11 Epic European Half Marathons That Are Worth the Flight!
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Half-marathons are totally having a moment right now, especially for those of us who are creeping towards or who have reached the big three-oh! While some folks are busy getting married, buying houses, and starting families, there’s another group of us diving into fitness and setting ourselves some serious physical challenges. Or hey, maybe you're juggling both – if so, hats off to you!
A couple of years ago, I ran my very first half-marathon. Oddly enough, the thought of doing one abroad didn’t even cross my mind – and for a self-proclaimed travel addict, that’s pretty surprising! Instead, I signed up for the Edinburgh Half Marathon, right on my doorstep in Scotland. But after looking into some of the best spots to run a half in Europe, I’m kind of kicking myself. What was I thinking?! Next time, I’m definitely using a half-marathon as an excuse to explore a new European city. Or I guess I’ll just have to go for a marathon abroad instead!
That's the great thing about running - you can do it anywhere! So, if you’re going to sign up for a half-marathon, why not make it an adventure and choose one in Europe? Here’s a roundup of the coolest European half-marathons that’ll give you the perfect excuse for a little holiday too! And, once you’ve decided where to run, be sure to check out my half-marathon tips for beginners to get fully prepped for race day!
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11 Best European Half Marathons
Arranged in the order of the month they take place in.
Lisbon
If you're chasing a half-marathon PB? Then you need to consider running the EDP Lisbon Half Marathon. Known as one of the fastest half-marathons in the world, it’s the perfect place to smash your personal best!
Held every March, this race draws over 30,000 runners from all over the world, who take to the streets of Lisbon for this epic event. It kicks off in style too – straight across the iconic 25 April Bridge (yes, the one that looks like San Francisco’s Golden Gate!). From there, the route hugs the gorgeous Portuguese coastline, which means constant scenic views of the River Tagus for the majority of the race!
If you're feeling up for a bigger challenge? You could take on the SuperHalfs – a collection of six races, including the EDP Lisbon Half Marathon, plus events in Berlin, Prague, Copenhagen, Valencia, and Cardiff. Run all six within 60 months, and you’ll earn a shiny SuperMedal at your final finish line!
Rome
Another brilliant pick if you’re aiming for a personal best – the Rome-Ostia Half Marathon is flat, straight, and built for speed. Every March, over 13,000 runners take part in Rome’s most popular half-marathon.
The best part? You finish right by the beach! Yep, after running 21km, you can cool off with a dip in the sea – now that’s how you end a race! And let’s be honest, if you’re going to complete a half marathon anywhere, there’s no better place to do it than Italy. Here, you can recover by stuffing your face with carbs: pizza, pasta, and gelato – the ultimate post-race combo!
Athens
Where better to run a half-marathon than in the birthplace of the marathon itself? The Athina Half Marathon in Athens has been going strong for 13 years, drawing over 25,000 runners to the Greek capital every March.
What makes it so special? Well, unlike many other races, this one takes you right through the heart of the city. Starting and finishing at the iconic Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, you’ll race past 40 historic sites along the way. It's basically a 21km sightseeing tour — perfect for ticking off a few ancient landmarks while smashing out a half-marathon!
Berlin
The Generali Berlin Half Marathon rolls around every year in late March or early April and is an absolute must-do on the European race calendar. As part of the SuperHalfs series, it’s known for being one of the best places to get a PB, thanks to its super flat course.
This isn’t just any race – it brings together around 30,000 participants, from runners and inline skaters to handbikers and wheelchair athletes. It’s a full-on celebration of movement in all its forms!
The route kicks off and finishes in buzzing Alexanderplatz, winding past some of Berlin’s most iconic landmarks from the Brandenburg Gate to Kurfürstendamm, and even Potsdamer Platz. So not only do you get a fast course, but a front-row tour of the city’s top sights too. Win-win.
Prague
Looking for a scenic city run? Prague is the perfect choice. The route takes you through one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, offering a picture-perfect backdrop for your half-marathon. Starting and finishing at Jan Palach Square in the heart of Prague’s Old Town, you'll be treated to some seriously stunning sights along the way.
