2026 European Marathon Calendar: Best Scenic Races for Every Runner

In 2026, the European marathon circuit offers a breathtaking array of routes that transform a grueling endurance test into a vivid journey through history and nature. For those who thrive on urban grandeur, the spring season features legendary courses that weave through imperial capitals, guiding runners past ancient amphitheatres, Gothic cathedrals, and iron monuments. These races are more than just athletic events; they are rolling tours of human civilization, where the rhythm of your stride matches the heartbeat of cities that have stood for millennia.

If you prefer the serenity of the natural world, the calendar includes coastal escapes and high-altitude adventures that redefine “scenic.” Imagine chasing the horizon under a sun that never sets in the far north, or following rugged trails through volcanic fields and glacial valleys where the air is crisp, and the silence is profound. Other routes hug the Mediterranean and Atlantic coastlines, offering sparkling turquoise views and salty breezes that provide a refreshing contrast to the intensity of the miles.

For the runner who seeks a unique cultural immersion, the year also highlights boutique events that celebrate the local “art of living.” You might find yourself navigating the rows of prestigious vineyards during harvest season or running through mist-covered highlands steeped in folklore. From midnight starts in the Arctic Circle to festive sunset finishes in illuminated fortresses, the 2026 calendar ensures that whether you are a personal-best seeker or a sightseeing enthusiast, your marathon experience will be as visually stunning as it is physically rewarding.

The Magic of the European Marathon

• Living History: Run through “open-air museums” past ancient ruins, Gothic cathedrals, and iconic landmarks like the Colosseum or Brandenburg Gate.
• Speed Capital: Home to the world’s flattest courses (Berlin, Valencia, Amsterdam), making it the premier destination for breaking personal records.
• Cultural Festivals: Races are city-wide celebrations featuring local music, enthusiastic crowds, and even regional treats like wine and cheese at aid stations.
• Geographic Variety: Experience unmatched scenic diversity, from the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast to the misty Scottish Highlands or Arctic “Midnight Sun.”
• The Original Legacy: Follow the footsteps of history on “Authentic” routes that connect the modern marathon to its ancient Greek origins.

Top 10 European Marathon Races for Every Runner

1. BMW Berlin Marathon – Berlin, Germany 2026

The BMW Berlin Marathon is a world-renowned athletic spectacle that stands as one of the most prestigious members of the Abbott World Marathon Majors. Known globally as the “Home of World Records,” this race offers a breathtakingly fast, flat course that cuts through the historic heart of a reunited Berlin. It is much more than a race; it is a high-octane city festival where over 45,000 runners from around the globe are cheered on by over a million spectators and dozens of live bands. As you sprint through the monumental Brandenburg Gate in the final stretch, you aren’t just finishing a race—you are becoming part of marathon history in one of Europe’s most vibrant cultural hubs.

Highlights:

• World Record Course: Famous for its flat, smooth asphalt and minimal turns, making it the premier global destination for elites and amateurs to achieve a personal best.
• The Brandenburg Gate Finish: Experience the most iconic finish line in running, passing through the historic symbol of German unity in the final 400 meters.
• Cultural Sightseeing: The route serves as a grand tour of Berlin, passing the Reichstag, Victory Column, Berliner Dom, and the modern skyline of Potsdamer Platz.
• Incredible Course Entertainment: Over 80 live bands and “cheer zones” line the streets, providing a non-stop wall of sound and motivation for every kilometer.
• Abbott World Marathon Majors: A bucket-list event for “Six Star Hopefuls,” offering world-class organization, medical support, and a high-caliber international field.
• Multi-Sport Weekend: The event is a celebration of movement, including a massive Fitness Expo (MARATHON EXPO) and dedicated races for inline skaters, handbikers, and children.

Date for 2026: Sunday, September 27, 2026

Address: Start & Finish Line: Straße des 17. Juni (near Brandenburg Gate), Pariser Platz, 10117 Berlin, Germany

Why it’s great: It is the fastest marathon course in the world, offering an electric atmosphere and a legendary finish through the city’s most famous historic monument.

For more information about the BMW Berlin Marathon, click here. Contact Euro Travelo to handle all your accommodation, ticket, and transportation needs.

