Guides, Featured

The Best Half Marathons in the World to Run in 2025

With thousands of half marathons held globally each year, simply picking a race can feel just as challenging as training for one. Luckily, we here at Half Marathon Guide have run races all around the globe and taken note of the best half marathons the world has to offer.

You want something fast and flat for a PR? A course with iconic landmarks along the way? Personally, we like to go sign up wherever there might be a delicious post-race feast.

Whatever kind of race you’re hoping to run, expanding your list to include the best half marathons in the world is the perfect excuse to turn running a half marathon into a destination race or runcation.

Keep reading to find the best half marathons in the world to fill every month of your 2025 race calendar!

2025 Calendar: Best Half Marathons in the World

Polar Night Half Marathon in Tromsø, Norway | January 4, 2025
Walt Disney World Half Marathon in Orlando, FL, USA | January 22, 2025
Aramco Houston Half Marathon in Houston, TX, USA | January 19, 2025
Osaka Half Marathon in Osaka, Japan | January 26, 2025
Kilimanjaro Half Marathon in Tanzania | February 23, 2025
Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Half Marathon in Las Vegas, NV, USA | February 23, 2025
RAK Half Marathon in the United Arab Emirates | February 1, 2025
Napa Valley Half Marathon in Napa Valley, CA, USA | March 2, 2025
Paris Half Marathon in Paris, France | March 9, 2025
EDP Lisbon Half Marathon in Portugal | March 9, 2025
United Airlines NYC Half in New York, NY, USA | March 16, 2025
Berlin Half Marathon in Germany | April 6, 2025
BMO Vancouver Half Marathon in Canada | May 4, 2025
The OC Half Marathon in Costa Mesa, CA | May 4, 2025
The Great Wall Half Marathon in China | May 17, 2025
Göteborgsvarvet Half Marathon in Sweden | May 17, 2025
RBC Brooklyn Half Marathon in Brooklyn, NY, USA | May 17, 2025
Santiago Half Marathon in Chile | May 18, 2025
Everest Half Marathon in Nepal | May 29, 2025
Bank of America Chicago 13.1 in Chicago, IL, USA | June 1, 2025
Slacker Half Marathon in Georgetown, CO, USA | June 2025
Victoria Falls Half Marathon in Zimbabwe | July 2025
Sunshine Coast Half Marathon in Australia | August 3, 2025
The Kauai Half Marathon in Kauai, HI, USA | August 31, 2025
The Great North Run in Newcastle, England | September 7, 2025
Royal Parks Half Marathon in London, England | October 12, 2025
Valencia Half Marathon in Valencia, Spain | October 26, 2025
Milano 21 in Milan, Italy | October 2025
Point to Pinnacle Half Marathon in Tasmania, Australia | November 16, 2025
The Frozen Continent Half Marathon in Union Glacier Camp, Antarctica | December 2025

Polar Night Half Marathon

Where: Tromsø, Norway
When: January 4, 2025
The course: Icy, snow-covered paths lined by torches
Expect: Freezing temps and a chance to see the Northern Lights

Pack your cold-weather running gear: As Norway’s biggest winter running event, people flock from all over the world for this one-of-a-kind race. Although the Polar Night Half Marathon takes place in the middle of the day, it feels like nighttime because of Norway’s long winter darkness. Best for adventurous runners ready to brave the cold, this half marathon’s lively atmosphere makes up for the subzero temperatures.

Walt Disney World Half Marathon

Where: Orlando, Florida
When: January 11, 2025
The course: A flat course that sends runners through EPCOT and the Magic Kingdom
Expect: A rowdy early morning romp with plenty of photo ops and character sightings mid-race

While runDisney now hosts several half marathons at Walt Disney World each year, the marquee event will always remain Marathon Weekend in January. Not only is that when Disney hosts its one and only marathon that cruises through all four amusement parks, but that’s also the only 4-day long running extravaganza the park throws. Day three of Marathon Weekend is for the half marathon, which starts before the sun rises to allow runners to make their way through the Magic Kingdom and EPCOT before the park opens for visitors. With photo ops galore and loads of running merch on sale, it’s every Disney-loving runner’s dream come true. Also if you run the 5K, 10K, half marathon and marathon on consecutive days, you’ll earn six medals, which is a lot of Disney hardware.

