Participating in a European half-marathon in 2026 is the perfect way to combine athletic achievement with a vibrant “race-cation.” This distance offers the prestige of a major event without the heavy recovery of a full marathon, leaving you with plenty of energy to explore. These races transform historic city centers into high-energy corridors, where local culture and community spirit push you toward the finish line.
The spring season is especially popular, offering mild weather and fast, flat courses through major capitals. These routes often follow grand boulevards and scenic rivers, providing a high-speed tour of iconic landmarks. With the landscape in bloom and thousands of spectators providing a constant wall of sound, these events are ideal for those looking to set a personal record in a world-class setting.
For a more dramatic experience, some coastal races offer breathtaking starts on massive bridges overlooking the sea. These routes often feature exhilarating descents into historic maritime districts and sun-drenched waterfront promenades. The combination of refreshing sea breezes and the psychological boost of a downhill path makes these coastal runs some of the most memorable and sought-after experiences on the 2026 calendar.
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Why European Half Marathons Are Unique
- Millennia of History per Mile: These races often serve as a high-speed guided tour, winding through UNESCO World Heritage sites, medieval “Old Towns,” and past landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum, or Prague’s Charles Bridge.
- World-Class Speed: Europe is home to some of the flattest and fastest courses globally, such as Berlin, Valencia, and Copenhagen, where elite athletes and amateurs alike flock to set new personal bests (PBs).
- Spectacular Starts and Finishes: Many events feature dramatic logistical feats, like starting on a massive suspension bridge over the Atlantic in Lisbon or finishing inside an ancient Roman amphitheater or an Olympic stadium.
- Unrivaled Atmosphere: The local crowds are famously passionate, often lining the streets several people deep with live bands, traditional music, and food festivals that turn the entire city into a massive open-air party.
- The SuperHalfs Circuit: Europe features a prestigious international series called the “SuperHalfs,” allowing runners to earn a special “SuperMedal” by completing six of the continent’s most beautiful and well-organized half marathons within five years.
Top 10 European Half Marathons
1. EDP Lisbon Half Marathon – Lisbon, Portugal 2026
The EDP Lisbon Half Marathon is an iconic athletic event that holds the prestigious status of being the fastest half-marathon in the world and a proud member of the SuperHalfs series. This race is world-renowned for its breathtaking start on the 25 de Abril Bridge, where thousands of runners gather mid-span to enjoy panoramic views of the Tagus River and the Lisbon skyline before descending into the city. It is a high-energy celebration of speed and scenery, attracting elite athletes chasing world records alongside thousands of international amateurs. The route is exceptionally flat and fast, winding through the maritime history of Lisbon and culminating in one of the most beautiful finish lines in Europe, set against the backdrop of a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Highlights:
- Spectacular Bridge Start: Experience a once-in-a-lifetime start in the middle of the 25 de Abril Bridge, offering an unparalleled vantage point of the city from the South Bank.
- World Record Course: Widely recognized as one of the fastest courses globally, it is the ideal destination for runners looking to shatter their personal bests on a flat, coastal trajectory.
- Historic Finish Line: Conclude your 21.1km journey in front of the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery in Belém, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture.
- SuperHalfs Series: As part of this elite international circuit, the race offers world-class organization, a vibrant expo, and a high-caliber field of global participants.
- Scenic Riverside Route: The majority of the race follows the flat banks of the Tagus River, passing landmarks like the Belém Tower and the Padrão dos Descobrimentos.
- Unbeatable Atmosphere: Enjoy the mild March weather of Portugal and the enthusiastic support of local crowds and musical performances throughout the coastal stretch.
Date for 2026: Sunday, March 8, 2026
Start Time: 09:30 AM
Address:
- Start: 25 de Abril Bridge (South Bank Entrance), Lisbon, Portugal
- Finish: Jerónimos Monastery, Praça do Império, 1400-206 Lisbon, Portugal
Why it’s great: It offers the most dramatic start in world running, beginning on a massive suspension bridge and finishing at one of Portugal’s most stunning historical monuments.
For more information about the EDP Lisbon Half Marathon, click here. Contact Euro Travelo to handle all your accommodation, ticket, and transportation needs.
