
Road races, particularly marathons, enjoy considerable success in France, with over 2 million French citizens participating annually. In 2024, approximately fifty marathons are scheduled across the country. Are you considering registering for a race in France to combine a personal best with a memorable trip? Discover our curated selection of the top 10 marathons taking place in France in 2024!
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The Olympic-inspired marathon: The Marathon For All Paris 2024 (“Marathon Pour Tous”)
You might have already heard of it – the Marathon for All Paris 2024 stands out as a distinctive event, epitomizing the Olympic ethos. Irrespective of age, nationality, or skill level, individuals have the chance (contingent upon being among the 20,024 runners selected by lottery) to traverse the same course as the Olympic marathon.
This event poses a unique challenge with its elevation variations and renowned hill, necessitating adequate preparation for participants of the Marathon for All.
The largest marathon in France: The Paris Marathon
Undoubtedly, the Paris Marathon stands as the most renowned marathon in France. It draws international runners, including notable figures like Kenenisa Bekele in 2014 (finishing in 2h05’02”). While the Paris Marathon route may not be the fastest globally, the capital city captivates with its picturesque paths: from the iconic Champs Elysées to the historic Place de la Concorde and along the tranquil banks of the Seine. In 2024, all available bibs for the Paris Marathon were claimed four months in advance, solidifying its status as a must-do event.
The most scenic finish: The Grand Paris race
In October 2024, the Grand Paris Race will present its Olympic Sites Marathon. If you missed out on securing a bib for the Marathon for All, seize the opportunity with the Paris 2024 Olympic Sites Marathon, guiding participants through the city’s Olympic venues! The pinnacle of the experience: an iconic finish on the Olympic athletics track at the Stade de France!
The most coastal marathon in France: The La Rochelle Marathon
The La Rochelle Serge Vigot Marathon enchants numerous runners with its charming streets and historic harbor. Its route enables spectators to cheer on participants from multiple vantage points. In terms of turnout, it ranks as the second largest marathon in France.
Typically, the La Rochelle Serge Vigot Marathon marks the conclusion of the marathon season in late November. The 2024 edition is scheduled for Sunday, November 24, promising an even swifter course.
The most tourist-friendly: The Deauville Marathon
The International inDeauville Marathon unfolds in the picturesque seaside town of Deauville, nestled in Normandy. A portion of the marathon route meanders along the beach, culminating at the iconic Deauville Promenade des Planches! With minimal elevation gain, participants can achieve swift times while soaking in the breathtaking scenery.
In 2022, the Deauville Marathon played host to the French Marathon Championships.

The most breathtaking landscapes: The Annecy Lake Marathon
The Annecy Lake Marathon is celebrated for its stunning vistas nestled between the lake and mountains, featuring the renowned greenway tracing along the lakeshore. This marathon highlights the beauty of Lake Annecy with a swift course that appeals to runners of every proficiency level. An added benefit of the event is its inclusion of 5K, 10K, and half-marathon distances, making participation accessible to nearly everyone.
The most riviera-esque: The French Riviera Marathon, Nice-Cannes
Embracing the Mediterranean Sea, the French Riviera Marathon promises a scenic route. From the iconic Promenade des Anglais in Nice to the glamorous Croisette in Cannes, it exudes a holiday atmosphere. Luckily, the race occurs in November, offering typically pleasant temperatures.
Also noteworthy are the Montpellier Marathon in March, boasting a seaside route and a swift course, and the Indigo Coast Marathon in April, set against the magnificent backdrop of Aude!
The ultimate gastronomic experience: The Médoc Marathon
The Médoc Marathon lures a diverse array of runners with varying objectives. As you traverse through vineyards, approximately twenty refreshment stations offer wine tastings and occasionally oysters. Dubbed the world’s longest marathon due to these extended breaks, the course features hills and trails. It stands out as one of the most festive marathons, with participants often encouraged to run in costume.
Similarly themed marathons abound in France! For instance, there’s the Chablis Marathon in October, set amidst the Chablis vineyards near Auxerre, and the Beaujolais Marathon in November, near Lyon, seamlessly blending running with wine tasting.
The most celebratory: The Louvre Lille-Lens Road Marathon
The Lille-Lens Louvre Road Marathon is a convivial affair, enveloped in festivities that accompany the races: from parades of the Giants of the North to brass bands and carnivals. Connecting Lille to Lens, the marathon culminates at the Louvre Museum, which has boasted a branch in Lens since 2012. This fusion of culture and sport fosters a vibrantly festive atmosphere, rendering it a standout experience for both participants and spectators.
The most eclectic marathon: The Lyon Marathon
The Lyon Marathon presents a chance to (re)explore the capital of the Gauls through a diverse route. Participants traverse the Parc de la Tête d’Or, follow the banks of the Rhône, pass by the Gerland Stadium, continue along the Saône riverbanks, venture through the Croix-Rousse Tunnel, and ultimately culminate at Place Bellecour. With such varied scenery, there’s something to appeal to every runner. This event, recognized as Run in Lyon, continues to gain popularity with each passing year.
And you, what is your favorite race among the marathons in France?
Among the marathons in France, we could also mention the marathons of Marseille, the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, Ajaccio, Cheverny, Nantes, the Loire, Toulouse, Poitiers – Futuroscope, Touraine – Loire Valley, Millau, Vannes, Rennes, Royan, the Marathon des Villages (Lège Cap-Ferret),…
As for preparing for a marathon, the RunMotion Coach mobile application sounds like an excellent resource! Having a customized training plan and access to advice from both beginners and experienced runners can definitely help ensure a successful and enjoyable race day.