9 Bucket List Marathons

With so many marathon events to choose from, it's tough to decide where to run your 26.2 miles. The following list includes some of the world's biggest and best marathons that are found on many runners' bucket lists. Which ones have you already checked off? And what's next on your list?

Marathons in the Pandemic

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many marathons may be postponed, modified, or canceled this year and/or until a coronavirus vaccine is available. Check with local event coordinators to confirm dates, alternative options, and other details.

1

Tokyo Marathon

When: Beginning of February
Where: Tokyo, Japan
Why run it: The Tokyo Marathon is the largest marathon race in all of Asia. The race is extremely popular with Japanese runners, as well as marathoners from around the world.

The world-class event has about 30,000 spots, for which almost 300,000 people apply, with final selections based on a lottery. This well-organized marathon has plenty of support and spectators along the way, as you take a cultural and scenic tour of Tokyo's past, present, and future.

2

Paris Marathon

When: Beginning of April
Where: Paris, France
Why run it: One of the most beautiful marathon courses in a major city, the Paris marathon is a flat and fast course. You'll get a scenic tour of some of Paris' most famous sites while experiencing great crowd support. Appropriately enough, the finish line is right near the Arc de Triomphe.

3

Boston Marathon

When: Mid-April
Where: Boston, Massachusetts
Why run it: Many runners have the world's oldest annual marathon on their bucket list because just gaining entry to Boston represents a significant accomplishment. But even if you don't meet the race's tough qualifying times, you could always participate through one of the race's charity partners.

Getting to run Boston is such a thrill that most runners don't mind the series of hills (including the infamous Heartbreak Hill) towards the end of the course.

4

London Marathon

When: Mid-April
Where: London, England
Why run it: One of the five world marathon majors, the London Marathon is high on many runners' lists because of its scenic course, unbelievable spectator support, and fun atmosphere. Gaining entry to the race can be difficult, but the race does offer a lot of charity spots for those who want to fundraise in exchange for an entry.

5

Big Sur International Marathon

2014 Big Sur Marathon — Craig Lovell / Getty Images

When: End of April
Where: Monterey, California
Why run it: Who wouldn't want to run the most scenic marathon in the U.S.? Participants in the Big Sur International Marathon get to run through the redwoods and experience breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean, making running the very hilly course totally worth it.

Racers who have done the Big Sur International Marathon report that the volunteers and race support are phenomenal. You'll even be treated to a classical pianist playing along the course.

Not ready for a full marathon? There's always the Big Sur half-marathon, which offers similarly spectacular views.

6

Berlin Marathon

When: End of September
Where: Berlin, Germany
Why run it: Another one of the world majors, the Berlin Marathon is a flat, fast course as well as a very scenic marathon. The world record has been broken here in the past, so the elite race is also very competitive and exciting. The great crowd support and party atmosphere along the way may help push you to your own personal best (PR).

Knowing that you're running in the footsteps of the world's best marathoners only adds to Berlin Marathon's appeal.

7

Chicago Marathon

When: Early October
Where: Chicago, Illinois
Why run it: The marathon world record has been broken numerous times in Chicago, so it's a very fast course and a favorite among runners trying to run a PR. It's also known for tremendous spectator support, which also helps boost runners' times.

The course starts and finishes in Grant Park, on the shore of Lake Michigan in downtown Chicago. Along the way, you'll be treated to many of the city's highlights, including the Willis Tower, the Chicago Board of Trade, Lincoln Park Zoo, United Center, Chinatown Gate, and many of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods.

At the Chicago Marathon, you'll encounter lots of encouraging fans cheering and blasting music as you run through the Windy City.

8

New York City Marathon

Runners in the NYC Marathon — Photo by Spencer Platt / Getty Images

When: Early November
Where: New York, New York
Why run it: Another of the marathon majors, New York City is the world's largest marathon—both in terms of participants and spectators. Runners tour the city's five boroughs and experience New York's diverse and vibrant neighborhoods.

With more than 2.5 million spectators cheering on runners through the streets of New York, it's truly a race like no other. Gaining entry by lottery gets tougher every year, but the race does have some charity team spots.

Like Big Sur, if you can't do the full, the NYC half-marathon (held in March) is a pretty cool alternative.

9

Athens Classic Marathon

Greek Classic Marathon — Milos Bicanski / Getty Images

When: Mid-November
Where: Athens, Greece
Why run it: Running the original, historic marathon course can't be beaten, but throw in the inspiring finish at the 1896 Olympic stadium and the Athens marathon is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Known for its difficult, uphill terrain, this marathon attracts elite runners looking for a challenge. For those with a bit less gas in the tank, a half marathon option is also available.

More Marathons to Try

If you want more marathons to choose from, consider the races from the following lists: