6 World-Famous Marathons Worth Traveling For – Even If You're Not a Runner
Not every bucket list needs to involve mountains or oceans—sometimes, it's the road beneath your feet and the roar of the crowd at the finish line. If you're even a little curious about global marathons, the "Abbott World Marathon Majors" are where to start: six iconic races that span continents, cultures, and running dreams.
1.Boston Marathon (USA)
Founded in 1897, this is the oldest annual city marathon in the world. The route from Hopkinton to Boston is infamous for “Heartbreak Hill,” a cruel uphill stretch that has tested the will of countless runners. Raced each year on Patriots' Day in April, Boston is for the committed. 🎒I brought my 20L extend backpack here—not for race day, of course, but for those foggy pre-run mornings and post-finish snacks.
2.London Marathon (UK)
A spring classic with views of the Tower Bridge and the River Thames, London is fast, scenic, and famously inclusive. From elite athletes to costume-clad fundraisers, it’s a celebration of endurance and community.
The flat course makes it a good choice if you’re chasing a PB (personal best) or simply want a cheerful route through a capital city.
3.Berlin Marathon (Germany)
This is the fastest marathon course in the world. Nearly every world record in recent memory has been set here, thanks to the city’s smooth, flat roads and mild autumn temperatures.
Berlin is sometimes called the “PB factory,” and when you run through the Brandenburg Gate at the end, you’ll understand why.
4.New York City Marathon (USA)
The energy. The crowds. The five boroughs. There’s no other marathon like NYC’s.
It’s the largest in the world, both in terms of participants and spectators. From Staten Island to Central Park, the race becomes a tour of New York’s diversity, passion, and grit.
5.Chicago Marathon (USA)
Flat and fast, Chicago’s downtown loop makes it a favorite among first-timers and record-seekers alike.
The weather in October is usually just right—cool enough to keep pace, warm enough to stay comfortable. And because everything starts and ends in Grant Park, it’s incredibly accessible. (Bonus: it’s the most spectator-friendly of the six.)
6.Tokyo Marathon (Japan)
Asia’s only entry into the Six Majors, Tokyo is orderly, electric, and generous with the support stations.
From the starting line near the Metropolitan Government Building to the finish near Tokyo Station, it's a full immersion into Japan's urban beauty and discipline.
It’s the youngest of the six, but no less beloved.
Some people run to beat their time. Some run for the view. Others run for the story.
Whatever your pace or purpose, these six courses are more than races—they’re snapshots of global cities, culture, and character.
And if you’re not running? They’re still worth exploring.
🧭 Pack light. I’ve been carrying a waterproof 20L extendable daypack that works great for city wanderings, drizzle-proof spectating, and post-race ramen.