Houston, TX, USA — Alisa Matthews, Unsplash

Aramco Houston Half Marathon

Where: Houston, Texas
When: January 18-19, 2025
The course: Extremely flat roads with spectators everywhere
Expect: Elites hitting record-breaking race times and perfect running conditions

Known as the fastest winter race in the US, the Aramco Houston Half Marathon has become one of Texas’s most popular running events. Given the cool weather and pancake-flat course, this race is perfect for anyone hoping to hit a PR.

pexels bagus41 1440476 — Pexels, Bagus Pangestu

Osaka Half Marathon

Where: Osaka, Japan
When: January 26, 2025
The Course: A point-to-point course through the inner city of a Japanese metropolis
Expect: An extremely organized event for seasoned runners with a harsh cut off time.

If you’re looking to take your time with a half marathon, perhaps the Osaka Half Marathon is not for you. The race imposes a strict 2:05:00 time limit — and that’s based on when the starting gun sounds and not when the runner actually crosses the starting line. If you’re able to run a half marathon paced to land sub-two hours, however, Osaka provides runners with an exciting course. Starting near the famed Osaka Castle, runners will loop the massive white pagoda before winding down through the city to a finish inside Yanmar Stadium. More races should use stadium finishes and after you’ve earned your medal, you can celebrate with some tempura and an Asahi Super Dry.

Mount Kilimanjaro home to Tigo Kili Half Marathon one of the best half marathons in the world.

Kilimanjaro/Tigo Kili Half Marathon

Where: Moshi, Tanzania
When: February 23, 2025
The course: Rugged terrain in the foothills of Mt. Kilimanjaro
Expect: Life-changing views of Mt. Kilimanjaro and incredible wildlife sightings

Experience the magic of Mt. Kilimanjaro while running around its base during the Tigo Kili Half Marathon. Not only will you get to enjoy Africa’s highest mountain and its amazing wildlife, but you’ll also get to run along dirt roads through local villages. Sign up for a safari package to make the most of this legendary African race.

Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Half Marathon

Where: Las Vegas, Nevada
When: February 22-23, 2025
The course: Flat, fast, and unbelievably exciting
Expect: An electric atmosphere, post-race parties, and entertainment throughout the course

Running should be fun, and at this race, it definitely will be! Full of racers decked out in costumes and live music and games all throughout the course, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Half Marathon is sure to keep you entertained and energized. This race is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to run through the shut-down Vegas Strip at night.

RAK Half Marathon

Where: Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
When: February 2025 (TBA)
The course: Incredibly flat with desert passes and sea views
Expect: Fierce competition between world-class runners and breathtaking views of Al Marjan Island

Said to be the world’s fastest half marathon, the RAK Half Marathon attracts some of the world’s best road runners. Limited to only 5,000 runners, this is one of the most competitive half marathons in the world.

Napa Valley Half Marathon

Where: Napa Valley, California
When: March 2, 2025
The course: A few gentle uphills with a long downhill stretch at the end
Expect: A beautiful tour of wine country with plenty of scenic views

Run first, wine later. Luckily, the Napa Valley Half Marathon is the perfect place to do both. As one of the most picturesque half marathons, this race does an excellent job of showing off Northern California’s beauty. The cool race swag, kind event staff, and efficient organization of this event are all praiseworthy bonuses as well.

pexels mikhail nilov 8430377 — Pexels, Mikhail Nilov

Paris Half Marathon

Where: Paris, France
When: March 9, 2025
The Course: A loop around Paris featuring iconic cityscapes and natural scenery
Expect: Views of Notre Dame, the Seine, the Bastille and the Eiffel Tower waaaaaaaaaay in the distance

We all know you’re going to Paris for the croissants, the baguettes, and the macarons, but why not throw a half marathon into the mix to impress your friends (not to mention work off some of the butter you’ll be ingesting)?

