If you're the type who likes to push yourself to the limit, then chances are running a marathon is for you. Stretching your body to limits you barely knew existed, all in exchange for a shiny medal at the end to remember the event and a bucketload of memories.

But say you've participated in all the local marathons already, and you're ready to expand your horizons - why not participate in other marathons across the world? That way, you can check these locations off your map and also see amazing new sights.

Where are the top places to be though? Read on to see the 9 marathons to experience in 2023...

July 29

Uluru (Ayres Rock) in the daytime (source)

For a real challenge, and a chance to experience the Australian Outback, this is a marathon you shouldn't miss out on.

The good news is, it's relatively flat with a few short sand dunes, which will test you. However, the course can be sandy and soft at times, so it may not be terrain you're used to. Regardless, you'll have an unforgettable time seeing the Outback up close and personal.

Considering that you'll start and end in Uluru, it makes sense to stay in the area. A night in Discovery Kings Canyon will be fun, as you can stay in outback campground rooms if you wish.

Click here for cheap flights to Ayers Rock.

August 19

Aerial view of Reykjavik (source)

Every year, around 3,000 international runners take part in this marathon. And with Reykjavik as the backdrop, who can blame them?

Participating can be a fantastic chance to see what Iceland has to offer, especially since the city's Culture Night happens on the same day. As for the race itself, it'll take you through a relatively flat course, with lots of gorgeous scenery.

Get a good night's rest before your big run by booking a stay at Hótel Reykjavík Grand. You'll be just a mile away from the city centre, which makes it very convenient, as the marathon starts there.

Click here for cheap flights to Reykjavik.

September 9

Jungfrau on a sunny day (source)

Although it's not the most popular marathon in Switzerland, the Jungfrau-Marathon has the tagline "the most beautiful marathon of the world", which certainly makes it worth participating in. Be sure to register fast, as there are only 4,000 spots!

The marathon starts in Interlaken, and along the way, you'll see the Alpines, as well as gorgeous turquoise waters. You'll finish in the Eigergletscher, which is a magnificent glacier that places you almost 2,000m above where you started.

The good news is, you can stay as close (or far) as you want from the start line, and you can travel on public transport from any Swiss train station to the marathon for free! But if you don't want to bother with this, then stay at Hotel Artos Interlaken, where you'll be just 330m (0.2 miles) from the city centre.

Click here for cheap flights to Zurich.

September 24

A panoramic view of Warsaw's buildings (source)

The Warsaw Marathon is the oldest in the country, with the first event in 1979. If you've always wanted to explore Poland's capital, then here's the perfect opportunity. The flat route starts and finishes in Old Town Warsaw, and takes you through charming streets, parks, and palaces.

If you need to carb load the night before, then not to worry. There's a pasta dinner party the night before!

To get an idea of how the Old Town looks, get some shuteye at Mondrian Luxury Suites & Apartments Old Town Market Square. Here, you'll get a stunning view of the local architecture.

Click here for cheap flights to Warsaw.

October 8

A yellow tram going through Lisbon (source)

For the biggest marathon in Portugal, sign up for the EDP Lisbon Marathon. Starting from the town of Cascais, this outstanding race gives you views of the sea and river 100% of the time. In fact, it is often considered the most beautiful marathon in the world…

If you present your runners bib, you can use public transport for free to get to Avenida da República in Cascais. However, consider booking a stay at Real Residência - Apartamentos Turísticos. Not only will you be close to the marathon starting point, but you'll also be pampered in a serviced apartment.

Click here for cheap flights to Lisbon.

October 15

Amsterdam houses by the canal (source)

The TCS Amsterdam Marathon is the largest of its kind in the Netherlands, and it's the fourth fastest marathon city! It's an amazing urban race that'll take you through all of the capital city's main sights.

First, you'll start at the Olympic Stadium. Once you head off, you'll go through the Rijksmuseum's passage, past the Heineken Experience, then along the sparkling Amstel River and through the renowned Vondelpark.

Because you'll end where you started, it's best if you stay in a hotel nearby, such as Hotel TWENTY EIGHT. It's only 230m (0.15 mi) from the Olympic Stadium, and it's close enough to the city centre, yet far enough from all the loud and raucous partying in the heart of it.

Click here for cheap flights to Amsterdam.

November 5

Seagulls flying against Istanbul's skyline (source)

Did you know that the Istanbul Marathon was the first intercontinental marathon race in 1979? Naturally, it was initially named the Asia-Europe Run, but as it grew in popularity, it was renamed the Istanbul Marathon to promote the gorgeous city.

First, you'll start at the 15 July Martyrs Bridge. You'll cross the bridge (and the Bosphorus Strait), then see Istanbul's various historical places before ending at the Blue Mosque Square.

Like with many of the other marathons on this list, you can get free public transport by showing your bib number.

To get an excellent view of the 15 July Martyrs Bridge, and to be close to the starting line, book a room at Berfinn Hotel Ortaköy, which is 720m (0.5 mi) away. Or take it easy after your race by staying at Sultanahmet Palace Hotel, which is a mere 140m away from the Blue Mosque Square.

Click here for cheap flights to Istanbul.

November 12

The ruins of Athens during sunset (source)

Do you want a run with history? Then you'll be pleased to know that the Athens Marathon supposedly takes the same route the messenger Phiedippides took 2,500 years ago when he delivered news of victory. Even better is, the route finishes in the glorious Olympic Stadium!

The marathon starts in the town of… Marathon. It's not for the faint of heart, as it'll take you through literal ups and downs. The inclines are extremely challenging, so make sure to train hard before this race.

While you won't get to use public transportation for free, the committee organised 5 different pickup points where you can take free buses to the starting line. Rest up afterwards in an apartment at Grea Ardittos, which is 450m (0.3 mi) from the Olympic Stadium.

Click here for cheap flights to Athens.

December 3

Overhead view of Valencia (source)

Finally, if you fancy an end of year race, then the Valencia Marathon is right for you. You'll get free treats beforehand, such as hot chocolate and churros, and exciting goody bags afterwards too.

The route itself takes you through mostly suburban areas, and at one point, you'll enjoy a scenic view along the coast. You'll see important sites as well, such as the Jardin del Turia.

To ensure you run at your best, stay at Vincci Lys Hotel Valencia. It's in the prime touristic area of the city centre, so you'll be able to explore without exerting yourself too much.

Click here for cheap flights to Valencia.

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