21 Best Running Marathons and Iconic Bucket List Races to Run Worldwide

The world's oldest annual marathon, famous for the 'Heartbreak Hill' and strict qualifying standards. The 2025 edition saw John Korir clinch victory with a time of 2:04:45.

The world's largest marathon traversing all five boroughs. In 2025, Hellen Obiri set a new course record of 2:19:51 in a thrilling finish in Central Park.

Known as the world's fastest course where multiple world records have been shattered. In 2024, it celebrated its 50th anniversary with over 54,000 finishers.

A flat and fast loop through 29 neighborhoods. The 2024 race saw Ruth Chepngetich smash the women's world record with an incredible 2:09:56.

A flat, fast course past the Thames and Tower Bridge. The 2025 race was historic, with Tigst Assefa setting a women-only world record of 2:15:50.

Officially elevated to the 7th Abbott World Marathon Major in late 2024, this scenic route finishes at the iconic Sydney Opera House. Sifan Hassan won the 2025 race.

The first Major of the year known for its impeccable organization and vibrant route from Shinjuku to Tokyo Station. In 2025, Tadese Takele won the men's race in 2:03:23.

One of Europe's most beautiful races, starting at the Champs-Élysées and passing the Eiffel Tower. It is a premier Gold Label event with massive participation.

Rapidly becoming the destination for personal bests, this 'City of Running' event features a finish line on water at the City of Arts and Sciences.

A current candidate for the Abbott World Marathon Majors, this race offers stunning views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic seaboard.

Another official candidate to join the World Marathon Majors, showcasing the modern skyline and historic Bund of China's global hub.

The historical birthplace of the marathon, following the original route from the town of Marathon to the Panathenaic Stadium.

An open-air museum run that passes the Colosseum, St. Peter's Square, and the Trevi Fountain on an ancient cobblestone course.

Starting and finishing in the Olympic Stadium, this flat course takes runners through the Rijksmuseum and along the Amstel River.

One of the world's most challenging adventure marathons, requiring runners to climb 5,164 stone steps along the Great Wall of China.

Highly respected for its flat course and enthusiastic atmosphere, often serving as a top destination for elite European qualifying times.

Widely considered the most beautiful marathon in the world, this point-to-point course runs along California's scenic Highway 1.

The world's only marathon that spans two continents, starting in Asia and crossing the Bosphorus Bridge into Europe. The 2024 edition, its 46th year, saw Dejene Debela take the men's title, while Ruth Jebet claimed victory in the women's category on this unique intercontinental route.

A high-altitude challenge at 2,240 meters, this race finishes in the Zócalo square and is famous for its passionate crowds and vibrant culture.

The largest marathon in Asia, taking runners across the sea link and through the heart of India's bustling financial capital.

A stunning West Coast race featuring snow-capped mountains and cherry blossom-lined streets through Stanley Park.