The Paris Half Marathon, or Semi De Paris, is a masterfully designed course that starts near Notre Dame on the south bank of the Seine, runs along the river before crossing into the vast park, Bois de Vincennes, and then lops back towards its finish on the north side of the river. You’ll see plenty of Parisian architecture with a nice stint of greenery tossed in the middle. While the course doesn’t run by the Eiffel Tower, you’ll be able to spy it from a distance and you can always take a picture with your medal there after too.

EDP Lisbon Half Marathon

Where: Lisbon, Portugal
When: March 9, 2025
The course: A flat and fast course that crosses the 25 de Abril Bridge
Expect: Stunning views of Lisbon while running alongside the world’s top runners

Think you have what it takes to be a record-breaking half marathon runner? If so, the EDP Lisbon Half Marathon is the place for you. With a €50,000 prize for anyone who breaks the world record, it’s no wonder so many elites flock to this race each year. Plus, as a part of the SuperHalfs series, many runners sign up for this race to complete the SuperHalfs Challenge.

United Airlines NYC Half

Where: New York City, New York
When: March 16, 2025
The course: A hilly start and end with a flat stretch in the middle
Expect: An epic tour of NYC full of energetic crowds

As one of only two events that shut down Times Square each year, the United Airlines NYC Half Marathon is clearly very special. Starting in Brooklyn and ending in Manhattan’s Central Park, the 13.1 miles of this race take runners through some of New York City’s most amazing neighborhoods. Between the lively atmosphere and abundance of sights to be seen, the miles just fly by during this race!

The Brandenburg Gate at the Berlin Marathon makes it one of the best half marathon in the world.

Berlin Half Marathon

Where: Berlin, Germany
When: April 6, 2025
The course: A very flat loop course perfect for a fast performance
Expect: A huge race expo, busy streets, and amazing crowd support

The Berlin Half Marathon is one of Europe’s biggest half marathons. Attracting 30,000+ runners annually, many runners sign up for this top international race year after year due to its flat course and iconic sights. A well-established season opener, the Berlin Marathon is a great race to start out 2025 with.

lee robinson Yc9h5SJdEzI unsplash 1 scaled

BMO Vancouver Half Marathon

Where: Vancouver, Canada
When: May 4, 2025
The course: A downhill start followed by rolling hills to the finish
Expect: A mix of city views and breathtaking nature

Even though this is technically a city race, the BMO Vancouver Half Marathon is still one of the most scenic races on our list. A perfectly balanced tour of the city’s bustling streets, peaceful waterfront paths, and serene parks, this award-winning course has earned the Vancouver Half Marathon a spot on our list.

The OC Half Marathon

Where: Costa Mesa, CA
When: May 4, 2025
The course: Picturesque course with Orange County’s legendary homes and ocean views of the Pacific Ocean
Expect: One of the prettiest courses in America

The OC Half Marathon is a dreamy combination of land and sea. Attracting over 10,000 runners (and even more spectators), The OC Half Marathon is the 2025 Road Runner’s Club of America Championship Event course. The RRCA knows races. The half marathon course will guide runner’s past the Pacific Ocean, the seaside village of Corona Del Mar, Newport Harbor Yacht Clubs, and the bluffs of Newport Bay.

The Great Wall Half Marathon

Where: Huangyaguan, China
When: May 17, 2025
The course: A few miles of steep climbing up and down the Great Wall’s stairs followed by a relatively flat village run
Expect: Lots of sweat, burning calves, and unrivaled support from the local villagers

Ready for an adventure? Well, this is the ultimate one. Even if you’re not up for the 5,164 steps of the full marathon, the Great Wall Half Marathon is still guaranteed to challenge you. As difficult as it may be, experiencing the Great Wall and its awe-inspiring surrounding scenery makes finishing this race so worth it.

Göteborgsvarvet Half Marathon

Where: Gothenburg, Sweden
When: May 17, 2025
The course: Ever-changing with slights hills, turns, and sights to see each step of the way
Expect: 50 live bands throughout the course and a stadium finish

Rivaling the Great North Run for the title of largest half marathon in the world, 60,000 runners gather for the Göteborgsvarvet Half Marathon each year. Not only that, but 200,000 supporters attend the race to cheer runners on. Overwhelming in the best way, this half marathon is a high-energy race that you’ll never forget.

