Do you might have any racecations in your calendar? If not, after studying this you may need a number of within the works! One of the best half marathons around the globe are an unbelievable excuse to journey!! So, you’re welcome.
The half marathon is one in every of my favourite race distances, particularly to pair with a visit. The coaching requires dedication, however isn’t as demanding as prepping for a marathon. Should you’ve by no means achieved lengthy distance races, it’s additionally not as daunting going from 10ks and 10-milers to the half marathon, as say the soar to 26.2
One other plus is most often, the half marathon received’t depart you as sore as a marathon would possibly. This may come in useful on a racecation when you might have a lot extra to do and see after your race.
10 Finest Half Marathons Across the World
With so many races to select from around the globe to select from, it was difficult to slim the checklist down. In making this checklist, I appeared for selection in location, surroundings, and race kind. I additionally thought-about what else the situation itself or close by would possibly provide to make it well worth the trek.
This isn’t an all-encompassing checklist. There are just too many superb races to select from to incorporate each single one.
Regardless, I’m assured there’s not less than one (most likely a number of) on this checklist that you just’re going so as to add to your race bucket checklist! Please be aware, these are in no explicit order.
#1 Polar Night time Half Marathon – Norway
Date – January 3, 2026
Location- Tromsø, Norway
Kind- Loop
Issue – Laborious (Climate may be extreme)
Worth – NOK 715,00 (About $69 USD)
Should you’re on the lookout for a singular expertise, look no additional than the Polar Night time Half Marathon. That is Norway’s largest winter race at 2,000 runners.
Whereas it’s known as the Polar “Night time” Half Marathon, relaxation assured the race shouldn’t be at evening. It’s truly in the course of the day however with the host metropolis, Tromso, being above the arctic circle, the solar by no means comes above the horizon.
Along with the half marathon, the Polar Night time race additionally has a full marathon, a 5k, and 10k. Since this race is within the far north and in January, will probably be chilly. Correct winter gear is required and also you must also count on snow and ice so path sneakers or spiked sneakers are really useful.
Whereas visiting Tromso, racers and their supporters can search for the Northern Lights, go ice fishing, study Sami tradition, go for a canine sledding trip, feed reindeer, snowshoe, and a lot extra.
Right here’s what Rasmus Karlsson has to say concerning the race:
“…With the temperature round -10 levels, I used to be glad for taking issues sluggish, but deeply impressed by the few runners who have been racing flat out in shorts and Vaporflys. Coming again into city, there have been much more lights and so many individuals cheering. Ending with a chip time of two hours and 12 minutes we have been handled to heat drinks and a medal …”
#2 Kilimanjaro Half Marathon – Tanzania
Date– February (2026 date TBD)
Location: Tanzania, Africa
Kind: Loop
Issue – Reasonable (Heat temperatures, hilly course)
Worth – $60-70 (race entry solely)
First run in 2003, 2026 will mark the twenty fifth anniversary for the Kilimanjaro races. Beginning with simply 300 largely native runners, it has grown to almost 12,000 runners. The occasion features a full and half marathon and a household pleasant enjoyable run.
The race begins and finishes at MoCu Stadium in Moshi, Tanzania within the foothills of the best freestanding mountain in Africa, Mt. Kilimanjaro. The course begins out shifting uphill towards the mountain, permitting runners to finish the hardest portion of the course whereas it’s nonetheless cooler out.
Race charges are affordable, however doing a journey bundle is really useful. These embrace airport to lodge transportation, race entry, lodging, race day transportation, and providers that will help you plan add-ons like safaris, seaside journeys, and extra.
Right here’s what one runner has to say concerning the race:
Lovely path, enough organizer, superior runners from in all places and supportive cheerful locals. They have been cheering in lots of spots all through the working route with pleasant and humorous little children participating with the runners.