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2. TCS London Marathon – London, UK 2026

The TCS London Marathon is a titan of the sporting world, celebrated for its unmatched atmosphere, extraordinary charitable spirit, and status as a crown jewel of the Abbott World Marathon Majors. Winding through the historic and modern heart of the British capital, the course serves as a scenic 26.2-mile celebration of resilience and community. From the elite athletes chasing world records to the thousands of costume-clad runners raising millions for charity, the event transforms the streets of London into a massive, city-wide festival. Crossing the finish line on The Mall, with Buckingham Palace as your backdrop, is widely considered one of the most emotional and rewarding experiences in all of distance running.

Highlights:

• Iconic River Thames Route: The course follows the curves of the Thames, offering breathtaking views of the city’s skyline and historic maritime heritage.
• Tower Bridge Milestone: Run across the world’s most famous bridge at the halfway mark, a legendary moment met with a wall of sound from thousands of spectators.
• World-Class Charity Impact: As the largest annual one-day fundraising event on the planet, the race creates a unique “feel-good” energy fueled by selfless achievement.
• The “Cutty Sark” Encounter: Early in the race, runners circle the majestic 19th-century clipper ship in Greenwich, one of the many historic landmarks on the path.
• Canary Wharf & The City: Navigate the towering glass skyscrapers of London’s financial districts, where the narrow streets create an echo chamber of cheers.
• Royal Finish Line: Conclude your journey on The Mall, sprinting toward Buckingham Palace to receive your medal in a setting of true royal grandeur.

Date for 2026: Sunday, 26 April 2026

Address: Start Line: Blackheath and Greenwich Park, London, SE10 8QY, United Kingdom

Why it’s great: It is a masterclass in community spirit and historic sightseeing, featuring the most enthusiastic crowds in the world and an unforgettable royal finish.

For more information about the TCS London Marathon, click here. Contact Euro Travelo to handle all your accommodation, ticket, and transportation needs.

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3. Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris – Paris, France 2026

The Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris is a breathtaking tribute to the “City of Light,” offering runners a grand architectural tour of one of the world’s most beautiful capitals. As one of the largest and most popular marathons globally, it combines elite-level competition with a romantic, scenic route that traverses the city’s most legendary landmarks. From the wide, tree-lined boulevards to the quiet, leafy stretches of the city’s great parks, the race captures the essence of Parisian elegance and endurance. With over 50,000 participants from across the globe, the event is a massive celebration of sport, culture, and “art de vivre,” culminating in a spectacular finish that feels like a victory parade through history.

Highlights:

• Grand Start on the Champs-Élysées: Begin your journey on the world’s most famous avenue, looking down toward the Place de la Concorde in a sea of thousands of runners.
• Monumental Sightseeing: The route passes iconic sites including the Opéra Garnier, the Place de la Bastille, the Louvre, and the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral.
• Seine Riverside Miles: Enjoy long, flat stretches along the banks of the Seine, offering unparalleled views of the Eiffel Tower and the city’s historic bridges.
• The “Green Lungs” of Paris: Find your rhythm through the scenic woods of the Bois de Vincennes and the Bois de Boulogne, providing a refreshing natural contrast to the urban landscape.
• Musical & Culinary Aid Stations: Experience unique Parisian hospitality with live music, cheering crowds, and even small tastings of local fruit and refreshments along the way.
• Arc de Triomphe Finish: Complete your 26.2-mile journey on Avenue Foch, sprinting toward the finish line with the magnificent Arc de Triomphe framing your achievement.

Date for 2026: Sunday, April 12, 2026

Address: Start Line: Avenue des Champs-Élysées, 75008 Paris, France Finish Line: Avenue Foch, 75116 Paris, France

Why it’s great: It is a stunning “open-air museum” run that turns the streets of Paris into a personal playground of historic monuments and riverside views.

For more information about the Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris, click here. Contact Euro Travelo to handle all your accommodation, ticket, and transportation needs.

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4. TCS Amsterdam Marathon – Amsterdam, Netherlands 2026

The TCS Amsterdam Marathon is a World Athletics Platinum Label Road Race that perfectly balances high-speed performance with the charming aesthetics of the Dutch capital. Starting and finishing in the historic Olympic Stadium—the centerpiece of the 1928 Summer Games—the course is celebrated as one of the fastest in the world, making it a top choice for runners aiming to set new personal bests. The route offers a unique “city-and-country” experience, guiding participants through the heart of Amsterdam’s famous canal district before venturing out into the serene polders along the Amstel River. With a multi-day program that includes a half-marathon, 7.5K, and kids’ events, the entire weekend is a vibrant celebration of fitness, history, and the iconic spirit of the “Venice of the North.”

