From the cliffs of Big Sur to the Great Wall of China, these stunning races beckon globetrotters to run 26.2 miles. Forbes Travel Guide also recommends luxurious hotels to reward yourself after crossing the finish line.
The 2026 marathon calendar promises milestone moments: Boston celebrates its 130th edition, while New York City marks 50 years of its iconic five-borough route (officially its 52nd running).
But for runners who take travel seriously, marathons offer far more than city streets. Today’s premier races let athletes pass ancient temples at Angkor Wat, jog along palm-lined Cayman coasts, or even run alongside the “Big Five” in a South African game reserve.
Forbes Travel Guide has curated the ultimate list of bucket-list marathons for 2026, each paired with world-class accommodations offering everything from spa recovery to fine-dining celebrations.
Boston Marathon
Race Day: April 20
The world’s oldest annual marathon turns 130 this year. Organizers plan special events honoring milestone anniversaries, including the 50th anniversary of the legendary 1976 “Run for the Hoses” (a record 96-degree race) and 60 years since Bobbi Gibb became the first female marathoner in 1966—five years before women were officially allowed.
Check in here: Mandarin Oriental, Boston sits near the finish line, perfect for runners and spectators alike. Enjoy race weekend activities, lobby refreshments, Gordon Ramsay’s specials at Ramsay’s Kitchen, and post-run recovery at the Five-Star spa.
Big Sur International Marathon
Race Day: April 26
Beginning in unspoiled Big Sur and ending in Carmel, this rural marathon offers breathtaking coastal scenery: towering redwoods, rugged cliffs, and crashing waves. At Bixby Bridge—the halfway point—Michael Martinez, the “Grand Piano Man,” plays live music to motivate runners for the final 13.1 miles.
Check in here: Alila Ventana Big Sur immerses guests in the forest. Relax in open-air Japanese hot baths, join movement classes, or simply enjoy forest and ocean views from your balcony.
Karwai Tang/WireImage
TCS London Marathon
Race Day: April 26
The U.K.’s largest marathon drew 56,640 finishers in 2025, setting a Guinness World Record. Runners start at Greenwich Park and pass iconic sights including the Cutty Sark, Tower Bridge, and Big Ben, finishing at The Mall with Buckingham Palace as a backdrop.
Check in here: Shangri-La The Shard offers sweeping city views from its upper floors. Take a dip in the 52nd-floor infinity pool or enjoy cocktails at Gong, London’s highest hotel bar.
Great Wall Marathon
Race Day: May 16
This grueling marathon challenges runners with a 5,164-step climb along the Great Wall’s Huangyaguan section, offering unmatched views and a chance to explore nearby villages. Pre- or post-race excursions include trips to the Qing Dynasty Tombs.
Check in here: Peninsula Beijing’s all-suite accommodations feature deep-soaking tubs and a spa with Chinese Deep Fusion Massage combining acupressure and deep tissue techniques.
Big Five Marathon
Race Day: June 13
Limited to 300 runners, this South African race takes participants across sand paths in Entabeni game reserve, alongside elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo. Race registration includes safari drives and bush walks.
Check in here: Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff, Johannesburg offers serene hillside views. Enjoy African-inspired spa treatments and unwind at the outdoor lounge.
Angkor Empire Marathon
Race Day: August 2
Run 26.2 miles amid 4,500 participants through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Archaeological Park. The course passes rice fields, traditional villages, and 40 ancient temples, with Angkor Wat as the highlight.
Check in here: Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor offers cultural immersion, including Vespa tours, Khmer dinners with traditional dance, and guided art excursions.
Bank of America Chicago Marathon
Race Day: October 11
The Chicago Marathon winds through 29 neighborhoods, from Chinatown to Pilsen, featuring live performances and vibrant street life. More than 52,000 runners are expected, starting and finishing at Grant Park.
Check in here: The St. Regis Chicago provides Five-Star spa services, river and lake views, and a Scent Bar for customized massage experiences.
TCS New York Marathon
Race Day: November 1
Cover all five boroughs in one day. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the five-borough course, starting at Staten Island’s Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and finishing in Central Park at Tavern on the Green.
Check in here: Equinox Hotel New York features Sleep Lab rooms, contrast therapy showers, cryotherapy, IV drips, and CBD massages tailored for marathon recovery.
French Riviera Marathon Nice-Cannes
Race Day: November 8
Follow a scenic 95% sea-adjacent route from Nice to Cannes, passing towns like Vallauris, Golfe-Juan and Cagnes-sur-Mer. Temperatures range from 55–66°F.
Check in here: Le Negresco, a historic pink-domed hotel, offers Mediterranean luxury, a beachside lounge, and an art-focused spa.
HARRY TALBOT
New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty Queenstown Marathon
Race Day: November 14
Run through stunning landscapes of mountains, lakes, and green countryside in Queenstown Lakes District. Part of the Runaway Marathon Series, this race combines athletic achievement with local food and wine experiences.
Check in here: Rosewood Matakauri, nestled in a pine forest, provides scenic serenity. Enjoy stargazing, wine tours, or simply relax amid nature.
Paolo Giuliani/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Estra Firenze Marathon
Race Day: November 29
The Florence Marathon begins at the Duomo, passing bridges, medieval alleys, and Renaissance architecture. Nearly 10,200 runners will experience the city’s rich history.
Check in here: Brunelleschi Hotel, located in a Byzantine tower and medieval church, offers Duomo views and a museum showcasing ancient artifacts.
Walkers Cayman Islands Marathon
Race Day: December 6
Palm-lined streets and Caribbean sunrises set the scene for this flat, fast course. The marathon draws participants from North America, Europe, and the Caribbean.
Check in here: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman features Blue by Eric Ripert tasting menus, spa treatments, golf, and private beach relaxation.