#3 Royal Parks Half Marathon – UK
Date– October 12, 2025
Location– London
Kind– Loop
Issue – Straightforward (flat and quick)
Worth – Lottery or Charity fundraising entry
Should you’re on the lookout for a enjoyable approach to see a few of London’s most well-known landmarks, the Royal Parks Half Marathon is the proper race.
The race is an annual fundraising initiative supporting London’s eight royal parks. The race, the one race to run by way of central London, takes you thru 4 of the eight parks, together with Hyde Park, The Inexperienced Park, St. James’s Park, and Kensington Gardens.
You’ll additionally move different landmarks like Royal Albert Corridor, Buckingham Palace, the Homes of Parliament, Trafalgar Sq., and Wellington Arch, amongst others.
October can also be a good time to run London. Fall is effectively underway so temperatures must be comfy and leaves have began altering guaranteeing the parks are beautiful.
Right here’s what Sactolaw has to say concerning the race:
That is one in every of my all-time favourite half marathons! The course is flat, flat, flat. You run by Buckingham Palace and the Homes of Parliament. You run by way of a number of Royal Parks and begin & end in Hyde Park. The group is nice and I liked it. I might love to do that one once more!
#4 Nice Wall Half Marathon – China
Date– Might 17, 2025
Location– Tianjin, China
Kind– Loop
Issue – Hilly, Humid
Worth – Is dependent upon Entry Package deal
Thought of one of the demanding races, the route of the Nice Wall Half Marathon will take you thru native villages, up and down hills, by way of valleys, and alongside sections of the Nice Wall. All three races, the 8.5k enjoyable run, half and full marathon, begin and end in Yin & Yang Sq. on the fortress of the Huanyaguang part of the Nice Wall.
The race gives a wave begin, sending teams out each 10 minutes. The three distances share the primary part of the course earlier than the half and full marathon break up off.
The race is thought for its breathtaking views, excellent spectators within the villages, and a festive environment general. Whereas it hardly ever rains, runners ought to count on excessive humidity and temps starting from low 60s to mid-90s.
Just like the Kilimanjaro race, entry packages are the best way to go. These embrace a multi-day tour bundle with lodging, occasions, sightseeing, some meals and transportation. There are additionally extra bundle add-ons so as to add to your expertise.
Right here’s what a current participant needed to say concerning the race:
A demanding course–however doable. Great quantity of elevation change. Improbable surroundings. Temperatures can fluctuate rather a lot daily so be ready for probably very popular circumstances.
#5 Coastal Path Collection: Gower Peninsula – UK
When – November 8, 2025
Location– Oxwich Bay, UK
Kind– Level to level
Issue – Difficult, Strenuous
Worth – 47 kilos ($57)
For my path lovers, look no additional than the Coastal Path Collection: Gower Peninsula. The race gives a 10k, half, full marathon and extremely distance.
In keeping with the race web site, Gower was the primary place in Britain to be designated an “Space of Excellent Pure Magnificence.” The race boasts an unbelievable backdrop of cliff tops, woodland, sand dunes, and seashores.
The half marathon boasts 1,916 ft of ascent and does run a bit of longer than a conventional half marathon at a bit of over 14 miles. The terrain contains grass, moor, seaside, and rock so path sneakers are extremely really useful.
Climate for this race can fluctuate, however rain and excessive winds are widespread as the world is fairly uncovered. Waterproof jackets and pants and heat clothes layers are vital concerns.
That is what a previous participant has to say concerning the race:
The half marathon is totally on large open grassy fields, the seaside, or slim sand-duney trails, so shouldn’t be too unhealthy. The one technical bit can be on the south coast. Rhossili Down (between Middleton and Llangenith on the map) is a largest hill, but it surely actually isn’t that top. Llanmadoc additionally has a steepish hill, however once more it’s not very excessive.