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2. Generali Prague Half Marathon – Prague, Czech Republic 2026
The Generali Prague Half Marathon is an unforgettable athletic journey that combines a world-class competitive field with the fairytale charm of the Czech capital. As a prestigious member of the SuperHalfs series and a World Athletics Elite Label race, it is famous for its breathtakingly fast course, where world records have been shattered. The route offers a grand tour of Prague’s “City of a Hundred Spires,” winding along both banks of the Vltava River and through the heart of its UNESCO-listed historic center. With a festive atmosphere fueled by the Prague Music Festival and a relatively flat profile, this race provides the perfect stage for runners to chase a personal best while surrounded by some of the most beautiful Gothic and Baroque architecture in Europe.
Highlights:
- SuperHalfs Series Event: This race is part of the elite international circuit of six prestigious half marathons, ensuring top-tier organization and a high-caliber field of global participants.
- World-Class Speed: Renowned for its flat and fast asphalt course, it has historically seen world-record-breaking performances, making it a premier destination for runners targeting a personal best.
- Riverside Sightseeing: The looped course crosses several famous bridges and offers constant, stunning views of the Vltava River and the city’s iconic bridges.
- Fairytale Architecture: Runners pass legendary landmarks including the Rudolfinum, the National Theatre, the Dancing House, and the historic Vyšehrad Castle.
- Prague Castle Views: Experience the emotional high of running with the majestic Prague Castle as a constant backdrop, looming over the city from its hilltop position.
- Vibrant Music Festival: The race is synchronized with the Prague Music Festival, featuring live bands and DJs along the route to keep energy levels high from start to finish.
Date for 2026: Saturday, March 28, 2026
Start Time: 10:00 AM
Address: Start & Finish Line: Jan Palach Square (Náměstà Jana Palacha), near the Rudolfinum, 110 00 Josefov, Prague 1, Czech Republic
Why it’s great: It is a fast, elite-level race that feels like a cinematic tour of one of the world’s most beautiful cities, combining professional-grade speed with a magical medieval atmosphere.
For more information about the Generali Prague Half Marathon, click here. Contact Euro Travelo to handle all your accommodation, ticket, and transportation needs.
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3. Generali Berlin Half Marathon – Berlin, Germany 2026
The Generali Berlin Half Marathon is a premier athletic event that serves as the exhilarating springtime kickoff for the international running community. Often called the “little brother” of the legendary Berlin Marathon, this race is world-renowned for its incredibly flat, wind-sheltered course that attracts both elite world-record seekers and thousands of ambitious amateurs. As a key member of the SuperHalfs series and a World Athletics Elite Label race, it offers a high-octane atmosphere where the streets of a reunited Berlin come alive with over 40,000 participants. Running through the heart of the German capital, athletes are propelled by the cheers of massive crowds and live music, culminating in an emotional final sprint through the historic Brandenburg Gate.
Highlights:
- Fast and Flat Course: Famous as one of the fastest half marathons globally, the smooth asphalt and minimal elevation make it the ultimate destination for setting a personal best.
- SuperHalfs Series Event: As one of the six prestigious SuperHalfs races, it offers world-class organization, high-caliber competition, and a unique passport system for international runners.
- Brandenburg Gate Finish: Experience the most iconic finish in European running, passing through the historic symbol of unity just 100 meters before the finish line.
- Monumental Sightseeing: The route provides a spectacular loop past Berlin’s most famous landmarks, including the Victory Column, Charlottenburg Palace, and the Reichstag.
- Multi-Sport Festival: The event is highly inclusive, featuring separate starts for inline skaters, wheelchair athletes, and handbikers, ensuring a diverse and energetic race day.
- Historic Expo Location: The pre-race HALF MARATHON EXPO takes place at the historic Tempelhof Airport, where participants pick up their race materials on the tarmac of the former airfield.
Date for 2026: Sunday, March 29, 2026
Start Time: Runners typically start from 10:05 AM (Inline skaters begin at 09:30 AM).
Address:
- Start & Finish: Straße des 17. Juni (between Brandenburg Gate and Victory Column), 10117 Berlin, Germany
Why it’s great: It is the most atmospheric and high-profile spring race in Germany, offering a lightning-fast course and a legendary finish through the city’s most iconic historic monument.
For more information about the Generali Berlin Half Marathon, click here. Contact Euro Travelo to handle all your accommodation, ticket, and transportation needs.