Highlights:

• Olympic Stadium Atmosphere: Experience a spine-tingling start and finish on the original track of the 1928 Olympic Stadium, surrounded by cheering fans in the grandstands.
• The Rijksmuseum Passage: Enjoy one of the most Instagrammable moments in marathon running as you pass directly through the famous archway of the Netherlands’ national museum.
• Scenic Amstel River Loop: Run past traditional windmills and stately rural mansions along the winding banks of the Amstel, providing a peaceful and scenic contrast to the city miles.
• Vondelpark Stretch: Navigate the lush, winding paths of Amsterdam’s most famous park, where thousands of locals gather to provide an extra boost of energy in the final kilometers.
• Platinum Label Fast Course: Renowned for its flat terrain and cool October temperatures, this race consistently ranks among the top ten fastest marathons globally.
• Full Weekend Festival: Beyond the main race, the weekend features an International Marathon Expo, a Pasta Party in the stadium, and a diverse range of distances for all ages.

Dates for 2026: Main Event: Sunday, October 18, 2026 (Full Marathon and Half Marathon) Pre-events: Saturday, October 17, 2026 (7.5K, Kids Run, and Heroes Run)

Address: Olympic Stadium (Olympisch Stadion): Olympisch Stadion 2, 1076 DE Amsterdam, Netherlands

Why it’s great: It offers a lightning-fast course that combines the majesty of world-class museums with the tranquil beauty of the Dutch countryside and a historic stadium finish.

For more information about the TCS Amsterdam Marathon, click here. Contact Euro Travelo to handle all your accommodation, ticket, and transportation needs.

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5. Acea Run Rome The Marathon – Rome, Italy 2026

The Acea Run Rome The Marathon is an extraordinary athletic pilgrimage that transforms the Eternal City into a 26.2-mile open-air gallery. This event is widely regarded as one of the most scenic marathons in the world, guiding runners through millennia of human history on a course that is practically a victory lap through Western civilization. Starting and finishing on the majestic Via dei Fori Imperiali, with the Colosseum serving as an awe-inspiring backdrop, the race offers a unique emotional weight that few other events can match. It is a celebration of endurance, heritage, and the timeless beauty of Rome, attracting thousands of international participants who come to experience the sheer grandeur of the Italian capital.

Highlights:

• A Journey Through Time: The route passes an incredible density of iconic monuments, including the Vatican, the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon.
• Legendary Start and Finish: Every runner begins and ends their journey in the shadow of the Colosseum, providing a dramatic and historic atmosphere for both the first and final miles.
• Enthusiastic Italian Atmosphere: Experience the passionate support of Roman crowds, complemented by live music and historical re-enactments along the course.
• The “Rome Parade” Experience: The event includes a 5km Fun Run (Run4Rome) and a relay marathon, making it an inclusive festival for runners of all abilities and their families.
• Ancient Cobblestone Challenge: While visually stunning, the course features sections of historic sanpietrini (basalt cobblestones), adding a unique and traditional technical element to the race.
• Scenic Tiber River Views: The path follows long stretches of the Lungotevere, offering beautiful views of Rome’s historic bridges and the river that shaped the city’s destiny.

Date for 2026: March 22, 2026

Address: Start & Finish Line: Via dei Fori Imperiali, 00186 Rome, Italy

Why it’s great: It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to run through the heart of the Roman Empire, finishing at the most famous amphitheater in history under the Mediterranean sun.

For more information about Acea Run Rome The Marathon, click here. Contact Euro Travelo to handle all your accommodation, ticket, and transportation needs.

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6. LifeStar Malta Marathon – Malta 2026

The LifeStar Malta Marathon is a uniquely intimate Mediterranean race that offers runners the rare chance to traverse nearly an entire island nation in a single morning. Starting at the majestic limestone gates of the medieval “Silent City” of Mdina and finishing along the vibrant turquoise coastline of Sliema, the race is a high-speed journey through 7,000 years of history. With a course that is predominantly downhill—dropping nearly 200 meters from start to finish—it has gained a reputation as one of Europe’s fastest and most “PB-friendly” winter marathons. Between the rural Maltese countryside, the baroque architecture of historic villages, and the final miles along the yacht-studded Grand Harbour, it is a race that perfectly blends athletic challenge with a scenic island holiday.

