London Marathon 2015: Marathons Around the World

Anyone in London this Sunday will be able to see thousands of people running around the capital wearing everything from a giant apple costume to a Superman outfit. That’s right, the London Marathon is taking place this weekend and is always a fantastic event, whether you’re taking part in the race or cheering the runners on from the comfort of your own home.

But where else in the world has a famous marathon? We take a look at some of the best marathons located in fantastic holiday destinations around the world.

New York

Next race: November 1st, 2015

Running through Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, Central Park and even the Bronx, the New York City Marathon is always an exciting event. The race promises 26.2 miles of sightseeing as it passes various bridges and museums around the city. The event is famous for its large crowds and musical entertainment, with an average of five musical acts every mile including brass bands and country singers.

Athens

Next race: November 8th, 2015

The birthplace of the marathon, Athens provides the most authentic marathon experience you can get. In 490 BC, legend has it that the Athenian messenger Phidippides ran the 24 miles from the village of Marathon to Athens in order to deliver the news of the Athenian victory over the invading Persian army, before he later died of exhaustion. The modern marathon course commemorates this incredible feat.

Paris

Next race: April 3rd, 2016

Beginning on the famous Champs-Elysees nearby the Arc de Triomphe, the Paris Marathon sees runners pass some of the most iconic landmarks in the world. The route passes the Louvre and the Notre Dame Cathedral before following the river Seine and providing runners with the treat of seeing the Eiffel Tower. Next year’s event will be the 40th race and should feature more than the 54,000 runners who took part in 2015.

Berlin

Next race: September 27th, 2015

The 42nd Berlin Marathon allows runners and spectators to sample the delights of the German capital. This is the ideal event for runners in search of a fast time, as the race is recognised as being one of the quickest marathons in the world. The roads around Berlin are mostly flat, while runners will receive loads of encouragement from the crowds of people watching which should help knock a few seconds off their personal best!

Lisbon

Next race: October 18th, 2015

The Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series in Lisbon is one for any music lovers out there. Leave the headphones at home for this race as the event features more than 30 live bands at various places around the course. The race ends in the centre of Lisbon where runners and spectators will be able to take in some of the city’s most famous sights including the Vasco de Gama Bridge and the Castle of São Jorge.