Sydney Marathon – Australia’s Global Running Stage
The Sydney Marathon has quickly grown into one of the most iconic races in the Southern Hemisphere. Held each September, this marathon showcases Australia’s largest city in a way that few other events can. Runners start near Bradfield Park and cross the world-famous Sydney Harbour Bridge, before weaving through vibrant streets and finishing at the Sydney Opera House. It’s hard to imagine a more striking backdrop for 42.2 kilometers of effort.
What makes the Sydney Marathon stand out is its international appeal. The race has recently been added to the Abbott World Marathon Majors candidate list, putting it alongside the likes of London, Boston, and Tokyo. This recognition has brought in runners from across the globe, giving the event a diverse and electric atmosphere. If you’ve ever dreamed of running a marathon that blends culture, scenery, and competition, this is a race to put on your calendar.
For those planning to take on Sydney, preparation is key. The course has rolling hills that can sap energy if you go out too fast. The climate in early spring is usually mild, but humidity can creep up and make hydration crucial. Aid stations are well-spaced, and crowd support in the final kilometers is loud enough to pull you along when fatigue sets in.
Beyond the race itself, Sydney offers plenty to turn your marathon into a memorable trip. You can spend recovery days on Bondi Beach, explore coastal walks, or enjoy the city’s food scene. That mix of racing and lifestyle makes the Sydney Marathon more than just another event. It becomes a full travel and running experience.
The climate in early spring is usually mild, but humidity can creep up and make hydration crucial. If warmer conditions worry you, learn practical adjustments in Is it harder to run in the heat? so you can pace and fuel with confidence.
Melbourne Marathon – Australia’s Sporting Capital on Display
The Melbourne Marathon is one of the longest-running and most celebrated races in the country. First held in 1978, it takes place every October and has become a bucket-list event for thousands of runners. The course highlights Melbourne’s reputation as Australia’s sporting capital, finishing inside the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), where the roar of the crowd makes every step across the final stretch unforgettable.
The route winds through the city’s famous landmarks, including St Kilda Road and the leafy boulevards that line Albert Park Lake. Flat sections dominate much of the course, making it popular for runners chasing a personal best. Still, the distance demands discipline, and pacing carefully through the early kilometers is essential if you want to finish strong inside the MCG.
Flat sections dominate much of the course, making it popular for runners chasing a personal best. If sub-four is your goal, this 3:45 marathon pace guide breaks down splits, workouts and race-day tactics.
What sets the Melbourne Marathon apart is its inclusivity. Alongside the full 42.2-kilometer race, there are half marathons, 10-kilometer, and shorter community runs, making it a true festival of running. Families, first-timers, and elite athletes all share the same streets, which creates an atmosphere that feels supportive and inspiring at every level.
October weather in Melbourne can be unpredictable, with cool mornings often warming quickly under spring sun. Light layers and proper hydration strategies are smart choices for race day. The city’s efficient transport makes getting to the start line stress-free, and the race organizers provide strong support throughout. Add in Melbourne’s vibrant food culture and art scene, and the marathon becomes more than just a race. It’s a weekend experience that balances competition with celebration.
Our Marathon Running Training Plan is designed to help you cover the full 42.2 km with confidence. Whether you’re targeting the Sydney Marathon, the Gold Coast Marathon, or another iconic race, this plan gives you the structure and support to train effectively and avoid common pitfalls.
- Endurance building: Progressive long runs that match real race demands without overtraining.
- Strength & mobility integration: Targeted drills to boost running economy and reduce injury risk.
- Smart pacing: Train using pace, heart rate, or effort to prepare for different race courses.
- Recovery focus: Built-in sessions that let your body adapt and come back stronger.
- Balanced training mix: Long runs, tempos, intervals, and easy days tailored for marathon success.
💡 Take the guesswork out of your training. Build the endurance and strength you need to enjoy every kilometer of your marathon.
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Gold Coast Marathon – Australia’s Fastest Course
The Gold Coast Marathon is often described as Australia’s fastest marathon. Held in early July, this race attracts thousands of runners each year who are chasing personal bests. With a flat course that runs alongside the Pacific Ocean, it’s hard to find a marathon that combines speed with stunning coastal scenery in quite the same way.