Highlights:

• Medieval Bastion Start: Begin your race just outside the ancient, golden-walled city of Mdina, one of the most iconic and peaceful historic sites in the Mediterranean.
• Fast Downhill Profile: With a net elevation drop of approximately 190 meters, this course is meticulously designed to help runners achieve lightning-fast times and personal bests.
• Grand Harbour Finale: The final 5km stretch takes you along the sparkling waterfronts of Ta’ Xbiex and Gzira, offering panoramic views of Valletta’s historic skyline and the blue sea.
• Rural & Urban Charm: The route weaves through charming traditional villages like Rabat and Attard, past ancient aqueducts and lush countryside, before hitting the modern coastal promenade.
• Ideal Winter Climate: Held in late February, runners enjoy crisp, mild Mediterranean temperatures (averaging 15°C/59°F), providing the perfect escape from the harsh northern winters.
• Live Local Bands: To keep spirits high during the quieter rural sections, dozens of live bands line the route, creating a festive atmosphere that echoes across the island.

Date for 2026: Sunday, 22 February 2026

Address: Start Line: Mdina Gate (The Bastions), Mdina, Malta Finish Line: Sliema Ferries (The Strand), Sliema, Malta

Why it’s great: It is a scenic, downhill dash that connects an ancient mountaintop citadel to the modern seaside, making it the perfect destination for a fast time and a sunny winter getaway.

For more information about the LifeStar Malta Marathon, click here. Contact Euro Travelo to handle all your accommodation, ticket, and transportation needs.

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7. TUI Palma Marathon Mallorca – Mallorca, Spain 2026

The TUI Palma Marathon Mallorca is a sun-drenched Mediterranean highlight that brings thousands of runners to the beautiful Balearic Islands. Known for its breathtaking coastal views and vibrant island atmosphere, the race takes place in the heart of Palma, a city where Gothic architecture meets the sparkling blue sea. The course is uniquely designed to showcase the very best of Mallorca, taking runners through the historic narrow streets of the Old Town and along the breezy seaside promenade. With the majestic Palma Cathedral standing as a sentinel over the start and finish lines, this marathon is as much a visual feast as it is an athletic challenge, making it the perfect “race-cation” for those looking to combine a marathon with a Mediterranean escape.

Highlights:

• Cathedral Backdrop: The race begins and ends at the Parc de la Mar, offering an unparalleled view of the 14th-century La Seu Cathedral, one of the most famous Gothic structures in Europe.
• Seaside Promenade Miles: A significant portion of the course runs along the Paseo Marítimo, allowing runners to enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and views of the luxury yachts in the harbor.
• Old Town Exploration: Navigate the charming, labyrinthine streets of Palma’s historic center, passing through bustling plazas and hidden courtyards steeped in Spanish culture.
• The “Majorca Spirit”: The event is famous for its inclusive and festive vibe, featuring live music, traditional dance performances, and enthusiastic crowds that line the streets.
• Something for Everyone: Beyond the full marathon, the event offers a half marathon and a 9K race, ensuring that runners of all levels can participate in the island festivities.
• Perfect Autumn Conditions: Held in mid-October, the race offers ideal running weather—warm enough for a post-race dip in the ocean but cool enough for a strong performance.

Date for 2026: Sunday, October 18, 2026

Address: Parc de la Mar (Avenida Adolfo Suárez), 07001 Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain

Why it’s great: It is the ultimate Mediterranean “race-cation,” offering a stunning coastal route that finishes right in front of one of the world’s most beautiful Gothic cathedrals.

For more information about the TUI Palma Marathon Mallorca, click here. Contact Euro Travelo to handle all your accommodation, ticket, and transportation needs.