Have enjoyable, the scenary can be spectacular
#6 Tenzing Hillary Everest Half – Nepal
Date– Might 29, 2025
Location– Mt. Everest Base Camp
Kind– Level to level
Issue – Difficult, Strenuous
Worth – Is dependent upon race bundle
Ever dreamed of climbing Mt. Everest? Sure? No? Regardless, this race will be the subsequent neatest thing!
Promoted as the best and most adventurous race on the planet, the Everest Half is a excessive altitude path journey with 15,000 ft of elevation. It makes use of the Sherpa trails of the Khumbu valley. It’s run on Might 29 yearly to have fun the ascent of the late Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hilary in 1953.
Along with the half marathon, runners may additionally select to take part within the 70km Excessive Extremely or the complete marathon. That is most likely not the race you’d need to do in the event you hope to PR as a result of altitude.
Might within the Himalayas may be pretty with numerous vibrant sunshine and gentle temperatures. Nevertheless, runners should contemplate that climate can change rapidly. In actual fact, iit can nonetheless snow 1-2 ft in Might. Sunscreen can also be an absolute should!
That is one other race the place tour packages are really useful. This race requires a time dedication on account of acclimatization durations which can be in-built.
One factor is for positive although, this might be an journey of a lifetime!
Right here’s what a previous participant has to say about this race:
A incredible expertise from begin to end, from the second we arrived in Kathmandu, all the best way to Base Camp, after which for the race and return trek again to Lukla every part was organised completely. Couldn’t fault something if I attempted.
#7 Toronto Waterfront Half Marathon – Canada
Date– October 18-19, 2025
Location– Toronto, Canada
Kind– Loop
Issue – Flat and quick
Worth – $150+
Dubbed probably the greatest vacation spot races in Canada, the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon is a Boston Qualifier for these working marathons, but in addition has a superb half marathon possibility. It’s identified to be flat, quick, and enjoyable so it could be an awesome race to push the tempo!
This can be a huge race with a area of greater than 25,000 throughout the three occasions. One other bonus is it’s an awesome possibility for energy walkers with a 6-hour time restrict. Additionally they at present provide a digital possibility for all three occasions, or “The Entire Shebang” the place you run the marathon in-person and decide to a digital half and 5k.
One of many different causes I wished to incorporate this occasion was just because relying on the place you reside within the U.S., you could possibly drive to this race.
That is what pollygolightly2 considered this race:
This race is extraordinarily effectively put collectively. It had extra porta potties than I had ever seen. The course was very nice, the hardest half was the cable automotive tracks have been slippery as a result of rain. The gang on the end was superb. Because the 1/2 and full end on the similar place, there have been traces of individuals cheering you on, calling your identify and inspiring you.
#8 Queenstown Half Marathon – New Zealand
Date– November 15, 2025
Location– Queenstown, New Zealand
Kind- Level to level
Issue – Flat and quick
Worth – $103 US ($175NZD)
Whereas Whangamata Half Marathon the race will get the award for greatest identify and is a superb possibility in the event you dislike huge metropolis races…I feel Queenstown is admittedly our winner for many stunning.
SIGHHHH that is most likely tops for my private checklist of should do worldwide half marathons!! In a spot the place you’re getting lakes and mountains from so many views, the entire race is simply beautiful. With a full marathon, half, 10KM and children run possibility you may get everybody in your crew concerned.
It’s even walker pleasant!!
Should you’re on the lookout for a racecation the place you possibly can calm down and luxuriate in sandy seashores with mountain backdrops, this can be a nice possibility. Take pleasure in a spherical of golf, take a surf lesson, go mountain biking or kayaking, or constitution a ship for a fishing tour.
That is what marcieclawsone considered this race:
Level to level run alongside a number of empty roads, trails and lakeside laborious packed path. Views galore and effectively shaded. Loads of nourishment alongside the course and Queenstown is a good place to complete. Can’t wait to return subsequent 12 months!