The out-and-back course stretches along the famous Gold Coast beachfront, with gentle breezes and cool winter conditions that are close to perfect for distance running. Many elite athletes use this event as a qualifier for international marathons because the conditions are so favorable for fast times. Even recreational runners often find themselves breaking through barriers here thanks to the course design and supportive crowds.
What makes the Gold Coast Marathon special is the atmosphere created by its community. Local residents line the streets to cheer, and the energy builds as you approach the Surfers Paradise section. It’s the kind of encouragement that gives you a lift right when fatigue starts to bite. The event is also well-organized, with aid stations, pacing groups, and clear logistics that make the experience smooth from start to finish.
Outside the race, the Gold Coast offers plenty of reasons to extend your stay. From golden beaches and surf culture to family attractions like theme parks, it’s an easy marathon to combine with a holiday. That blend of speed, scenery, and lifestyle explains why the Gold Coast Marathon is considered one of the best marathons in Australia for both competitive and recreational runners.
Outside the race, the Gold Coast offers plenty of reasons to extend your stay. From golden beaches and surf culture to family attractions, it’s easy to combine a PR attempt with a getaway. If gels don’t sit well, try these running gel alternatives and practice them on long runs before race day.
Brisbane Marathon – A Scenic River City Challenge
The Brisbane Marathon offers runners a chance to experience Queensland’s river city from a unique perspective. Held in June, this event takes participants through the heart of Brisbane, crossing multiple bridges and showcasing the mix of modern skyline and leafy riverside paths that define the city. For many runners, it’s a course that feels both scenic and challenging, thanks to its rolling profile.
The route highlights include the Story Bridge and stretches along the Brisbane River, giving runners a constant sense of connection to the city’s landmarks. While parts of the course are relatively flat, there are sections with short climbs that can test pacing strategy. Runners who manage their effort wisely in the first half are usually rewarded with a strong and confident finish.
Brisbane’s subtropical climate adds another layer of complexity. Even in winter, temperatures can rise quickly, so hydration and heat management become key factors. Race organizers provide frequent aid stations and strong course support, but preparing for warmer conditions is important if you want to perform well.
For runners looking to explore more races across Queensland and map out their season, you can browse the Queensland running events calendar to find upcoming marathons, half marathons, and shorter distance events.
Beyond the race itself, Brisbane has a laid-back charm that appeals to visitors. The city’s cultural precinct, outdoor dining, and easy access to nearby beaches and national parks make it an attractive marathon destination.
For runners who want a race that blends urban energy with natural beauty, the Brisbane Marathon stands out as one of the most rewarding city marathons in Australia.
While parts of the course are relatively flat, there are sections with short climbs that can test pacing strategy. Build better stability and late-race posture with these core workouts for runners so your form holds when fatigue hits.
Check out our Sydney Marathon Training Plan which is a customized 16–20 week blueprint built to help you reach the finish line at the Opera House feeling strong and confident.
- Personalized structure Tailored to your fitness level, running history, and available weekly time.
- Flexible training zones Use pace, heart rate, or RPE so you’re training on your level.
- Endurance and pacing strategy Balanced workouts designed to help you beat the Bridge to Opera House course without breaking.
- Injury prevention Built-in recovery and strength sessions to help you cross the Harbour Bridge feeling fresh.
- Quick and easy access Delivered in 24 hours via TrainingPeaks plus a 1-hour consultation to start your journey on the right foot.
You’re not just training to finish, you’re gearing up to own every unforgettable kilometer of that course.
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Adelaide Marathon – Coastal Beauty Meets Urban Charm
The Adelaide Marathon is a race that combines the relaxed atmosphere of South Australia with a course designed for both enjoyment and performance. Held in August, this marathon is known for its friendly community spirit and well-organized event structure. Runners are treated to a route that balances city streets with stretches along the coastline, offering a mix of urban and natural scenery.
The course is relatively flat, which makes it attractive for runners aiming for a personal best. Starting and finishing near the Adelaide Oval, one of the city’s most famous landmarks, the route takes participants past cultural highlights and open spaces that capture the charm of South Australia’s capital.
