Explore the World Marathon Majors

For us runners, every race presents an opportunity to push our bodies and minds to the limit. However, there are a select few competitions that we all dream of participating in—the World Marathon Majors. These prestigious marathons in the cities of New York, Chicago, Boston, Berlin, London, and Tokyo, hold a special place in the hearts of runners worldwide.

Many runners combine their love for the sport with a desire to explore new destinations. Running a marathon abroad and immersing oneself in the host city’s culture becomes a powerful motivation. It involves intense training, booking flights and accommodations, and planning activities before and after the race.

Here at Civitatis, we offer various options that seamlessly blend travel and sports, allowing you to experience the cities hosting the six major marathons in the world.

Number one: The Tokyo Marathon

The Tokyo Marathon, the first Marathon Major of the year (in February), sets the stage for runners. This marathon presents a tremendous challenge as securing a spot in the race is highly competitive, with only a sixth of the applicants earning a place. Despite being the most recent addition to the World Marathon Majors, Tokyo attracts a significant number of participants, making it a phenomenon in itself.

The race begins in front of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. The course encompasses iconic landmarks such as the Imperial Palace, Tokyo Skytree, Ginza, Shinjuku, and Tsukiji Market. The race concludes near Tokyo Station in the Chiyoda area, creating an unforgettable finish line experience.

To familiarize yourself with the race route and get to know the city, we recommend booking a private tour of Tokyo. This will allow you to explore the bustling streets that will soon be lined with spectators, providing the motivation you need to achieve your best time and cross the finish line triumphantly.

Iconic and exclusive: The New York Marathon

Among the World Marathon Majors, the New York Marathon holds an unparalleled level of fame. It’s the race that attracts the highest number of registered runners each year. Just the thought of the Brooklyn Bridge brimming with participants gives us goosebumps.

The marathon route takes runners through the most iconic areas of New York City, including Staten Island, Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Manhattan. As a fitting finale to the 42-kilometer journey, the race culminates in Central Park. Since its beginnings in 1970, when a mere 130 runners took part, New York City has witnessed over 50,000 individuals flooding its streets every first week of November, making it one of the most extraordinary marathons of the year.

If you’re among the fortunate few who will get a race bib and have the opportunity to enjoy the Big Apple, make sure not to miss out on some essential experiences the city has to offer. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of a Broadway musical, go up to a viewpoint like Summit One Vanderbilt or the iconic Empire State Building, or indulge in a dinner cruise around New York—truly the perfect way to celebrate this tough achievement.

A run through history: The Boston Marathon

When the Boston Marathon comes to mind, it’s impossible to ignore its long and rich history. It has been taking place since 1897, making it one of the oldest longstanding running races worldwide. After so many years, it proudly upholds its traditions, such as being held every third Monday of April, coinciding with Patriot’s Day.

Boston’s course is famous for its challenges, with athletes facing steep inclines and descents throughout the race. Running the Boston Marathon holds a special significance for every marathon runner. Due to the high number of applications received each year, participants must meet a qualifying time to earn a spot.

If you’re fortunate enough to secure a race bib, make the most of your time in the capital of Massachusetts by going on a guided tour of Boston. Explore its remarkable landmarks, including the Old State House, Rose Kennedy Greenway, and the historic sites of early American settlement, such as Quincy Market and Faneuil Hall.

Run like the wind in the Windy City: The Chicago Marathon

Concluding our run through the United States, we now turn our attention to another renowned World Marathon Major—the Chicago Marathon. Would you believe that it began with a mere 15 runners? It also wasn’t held for much of the 20th century, from 1920 all the way until its revival in 1977. Nevertheless, this competition has witnessed remarkable historical achievements and is hailed as the fastest marathon in the world.

The upcoming 2023 edition will be on October 8, and if you’re preparing to run this circular route that begins and ends in the captivating Grant Park, you still have time. This course will guide you through the most iconic landmarks of Chicago, including the Loop and Millennium Park.

To make your athletic journey even more extraordinary, what better than treating yourself and your loyal running mates or cheering fans to some fun activities around the city. We recommend the Chicago tour bus ride, where you can showcase the route you’ll conquer, followed by an unforgettable dinner cruise on Lake Michigan. It will be an experience to cherish!

Flat and fast: The London Marathon

The capital of the UK presents yet another one of the world’s premier marathons. Picture yourself running alongside Tower Bridge, passing by legendary landmarks such as the Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey, and traversing the Greenwich Docks before concluding near Buckingham Palace. It’s truly a runner’s dream come true.

Steeplechase medalists Chris Brasher and John Disley were the ones who first conceived of the London Marathon, inspired by their experience at the New York Marathon. This course follows a linear path along the picturesque banks of the River Thames. Each year, it attracts over 40,000 dedicated runners, ready to give their all with every stride in pursuit of the coveted World Marathon Majors medal.

The London Marathon is held every year on April 23rd and offers an ideal opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s captivating and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Before or after your much-anticipated race, be sure to indulge in essential experiences such as taking a free tour of the must-see sights of London, ascending the iconic London Eye for breathtaking views, and delving into the intriguing history of Jack the Ripper. These plans will undoubtedly enrich your London experience and create lasting memories alongside your remarkable athletic achievement.

A record-breaking haven: The Berlin Marathon

Concluding our journey through the Majors, we arrive in Berlin. The German capital is a true haven for marathoners seeking to shatter personal records, as its streets have witnessed numerous world records. Held on the last Sunday of September, the Berlin Marathon stands out as a prominent event that draws a multitude of runners eager to conquer the flat terrain.

The exhilaration of crossing the finish line at the iconic Brandenburg Gate is unparalleled. Along the course, you will also pass by emblematic buildings in the city, including the Cathedral, Humboldt University, and the Reichstag.

This competition boasts a fascinating history intertwined with the unique circumstance of once being separated by the infamous Berlin Wall. Before the race, immerse yourself in history by embarking on a tour of the Berlin Wall and the Cold War, gaining a deeper understanding of the city’s past and the challenges it has overcome.