By Marnie Kunz

Vacation races marry two of my favorite things - traveling and running. If you’re an avid traveler and runner, these top destination races will give you a thrilling experience. Whether you want an all-inclusive race trip or to create your own dream getaway, these race ideas offer something for everyone.

For one of my favorite race trips, check out my post on running the Riviera Nayarit Half Marathon in Mexico.

What Are Vacation Races?

Vacation races is a general term that includes a range of races and travel options. A destination race may be an all-inclusive package you book through a travel company, or it can be a race you sign up for in one of your bucket list destinations. Then you plan your own trip around it. This post includes all-inclusive race getaways and famous destination races that you can plan your own trip around.

Race Distances

I am including race distances ranging from 5Ks to marathons. Some of the most popular vacation races are half marathons. These races give you a challenging goal to train for but take less energy and recovery time than marathons. I have done the Paris Half Marathon, Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Half Marathon, Miami Half Marathon, and Riviera Nayarit Half Marathon as destination half marathon trips and loved them. Many marathons also have half marathons, and if you’re looking for a shorter race, 5Ks are the most common race distance, so it shouldn’t be too hard to locate one in your goal destination. Consider your preferred race distance and location for your dream getaway, which will help you find the best match.

10 Top Vacation Races Around the World

1. Paris Half Marathon

The Paris Half Marathon is a scenic, unforgettable race that winds along the picturesque streets of Paris next to the Seine River. This is one of my favorite vacation races I’ve run. The race includes stunning views of the city’s iconic architecture and great post-race photo ops by the Eiffel Tower. If you have always wanted to go to Paris, this race is a great excuse to start planning a trip.

Pro Tip: This spring race fills up fast, and you’ll get a discount for signing up when registration opens, usually in June, the summer before the race (about 9 months ahead). Book your trip in advance, for the best travel deals in Paris.

2. The Great Wall of China Half Marathon, 8.5k, and Marathon

The Great Wall Race has a distance for every level - including an 8.5-kilometer fun run, a half marathon, and a marathon. This unforgettable spring race takes you through ancient history as you run along the top of the Great Wall of China, one of the 7 Wonders of the World.

You can register for the race by booking a tour package with Albatros Adventure Marathons.

Pro Tip: The Great Wall races are challenging, and the marathon includes over 5,000 steps to navigate, so include hills and stairs in your training program.

3. Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend

These races are the best vacation races for Disney fans. With distance options ranging from the 5K to the marathon, you can sign up for the best race to suit your level. With the support of beloved Disney characters like Mickey and Goofy along the course and plenty of entertainment, you’ll find fun around every corner. Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is one of the most popular destination races for family fun.

Pro Tip: Although the course is relatively flat, this is not the best race to PR. Plan to stop and take photos with the Disney characters along the course to make the most of your experience.

4. Kauai Half Marathon and Marathon

Take a tropical getaway to Hawaii for the Kauai Marathon and Half Marathon. The palm-tree-lined course includes stunning beach views, lush tropical foliage, and plenty of crowd support from locals. You’ll see stunning natural beauty along rugged cliffs, tropical forests, and serene beaches at this scenic half marathon and marathon.

Pro Tip: Make sure to hydrate enough throughout the race and the day before to prepare, as the weather can get hot and humid.

5. Petra Desert Marathon and Half Marathon

Petra Desert Marathon is included in tour packages of the ancient city of Petra in Jordan. This adventurous race has the option of running a half marathon or a full marathon. The race begins in the cave city of Petra and goes past ancient tombs, mountainside carvings, and caves. The otherworldly desert run is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Pro Tip: The sun and heat can be intense, so wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for protection and take advantage of all the hydration stations along the course.

6. Grand Teton Half Marathon and 5K

The Grand Teton Half Marathon and 5K is a scenic race with incredible views of the Grand Teton mountains in Wyoming. The 5K course is flat and paved, and the half marathon is paved and on trails with a gradual ascent to the finish.

Pro Tip: The race is at a high altitude, so take your time, slow down as needed, and drink plenty of water.

7. Big Sur Marathon and Half Marathon

Big Sur International Marathon winds along California's beautiful, rugged coast for an unforgettable destination race. One of the most popular vacation races in the U.S. winds along the Central Coast and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, beautiful cliffs, and towering redwoods. In this challenging yet inspiring marathon, you’ll also run through picturesque towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea, Pacific Grove, and Big Sur. If you don’t want to plan all the details of your trip, marathon tour packages are available.

8. Loch Ness Marathon

If you love green landscapes, you won’t want to miss the Loch Ness Marathon in Scotland. The course winds through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Scottish Highlands, including the famous Loch Ness (lake), mountains, and lush forests. The race also includes historical landmarks such as the Urquhart Castle ruins, which date back to the 13th century.

Pro Tip: Rain and wind are common during the race, so dress for the weather and wear waterproof gear.

9. New York City Half Marathon

The New York City Half Marathon is one of the most popular half marathons in the world, with around 25,000 participants in the 2023 race. The urban half marathon begins in Prospect Park, Brooklyn, traverses the Manhattan Bridge, and passes iconic sites, including Times Square, Grand Central Station, and Central Park. The energy of the runners and the cheering fans is thrilling, and the race is a perfect half marathon for those who love big-city energy and landmarks. The spring race happens in mid-March every year.

Pro Tip: Plan your travel early to get discounts and sign up for the race when registration opens as the race fills up quickly.

10. Polar Night Half Marathon and Marathon

If you love winter and nighttime running, you’ll love the Polar Night Marathon and Half Marathon in Tromsø, Norway. If you prefer shorter distances, there is also 10k and 4.2k option. The Arctic race is Norway’s most popular winter race. It happens in the dark, as the sun never rises above the horizon during this time of year in Norway. Watch for the famed Northern Lights as you embark on this thrilling race.

Pro Tip: This race gets frosty, so dress in warm moisture-wicking layers to stay insulated from the Arctic cold.

Tips for Booking a Race Getaway

When booking vacation races, mark your calendar and sign up for your races early to guarantee your spot. Also, book your hotel and travel early for the best options and deals. To learn more about a specific race from runners who have run it, check out Bibrave.com for thousands of race reviews and insider tips.

If you need a custom training plan to crush your vacation race, head to our Training Center.

Happy running - and traveling - to you!😊

Marnie Kunz is a NASM-certified trainer and USATF- and RRCA-certified running coach, a dog lover, Akita mom, and the founder of Runstreet. She is based in Brooklyn, New York.

10 Best Vacation Races for the Experience of a Lifetime