passes through the Royal Lazienki Park in the center of Warsaw which is incredibly beautiful in September.

After the race, spend some time at the Copernicus Science Center. We recommend buying tickets online in advance to avoid queues, especially on weekends.

Take a walk in the previously notorious, but now gaining popularity neighborhood of Prague (do not confuse it with Czech Prague!).

The best time to visit Prague is before dark. Have a bite to eat in one of the local cafes, and then return to the Old Town crossing the Holy Cross Bridge — it’s one of the best spots to take pictures of the city. Another neighborhood with good restaurants and cafes is South Srodmiescie.

The Warsaw Marathon was awarded IAAF Road Race Bronze Label.

27. Vilnius Marathon

Place: Vilnius, Lithuania
Date: September
Number of Participants: 15 000
Distance: 42K, 21K, 10K
Entry Fee: € 29-54
Registration: vilniausmaratonas.lt

The Vilnius Marathon is one of the fastest growing marathons in Europe. The course cannot be called flat, and some cobblestone streets in the downtown are quite narrow.

Start and finish are located on the Cathedral Square, the course passes through the central part of the city, the bohemian district of Užupis, the Vingis City Park in the west and the Bernardine Garden in the east, just behind the Cathedral Square.

Visit the old town of Vilnius and then drive to nearby pretty Kaunas or further to Palanga by the sea.

The Vilnius Marathon is AIMS certified.

28. Tallinn Marathon

Place: Tallinn, Estonia
Date: September
Number of Participants: 21 000
Distance: 42K, 21K, 10K
Entry Fee: € 15-70
Registration: jooks.ee

The Tallinn Marathon in the old and cozy capital of Estonia is a real city tour. The course is rich in landmarks introducing the whole city, and not just the tourist center.

Runners will see the Rotermann quarter, where old factories were transformed into trendy cafes, restaurants, and stores, the Great Sea Gate and the Fat Margaret Tower, the Tallinn City Hall.

The course runs along the Rocca al Mare promenade along the Baltic Sea, passes colorful wooden houses of the Kalamaja neighborhood, the former sea fortress, and Patarei prison, and returns to the historic center and Viru Gate.

Try Estonian cuisine in one of the restaurants in the Old Town, and after a hearty lunch or dinner, go for a walk along the ancient streets. The best view of the city opens from the Tallinn TV tower.

The Tallinn Marathon is AIMS certified.

29. Riga Marathon

Place: Riga, Latvia
Date: May
Number of Participants: 33 000
Distance: 42K, 21K, 10K, 6K
Entry Fee: € 9-59
Registration: rimirigamarathon.com

The Riga Marathon gathers a huge number of participants every year. The marathon course consists of two laps mostly along the banks of the Daugava River.

The terrain is flat, except for a climb to the Vansu Bridge over the Daugava, which offers wonderful views of the Latvian capital. Runners will see the Old Town and some fine examples of Art Nouveau architecture. The start and finish are right next to Riga Castle.

For a hearty and affordable post-race lunch, head to the famous Lido Café or choose one of the fish restaurants serving fresh seafood from the Baltic Sea and local lakes.

The Riga Marathon was awarded IAAF Road Race Gold Label.

30. Ljubljana Marathon

Place: Ljubljana, Slovenia
Date: October
Number of Participants: 24 000
Distance: 42K, 21K, 10K
Entry Fee: € 35-40
Registration: vw-ljubljanskimaraton.si

The Ljubljana Marathon is definitely worth visiting if you are an experienced runner. This race may not be suitable for slow runners as the time limit is 5 hours, and there is also an intermediate limit of 2 hours 15 minutes at the half marathon cutoff.

But in general, the course is flat and fast, running through the central part of the Slovenian capital and residential areas.

It is a very cozy, homely marathon, like the city itself.

Walk around the city center, find dragons on one of the bridges across the Ljubljana River, take the cable car up to the Ljubljana Castle. Local cuisine combines Austrian, Italian and Balkan — try a bit of everything.

