The parallel rise in run clubs and active holidays has sparked a new travel trend: mara-cations. Budget-friendly and fitting for both group and solo trips, marathon tourism is quickly gaining ground
The competition to secure a spot in the London Marathon has become more heated than the race itself, prompting runners to expand their horizons. Less than a week after the 2025 London Marathon wrapped up, event organisers received a record-breaking 1.1 million applications for next year’s race.
But with over 1 million applicants and typically 17,000 to 20,000 runners successfully securing a spot through the ballot system, the chance of getting a spot can fall under 2%. That’s why many would-be runners are looking abroad to get their fix. In fact, they’re making a trip of it.
Britons’ newfound passion for running has shaped every facet of life, from dating to fashion to travel. Given the high rejection rate of the London Marathon and the increasing appeal of run clubs and active holidays, mara-cations have been rising in popularity.
READ MORE: Running is taking over the UK but do marathon runners know they don’t have to
The travel trend is a holiday hybrid, combining fitness with local and natural exploration. Avid runners in the UK are opting to take on the challenge of marathons in Germany, France and further abroad as a way to enjoy the UK’s new favourite pastime.
A study by Travel Republic found that the demand for “fitness holidays” increased by 84% in April, while Google searches for “European marathons” spiked by 403%. Travel companies are even sponsoring marathons around the world. TUI, for instance, is a major sponsor of marathons in Rhodes and Palma, and recently announced it will be the title sponsor for the March 8, 2026 Cyprus Marathon in Paphos.
The shift from party holidays to active adventures – especially for millennials and Gen Z – has also influenced the classic group trip. Marathon tourism lends itself well to group holidays, an opportunity not to just train and travel together but complete a shared goal.
The World Marathon’s 3 Country race in October offers friends the chance to relay across international borders. Starting in Lindau in Germany, passing through Switzerland and finishing in Austria, runners will get to enjoy scenic views and will be cheered the whole way through.
It can be a financially savvy move for marathoners as well, considering UK races can be pricey. While it’s free to enter the London Marathon ballot, if you are successful you need to pay an entry fee of £79.99 (£49.99 if you choose to donate your fee to the London Marathon Foundation at the point of entry).
List of 2026 marathons to register for now
While less cut-throat than London Marathon entry, aspiring mara-cationers will still need to plan ahead as registration for big 2026 races have already opened. Here is our list of some marathons that should be on your radar for next year.
Italy, Rome Marathon – March 22, 2026: The Rome Marathon (aka Run Rome) brings more than 25,000 participants to run in the City of Seven Hills. Some of the race options include a 4-person relay and a 5km “Fun Race” if you’re looking for something to do with friends.
France, Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris, April 12, 2026: Early bird entries for the Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris have already opened. One of the largest marathon’s in the world, this is a great alternative for London Marathon regulars that want a change of scenery.
Germany, Generali Berlin Half Marathon, March 20, 2026: Next year will mark the 45th anniversary of the Berlin half marathon, making it the perfect time to participate in the fun. The organisers’ lottery system means that all interested athletes have an equal chance of getting a race entry during the registration period, which is open until May 22, 2025.
Spain, Seville Marathon, February 15, 2026: The Seville Marathon is the third largest in Spain and is the perfect setting for a post-race wind-down. The coolness of Andalusia in February means you will be able to recover comfortably and, best of all, it’s for a charitable cause.
Sweden, Ekerumsloppet, October 4, 2025: There’s still time to register for this 10km autumn race which takes you through scenic off-road trails in the stunning landscapes of Ekerum and Rällaskogen. Tickets are between €14-27 (£12-23).