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4. Cardiff Half Marathon – Cardiff, Wales 2026
The Cardiff Half Marathon is a premier athletic event that has grown to become the largest road race in Wales and one of the most popular half marathons in the United Kingdom. As a core member of the prestigious SuperHalfs series, it attracts a massive international field of over 25,000 runners to the vibrant Welsh capital. The course is famously flat and fast, making it a top choice for elite athletes and recreational runners aiming for a personal best. The race offers a stunning architectural tour, starting in the shadow of a medieval fortress and winding through lush parklands, modern bay developments, and historic civic centers, all while being propelled by the legendary “Cymric” support of local crowds.
Highlights:
- Historic Castle Start: The race begins on Castle Street with the impressive Cardiff Castle providing a dramatic historic backdrop for the opening meters.
- SuperHalfs Series Event: This race is part of an elite international circuit, ensuring world-class organization, a festive atmosphere, and a high-caliber field of global participants.
- Cardiff Bay Loop: Runners enjoy a scenic stretch through the modernized Cardiff Bay, passing the iconic Wales Millennium Centre and the Senedd (Welsh Parliament) building.
- Roath Park Scenery: The route takes a picturesque turn around the lake at Roath Park, offering a serene, green interlude before the final push toward the city center.
- Fast and Flat Profile: Widely recognized as one of the fastest 21.1km courses in the UK, the minimal elevation gain is perfect for those targeting a sub-two-hour finish or a personal record.
- Grand Civic Finish: The journey concludes on King Edward VII Avenue, surrounded by the grand Edwardian architecture of City Hall and the National Museum of Wales.
Date for 2026: Sunday, October 4, 2026
Start Time: Staggered mass start typically begins at 10:00 AM.
Address:
- Start: Castle Street (near Cardiff Castle, Cardiff, CF10 1BS, United Kingdom
- Finish: King Edward VII Avenue (near City Hall, Cardiff, CF10 3ND, United Kingdom
Why it’s great: It is a high-energy, world-class race that seamlessly blends the ancient history of Wales with a modern, fast-paced urban course and unparalleled community support.
For more information about the Cardiff Half Marathon, click here. Contact Euro Travelo to handle all your accommodation, ticket, and transportation needs.
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5. Wizz Air Rome Half Marathon – Rome, Italy 2026
The Wizz Air Rome Half Marathon is a breathtaking 21.1km journey through the “Eternal City,” offering an incomparable blend of elite competition and ancient history. Starting at the legendary Circus Maximus, the site where Romans once gathered for chariot races, runners embark on a fast, flat course that serves as a grand tour of classical antiquity. As a member of the prestigious SuperHalfs series, it attracts a massive international field of athletes eager to experience the emotional high of running past the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, and along the banks of the Tiber River. The grand finale is truly cinematic, culminating in a triumphant finish just steps away from the iconic Colosseum on the grand Via dei Fori Imperiali.
Highlights:
- Historic Arena Start: Begin your race at Circus Maximus, the largest stadium of Ancient Rome, providing a regal and high-energy atmosphere for the opening kilometers.
- SuperHalfs Series Member: This race is part of an elite international circuit, ensuring top-tier organization, a vibrant expo, and a unique passport system for global runners.
- Classical Architecture Tour: The route offers a spectacular journey past some of the world’s most famous monuments, including the Baths of Caracalla and the historic squares of the city center.
- Fast and Flat Trajectory: Designed to be wind-sheltered and primarily flat, the course is a premier destination for runners aiming to set a personal best under the warm October sun.
- Riverside Miles: Enjoy scenic stretches along the Tiber River, offering views of the city’s historic bridges and the Vatican in the distance.
- Grand Imperial Finish: Conclude your marathon on the Via dei Fori Imperiali, crossing the finish line with the imposing silhouette of the Colosseum directly in your line of sight.
Date for 2026: Sunday, October 18, 2026
Start Time: 08:30 AM
Address:
- Start: Via del Circo Massimo (Circus Maximus), 00186 Rome, Italy
- Finish: Via dei Fori Imperiali (near the Colosseum), 00184 Rome, Italy
Why it’s great: It offers the world’s most spectacular architectural finish, allowing you to run through the heart of the Roman Empire and finish in front of its most legendary amphitheater.
For more information about the Wizz Air Rome Half Marathon, click here. Contact Euro Travelo to handle all your accommodation, ticket, and transportation needs.