Runners follow the Vltava River, with breathtaking views of Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and the National Theatre. With 16,000 runners taking part each year, the Generali Prague Half Marathon is so popular it often sells out. It takes place every April, when the weather is perfect for long-distance running. Plus, it’s also part of the SuperHalfs collection if you’re looking to take your race goals to the next level!
Vienna
Every April, Vienna comes to a standstill for one epic race – the Wiener Städtische Half Marathon. With a mostly flat route and a max elevation gain of just 44 metres, this race is perfect whether you’re just starting out or you’ve run a few marathons under your belt.
The race kicks off at Reichsbrücke in the north of Vienna and finishes near the iconic Burgtheater in the city centre. Along the way, you’ll get to run through the heart of Vienna, passing some of its most famous landmarks, including the stunning Schonbrunn Palace, which, let’s be real, might just be the highlight of the whole race! You’ll also run past Prater Park, the Ringstraße, and the Vienna State Opera, making this race feel more like a sightseeing tour with a side of running.
Riga
Looking for a half marathon in a slightly off-the-beaten-track location? Then the Rimi Riga Half Marathon might just be your perfect match. Taking place every May, this race is a bit more low-key compared to some of the bigger events on this list. With just over 4,000 runners participating, it's ideal if you’re not a fan of massive crowds.
The route is mainly flat, taking you through Riga’s historic Old Town, across its iconic bridges, and past epic landmarks like the Freedom Monument and the National Opera House. It’s one of the most unique ways to experience the charm of Latvia’s capital, all while soaking in the city’s rich history.
Reykjavík
How epic would it be to run a half marathon in Iceland?! You might be thinking it’ll be a bit chilly, but don’t worry — the Íslandsbanki Reykjavík Marathon takes place in August, when the weather’s much more forgiving!
When this event first kicked off back in 1984, only 68 people signed up — a far cry from the nearly 3,000 runners who now take part each year. The route starts right in the heart of downtown Reykjavík, near the iconic pond and city hall, before taking you along the stunning Icelandic coastline. With jaw-dropping views of rugged ocean and local landmarks, the scenery alone is worth signing up for this event.
And hey, why not stay an extra week or two to fully explore this incredible country before or after your race? You won’t regret it!
Copenhagen
As one of the six Superhalfs, the Copenhagen Half Marathon attracts over 29,000 runners every year and tends to sell out fast, so if you're keen, best grab your spot early!
Held every September, this race is ideal for anyone chasing a personal best. The course is mainly flat, taking you through the heart of the city and past some of Copenhagen’s most iconic landmarks.
But it’s not just about the run — the vibes at Copenhagen Half are next-level! With wide, traffic-free roads, plus entertainment zones, refreshment stops, and power zones, this race is all about keeping you pumped up and enjoying every step!
And here's the cherry on top: you can often find cheap flights from the UK to Copenhagen, making this a great option if you’re on a budget. Plus, you don’t need a long stay – a couple of nights is enough to soak in the city and the race, making it a perfect short getaway.
Valencia
As part of the Superhalfs series, the Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Zurich Half Marathon has been growing in popularity every year, with over 30,000 runners now taking part. The course is another flat one, starting and finishing near Valencia University. From there, you'll race through the city's vibrant streets and historic centre, taking in the sights as you go.
And since the event is held in October, it practically begs you to extend your trip by a week (or two!!) and soak up the Spanish sun on the beach — who wouldn’t want to cross the finish line and then head straight to the coast for some well-earned relaxation?
Amsterdam
The Mizuno Half Marathon in Amsterdam is the latest race of the year on this list, taking place every October, just as the temperatures are starting to dip. It's the largest half marathon in the Netherlands, with over 20,000 runners taking part each year. The race kicks off and finishes near the iconic Olympic Stadium, following a flat route through the city's southern districts, including Watergraafsmeer and Zeeburg. While it doesn't go through the city centre, it offers a chance to explore the vibrant surrounding areas.
And if you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam, why not make the most of it? Check out my Amsterdam 3-Day Itinerary for all the best things to do in this awesome city!
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This post is all about European Half Marathons.
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