If you have time, do not limit yourself to Ljubljana and go to Lake Bled or the coastal town of Piran.

The Ljubljana Marathon was awarded IAAF Road Race Silver Label.

31. Zagreb Marathon

Place: Zagreb, Croatia
Date: October
Number of Participants: 3000
Distance: 42K, 21K, 5K
Entry Fee: € 9-33
Registration: zagreb-marathon.com

The Zagreb Marathon attracts runners with its completely flat course and comfortable weather — ideal conditions for personal bests. The course runs mainly along one long Ilica street, stretching almost through the entire city from east to west.

The start and finish are located in the center, on Ban Jelacic Square.

The historic part of Zagreb has a large number of museums and other attractions, and there are many cozy street cafes on the pedestrian Tkalchicheva Street.

If you have a few days, it is a good idea to combine running in Zagreb with a trip to the mountains or the Adriatic Sea, because Croatia is best known for its nature.

The Zagreb Marathon is AIMS certified.

32. Sarajevo Marathon

Place: Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Date: September
Number of Participants: 1400
Distance: 21K
Entry Fee: € 21-46
Registration: sarajevomarathon.ba

Bosnia and Herzegovina does not yet have its main marathon. Every year the capital hosts a series of shorter races including half marathon in September. The city, like the half marathon course, stretches from east to west along the Miljacka River.

The cultural life of the capital is mostly centered in the colorful old neighborhood of Bascarsija. You can buy souvenirs in the Markale market. Beer lovers should visit the iconic Sarajevo Brewery.

Sarajevo combines eastern and western culture. Many places are associated with important historical events — we recommend reading the basic facts before the trip for a more meaningful experience.

The half marathon course is AIMS certified.

33. Tirana Marathon

Place: Tirana, Albania
Date: October
Number of Participants: 2500
Distance: 42K, 21K, 10K
Entry Fee: € 10
Registration: tiranamarathon.com

Few people can say that they have taken part in a race in Albania. For many years Albania was closed for foreigners, but now tourists have a unique opportunity to visit not only the capital Tirana, but also such fascinating places like Gjirokastra, Saranda, Berat, and Shkoder.

The start and finish of the race are located in the central Skanderbeg Square of the Albanian capital. A unique experience, both from visiting the country and from the race, is guaranteed.

34. Podgorica Marathon

Place: Podgorica, Montenegro
Date: October
Number of Participants: 900
Distance: 42K, 21K, 8K, 5K
Entry Fee: € 5-20
Registration: maraton.co.me

The marathon in the capital of Montenegro has been held since 1994. The main feature of the Podgorica Marathon is that its course runs below sea level, making it suitable for personal bests. The race is relatively small with homely atmosphere.

The marathon course overviews the mountains, and after the finish line runners can try delicious local food.

The main treasures of Montenegro are incredibly hospitable locals and magnificent nature.

Combine your running trip with exploring the whole country — visit the old capital of Cetinje and the Lovcen National Park with a breathtaking road to the picturesque Boko-Korotska Bay. Go to Durmitor National Park or coastal towns like Budva, Tivat, Kotor, Sveti Stefan. At this time of year the country has its own charm.

The Podgorica Marathon is AIMS certified.

35. Belgrade Marathon

Place: Belgrade, Serbia
Date: April
Number of Participants: 8000
Distance: 42K, 21K, 5K
Entry Fee: € 25-45
Registration: bgdmarathon.org

The Belgrade Marathon was founded in 1988 but has a historic background. At that time local enthusiasts decided to revive the 1910 23K run from Obrenovac to Belgrade. It was then extended to the standard marathon distance, moved to the center of Belgrade, and was held annually even during the war.

The one-lap course runs through the entire central part of the city.