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6. Wiener Städtische Half Marathon – Vienna, Austria 2026
The Wiener Städtische Half Marathon is Austria’s premier springtime running event, offering a majestic 21.1km journey through one of Europe’s most culturally rich capitals. As the centerpiece half-marathon of the Vienna City Marathon weekend, this World Athletics Elite Label race is celebrated for its “Run Vienna – Enjoy Classics” motto, where the sound of waltzes by Strauss and Mozart propels runners through the city. The course begins with a breathtaking crossing of the Danube and winds through a “string of highlights,” from lush parks to imperial palaces. With its famously flat profile and electric atmosphere fueled by dozens of cheering zones, it is an ideal stage for athletes to experience the grand history of the Habsburg Empire at high speed.
Highlights:
- The Imperial Bridge Start: Begin your race on the iconic Reichsbrücke, crossing the mighty Danube River to the legendary sounds of the “Blue Danube” waltz.
- Kipchoge’s Legacy: Run through the Prater Hauptallee, a “World Athletics Heritage” site and the very stretch where Eliud Kipchoge made history by breaking the two-hour marathon barrier.
- Imperial Sightseeing: The route takes you past Vienna’s most stunning landmarks, including the Vienna State Opera, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the historic Ringstraße.
- Fast and Flat Course: Known for its minimal elevation changes and broad boulevards, this race is a premier destination for runners looking to secure a new personal best.
- Musical Motivation: Over 40 cheering zones and music points line the course, blending classical heritage with modern DJ sounds to maintain a rhythmic and high-energy pace.
- Grand Ringstraße Finish: Cross the finish line in the heart of the city between the historic Burgtheater and the neo-Gothic Rathaus (City Hall).
Date for 2026: Sunday, April 19, 2026
Start Time: From 09:00 AM (multiple waves)
Address:
- Start: Wagramer Straße / Reichsbrücke, 1220 Vienna, Austria
- Finish: Ringstraße (near Burgtheater, 1010 Vienna, Austria
Why it’s great: It is a culturally immersive race that allows you to run in the footsteps of world records while surrounded by the architectural grandeur and classical music of old-world Vienna.
For more information about the Wiener Städtische Half Marathon, click here. Contact Euro Travelo to handle all your accommodation, ticket, and transportation needs.
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7. 11th TUI Rhodes Half Marathon – Rhodes, Greece 2026
The TUI Rhodes Half Marathon offers an enchanting journey through time on one of the Mediterranean’s most storied islands. This 21.1km race is a high-energy celebration of history and athletics, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Aegean Sea. As a certified AIMS event, it attracts a diverse international field eager to experience the unique blend of ancient fortifications and modern Greek hospitality. The course is famously flat and scenic, winding along the island’s northern coastline and through the heart of the UNESCO-listed Medieval Town. Running in Rhodes isn’t just a competition; it’s a cultural immersion where the spirit of the ancient Colossus of Rhodes inspires every stride toward the finish line in the vibrant city center.
Highlights:
- Medieval Coastal Route: Run alongside the majestic walls of the Medieval City of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers an unparalleled historical atmosphere.
- Aegean Sea Panoramas: The course follows the spectacular northern coastline, providing runners with constant, uninterrupted views of the deep blue Aegean waters.
- UNESCO Heritage Sightseeing: The route serves as a living museum, passing landmarks from the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods, as well as the iconic Mandraki Harbor.
- AIMS-Certified Flat Course: Renowned for its flat and fast trajectory, this race is a premier destination for runners looking to set a personal best in a sunny, seaside environment.
- International Sporting Festival: Join participants from over 50 countries in a multi-sport weekend that includes a full marathon, 10K, 5K, and a celebratory Kids’ Race.
- Enthusiastic Local Support: Experience the warm “Philoxenia” (hospitality) of the Dodecanese islands, with live music and cheering crowds filling Eleftherias Square and the surrounding streets.
Date for 2026: Sunday, April 26, 2026
Start Time: 07:30 AM
Address:
- Start & Finish Line: Eleftherias Square (near the Town Hall), Rhodes Centre, 85100 Rhodes, Greece
Why it’s great: It is an exceptionally scenic and flat coastal race that allows you to run through centuries of history while enjoying the refreshing sea breeze and vibrant culture of one of Greece’s most beautiful islands.
For more information about the TUI Rhodes Half Marathon, click here. Contact Euro Travelo to handle all your accommodation, ticket, and transportation needs.
