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Top 25 European Marathons To Run In 2027: Iconic Cities And Memorable Experiences
Europe is home to some of the world's most exciting marathons, offering everything from fast courses and historic city centres to spectacular coastlines and unusual race traditions. Whether you're chasing a personal best, planning your first marathon abroad or looking for an unforgettable running experience, the European calendar has plenty to offer.
The choice extends far beyond the continent's biggest races. Runners can finish inside an Olympic stadium in Stockholm, follow the historic marathon route in Greece, race beneath the midnight sun in the Arctic or climb high into the Swiss Alps.
We've selected 25 European marathons definitely worth considering in 2027. Our individual guides provide further information about each event, including courses, entry arrangements and where to stay.
Seville Marathon, Spain
21 February 2027
Seville has established itself as one of Europe's leading early season marathons, with a remarkably flat course that attracts runners pursuing personal bests. The route passes some of the Andalusian capital's most recognisable landmarks, including Plaza de España and the Torre del Oro, alongside wide avenues that help make the event particularly suitable for fast running.
February generally brings milder conditions than the intense summer heat for which southern Spain is known. The combination of a fast course, enthusiastic local support and Seville's distinctive architecture makes this an attractive way to begin the European marathon season.
Barcelona Marathon, Spain
14 March 2027
Barcelona's marathon takes runners through a city where extraordinary architecture is part of the everyday landscape. The course features broad avenues and some of the Catalan capital's most famous sights, with buildings designed by Antoni Gaudí contributing to an unmistakably Barcelona experience.
The event has grown considerably in international popularity, attracting runners from around the world to its spring race. With the Mediterranean coast, historic neighbourhoods and celebrated food culture all within easy reach, Barcelona offers plenty of reasons to extend a marathon visit beyond race weekend.
Run Rome The Marathon, Italy
14 March 2027
Running a marathon through Rome offers an extraordinary journey through history, with ancient monuments appearing throughout the course. The Colosseum, Roman Forum, Castel Sant'Angelo and St Peter's Basilica provide a succession of remarkable sights, while sections of cobbled streets add to the character of the event.
Rome is also one of the eight European Marathon Classics, a series connecting major races across the continent. Its combination of ancient surroundings and modern marathon running makes it an especially memorable choice for runners who enjoy events with a strong historical identity.
Paris Marathon, France
4 April 2027
The Paris Marathon turns some of the French capital's most famous streets into a spectacular running route, beginning on the Champs Élysées and passing grand monuments, public squares and stretches beside the River Seine. The wide boulevards and elegant buildings give the event a sense of scale that few European marathons can match.
The 2027 race will mark the event's 50th edition, adding significance to an already prestigious occasion. Paris attracts a huge international field, creating a lively atmosphere as runners explore a city that offers famous sights throughout the course.
Rotterdam Marathon, Netherlands
11 April 2027
Rotterdam has a long association with fast marathon performances, helped by its flat course and reputation for attracting high quality international fields. The route features the striking Erasmus Bridge and passes through a city known for its modern skyline, giving the event a very different appearance from the historic capitals elsewhere on this list.
Crowd support is a defining feature, particularly along Coolsingel, where runners approach the finish surrounded by thousands of enthusiastic spectators. Rotterdam's combination of speed, scale and atmosphere has made it one of Europe's most respected spring marathons.
Manchester Marathon, United Kingdom
18 April 2027
Manchester has become one of Europe's largest marathon events, with a relatively flat course that passes through communities across Greater Manchester. The race is particularly well known for the crowds lining its streets, with music, cheering spectators and local involvement creating a lively atmosphere from start to finish.
Its growth reflects the increasing popularity of marathon running in the UK, and the event now attracts a substantial international field. Manchester is especially appealing to runners who want a major city marathon with strong community support and good potential for a fast finishing time.
Vienna City Marathon, Austria
18 April 2027
Vienna's marathon showcases the Austrian capital's imperial heritage, taking runners past grand buildings, elegant boulevards and landmarks associated with the city's long cultural history. The course has traditionally included the famous Ringstrasse and the area around Schönbrunn Palace, providing an impressive architectural setting.
The event also has a strong connection to the history of distance running, with Vienna having hosted Eliud Kipchoge's pioneering sub two hour marathon performance in 2019. As a European Marathon Classics event, it offers another incentive for runners interested in completing races across the continent.
London Marathon, United Kingdom
24–25 April 2027
Few marathons can match London for atmosphere, with enormous crowds supporting runners through some of the capital's most recognisable locations. Tower Bridge provides one of the great moments of the race, while the route through Canary Wharf and the final approach towards Buckingham Palace and The Mall create an unforgettable finish.
The 2027 edition will be particularly significant, with the event expanding to a special two day format and approximately 100,000 runners expected to take part. London's exceptional fundraising tradition also distinguishes it from many other major marathons, with thousands of participants supporting charities across a wide range of causes.