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8. 33rd Jungfrau-Marathon – Interlaken, Switzerland 2026

The Jungfrau-Marathon is widely considered one of the most beautiful and challenging mountain marathons in the world, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Swiss Alps. Starting in the picturesque town of Interlaken and finishing high above at the Eigergletscher, the race is a monumental test of endurance that gains over 1,800 meters in elevation. Runners are treated to spectacular views of the world-famous Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks as they navigate a course that shifts from flat valley floors to steep, winding mountain paths. It is an Alpine adventure that combines elite-level mountain running with some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in Europe, drawing thousands of participants and spectators to the heart of the Bernese Oberland.

Highlights:

• Dramatic Elevation Gain: The course begins at an altitude of 568 meters and climbs steadily to a stunning finish at 2,320 meters, providing a rigorous challenge for even the most seasoned runners.
• The “Eiger Face” Finale: The final kilometers take runners directly toward the imposing North Face of the Eiger, offering a close-up view of one of the most legendary sights in mountaineering history.
• Interlaken Start: The journey commences at the Höhematte Park in Interlaken, a vibrant green space that offers a panoramic view of the mountains you are about to conquer.
• Alpine Atmosphere: The route is lined with enthusiastic supporters, traditional Swiss alphorn players, and flag-throwers, creating a festive atmosphere that celebrates mountain culture.
• Diverse Race Weekend: In addition to the main marathon, the Friday schedule includes the Minirun, Minimarathon, and Pararace, ensuring an inclusive event for all ages and abilities.
• Scenic Rail Access: Supporters can follow the race via the famous Jungfrau Railway, which provides easy access to various cheering points and the spectacular finish area.

Dates for 2026: September 4 & 5, 2026

• Main Marathon: Saturday, September 5, 2026 (Start at 08:30 AM)
• Friday Races: Friday, September 4, 2026

Address: Start: Höhematte, Höheweg, 3800 Interlaken, Switzerland Finish: Eigergletscher (Elevation 2,320m), 3823 Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

Why it’s great: It is a legendary mountain race that offers a profound sense of achievement, culminating in a high-altitude finish surrounded by the most iconic peaks of the Swiss Alps.

For more information about the Jungfrau-Marathon, click here. Contact Euro Travelo to handle all your accommodation, ticket, and transportation needs.

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9. Baxters Loch Ness Marathon – Inverness, Scotland 2026

The Baxters Loch Ness Marathon is a legendary point-to-point race that captures the wild, untamed beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Often described as one of the most stunning marathons in the world, the course begins in an atmospheric moorland setting high above the loch and winds its way through breathtaking scenery toward the Highland capital. Running along the southeastern shores of the world’s most famous loch, participants are treated to panoramic views of misty mountains, pine forests, and the deep, mysterious waters of Loch Ness. With its incredible community spirit, a finish line fueled by hot Highland soup, and a route that feels like a journey through a classic Scottish postcard, it is a bucket-list event for runners seeking a “monster” challenge in a truly magical setting.

Highlights:

• Atmospheric Highland Start: Begin your race on a remote moorland road between Fort Augustus and Foyers, where the sound of traditional bagpipes echoes across the hills as the sun rises over the heather.
• Spectacular Lochside Miles: Follow a scenic, winding route along the quiet south-eastern banks of Loch Ness, offering miles of uninterrupted views of the water and the rugged peaks of the Great Glen.
• Challenging & Scenic Terrain: The course features a mix of exhilarating descents and a legendary climb at mile 18, rewarding your effort with some of the most beautiful natural vistas in the United Kingdom.
• The River Ness Finale: The final stretch takes you through the heart of Inverness, crossing the River Ness and passing the historic Inverness Castle before a grandstand finish at Bught Park.
• A True Festival of Running: The weekend includes a free Sports Expo, the Baxters Food & Drink Fayre, live music, and multiple race distances, including the River Ness 10K, 5K, and the “Wee Nessie” kids’ race.
• Warm Highland Welcome: Every finisher is greeted with a commemorative medal, a technical t-shirt, a famous bowl of Baxters soup, and a roll, providing the ultimate post-race comfort.

Date for 2026: Sunday, 27 September 2026

Address: Start: B862 (High ground near Whitebridge), South Loch Ness, Scotland Finish: Bught Park, Bught Road, Inverness, IV3 5SQ, United Kingdom (Note: All runners are transported by coach from the Event Village in Inverness to the remote mountain start line.)

Why it’s great: It is a breathtaking point-to-point adventure through the heart of the Highlands, offering a perfect blend of challenging hills, serene loch-side views, and world-class Scottish hospitality.