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8. Edinburgh Half Marathon – Edinburgh, Scotland 2026
The Edinburgh Half Marathon is a premier highlight of the Edinburgh Marathon Festival, widely recognized as one of the fastest and most scenic running events in the United Kingdom. Frequently voted the fastest route in the UK, the course features a unique net-downhill profile that descends nearly 90 meters, making it a dream destination for those chasing a personal record. Starting in the historic heart of the city near the University of Edinburgh, runners are treated to an architectural tour of the UNESCO World Heritage city center before heading toward the refreshing coastal air of the Firth of Forth. It is a high-energy event where the traditional sounds of bagpipes and the cheers of thousands of spectators create an electric atmosphere that carries runners from the shadow of Edinburgh Castle all the way to the seaside finish.
Highlights:
- Fast and Flat Trajectory: Renowned for its significant net elevation drop, the course is engineered for speed, offering one of the best opportunities in the world to secure a half marathon personal best.
- Iconic City Landmarks: The route provides a spectacular tour of Edinburgh’s heritage, passing McEwan Hall, the Royal Mile, and the historic St Giles’ Cathedral.
- Stunning Royal Backdrop: Experience the awe-inspiring views of Edinburgh Castle and the rugged beauty of Arthur’s Seat as you navigate the early miles of the race.
- Coastal Scenic Stretch: After leaving the city center, the course opens up to the Portobello Promenade, offering beautiful views across the sea to Fife and a refreshing breeze for the final stages.
- Golfing Heritage: Runners pass the oldest golf course in the world at Musselburgh Links, where the game has been played since at least the 17th century.
- Vibrant Festival Finish: The journey concludes at Pinkie Playing Fields in Musselburgh, where a massive finish-line festival awaits with medals, music, and a triumphant celebration for over 12,000 finishers.
Date for 2026: Sunday, May 24, 2026
Start Time: 08:00 AM
Address:
- Start: Potterrow (near McEwan Hall), Edinburgh, EH8 9BL, United Kingdom
- Finish: Pinkie Playing Fields, Musselburgh, EH21 7RS, United Kingdom
Why it’s great: It combines a world-class, downhill-to-flat course with a spectacular journey through Scottish history and coastline, making it the premier destination for runners seeking a lightning-fast time.
For more information about the Edinburgh Half Marathon, click here. Contact Euro Travelo to handle all your accommodation, ticket, and transportation needs.
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9. Midnight Sun Marathon – Tromsø, Norway 2026
The Midnight Sun Marathon is one of the most surreal and captivating athletic experiences on the planet, held in the Arctic capital of Tromsø, 350km north of the Arctic Circle. Known as the northernmost AIMS-certified marathon, this race defies the traditional clock by starting in the late evening and finishing in the early hours of the morning under broad, golden daylight. Because the sun never sets during the Arctic summer, runners are bathed in a perpetual glow as they navigate a course that blends coastal beauty with rugged mountain views. It is far more than a race; it is a celebration of the summer solstice, where the entire city of Tromsø transforms into a vibrant festival hub, cheering on thousands of international runners who have traveled to the “edge of the world” to chase the sun.
Highlights:
- The Midnight Sun Phenomenon: Experience the rare sensation of running a full marathon in bright daylight at midnight, as the sun remains visible throughout the entire night.
- Tromsø Bridge Crossing: The course features a spectacular crossing of the iconic Tromsø Bridge, offering panoramic views of the Arctic Cathedral and the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
- Northernmost AIMS Race: Compete in a world-class, professionally certified event at 70° latitude, attracting elite athletes and adventurous amateurs from over 70 countries.
- Dramatic Arctic Scenery: The route winds along the shimmering fjords and the Norwegian Sea, providing a breathtaking backdrop of untamed wilderness and coastal charm.
- Unrivaled Community Spirit: Despite the late hour, the local community lines the streets with garden parties and flags, creating a warm and infectious “folk festival” atmosphere.
- Multi-Distance Arctic Event: The weekend includes a variety of challenges, from the full marathon and half marathon to the 10K “Mila” and a dedicated children’s race, all finishing in the heart of the city.
Date for 2026: Saturday, June 20, 2026
Start Times (Approximate): * Marathon: 8:30 PM (20:30)
- Half Marathon: 10:30 PM (22:30)
- 10K (Mila): 7:00 PM (19:00)
Address:
- Start: Grønnegata, Tromsø City Centre, Norway
- Finish: Storgata (near Kirkeparken), Tromsø City Centre, Norway
Why it’s great: It is the only race in the world where you can lose track of time entirely, sprinting toward a midnight finish line while surrounded by the golden light and majestic fjords of the Arctic North.