Madrid Marathon, Spain
25 April 2027
Madrid offers a marathon with a lively atmosphere and a challenging course through the Spanish capital. The route takes runners along major avenues and past impressive landmarks, while the city's changing elevation provides a different experience from the flatter courses of Berlin, Rotterdam or Valencia.
Music plays an important role in the event, with live performances contributing to its energetic character. Madrid is also part of the European Marathon Classics, adding an additional attraction for runners interested in completing a series of major European races.
Prague Marathon, Czech Republic
2 May 2027
Prague's marathon offers a remarkable combination of medieval architecture, historic bridges and riverside scenery. The course begins and finishes in the city's historic centre, with the River Vltava providing a central feature as runners pass through different parts of the Czech capital.
The city's famous Old Town Square and surrounding buildings create a particularly memorable setting for the event. Prague is an attractive option for runners who want a marathon where the surroundings are just as important as the race itself.
Copenhagen Marathon, Denmark
9 May 2027
Copenhagen's marathon takes runners through a capital known for its colourful neighbourhoods, waterfront districts and contemporary Scandinavian character. The route explores different parts of the city, with music and enthusiastic spectators helping create a festival atmosphere.
Its relatively flat streets have made Copenhagen popular with runners seeking faster times, while the event's growing international profile continues to attract participants from overseas. The marathon is also part of the European Marathon Classics, placing it alongside some of the continent's most established events.
Stockholm Marathon, Sweden
29 May 2027
Stockholm offers one of Europe's most scenic urban marathons, with a course through a city built across islands and surrounded by water. The route combines waterfront views, green spaces and historic neighbourhoods, giving runners a changing landscape throughout the event.
Its defining feature is the finish inside Stockholm Olympic Stadium, originally built for the 1912 Olympic Games. Completing a marathon on the track of such a historic athletics venue provides a memorable conclusion to an event that celebrates both the city and its sporting heritage.
Edinburgh Marathon, United Kingdom
30 May 2027
The Edinburgh Marathon begins in the Scottish capital before heading east towards the Firth of Forth, creating a route that combines city landmarks with extensive coastal scenery. The transition from Edinburgh's historic streets to the more open roads beside the water gives the event a distinctive character.
Its generally favourable course profile has helped establish Edinburgh as a popular choice for runners seeking fast times. The race also forms part of the wider Edinburgh Marathon Festival, bringing together participants across several distances over the weekend.
Midnight Sun Marathon, Norway
19 June 2027
The Midnight Sun Marathon takes place in Tromsø, high above the Arctic Circle, where the sun remains above the horizon throughout the summer nights. Runners set off in the evening and continue into the night beneath continuous daylight, creating an extraordinary atmosphere that is unlike almost any other European marathon.
The route offers views of dramatic mountains, fjords and the surrounding Arctic landscape, with the distinctive Tromsø Bridge providing one of the event's memorable features. The combination of remarkable natural scenery, unusual race timing and the experience of running beneath the midnight sun makes Tromsø an exceptional destination for runners looking for something different.
Marathon du Médoc, France
4 September 2027
The Marathon du Médoc is unlike almost any other major running event, taking participants through the vineyards and wine estates of the Bordeaux region. Elaborate fancy dress, live music, food stations and wine tasting are all part of the experience, creating an atmosphere that places celebration firmly alongside the challenge of completing 42.195 kilometres.
The route passes through picturesque wine growing landscapes and the grounds of celebrated châteaux, offering scenery rarely associated with marathon running. For runners who enjoy unusual events and memorable traditions, Médoc provides one of Europe's most distinctive marathon experiences.
Jungfrau Marathon, Switzerland
September 2027, date to be confirmed
The Jungfrau Marathon offers one of Europe's most spectacular mountain running experiences, taking participants from Interlaken into the heart of the Swiss Alps. The course passes through traditional Alpine villages, green valleys and mountain landscapes before climbing towards Kleine Scheidegg, beneath the imposing peaks of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.
With approximately 1,800 metres of elevation gain, this is a very different proposition from Europe's fast city marathons. The demanding climbs are rewarded with extraordinary views of the Bernese Oberland, making Jungfrau an unforgettable choice for runners seeking a physical challenge surrounded by some of Europe's finest mountain scenery.
Berlin Marathon, Germany
26 September 2027
Berlin is one of the most famous marathons in the world, renowned for its exceptionally fast course and history of world record performances. The route takes runners through the German capital, passing important landmarks and neighbourhoods before the memorable finish through the Brandenburg Gate.
As a World Marathon Major, Berlin attracts an enormous international field and some of the world's leading distance runners. Its combination of speed, prestige and a city shaped by extraordinary historical events makes it one of Europe's most desirable marathon destinations.
Warsaw Marathon, Poland
26 September 2027
Warsaw provides a fascinating setting for a marathon, with the Polish capital's mixture of reconstructed historic buildings and modern architecture reflecting its complex history. The route explores different parts of the city, offering runners an opportunity to experience both its established neighbourhoods and more contemporary districts.