Weather conditions in August are generally cool and comfortable, perfect for long-distance running. While the event doesn’t draw the same international field as larger races, its reputation for being well-supported and runner-focused has grown steadily.
For runners looking to explore more races across the state, you can browse the South Australia running events calendar to find upcoming marathons, half marathons, and shorter races that fit your season goals.
One of the hidden benefits of the Adelaide Marathon is the chance to enjoy the region before or after the race. South Australia is known for its wine regions, such as Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale, as well as coastal escapes that are only a short drive away.
For runners who value combining travel with racing, this marathon offers performance and leisure in one trip. Newer marathoner? Use this beginner marathon training plan to build safely and arrive ready.
Canberra Times Marathon Festival – Australia’s Oldest City Marathon
The Canberra Times Marathon Festival holds a special place in Australian running history as the nation’s oldest city marathon. First held in 1976, it takes place each April in the nation’s capital and draws runners from across the country. The course is not only scenic but symbolic, weaving past landmarks such as Old Parliament House, Lake Burley Griffin, and the National Gallery of Australia.
The event is known for its calm, crisp autumn conditions, which are ideal for long-distance running. With minimal humidity and comfortable temperatures, April in Canberra gives participants an excellent chance of steady pacing and strong performances.
For runners looking to discover more races in the region and plan their season locally, you can explore the ACT running events calendar to find upcoming marathons, half marathons, and shorter distance races.
One of the standout features of the Canberra Marathon is the festival atmosphere. Alongside the full marathon, there’s a half marathon, 10-kilometer race, and fun runs that allow runners of all abilities to take part.
Another reason runners flock to Canberra is the ease of logistics. The city is compact and well-connected, making accommodation, transport, and pre-race preparation simple compared to larger metropolitan marathons.
Sunshine Coast Marathon – Coastal Running at Its Best
The Sunshine Coast Marathon has quickly earned a reputation as one of the most scenic and enjoyable races in Australia. Held every August, this marathon showcases the stunning coastline of Queensland, with a course that takes runners through Alexandra Headland, Mooloolaba, and Maroochydore. Few marathons can match the combination of ocean views, palm-lined streets, and the laid-back atmosphere that the Sunshine Coast delivers.
Since its debut in 2012, the Sunshine Coast Marathon has grown into a premier event on the running calendar. It is IAAF-AIMS certified, meaning the course meets international standards and can be used as a qualifier for the Boston Marathon. That certification, combined with its flat profile, makes it a popular choice for runners looking to achieve fast times. The cool winter conditions in Queensland at this time of year are also highly favorable, giving runners the chance to perform at their best.
What sets this event apart is its balance of competitiveness and community. Elite athletes often line up at the start, but the welcoming atmosphere ensures runners of all levels feel included. Alongside the marathon, there are half marathon, 10-kilometer, and 5-kilometer races, creating a festival of running that draws families, clubs, and local supporters together.
For runners looking to explore more races across the state, you can browse the Queensland running events calendar to find upcoming marathons, half marathons, and shorter races that fit your season goals.
For those traveling in, the Sunshine Coast itself is a destination worth exploring. Golden beaches, vibrant cafes, and nearby hinterland escapes make it easy to turn race weekend into a mini holiday. Whether you’re chasing a qualifying time or simply soaking up the scenery, the Sunshine Coast Marathon is one of the best marathons in Australia for combining performance with lifestyle.
Explore our Running Training Plans designed for all levels from first timers to seasoned marathoners. Each plan is customised based on your fitness level, training history and time availability and includes a 1 hour consultation to get you moving in the right direction.
- Options for every goal Choose from 5 km to ultramarathon distances tailored to your target event or time.
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You’re not just getting a plan, you’re getting a path built for you
Check out the Training Plans →Six Foot Track Marathon – Australia’s Toughest Trail Challenge
The Six Foot Track Marathon is unlike any other marathon in Australia. Held each March in the Blue Mountains, this 45-kilometer trail event is widely regarded as the country’s toughest marathon. The course follows the historic Six Foot Track, starting near Katoomba and finishing at Jenolan Caves, taking runners through rugged terrain, steep climbs, and dramatic descents. For trail runners, it’s an iconic test of strength and endurance.