RBC Brooklyn Half Marathon

Where: New York City, New York
When: May 17, 2025
The course: A largely flat point-to-point race
Expect: Lively energy all the way from the expo to the 13.1 miles to the after-party

As one of the US’s largest half marathons, the RBC Brooklyn Half Marathon is a seriously iconic race. A true tour of Brooklyn, racers loop around Prospect Park, run down Ocean Parkway, and cross the coveted finish line on the Coney Island Boardwalk. Known for its high-energy atmosphere, this big city half marathon is a running experience like no other.

Santiago Half Marathon

Where: Santiago, Chile
When: May 18, 2025
The course: A mostly flat urban route with some relaxed climbs
Expect: A running celebration with live music and entertainment throughout the course

Along with the Santiago Marathon, the Santiago Half Marathon is part of the largest running event in Chile, and it’s become one of South America’s most prominent races. Weaving through some of the lesser-known parts of Santiago, this race takes runners on an authentic tour of the city. If you enjoy urban runs, this is another great race to add to your list.

Everest Half Marathon

Where: Mt. Everest Base Camp, Nepal
When: May 29, 2025
The course: A downhill trek on rocky terrain
Expect: Unparalleled views, spiritual moments, and challenging conditions

Take your trail running to the next level at the Everest Half Marathon. Instead of climbing up Mt. Everest, you’ll actually be trekking down it during this race. But don’t let that fool you- it’s still an extremely challenging course. This half marathon requires lots of training and preparation, but there’s just no better feeling than conquering Everest and crossing the finish line at Namche Bazaar.

Bank of America Chicago 13.1

Where: Chicago, Illinois
When: June 1, 2025
The course: Fairly flat from start to finish
Expect: A unique Chicago running route through lovely parks and diverse neighborhoods

Hitting the Chicago half marathon scene in 2022, the Bank of America Chicago 13.1 has quickly gained traction amongst the running community in Chicago and beyond. While most of Chicago’s races showcase the city’s lakefront, the BOA Chicago 13.1’s course takes runners through lesser-known parts of Chicago’s West Side instead. Weaving through lush parks and vibrant neighborhoods, this half marathon is a lovely way to explore Chicago.

Slacker Half Marathon

Where: Georgetown, Colorado
When: June 2025 (TBD)
The course: Huge descents on dirt paths and paved roads
Expect: Stunning views of wetlands, waterfalls, and the Continental Divide

Claiming the title of the highest downhill half marathon in the US, the Slacker Half Marathon is ideal for anyone who loves beautiful scenery and hates hill climbs. While this race attracts lots of runners from the local Colorado running community, it also makes a great destination race, especially for trail runners and outdoors enthusiasts. From Loveland Ski Area to Georgetown, you’ll be enamored by Colorado’s natural beauty during every step of this course.

katsuma tanaka 1tYLyd2JTKo unsplash scaled

Victoria Falls Half Marathon

Where: Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
When: July 6, 2025
The course: Gravel and dirt roads with occasional hilly segments
Expect: Epic views of Victoria Falls and possible wildlife run-ins

Victoria Falls Half Marathon has been coined the happiest race on Earth, and we can see why! Crossing the impressive Victoria Falls Bridge while watching the breathtaking waterfalls in the distance is sure to make just about anyone smile. Taking place in the adventure capital of Africa, you’ll be grinning from ear to ear after this epic journey and unbeatable destination race!

Sunshine Coast Half Marathon

Where: Sunshine Coast, Australia
When: August 3, 2025
The course: A flat, fast, and scenic loop course
Expect: Excellent running conditions and jaw-dropping views of gorgeous beaches

Growing in numbers each year, the Sunshine Coast Half Marathon is becoming one of the most beautiful half marathons that Australia has to offer. Taking place during Australia’s mild winter, you can expect blue skies, sunshine, and cool temperatures. With inspiring scenery each step of the way, this flat course might just lead you to a PR!

braden jarvis prSogOoFmkw unsplash scaled

The Kauai Half Marathon

Where: Kauai, Hawaii
When: August 31, 2025
The course: Challenging and hilly, but full of natural beauty to keep you distracted
Expect: Striking views and an encouraging atmosphere full of aloha spirit

Not much explanation is needed as to why the Kauai Half Marathon made it onto our list of best half marathons in the world. Between the lush landscapes, positive energy, and lively Hawaiian entertainment, this half marathon is just a no-brainer. Plus, signing up for this race is the perfect excuse to finally go on that tropical Hawaiian vacation you’ve always dreamed of.