The marathon has developed a growing international profile and is included in the European Marathon Classics series. Warsaw is particularly appealing to runners interested in discovering a European capital that receives less attention than many of the continent's traditional marathon destinations.
Lisbon Marathon, Portugal
October 2027, date to be confirmed
Lisbon's marathon is particularly attractive for its coastal setting, with the course traditionally featuring extensive stretches beside the Atlantic Ocean and the River Tagus. The open waterfront scenery provides a striking contrast to the narrow streets and steep hills associated with Portugal's capital.
The event is part of the European Marathon Classics, bringing another major international race into the series. Lisbon's combination of ocean views, historic surroundings and Portuguese culture makes it a popular destination for runners looking for an autumn marathon abroad.
Amsterdam Marathon, Netherlands
October 2027, date to be confirmed
Amsterdam combines a fast marathon course with some of the Netherlands' most recognisable urban scenery. The route traditionally includes Vondelpark and stretches beside the River Amstel, offering a mixture of city streets, green spaces and waterside views.
The finish inside Amsterdam's Olympic Stadium, built for the 1928 Games, is one of the event's great attractions. Runners complete their marathon on a historic athletics track, providing a fitting conclusion to a race with a strong international reputation.
Frankfurt Marathon, Germany
October 2027, date to be confirmed
Frankfurt has established itself as one of Germany's leading fast marathons, with a relatively flat course through the country's financial capital. The route features modern skyscrapers, residential districts and stretches near the River Main, providing a varied picture of the city.
The event's famous finish inside the Festhalle sets it apart from most European marathons. Runners enter an indoor arena filled with lights, music and cheering spectators, creating a dramatic final few metres after the long journey through Frankfurt's streets.
Dublin Marathon, Ireland
October 2027, date to be confirmed
The Dublin Marathon is particularly well known for its enthusiastic local support, with spectators lining residential streets and neighbourhoods across the Irish capital. The course traditionally includes sections through Phoenix Park and other parts of the city, combining green spaces with busy urban surroundings.
Dublin's friendly atmosphere has helped make the event popular with international visitors, while its established running tradition gives it a strong identity. The marathon offers an opportunity to experience the Irish capital through its communities rather than simply passing its best known tourist landmarks.
Venice Marathon, Italy
October 2027, date to be confirmed
Venice offers one of Europe's most unusual marathon routes, beginning outside the historic lagoon city before following roads through the surrounding region. The course traditionally passes along the Brenta Riviera, where elegant villas and waterways provide a scenic introduction to the event.
The final section brings runners into Venice itself, with temporary bridges installed to allow the race to cross the city's famous canals. Finishing beside the lagoon after passing through such an extraordinary setting makes this a particularly memorable Italian marathon.
Athens Marathon, Greece
November 2027, date to be confirmed
The Athens Marathon follows the historic route from Marathon to Athens, connecting modern distance running with the ancient story that inspired the event. The course is considerably more demanding than many major city marathons, with a sustained uphill section making it a challenging experience.
The reward comes at the finish inside the Panathenaic Stadium, which hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Few marathon finishes carry such historical significance, making Athens an essential consideration for runners interested in the origins of their sport.
Valencia Marathon, Spain
December 2027, date to be confirmed
Valencia has become one of the world's leading destinations for fast marathon running, with a flat course that regularly attracts outstanding elite performances. The route passes through broad city streets, with the Spanish city's modern architecture and enthusiastic spectators contributing to its growing reputation.
The finish beside the City of Arts and Sciences is among the most recognisable in international marathon running, with the striking buildings and surrounding water creating a spectacular setting. Valencia's early December timing also makes it an attractive option for runners looking to complete a major marathon towards the end of the year.
How To Choose Your European Marathon 2027
With so many outstanding events available, choosing a European marathon depends on what you want from the experience. Course profile, time of year, scenery, atmosphere and entry availability can all influence which race is the best fit.
For runners chasing a personal best, Berlin, Rotterdam, Valencia, Amsterdam and Frankfurt are particularly attractive options. Those looking for spectacular surroundings might prefer Rome, Prague, Stockholm, Tromsø or Venice, while Athens offers a challenging route with a unique connection to marathon history.
For runners seeking a more demanding physical challenge, the Jungfrau Marathon provides an opportunity to experience mountain running in the Swiss Alps. The Marathon du Médoc offers something entirely different, placing fancy dress, food and celebration at the centre of the experience.
Entry arrangements vary between events, with some using ballots or lotteries and others offering general registration, charity places or authorised tour operator packages. Our individual marathon guides provide more detailed information to help runners choose and plan their next race.
Explore More Running Events
Europe's marathon calendar extends well beyond these 25 races, with events taking place in major cities, coastal destinations and smaller communities throughout the year. Our individual event guides provide detailed information about courses, entry arrangements, accommodation and what runners can expect on race weekend.
Runners interested in completing a series of major events can also explore our European Marathon Classics guide, which covers the eight races included in the series. For those considering a shorter distance, our Top European Half Marathons To Run In 2027 article highlights another selection of outstanding running events across the continent.
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