For more information about the Baxters Loch Ness Marathon, click here. Contact Euro Travelo to handle all your accommodation, ticket, and transportation needs.

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10. 40th Wizz Air Venice Marathon – Venice, Italy 2026

The Wizz Air Venice Marathon is a spectacular 42.2km journey that combines the elegance of the Venetian mainland with the unparalleled magic of the “City of Bridges.” Celebrating its landmark 40th edition in 2026, this race offers one of the most unique finishing stretches in all of distance running. The course begins at the majestic 18th-century Villa Pisani and follows the scenic Brenta Riviera, passing through historic towns and noble villas. The grand finale is truly unforgettable: runners cross a specially constructed floating pontoon bridge over the Grand Canal, pass through the iconic St. Mark’s Square, and finish along the lagoon. It is an extraordinary fusion of elite athleticism and artistic heritage, making it a must-run event for those seeking a poetic and historic marathon experience.

Highlights:

• Royal Start at Villa Pisani: The race commences at the “Versailles of Venice,” a stunning 18th-century villa in Stra, providing a regal and historic atmosphere for the first mile.
• The Brenta Riviera Walkway: Run past the elegant summer residences of the Venetian aristocracy, following the quiet canal paths that lead toward the lagoon.
• Floating Bridge Experience: A highlight of the race is the 170-meter floating pontoon bridge built specifically for the marathon, allowing runners to “run on water” across the Grand Canal.
• St. Mark’s Square Passage: Experience the emotional high of running through Piazza San Marco, one of the world’s most famous squares, surrounded by the Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.
• The 14 Bridges Challenge: The final kilometers involve crossing 14 small Venetian bridges, all of which are fitted with specialized wooden ramps to ensure a smooth and safe transit for athletes.
• Lagoon-Side Finish: Conclude your marathon at the Riva Sette Martiri, where the finish line offers sweeping panoramic views of the Venetian Lagoon and the San Giorgio Maggiore island.

Date for 2026: Sunday, October 25, 2026

Address: Start: Villa Pisani, Via Doge Pisani, 7, 30039 Stra (VE), Italy Finish: Riva Sette Martiri, 30122 Venice, Italy

Why it’s great: It offers the world’s most enchanting finish line, taking you through the heart of Venice via floating bridges and historic squares for a truly once-in-a-lifetime sprint.

For more information about the Wizz Air Venicemarathon, click here. Contact Euro Travelo to handle all your accommodation, ticket, and transportation needs.

Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.

Tips for Attending European Marathon Races

• Book your hotel near the finish line to avoid a long, painful commute after you finish the race.
• Pack your race shoes and kit in your carry-on to ensure you can still run even if your checked luggage is lost.
• Arrive at least two days early to adjust to the local time zone and handle your bib collection without rushing.
• Research medical certificate rules early, as races in countries like France and Italy require specific doctor-signed forms.
• Stick to familiar foods and bring your own energy gels to avoid digestive issues from unknown local brands.
• Drink extra water during your flight to combat airplane dehydration before you even reach the start line.
• Use public transport on race day, as many European cities offer free travel for runners and most roads will be closed.
• Wear “throwaway” layers to stay warm in the starting corral; these are usually collected and donated to local charities.
• Set a specific post-race meeting point for your family, as mobile networks often crash in crowded finish areas.
• Schedule a recovery day after the event so you can celebrate and walk off the stiffness before flying home.

Booking with Euro Travelo

To secure your tickets and travel arrangements for any of these festivals, you can contact Euro Travelo for professional booking assistance.

Calendar of the top 10 scenic European marathons for 2026

Marathon Event	Date	Location
LifeStar Malta Marathon	February 22, 2026	Mdina to Sliema, Malta
Acea Run Rome The Marathon	March 22, 2026	Rome, Italy
Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris	April 12, 2026	Paris, France
TCS London Marathon	April 26, 2026	London, UK
33rd Jungfrau-Marathon	September 5, 2026	Interlaken, Switzerland
BMW Berlin Marathon	September 27, 2026	Berlin, Germany
Baxters Loch Ness Marathon	September 27, 2026	Inverness, Scotland
TCS Amsterdam Marathon	October 18, 2026	Amsterdam, Netherlands
TUI Palma Marathon Mallorca	October 18, 2026	Mallorca, Spain
40th Wizz Air Venice Marathon	October 25, 2026	Venice, Italy