The Great North Run

Where: Newcastle, England
When: September 7, 2025
The course: A downhill start across the Tyne Bridge followed by several hills
Expect: Massive crowds, supportive spectators, and an air show from the Red Arrows

The Great North Run has earned its name for a reason. It’s seriously amazing. Bringing more than 60,000 runners together is no easy feat, but this race does it flawlessly. Finishing this incredible race will earn you the bragging rights to say that you ran in the biggest half marathon in the world!

Royal Parks Half Marathon

Where: London, England
When: October 12, 2025
The course: A flat loop course that starts and finishes in Hyde Park
Expect: World-famous landmarks around every corner

If you want to explore Central London, there’s no better way to do it than with the Royal Parks Half Marathon. Passing by Buckingham Palace and through four of London’s eight Royal Parks, this half marathon will take you on the most iconic running tour of London.

dayso Q hAlm YrYc unsplash edited scaled

Valencia Half Marathon

Where: Valencia, Spain
When: October 26, 2025
The course: A flat and fast road race
Expect: Warm temps, fast finishes, and tons of options for delicious post-race tapas

Home to several world records, the Valencia Half Marathon draws an impressive crowd of elite runners year after year. Thanks to its well-organized production and its beautiful course that winds around the city center, the Valencia Half Marathon has been voted the best half marathon in Spain. As the final event of the SuperHalfs series, it’s an amazing season closer.

Milano 21

Where: Milan, Italy
When: October 2025
The course: A fast and flat course through the quaint streets of Milan
Expect: Lots of beautiful buildings and ancient landmarks with fans cheering along the way.

While Milan is traditionally known for its fashion runways, every November the city plays host to a 21 kilometer-long runway of a different kind. Milan’s half marathon, which sends runners on a loop of the city, is a flat course built for PRs, especially in the crisp fall air of northern Italy. Runners will pass Sempione Park, the Duomo and the Darsenana on their way to the finish line, passing landmarks both ancient and new. And of course Italy is the perfect place to carb load before the race and then down a bowl of pasta post-race to replenish those calories. A little wine and gelato wouldn’t hurt either.

Point to Pinnacle Half Marathon

Where: Tasmania, Australia
When: November 16, 2025
The course: A challenging course with a steady uphill ascent
Expect: Unrelenting elevation and maybe even some crawling

Climbing 1,270 meters from start to finish, there’s a reason that the Point to Pinnacle Half Marathon has been named the world’s toughest road half marathon. If you’re up for the challenge, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of this Australian island from the top of Mt. Wellington.

The Frozen Continent Half Marathon

Where: Union Glacier Camp, Antarctica
When: December 2025 (TBD)
The course: Snowy, icy trails made even more brutal by the unpredictable weather conditions
Expect: A surreal running experience in one of the most remote parts of the world

There’s literally no cooler way to wrap up 2025 than with the Frozen Continent Half Marathon. The world’s southernmost half marathon, this is one of only two races on Antarctica’s mainland. Check Antarctica off your bucket list and squeeze in a half marathon while you’re there. It’s a win-win!

Preparing for Your Next Half Marathon

We hope our list of the best half marathons in the world helps you find an exciting race to sign up for in 2025!

If traveling around the world to run a half marathon isn’t for you, consider our list of National Park Half Marathons and 30 Best Destination Half Marathons.

If you’ve already signed up for a race, give yourself a pat on the back and capitalize on your excitement by starting your training early. Check out our complete list of training plans, injury prevention tips, and additional half marathon advice.

The Best Half Marathons in the World to Run in 2025

In This Article