Among the most impressive sites in Belgrade are the Kalemegdan fortress, the embankments of the Sava and Danube rivers, and Skadarlija Street. But it is worth going off the beaten track to find the city’s hidden gems. Try local cuisine, such as pleskavica.

The Belgrade Marathon is AIMS certified.

36. Pristina Marathon

Place: Pristina, Kosovo
Date: September
Number of Participants: 1400
Distance: 42K, 21K, 5K
Entry Fee: € 15
Registration: prishtinamarathon.com

The Kosovo Marathon does not yet have a rich history, but it is a truly unique running event.

The website of the marathon rarely works, so it is better to follow the news on the race Facebook page. There is no online entry, you can sign up directly at the organizers’ office in Pristina during the week before the race.

The Newborn monument and the monumental National Library of Kosovo will definitely draw your attention. You can grab a bite to eat at one of the cafes on Mother Teresa Boulevard. Besides Pristina, it is worth visiting the city of Prizren, considered the cultural capital of Kosovo.

37. Skopje Marathon

Place: Skopje, North Macedonia
Date: October
Number of Participants: 10 000
Distance: 42K, 21K, 5K
Entry Fee: € 6-25
Registration: skopjemarathon.com

The Skopje Marathon offers runners a flat, fast course and Balkan hospitality. Running a marathon is a great way to explore the city. The course consists of two laps, so you’ll have enough time to enjoy the views.

The capital of Macedonia is becoming a popular tourist destination. In Skopje and its outskirts, there are more than a hundred ancient churches and mosques.

For spectacular views, we recommend a trip to Matka Canyon or Mount Vodno. Try Balkan cuisine in numerous restaurants with affordable prices and a wide choice of local specialties.

38. Athens Marathon

Place: Athens, Greece
Date: November
Number of Participants: 43 000
Distance: 42K, 10K, 5K
Entry Fee: € 80-100
Registration: athensauthenticmarathon.gr

The Athens Marathon is a classic historical race starting in the town of Marathon and finishing at the Panathinaikos Olympic Stadium.

The course is quite challenging: the first 12 kilometers are flat, then there is a long and hard uphill, and the last 11 kilometers go downhill. In the center of Athens, there is a statue of the Runner, representing Fidippides.

The first thing to see in Athens is the Acropolis, but do not just limit yourself to it and walk around the ancient narrow streets nearby.

Try seafood and Greek wine in one of the taverns or grab a gyros — locals’ favorite fast food. The best place to buy souvenirs is Monastiraki market.

39. Nikosia Marathon

Place: Nikosia, Cyprus
Date: December
Number of Participants: 15 000
Distance: 42 км, 21 км, 10 км, 5 км
Entry Fee: € 5-30
Registration: nicosiamarathon.com

In December, the weather in Cyprus is no longer as hot as in summer, so you can really enjoy running a marathon. Ancient Nicosia is divided into Turkish and Greek parts, and until a few years ago it was rather difficult to move between them. The old city is divided by a wall right in the middle.

The marathon course consists of two laps and runs through the Greek part starting from the Famagusta Gate towards the southwest.

After the race, enjoy your meze in one of the main pedestrian streets — Ledra or Onasagorou full of stores and cafes. You can visit the Turkish side as well, but check the rules for crossing the border beforehand.

The Nikosia Marathon is AIMS certified.

40. Sofia Marathon

Place: Sofia, Bulgaria
Date: October
Number of Participants: 3000
Distane: 42K, 21K, 10K
Entry Fee: € 10-30
Registration: marathonsofia.com

The Sofia Marathon has been held for more than 30 years but remains a small and friendly running event. Bulgaria is famous for its golden beaches, and Sofia is often overlooked so the marathon is a good opportunity to discover this ancient city.

The marathon starts at Vasil Levski National Stadium and runs through the central part of the city.

The marathon runners will see the monument to the Tsar Liberator, St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, St. Sophia Cathedral, and the National Palace of Culture. There are 4 identical laps, so you will have plenty of time to see everything.