For more information about the Midnight Sun Marathon, click here. Contact Euro Travelo to handle all your accommodation, ticket, and transportation needs.
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10. Royal Parks Half Marathon – London, UK 2026
The Royal Parks Half Marathon is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful city runs in the world, offering a spectacular 21.1km journey through the leafy heart of London. This award-winning event is unique for its ability to seamlessly weave together the capital’s world-famous urban landmarks with the serene beauty of its historic green spaces. Starting and finishing in the iconic Hyde Park, the course takes runners on a grand tour of four Royal Parks on entirely closed roads. It is much more than a race; it is a major fundraising festival that has raised nearly £60 million for charity since its inception, combining a professional-grade athletic challenge with a vibrant, community-focused festival atmosphere that attracts 16,000 participants annually.
Highlights:
- Four Royal Parks in One Race: Navigate a stunningly scenic route that winds through Hyde Park, The Green Park, St. James’s Park, and Kensington Gardens.
- Iconic London Landmarks: Enjoy uninterrupted views of world-famous sites including Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and the Royal Albert Hall.
- World-Class Festival Atmosphere: The event hub in Hyde Park features a massive Food and Fitness Festival with live entertainment, making it a landmark day for both runners and spectators.
- Fast and Accessible Course: The route is generally flat with only gentle undulations, making it the perfect destination for beginners or seasoned runners looking for a fast time.
- Closed-Road Urban Experience: Experience the thrill of running through the center of London without the hustle of traffic, including a double pass along the grand Mall.
- Sustainability Leader: Recognized as one of the UK’s most eco-friendly major races, the event emphasizes sustainable practices and the conservation of London’s 5,000 acres of parkland.
Date for 2026: Sunday, October 11, 2026
Start Time: Waves typically begin from 09:00 AM.
Address:
- Start & Finish Line: Hyde Park (South of the Serpentine), London, W2 2UH, United Kingdom
Why it’s great: It is the ultimate “London tour on foot,” offering a lightning-fast, flat course that blends the majesty of British royalty and historic landmarks with the peaceful greenery of the city’s most famous parks.
For more information about the Royal Parks Half Marathon, click here. Contact Euro Travelo to handle all your accommodation, ticket, and transportation needs.
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10 Tips for European Half-Marathon Races
- Carry-On Your Gear: Always pack your broken-in shoes, race outfit, and essential nutrition in your carry-on bag to avoid lost luggage disasters.
- Limit Pre-Race Walking: Save heavy sightseeing for after the race. Walking 20,000 steps the day before can lead to “tourist legs” and fatigue on race morning.
- Verify Medical Certificates: Some countries (like France and Italy) often require a specific medical certificate signed by a doctor. Check the requirements months in advance.
- Stay Near the Finish: It is much easier to walk a short distance to your hotel when you are exhausted after the race than to navigate public transit.
- Bring Your Own Fuel: Do not rely on local expos for your specific energy gels or electrolytes. Stick to the brands you used during training.
- Arrive Early for Jet Lag: Aim to arrive 2–3 days before the race to acclimate to the local time zone and climate.
- Check Sunday Transit: European public transport often follows a reduced schedule on Sundays. Map out your route to the start line the night before.
- Pick Up Bibs Early: Visit the race expo on Thursday or Friday to avoid the massive Saturday crowds and ensure your preferred merchandise isn’t sold out.
- Hydrate During Travel: Air travel is dehydrating. Drink extra water and electrolytes during your flight and upon arrival.
- Prepare for the “Post-Race Chill”: Even in mild weather, your temperature will drop quickly once you finish. Use the gear-check service for a dry change of clothes.
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.