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Conclusion

The 2026 European marathon circuit offers an unparalleled blend of historic grandeur, coastal beauty, and alpine adventure, ensuring a perfect match for every type of athlete. Speed-seekers can chase personal records on the legendary flat boulevards of Berlin and Amsterdam, while those looking for a “race-cation” can soak up the Mediterranean sun in Mallorca or Malta. For history enthusiasts, the year provides iconic journeys through the ancient streets of Rome and Paris, or a chance to run in the literal footsteps of legends at the original Athens Marathon. Whether you prefer the electric atmosphere of World Major crowds in London or the intimate, scenic charm of a loch-side run in the Scottish Highlands, the 2026 calendar turns 42.2 kilometers into a premier sightseeing experience.

From the floating bridges of Venice to the snow-capped finish line of the Jungfrau-Marathon, these races prove that a marathon is more than just a distance—it is a gateway to Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes. Runners can experience the unique thrill of the Midnight Sun in Norway, weave through world-renowned vineyards in Bordeaux during the Marathon du Médoc, or cross borders in the heart of the Alps. As you plan your 2026 season, these scenic routes offer the ultimate motivation, transforming the grueling miles of training into a triumphant celebration of culture, nature, and human endurance across the continent’s most stunning backdrops.

Ready to Discover Europe’s Top Events and Festivals?

If you’re ready to dive into Europe’s rich traditions, world-class music, and vibrant celebrations, we’ve got the ultimate guide to make your continental adventure unforgettable!

From the historic grandeur of Italy’s Umbria Jazz and the breathtaking Jazz à Vienne in France to the massive stages of the North Sea Jazz Festival and the floral beauty of the Tulip Festival, click the link below to explore Europe’s most iconic and must-see events:

Best Events and Festivals in Europe

Whether you’re captivated by legendary jazz performances, historic landmarks, or immersive cultural experiences, eurotravelo.com has all the insider tips to help you plan your perfect European getaway. Visit our site and start your journey across Europe today!

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FAQs

1. How do I secure a spot in the 2026 World Marathon Majors, like Berlin or London?

For Major marathons, demand far exceeds supply, so entries are primarily allocated via a random lottery or ballot. The Berlin 2026 lottery registration typically opens in late 2025, while the London 2026 ballot opens for a short window in April 2025. If you miss the lottery, you can still gain entry through official charity partners or specialized tour operators that offer guaranteed race bibs as part of a travel package.

2. Are there any specific medical requirements for these European marathons?

Medical requirements vary significantly based on national laws. For the Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris, runners must complete an online Health Prevention Course (HPC) to participate. In Italy, both the Rome and Venice marathons often require a competitive medical certificate and a Runcard for insurance purposes. Conversely, races in Germany, the UK, and the Netherlands typically only require a signed health waiver during the registration process.

3. What is the difference between a City Marathon and the Jungfrau Mountain Marathon?

The Jungfrau-Marathon is a mountain race that is fundamentally different from flat city events. While Berlin and Amsterdam are 100% asphalt and very flat, Jungfrau climbs over 1,800 meters in altitude and includes gravel trails. Because of the extreme elevation gain, runners should expect their finishing time to be significantly slower than their road marathon pace, requiring specific hill training and different footwear for the mountain terrain.

4. How do the point-to-point starts work for Loch Ness, Venice, and Malta?

In point-to-point races, the start and finish lines are in different geographic locations. For the Loch Ness Marathon, runners meet in Inverness and are transported by event buses to the remote start in the Highlands. In Venice, the race begins inland at Stra and finishes on the island, while Malta starts at the historic citadel of Mdina and ends on the coast. In all these cases, organizers provide baggage trucks to transport your belongings from the start to the finish area.

5. Which of these 2026 races are best for setting a Personal Best (PB)?

If speed is your primary objective, Berlin and Amsterdam are the top choices due to their famously flat profiles and smooth surfaces. The Malta Marathon is also excellent for speed because it is a net-downhill course, dropping nearly 200 meters from start to finish. You should be aware that Rome and Venice are less ideal for personal bests because they feature historic cobblestones and multiple small bridges that can disrupt your rhythm in the final miles.