Training for and Successfully Completing a Marathon: 25 Amazing Routes to Inspire You

Running a marathon is a significant accomplishment and a big deal. It takes weeks, if not months, of monotonous training and a significant amount of self-discipline. But for many dedicated runners, including myself, it is a hobby that brings much excitement and satisfaction.

I have completed more than 20 marathons around the world, including three Comrades Marathons over the past six years, and I can say that each one has been a unique and rewarding experience. However, running the same races year after year could potentially become tedious.

If you find yourself in the same shoes or are looking to participate in your first marathon, or even wanting to travel as an avid runner, then this list of 25 amazing routes in 17 countries, four continents, and the Caribbean will help inspire you.

1. Soweto Marathon, Soweto, South Africa

The Soweto Marathon, dubbed the People’s Race, takes runners through the rich culture of Johannesburg’s southwestern townships, including six significant landmarks such as the third-largest Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, the famous Vilakazi Street where two Nobel Peace Prize Winners lived, and the 90,000 capacity FNB Stadium, also known as Soccer City, where the 2010 World Cup was played.

2. Great Wall of China Marathon, Tianjin, China

Considered one of the toughest marathons globally, the Great Wall of China Marathon is set on the world’s longest wall and the most significant ancient architecture. The route starts near the village of Huangyaguan, northeast of Beijing, and takes runners up and down 5,164 steps, boasting stunning scenery of beaches of Qinhuangdao, mountain ranges at Jiayu Pas and scenic villages and rice fields before finishing in the center of Yin and Yang Square.

3. TCS New York City Marathon, New York, USA

The TCS New York City Marathon is the largest marathon in the United States, attracting over 50,000 finishers, 10,000 volunteers, and one million spectators. The course takes runners through the five boroughs of New York City: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island, through deceptive hills past historic landmarks and millions of supportive spectators.

4. Virgin Money London Marathon, London, England

The Virgin Money London Marathon is one of the World Marathon Majors Series awarding a $1 million prize to the top male and female marathoners. The flat and fast race starts in Blackheath, southeast London, and passes iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, the Tower of London, the London Eye, and runs along the River Thames, finally crossing the finish line in front of Buckingham Palace.

5. Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris, France

Running the Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris is an excellent way to tour Paris as an athlete. The marathon is one of the largest in the world, attracting approximately 140 nationalities and 50,000 runners in 2013. The course runs alongside the Seine, with scenic views of the famous Louvre, Place de la Concorde, Place la Bastille, and passing through a series of tunnels, ending at Bois de Boulogne.

6. Reggae Run, Negril, Jamaica

The Amazing Reggae Marathon is Jamaica’s premier International Marathon Event, starting at Long Bay Beach Park situated along Negril’s lively 7-mile white sand beach. The marathon provides stunning scenery, looping through the town of Negril and heading north towards Green Island, lined with enthusiastic spectators and pulsating reggae music on course, and finally, a Finish Line Beach Bash on Negril Beach.

7. Honolulu Marathon, Honolulu, Hawaii

The Honolulu Marathon is hosted annually in December, attracting over 25,000 runners, and is one of the largest in the United States. The race starts in Ala Moana Beach Park, passing several renowned Hawaiian landmarks such as Lolani Palace, Waikiki Beach, Kawaiahao Church, Diamond Head, and ends in Kapiolani Park, transformed into a joyful festival with approximately 50,000 spectators.

8. Two Oceans Marathon, Cape Town, South Africa

Described as “The World’s Most Beautiful Marathon,” the Two Oceans Marathon takes runners around the Cape Peninsula via Chapman’s Peak, Hout Bay, and Constantia Nek. The 56-km ultra-marathon boasts breathtaking scenery that will leave runners breathless.

9. Marathon International de Marrakech, Morocco

The Marathon International de Marrakech takes place midwinter every year, offering a mild climate and a stunning circuit that is considered one of the fastest in the world. The route gives runners a view of the city’s 12th-century ramparts, dusty roads lined with palms, and the Atlas Mountains providing an astonishing backdrop to the pink-walled city.

10. Boston Marathon, Boston, Massachusetts

The oldest and prestigious marathon in the United States, the Boston Marathon dates back to 1897, attracting runners with rigorous qualifying standards. The race starts in Hopkins on Patriots Day and runs through several historic landmarks, including a statue of George V. Brown, the starter of the marathon between 1905 and 1937, and Weston Nurseries on Route 135, honoring Stylianos Kyriakides, whose victory in the 1946 race brought worldwide attention and much-needed relief supplies to his war-torn homeland of Greece.