#9 La Champenoise Half Marathon – France
Date– June 14, 2025
Location– Dizy, Grand Est, France
Kind– Level to level
Issue – Reasonable
Worth – $43 (£32 euros)
For the wine and champagne lovers on the market, the La Champenoise Half Marathon is for you.
Alongside the course by way of France’s Champagne area, you’ll take pleasure in stunning views of vineyards, rolling hills, and lovely rural landscapes. All through the course, there are additionally native musicians and lots of racers and spectators put on costumes.
This race does provide a singular problem. At each drink station, you possibly can take pleasure in some bubbly (You may also choose to run for time with out the tastings). The realm is thought for its wines and wineries so it’s sure to be scrumptious. Plus there can be loads of baguettes and cheese ready for you on the end.
Having been to this area, I can 100% say it’s AMAZING. Particularly in the event you end your journey with a number of days on the seaside in Good to calm down.
#10 The Nice North Run – UK
Date – September 7, 2025
Location– Newcastle+Tyne, England
Kind– Level to level
Issue – Reasonable, numerous downhills
Worth – Lottery or Charity
The Nice North Run is within the Guinness E-book of World Data for being the most important half marathon. It simply will get as much as 60,000 runners.
Entry is through lottery and the demand is excessive. Should you’ve ever thought-about the London Marathon, this can be another choice so that you can try. Should you don’t get in through lottery, you may also fundraise for a charity slot.
The route travels between Newcastle and South Shields and the course is lined with spectators and on-course leisure. One of many favourite components for runners is coming into South Shields with ocean views of the North Sea.
That is what a current participant thought concerning the race:
The GNR is without doubt one of the most iconic races within the UK, accomplished by greater than 60,000 runners this 12 months. This was my second time working it. This isn’t a race to get PBs. It’s deceptively hilly and also you’re by no means going to discover a quiet little bit of highway to run your individual race. However that isn’t the purpose. As a substitute, you must benefit from the expertise. The assist alongside the course is phenomenal. Simply give your self extra time than you assume you’ll must get to the beginning line.
Why Do A Racecation?
It’s straightforward to run all native races (and likewise a bit cheaper…okay, rather a lot cheaper), but it surely’s completely unbelievable to run in some place completely new.
Once I do races, I are inclined to journey. It’s like an added bonus to make coaching extra thrilling.
Working is a good way to discover a brand new place. And I really like connecting with fellow runners, particularly these I’ve come to know by way of my social channels.
Planning for racecations can take a bit of additional effort, however I promise it’s value it. And when you see the races on this checklist, I’ve a sense you’ll discover the additional work is extra like additional anticipation.
I’ve already achieved an article on the greatest half marathons within the U.S., so this checklist focuses on worldwide races. You’ll discover highway races, path races, city races, rural races, bucket checklist races, and races with stunning surroundings or distinctive challenges.
I wouldn’t be stunned if you end up saying, “I would like to begin a bit of racecation financial savings fund” full with a cute piggy financial institution of types!
Planning for an Worldwide Race
Since my checklist focuses on worldwide races, there are some things you need to consider when planning your journey.
- Objectives – What are your targets? If it’s merely to see some place new, then the world is your oyster. However, in the event you’re trying to PR, the race location is vital. Take into account climate, altitude, journey distance, amongst different points.
- Journey – Will you drive or fly? How lengthy is the journey? What number of time zones are you crossing? Are you able to go a number of days early to regulate and get better from journey? Just some questions to think about.
- Packing – When you’re going to race and trip, be sure to have a effectively thought out packing checklist. Additionally be sure to’re accustomed to the world you’re going and what you’ll have entry to in case you overlook one thing vital.
- Meals/Hydration – Journey can wreak havoc on our our bodies and is unquestionably dehydrating. Keep on prime of your hydration earlier than and through journey. Additionally, it could be good to pack your tried and true fueling favorites. Attempting one thing new the day earlier than and day of your race may be problematic.
There you might have it, a listing of a few of the most unbelievable half marathons value travelling for!
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