Marathon tourism is on the rise, with cities around the world transforming their iconic road races into global spectacles that attract runners and spectators alike. Over the past decade, marathon participation has surged by more than 40%, with major events like the New York City Marathon drawing record-breaking crowds. In 2024, the event cemented its place in history as the world’s largest marathon, with an astounding 55,646 finishers.
From the historic course of Athens to the scenic waterfronts of Lisbon, these marathons offer not just a test of endurance but an opportunity to experience a destination through its streets. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner, a first-time runner or you want somewhere heavenly to stay while you support a loved one (hey, let them do the hard work!), we’ve curated the ultimate guide to the world’s most prestigious races—along with the best places to recover and celebrate your achievement.
London Marathon – Sunday, 27 April 2025
An iconic event since 1981, the London Marathon winds through the city’s most historic landmarks, from Tower Bridge to Buckingham Palace. Famed for its electrifying atmosphere and record-breaking charity fundraising, it’s a bucket-list race for runners worldwide.
Raffles London at The OWO is situated just moments from the finish line on The Mall, offering the ultimate post-race sanctuary. Pillar Wellbeing at The OWO features Normatec recovery boots to enhance circulation and reduce muscle fatigue, along with expert-led physiotherapy sessions. The Guerlain Spa spans 27,000 square feet, offering a 20-metre indoor pool, vitality pools, and a sauna—ideal for post-run restoration. Pillar Kitchen serves energy-boosting bites like ‘Energy Marbles’ and ‘High Energy Brownies,’ designed by movement and nutrition experts to aid recovery. Rates start from £900 per night.
Edinburgh Marathon Festival – 24-25 May 2025
Scotland’s largest running event, the Edinburgh Marathon Festival, offers a scenic yet fast course, passing landmarks like Arthur’s Seat before finishing along the stunning East Lothian coastline.
Marine North Berwick is located just 40 minutes from Edinburgh, offering a serene coastal retreat. The Lawn restaurant serves locally sourced dishes, including North Berwick’s famous lobster, for a replenishing post-marathon meal. Rates start from £189 per night, inclusive of a full Scottish breakfast.
Chicago Marathon – 12 October 2025
One of the six Abbott World Marathon Majors, the Chicago Marathon is renowned for its flat, fast course through the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.
Viceroy Chicago is nestled in the Gold Coast district, offering luxury and convenience for marathon runners. Unwind in the rooftop pool with skyline views of Lake Michigan before enjoying a meal at Somerset, the hotel’s restaurant serving locally inspired, nutrient-rich cuisine. Rates available upon request.
Lisbon Marathon – 25 October 2025
A breathtaking race along Portugal’s coastline, the Lisbon Marathon begins in Cascais and finishes in the heart of the city.
Mama Shelter Lisboa is a stylish boutique hotel offering a vibrant, recovery-friendly stay. The rooftop terrace, with stunning views of the Tagus River, provides a tranquil space to unwind. The restaurant serves a fusion of Portuguese and French cuisine, making it a perfect post-race dining experience. Rates start from £78 per night.
Venice Marathon – 26 October 2025
A historic race through Venice, passing the Grand Canal, St Mark’s Square, and the Doge’s Palace before finishing at Riva Sette Martiri.
Il Palazzo Experimental is an elegant retreat in the Dorsoduro district, just a short walk from the race’s most scenic spots. Enjoy a peaceful canal-side garden and a rejuvenating spa experience before dining at Il Ristorante Adriatica, which serves locally inspired cuisine in a relaxed setting. Rates start from £200 per night.
New York City Marathon – 2 November 2025
The New York City Marathon is one of the world’s most celebrated races, drawing over 50,000 runners each year. Covering all five boroughs, from Staten Island to the finish in Central Park, this marathon is famed for its electric atmosphere, enthusiastic crowds, and challenging inclines, making it a bucket-list event for marathoners worldwide.
Equinox Hotel New York offers an unparalleled post-race recovery experience in the heart of Hudson Yards. Designed with wellness in mind, this luxury hotel provides an array of advanced recovery tools, including an in-room sleep system that optimises rest, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, and a regenerative spa featuring cryotherapy, infrared saunas, and contrast therapy. The Recovery Lounge provides access to Normatec compression therapy and Hypervolt massage guns to accelerate muscle repair. Post-marathon dining at Electric Lemon focuses on nutrient-dense, locally sourced dishes to replenish energy levels. Rates start from $1,200 per night.
Athens Marathon – 9 November 2025
This legendary race follows the route of the original marathon from the town of Marathon to Athens’ historic Panathenaic Stadium.
One&Only Aesthesis is situated on the Athenian Riviera, embodying Greek glamour and offering world-class wellness experiences. The Guerlain Spa provides customised post-marathon treatments, including deep muscular massages to relieve tension. Rates start from £420 per night.
Dubai Marathon – January 2026
Known for its flat course and near-perfect running conditions, the Dubai Marathon attracts elite athletes and recreational runners alike.
SIRO One Za’abeel is a cutting-edge wellness hotel designed for performance and recovery. IV therapy, cryotherapy, and red light therapy are among the specialised treatments available for runners. Tailored nutrition plans designed by in-house experts ensure optimal pre- and post-race fuelling. Rates start from £294 per night.
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