2026 European Half Marathon Schedule
| Race Name | Location | Date (2026) | Start Time | Iconic Highlight |
| EDP Lisbon Half | Lisbon, Portugal | Sunday, Mar 8 | 09:30 AM | Starting on the 25 de Abril Bridge |
| Generali Prague Half | Prague, Czech Rep. | Saturday, Mar 28 | 10:00 AM | Running through the historic Old Town |
| Generali Berlin Half | Berlin, Germany | Sunday, Mar 29 | 10:05 AM | Finishing through the Brandenburg Gate |
| Wiener Städtische Half | Vienna, Austria | Sunday, Apr 19 | 09:00 AM | Crossing the Danube to Strauss waltzes |
| TUI Rhodes Half | Rhodes, Greece | Sunday, Apr 26 | 07:30 AM | Seaside route by Medieval City walls |
| Edinburgh Half | Edinburgh, Scotland | Sunday, May 24 | 08:00 AM | Fast, net-downhill coastal course |
| Midnight Sun Half | Tromsø, Norway | Saturday, June 20 | 10:30 PM | Running in daylight at midnight |
| Cardiff Half | Cardiff, Wales | Sunday, Oct 4 | 10:00 AM | Starting at the medieval Cardiff Castle |
| Royal Parks Half | London, UK | Sunday, Oct 11 | 09:00 AM | Tour of 4 Royal Parks & Buckingham Palace |
| Wizz Air Rome Half | Rome, Italy | Sunday, Oct 18 | 08:30 AM | Finishing at the iconic Colosseum |
Conclusion
Participating in a 2026 European half-marathon is the ultimate way to blend athletic ambition with cultural exploration. The 21.1km distance is the perfect “race-cation” sweet spot, offering a world-class challenge while leaving you with enough energy to enjoy local history and cuisine. Whether you are sprinting through Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate or running under the Arctic’s Midnight Sun, these events transform city streets into high-energy corridors of community and prestige.
Beyond the finish line, these races connect you to an elite global community and the celebrated SuperHalfs circuit. From the lightning-fast, flat courses of Prague and Lisbon to the scenic royal parks of London, the 2026 calendar provides a diverse range of bucket-list experiences. By combining professional organization with the vibrant spirit of Europe’s most beautiful cities, these races offer a truly unforgettable way to see the world, one mile at a time.
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!
FAQs
1. How does the SuperHalfs Passport system work for the 2026 series?
The SuperHalfs Passport is a virtual document used to track your progress across the six specific races in the series: Lisbon, Prague, Berlin, Copenhagen, Cardiff, and Valencia. When you register for any of these events, you must enter your unique 36-character passport number to ensure your result is automatically stamped after you cross the finish line. Once you complete all six races in the series—regardless of the order or time taken—you are awarded a massive “SuperMedal” at the finish line of your final race. There is currently no time limit for completion, so you can spread these six races over several years.
2. What are the specific registration requirements for the Rome and Berlin races?
For the Generali Berlin Half Marathon, registration is typically handled through a lottery or via official tour operators once the general entry sells out. Participants must be at least 18 years old on race day and must pick up their race materials in person at the Expo; third-party collection is not permitted. In contrast, races in Italy often require a medical certificate or a “Runcard” to comply with national laws. While the Wizz Air Rome Half Marathon is relatively new, you should prepare to provide a signed health certificate from your doctor confirming you are fit for competitive athletics.
3. Is there a time limit for completing these half-marathon courses?
Most major European city races are inclusive but do have strict cut-off times to allow roads to be reopened to traffic. For example, the Berlin Half Marathon generally has a time limit of 3 hours and 15 minutes. In Edinburgh and Vienna, the cut-off is typically around 3 hours to 3 hours and 30 minutes from the time the final wave crosses the start line. If you fall behind the pace vehicle, you may be asked to move to the sidewalk and continue as a pedestrian or board a “sweep bus” to the finish area.
4. How do logistics work for the point-to-point course in Edinburgh?
Unlike “loop” courses that start and finish in the same place, the Edinburgh Half Marathon starts in the city center (Potterrow) and finishes in Musselburgh. The event organizers provide a dedicated shuttle bus service, known as EMF Event Buses, to transport runners from the finish line back to the city center or to various Park & Ride locations. It is highly recommended to book these bus tickets in advance during your registration, as on-the-day tickets are usually not available and local public transport can be extremely crowded.
5. What should I expect for the 10:30 PM start in Tromsø?
The Midnight Sun Half Marathon is unique because it starts late at night on Saturday to ensure you are running during the peak of the “Midnight Sun.” While it is light outside, Arctic temperatures can be unpredictable, often ranging from 8°C to 12°C (46°F to 54°F). The course is mostly flat but includes two crossings of the Tromsø Bridge, which provides a significant incline. Because the race finishes in the early hours of Sunday morning, many local cafes and restaurants in Tromsø stay open late to welcome runners for a post-race meal in broad daylight.
