12. Halong Bay Marathon – Vietnam
The Halong Bay Heritage Marathon is a special coastal race with spectacular views. The start at the Bai Tho Bridge offers a wide view of the sea – perfect for forgetting pre-race nerves.
The race begins at 5 a.m., accompanied by the sunrise. The route follows the picturesque Dang Ba Hat Road and crosses the impressive Bai Chay Bridge, which is illuminated at night and spans the Cua Luc Bay. With views of Halong’s striking karst formations, the route passes mountains, fishing villages, and provides insight into local life. The finish is at the modern Quang Ninh Museum – an architectural highlight.
Date: November
All information about the Halong Bay Marathon
13. Hanoi Marathon – Vietnam
In the bustling traffic of the metropolis, this marathon is a real culture shock – grab a smile from a scooter rider, enjoy some street food afterward, and immerse yourself in pure Vietnamese vibes.
With well over 10,000 participants, it’s one of the largest sporting events in Vietnam and definitely one of the country’s most beautiful races.
Date: November
All information about the Hanoi Marathon
14. Hillary Everest Marathon – Nepal
The highest marathon in the world, starting in Lukla and running downhill to Namche Bazaar. A clever trick – but with a proud 2,896 meters of elevation gain, your knees will still get a serious workout. Thrill-packed pacing included. The finish is at the Everest Base Camp, over 5,000 meters above sea level.
Date: May
All information about the Hillary Everest Marathon
15. Istanbul Marathon – Turkey
The only marathon route that spans two continents – Europe meets Asia via the Bosphorus Bridge. Highlights: historic city center, sea views, and the feeling of crossing two worlds in one run.
With over 10,000 participants, it’s one of Turkey’s largest sporting events and probably the country’s most beautiful marathon.
Date: November
All information about the Istanbul Marathon
16. Jerusalem Marathon – Israel
A run through history and holy sites: Old City, Mount of Olives, modern districts – all prepared with careful attention to hills and course layout. Emotional, spiritual, and truly impressive.
The challenging course is considered one of the most beautiful in the world and runs through 3,000 years of history – passing highlights like the Israel Museum, the Knesset, Mount Zion, and the Old City walls. The finish is in the green Sacher Park. Usually, six events are available: marathon, half marathon, 10 km and 5 km runs, a family run (1.7 km), and a relay/community run (800 m).
Date: March
All information about the Jerusalem Marathon
17. Kaçkar by UTMB – Turkey
Wild mountain trails, steep climbs, Turkish hospitality – the Kaçkar Mountains are calling. A trail experience with heart-pumping elevation and full immersion in nature.
Kaçkar by UTMB® takes you into the stunning mountain world of the Kaçkar region in Turkey’s Ayder area. Running along historic shepherd paths, you pass traditional villages, mountain lakes, blooming valleys, and rustic wooden houses – all set within the wild plateau nature. Distances available are 100 km, 50 km, and 20 km – ideal for beginners and experienced trail runners. Beyond the sporting experience, you’ll enjoy genuine Turkish hospitality, traditional culture, and relaxation in natural hot springs.
Date: September
All information about Kaçkar by UTMB
18. Kobe Trail – Japan
Japanese mountain panorama just outside the city: green, cleverly designed – the Kobe Trail is varied and wonderfully organized in true Japanese style, with steaming onsen to enjoy afterward.
The main race is about 21 km long and attracts many professional trail runners to Japan every year.
Date: April
All information about the Kobe Trail
19. Limassol Marathon – Cyprus
Ok, politically in Europe, geographically still in Asia, but the Mediterranean calls – flat routes, sun, and Greek-Cypriot flair. Ideal for a season opener under palm trees.
By the way, the Limassol Marathon is just one of many beautiful beach marathons in Cyprus (Paphos and Larnaca also welcome runners).
Date: March / April
All information about the Limassol Marathon
Click “Weiter” to go to Part 3 of the most beautiful runs in Asia:
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