Running a half-marathon, a 13.1-mile (21.1km) race, is a popular goal for runners seeking a manageable yet rewarding challenge. It bridges the gap between shorter distances like 5kms and the full marathon, offering a test of endurance without the intense commitment of marathon training.

Training for a half-marathon typically spans eight to 12 weeks and includes a mix of long runs, speed workouts, and rest days. Building endurance is key, with weekly long runs gradually increasing in distance. Cross-training, strength exercises, and a focus on proper nutrition and hydration further support preparation. For many runners, a half-marathon is an entry point to long-distance running, offering the thrill of achieving a significant milestone.

Half-marathons have also become a major driver of sports travel. Events like the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series or the Great North Run in England combine scenic courses with vibrant atmospheres, attracting runners from around the globe. Many iconic cities host half-marathons that double as travel adventures, allowing participants to explore new destinations. This growing trend of “racecations” blends fitness with tourism, encouraging runners to embrace their passion for running while creating unforgettable experiences in some of the world’s most beautiful locales.

There’s hundreds of great events to choose from in 2025 – here we pick out some of the best half marathons in the world. All events and dates subject to change.

Travel agencies

A number of travel agencies offer packages to various marathons and running events around the world, including:

Other sports calendars

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Half marathons in 2025

PolarNight Half Marathon

When: 4 January 2025
Where: Tromsø, Norway
Website: msm.no

Rock ’n’ Roll Las Vegas Half Marathon

When: 22-23 February 2025
Where: Las Vegas, Nevada, US
Website: runrocknroll.com

Kilimanjaro Half Marathon

When: 23 February 2025
Where: Moshi, Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Website: kilimanjaromarathon.com

Harmonie Mutuelle Semi de Paris

When: 9 March 2025
Where: Paris, France
Website: harmoniemutuellesemideparis.com

Bath Half Marathon 2025

When: Sunday 16 March 2025
Where: Bath, England
Website: bathhalf.co.uk

Surrey Half Marathon

When: 16 March 2025
Where: Woking, Surrey
Website: surreyhalf.com

United Airlines NYC Half

When: 16 March 2025
Where: New York City, US
Website: nyrr.org

London Landmarks Half Marathon

When: 6 April 2025
Where: Westminster and the City, London, England
Website: llhm.co.uk

Vancouver Half Marathon

When: May 2025 (TBC)
Where: Vancouver, Canada
Website: bmovanmarathon.ca

Great Bristol Run Half Marathon

When: 11 May 2025
Where: Bristol, England
Website: greatrun.org

AJ Bell Great Manchester Run

When: 18 May 2025
Where: Manchester, England
Events: half marathon, 10km
Website: greatrun.org

Edinburgh Half Marathon

When: 25 May 2025
Where: Edinburgh, Scotland
Website: edinburghmarathon.com

Aruba Half Marathon

When: 7-8 June 2025
Where: Aruba
Website: klmarubamarathon.com

Skye Half Marathon

When: 14 June 2025
Where: Isle of Skye, Scotland
Website: skyehalfmarathon.com

Midnight Sun Half Marathon

When: 21 June 2025
Where: Tromsø, Norway
Website: msm.no

San Francisco Half Marathon

When: 27 July 2025
Where: San Francisco, California, US
Events: Bridge Half Marathon (first half of marathon); City Half Marathon (second half)
Website: thesfmarathon.com

Antrim Coast Half Marathon

When: 24 August 2025
Where: Antrim Coast Road, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
Website: antrimcoasthalfmarathon.com

Kauai Marathon and Half Marathon

When: 31 August 2025
Where: Kauai island, Hawaii, US
Website: thekauaimarathon.com

Great North Run

When: 7 September 2025
Where: Newcastle to South Shields, England
Website: greatrun.org

The Big Half London

When: Sunday 7 September 2025
Where: Tower Bridge to Cutty Sark, London, England
Races: half marathon, New Balance Big Relay, Big Mile
Website: thebighalf.co.uk

Tallinn Half Marathon

When: 13 September 2025
Where: Tallinn, Estonia
Website: jooks.ee

Copenhagen Half Marathon

When: 14 September 2025
Where: Copenhagen, Denmark
Website: cphhalf.dk

Run Cheltenham

When: 21 September 2025
Where: Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England
Events: half marathon, 10k, community mile
Website: runcheltenham.com

Royal Parks Half Marathon

When: 12 October 2025
Where: London, England
Website: royalparkshalf.com

Palma Half Marathon Mallorca

When: 19 October 2025
Where: Palma, Mallorca, Spain
Website: palmademallorcamarathon.com

Venice Half Marathon

When: 26 October 2025
Where: Venice, Italy
Website: venicemarathon.it

Philadelphia Half Marathon

When: 21-23 November 2025
Where: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
Website: philadelphiamarathon.com

Torino City Half Marathon

When: 23 November 2025
Where: Turin, Italy
Website: torinocitymarathon.it

Reggae Marathon

When: 7 December 2025
Where: Negril, Jamaica
Events: half-marathon; 10k; 5km
Website: reggaemarathon.com

Main image: @Muddu36/PXHere.com

World’s best half marathons in 2025