Running buffs travel near and far to run in some of the most famous marathons around the world so if you are a runner and on vacation in Europe, you may want to schedule your next trip around a European marathon and kill two birds with one stone!
A Brief History of the Marathon
Marathons have been testing the limits of our physical abilities since the first marathon in 490 B.C. when the legend of Pheidippides epic run from the battlefields of Marathon to Athens to announce their victory. The Greeks became known for celebrating human prowess, and planting the seeds that would later give rise to the foundations for one of the most cherished competitions worldwide – the marathon run.
10 famous European Marathons in 2018
Europe hosts some of the most unique destination marathons found. Attracting athletes and their families from around the world. Here are the Top 10 European Marathons for Running Buffs.
#1. Athens Classic Marathon
When: November 12, 2017
Fun Fact: The majority of winners are from Greece, with Kenya in close second place.
What Makes It Special: For obvious historical significance, the Athens Classic is the original and most desirable events. The spirit of Pheidippides lives on as you take his historic trail from Marathon with challenging and steep rises. You’ll pass the tomb of Athenian soldiers and coastal villages before approaching glorious views on your way to Athens and the Panathinaikos Stadium
#2. London Marathon
When: April 22, 2018
Fun Fact: Quirky records are made here like the fastest runner dressed as a 3-D dinosaur and other costumed feats.
What Makes It Special: The London course is the world’s second largest race. Running through the empty streets of London is the experience of a lifetime. Starting in Greenwich, the London course runs along the Thames River and over the London Bridge. Glide past the London Eye, Big Ben, and the Tower of London as you finish the race directly in front of Buckingham Palace.
#3.Lisbon Marathon
When: October 15, 2017
Fun Fact: The Lisbon course is often called the Rock’n’Roll Race. Live music greets runners along the route and a full concert awaits the finishers at the end.
What Makes It Special: Big name music headliners keep the motivation flowing each year this race kicks off. It’s a party scene, and with most of the course on flat terrain, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to pace yourself and take in the atmosphere. Lot’s of high energy to feed off of, while also enjoying the incredible Portuguese coastline in full view.
#4.Tour de Paris Marathon
When: April 8, 2018
Fun Fact: 250,000 spectators turn up each year to watch the Tour de Paris race.
What Makes It Special: Over 50,000 runners from over 140 countries take part in this annual race. Starting at the iconic Arc De Triomphe, runners sail through the magical streets of Paris. Gorgeous views of historical architecture and French culture dot the landscape as runners complete the race. Along the Rue de Rivoli, the Place de la Bastille comes into view just before passing the cathedral of Notre Dame and the one and only Eiffel Tower.
#5. Rome Marathon
When: April 7, 2018
Fun Fact: A section of the race that gives runners a bit of trouble is the cobblestone paved streets along the route.
What Makes It Special: Starting in the shadows of the Colosseum, the Rome course is the ideal way to see the history of the area while competing in a world class race. Known as the City of Seven Hills, this route is relatively flat. Passing the Trevi Fountain, Saint Peter’s, and the Pantheon, runners get the chance to take in the sights before ending the race where they started, back at the Colosseum.
#6. Barcelona Marathon
When: March 10, 2018
Fun Fact: One of the major highlights of the Barcelona race is its annual Pasta Party where runners can gorge on carby, delicious food.
What Makes It Special: This flat course is fantastic for runners looking to build on their running times. Starting below the lush, green hills at the Magic Fountain in Montjuic Park, the marathon passes by the incredible history of Spain. Sports fans will love the fact that it passes by Camp Nou. The highlight of the course is the Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, a UNESCO world heritage site.
#7 .Berlin Marathon
When: September 30, 2018
Fun Fact: The day before the runners start their race, thousands of inline skaters take to the Berlin course for their own race.
What Makes It Special: Mild temperatures, enthusiastic crowds, and a relatively smooth and flat course make the Berlin track one of the greats. More world records occur at the Berlin race than any other for these reasons. Winding its ways through some of the most charming areas of the city, runners take their start at Brandenburg Gate. Sights along the way include Potsdamer Platz, the Reichstag, and the Berliner Dom.
#8.Transylvania Marathon
When: May 19, 2018
Fun Fact: The Transylvania course is considered a beginner’s race because it’s not really a race, per se. Runners are encouraged to enjoy the course’s beauty rather than race to the finish.
What Makes It Special: Everything about the Transylvania course is special. It’s the only race in the world that can say it starts at Dracula’s castle. The city of Bran, the host of the Transylvania race, pulls out all the stops. Encouraging runners to enjoy the wilds of Romania, the course meanders through forests, villages, and historic architecture. With a catchphrase of Bears, Wolves, and Dracula, what are you waiting for?
#9. Mont Saint-Michel Marathon
When: May 27, 2018
Fun Fact: From the starting line in Cancale, runners can see the finish point 26.2 miles away at the Couesnon dam.
What Makes It Special: Described as one of the most beautiful tracks in the world, the Mont Saint-Michel course runs along the banks of the Bay of Saint-Michel. This fortified city is home to incredible views along each and every mile of the route. Quaint French villages lie along the route on the way to Abbey, a UNESCO world heritage site.
#10. The Tuscany Crossing Marathon
When: April 8, 2018
Fun Fact: Racers don’t just bring running shoes and their bib to the Tuscany Crossing. Trekking poles, head lamps, and backpacks are encouraged for this challenging ultra race.
What Makes It Special: For those looking to step it up, The Tuscany Crossing may be the ultimate challenge you seek. This 100-kilometer race is not for the faint of heart. Those up for the challenge will be rewarded with rolling hills and changing landscapes. Along this ancient route once taken by early travelers and pilgrims–you’ll pass vineyards, forts, castles and medieval churches, World Heritage sites, and endless rolling wheat fields. The race lasts 24 hours and ends at the Orcia fortress where you’re treated with 360-degree views of the spectacular vista.
Today, marathons hold up the same truth and values. They represent the human spirit–our mind, body, and soul working towards an achievement. With over 500 marathons being held each year around the world, they continue to bring forth human perseverance and celebration. It’s no wonder so many of us out there include marathons on our bucket lists–and now more than ever they open our hearts to the world. So go ahead and start training for your next European marathon!