11. Gold Coast Marathon, Gold Coast, Australia

The Gold Coast Marathon is the pinnacle of the Gold Coast running event calendar, attracting more than 28,000 participants of all ages and abilities. The course follows the stunning Gold Coast beachfront and passes some of Australia’s most iconic landmarks, including the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and the Surfers Paradise skyline, finishing at the Southport Broadwater Parklands.

12. Rio de Janeiro International Marathon, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The Rio de Janeiro International Marathon, held annually in July, boasts stunning scenery, with the course navigating the coastline and making its way past landmarks like Flamengo Park, the Museum of Modern Art, Sao Bento Monastery, and several celebrated beaches. Runners are rewarded with a breathtaking view of Rio over Guanabara Bay.

13. Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon, Hong Kong

Started as a British Colony race in 1997, the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon has grown in popularity, attracting approximately 74,000 runners worldwide to participate in the race. The scenic racecourse provides a view of the city’s remarkable urban landscapes, which include the Victoria Harbour-front, the lush green hills of the New Territories, and the lion rock tunnel.

14. Athens Marathon, Athens, Greece

The Athens marathon is known as “The Authentic,” following the footsteps of the Greek soldier Pheidippides, who ran from Marathon to Athens to deliver news of victory over the Persian forces. The race starts from the northeast town of Marathon and passes by historic landmarks like the Tomb of the Athenians and the Olympic Stadium before ending in the center of Athens.

15. Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon, Dubai, UAE

Held annually in January, the Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon is the largest running event in the Middle East, attracting more than 30,000 participants each year. The course is set against the backdrop of towering modern buildings and views of the Burj Khalifa and runs through the World Trade Center and some of Dubai’s iconic landmarks.

16. Big Sur International Marathon, California, USA

The Big Sur International Marathon is a scenic course that follows the Pacific coastline, giving runners a view of the redwoods, pristine beaches, and charming coastal towns. The marathon starts in Big Sur and ends at McWay Falls, with the iconic Bixby Bridge providing a beautiful backdrop for runners.

17. Buenos Aires Marathon, Buenos Aires, Argentina

The Buenos Aires Marathon takes place in September and follows a scenic route through historic neighborhoods, including Colegiales, Belgrano, Palermo, and Recoleta. The course also provides a stunning view of the La Boca neighborhood, the Obelisk, and the Casa Rosada.

18. Midnight Sun Marathon, Tromsø, Norway

The Midnight Sun Marathon is held annually in June and takes place north of the Arctic Circle, giving runners a unique experience of running in sunlight 24 hours a day. The course provides stunning views of Tromsdalstinden Mountain, Tromsø Bridge, and the surrounding fjords.

19. Jerusalem Marathon, Jerusalem, Israel

The Jerusalem Marathon takes participants through the historic landmarks of the city, including the City Walls, David Citadel, Sultan’s Pool, Old City, and Hebrew University. The course provides panoramic views of the city’s old and new sections while providing runners with a unique experience of running in one of the holiest cities in the world.

20. Swiss Alpine Marathon, Davos, Switzerland

The Swiss Alpine Marathon is a challenging and scenic course set against the backdrop of the Swiss Alps, starting and ending in the beautiful town of Davos. The course follows a trail around Davos and gives runners stunning mountain views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys.

21. Yosemite Half Marathon, Yosemite National Park, California, USA

The Yosemite Half Marathon gives runners the chance to explore the Yosemite National Park’s natural beauty, including waterfalls, Half Dome, El Capitan, and the Yosemite Valley. The racecourse provides a unique experience of running through the park’s scenic trails, and the stunning views leave runners in awe.

22. Prague International Marathon, Prague, Czech Republic

The Prague International Marathon is a flat and fast course, taking participants through the historic streets of Prague, including the famous Charles Bridge and the Old Town Square. Runners are rewarded with scenic views of the Vltava River and the Prague Castle.

23. Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series, Various Locations, USA

The Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series takes place in multiple cities across the United States and features live bands and entertainment throughout the course. The racecourses provide scenic views of various city landmarks, including the Las Vegas Strip, San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, and Seattle’s Space Needle.

24. Great Ocean Road Marathon, Victoria, Australia

The Great Ocean Road Marathon takes runners along one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes, including