Top 10 Marathons Around the World & How to Get a Spot

For many runners, completing a world-famous marathon is a bucket-list achievement. Whether you're chasing a personal best on a fast course, looking for a scenic adventure, or taking on a legendary endurance race, these events attract runners from all over the world.

But with high demand and limited spots, getting into these races isn’t always easy. Some require strict qualifying times, while others operate on a lottery system or charity entry. Here’s a look at 10 of the most iconic marathons and how you can secure your place at the starting line.

1. Boston Marathon (USA)

Why It’s Special:

The Boston Marathon is the world's oldest annual marathon and one of the most prestigious. Its historic course, legendary crowd support, and the infamous Heartbreak Hill make it a must-run event.

How to Get a Spot:

• Qualify: You’ll need to meet the strict Boston Marathon qualifying times based on age and gender. These times are tough, and getting a spot isn’t guaranteed even if you qualify, as entries are accepted based on the fastest times first.
• Charity Entry: Runners who don’t qualify can gain entry by fundraising for an official Boston Marathon charity partner.

2. London Marathon (UK)

Why It’s Special:

One of the World Marathon Majors, the London Marathon is known for its scenic route past famous landmarks like Tower Bridge and Buckingham Palace, as well as its huge crowds and charity runners.

How to Get a Spot:

• Ballot Entry: London has one of the toughest lotteries, with hundreds of thousands of applicants each year.
• Good for Age Entry: If you meet the marathon’s time standards for your age group, you can bypass the ballot.
• Charity Entry: Many spots are allocated to charity partners, so fundraising is another option.

3. New York City Marathon (USA)

Why It’s Special:

The New York City Marathon is the largest in the world, taking runners through all five boroughs of the city with over two million spectators lining the course.

How to Get a Spot:

• Lottery: A general entry drawing is held each year, with a low acceptance rate due to high demand.
• Qualifying Time: Fast runners can secure a guaranteed entry by meeting the NYC Marathon’s strict time standards.
• Charity Entry: Many spots are available through official charities.
• Guaranteed Entry Programs: Runners who complete at least nine qualifying New York Road Runners (NYRR) races in a year can gain automatic entry.

4. Berlin Marathon (Germany)

Why It’s Special:

Known for its fast, flat course, Berlin is where multiple world records have been set, making it a top choice for runners chasing a personal best.

How to Get a Spot:

• Lottery: The easiest way to enter is through the annual lottery system.
• Time Qualification: Runners who meet a set qualifying time can bypass the lottery.
• Charity Entry: Fundraising with a charity partner guarantees a spot.
• Tour Operators: Many international travel companies offer race entry packages.

5. Tokyo Marathon (Japan)

Why It’s Special:

As one of the World Marathon Majors, the Tokyo Marathon offers an incredible experience with a mix of modern cityscapes and traditional Japanese culture.

How to Get a Spot:

• Lottery: Most general entries are assigned through a lottery system.
• Time Qualification: Fast runners can qualify based on a set time standard.
• Charity Entry: Running for an official charity can secure a spot.
• Tour Packages: International runners can book guaranteed entry through travel partners.

6. Paris Marathon (France)

Why It’s Special:

The Paris Marathon takes runners through the heart of the French capital, passing landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Champs-Élysées.

How to Get a Spot:

• General Registration: Unlike many other big marathons, Paris allows direct entry on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Charity Entry: Limited places are available through fundraising.

7. Great Wall Marathon (China)

Why It’s Special:

One of the toughest marathons in the world, this race includes over 5,000 steps along the Great Wall of China.

How to Get a Spot:

• Direct Entry: Runners can register directly on the official website.
• Tour Packages: Many international travel companies offer guaranteed entry as part of a race package.

8. Big Sur International Marathon (USA)

Why It’s Special:

This marathon offers stunning coastal views along California’s Pacific Coast Highway, making it one of the most scenic races in the world.

How to Get a Spot:

• Lottery: A limited number of spots are available through an annual lottery.
• Charity Entry: Fundraising guarantees a place in the race.

9. Comrades Marathon (South Africa)

Why It’s Special:

An ultramarathon rather than a traditional 42.2 km race, Comrades is a legendary 90 km challenge between Durban and Pietermaritzburg.

How to Get a Spot:

• General Registration: Open to all runners who meet the qualifying standard (a sub-4:50 marathon).
• International Tour Packages: Some guaranteed spots are available through travel agencies.

10. Gold Coast Marathon (Australia)

Why It’s Special:

A flat, fast course with beautiful views of the Gold Coast’s beaches and perfect winter running weather.

How to Get a Spot:

• General Registration: Open to all runners, with no lottery or qualification needed.
• Charity Entry: Limited spots are available through fundraising.

Sun Protection for Marathon Runners

Many of these marathons take place in hot, sunny conditions, where UV exposure is a major concern. Long hours in the sun can lead to sunburn, dehydration, and heat exhaustion, making sun protection a critical part of race preparation.

What Runners Need for Sun Protection:

• UPF50+ Sun Sleeves & Body Shirts – Protect arms, shoulders, and torso without overheating.
• SParms 100% Organic Sunscreen (SPF50+) – Broad-spectrum and water-resistant, ideal for race day.
• Neck Gaiters & Hats – Essential for shielding the face and neck from direct sun exposure.
• Hydration & Cooling Towels – Staying hydrated and using a cooling towel can prevent heat-related fatigue.

For marathons in sunny, high-UV destinations, proper sun protection is just as important as training. With SParms UPF50+ sun sleeves, body shirts, and sunscreen, you can focus on your performance without worrying about sun damage.

Train hard, race smart, and stay protected—shop SParms sun protection gear today.