Unlike city marathons, the Six Foot Track Marathon presents unique challenges. Participants face more than 1,500 meters of elevation gain, river crossings, and narrow single-track trails that demand careful footwork and pacing. It’s not a race where you can simply rely on road-running fitness; training specifically for trails, elevation, and technical terrain is essential. For those prepared, the reward is a breathtaking journey through one of Australia’s most stunning natural landscapes.
Entry to the event is highly sought after and competitive, often selling out quickly. With limited field sizes, the race has an intimate feel, where camaraderie and mutual support become just as important as the competition itself. Volunteers and aid stations provide critical assistance, but runners also need to carry essentials to manage the long stretches of remote trail. This self-reliant spirit is a big part of what makes the race so memorable.
While the Six Foot Track Marathon is not suited to beginners, it has become a bucket-list event for experienced runners looking to push beyond conventional limits. The combination of heritage trail, physical challenge, and spectacular mountain scenery makes it one of the most distinctive marathon routes in Australia. For those who conquer it, the sense of achievement is unmatched and often described as life-changing.
Comparing the Best Marathons in Australia
With so many iconic races across the country, it helps to see how the best marathons in Australia compare side by side. Whether you’re chasing a fast time, searching for breathtaking scenery, or looking for a festival atmosphere, this table highlights the key details to help you choose the right event.
👉 Swipe to view full table
| Marathon | Location | Month | Course Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney Marathon | Sydney, NSW | September | City, rolling hills | Global prestige and scenery |
| Melbourne Marathon | Melbourne, VIC | October | City, flat | Historic finish and inclusivity |
| Gold Coast Marathon | Gold Coast, QLD | July | Flat, coastal | Fast times and holiday vibe |
| Brisbane Marathon | Brisbane, QLD | June | City, rolling profile | River views and city energy |
| Adelaide Marathon | Adelaide, SA | August | Flat, city & coastal | Relaxed vibe and leisure travel |
| Canberra Marathon | Canberra, ACT | April | City, undulating | Scenery and historic course |
| Sunshine Coast Marathon | Sunshine Coast, QLD | August | Flat, coastal | Boston qualifier and beachside setting |
| Six Foot Track Marathon | Blue Mountains, NSW | March | Trail, mountain terrain | Extreme endurance and scenery |
This comparison highlights the variety across the country. From flat, coastal speed courses to mountain challenges and historic city routes, Australia’s marathon scene has something for every type of runner. To see what races are coming up and plan your season around them, explore the running events calendar.
Check out our Running Coaching program that’s built for all levels—from beginners aiming for their first 5 km to seasoned marathoners chasing PRs. Get a plan designed around your fitness, schedule and goals, plus ongoing coach support to keep you accountable and injury free.
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Choosing the Right Marathon in Australia
With so many options on the calendar, deciding which marathon to run in Australia depends on your goals, preferences, and experience level. Each event has its own strengths, whether it’s the international prestige of the Sydney Marathon, the fast coastal course of the Gold Coast Marathon, or the relaxed community vibe of the Adelaide Marathon. Taking the time to match the race to your running style can make the journey more rewarding.
If your aim is to run fast and chase a personal best, the Gold Coast stands out with its flat profile and ideal winter weather. On the other hand, if you’re after atmosphere and history, Melbourne provides a finish inside the iconic MCG that’s unlike any other in the country. Sydney delivers a blend of global recognition and stunning city views, making it a natural choice for runners who want a world-class stage.
For those who prefer a more intimate setting, races like Adelaide and Brisbane offer supportive crowds and scenic routes without the intensity of larger fields. And if you’re drawn to extreme endurance, ultramarathons such as Ultra-Trail Australia will test your physical and mental limits in ways a traditional road marathon never could.
It’s also worth considering the season and climate. Winter marathons often provide cooler, more favorable running conditions, while spring races can be warmer but come with vibrant city atmospheres. By aligning your training schedule, travel plans, and personal goals with the right event, you can make sure your choice delivers the best possible experience among the best marathons in Australia.
