When running dreams meet Mediterranean myth, we are talking about the fascination of running in Greece and Cyprus.
The sun on your skin, the sea in sight, history under your feet, and sweat dripping from your forehead with a smile. Here, athletic passion meets epic scenery, from ancient mountain trails to seaside promenades with guaranteed sunsets. Whether a casual runner or ultra veteran, running in Greece or Cyprus means collecting not just kilometers, but magical memories.
5 Legendary, Challenging, and Stunning Running Events in Greece
Note: The order does NOT indicate a ranking.
1. Navarino Challenge
Welcome to one of the most peaceful places in the world and one of Europe’s coolest multisport events. The Navarino Challenge is not a classic race, but a celebration of movement: running, swimming, SUP, yoga—all in the holiday paradise of Messinia. The running routes? Breathtaking! From olive groves to sea views and historic ruins. Perfect for families, sports fans, or anyone who wants to swap their running watch for a sun hat.
For runners, trail runs up to the half marathon distance are offered.
Date: May / October
All information about the Navarino Challenge
2. Zagori T.E.R.A
The Zagori T.E.R.A is not for the faint-hearted. This mountain running festival in northwestern Greece attracts trail running enthusiasts from across Europe—and for good reason. The course passes through Vikos-Aoos National Park, over ancient stone bridges, through deep gorges, and past abandoned mountain villages. 80 km of technically demanding terrain, with shorter distances also available. Bonus: After the race, enjoy homemade Tsipouro!
HDSports has already included this event in its selection of the most beautiful trail runs in the world.
Date: July
All information about the Zagori T.E.R.A
3. Olympus Marathon
Mount Olympus—the home of the gods—is also home to one of Europe’s most spectacular mountain marathons. The Olympus Marathon starts in the ancient city of Dion and takes runners straight up to over 2,700 meters. The atmosphere? Mystical. The views? Divine. Your legs? Pushed to the limit. Finishers may not be gods, but they are heroes.
In addition to the approximately 44 km marathon, there’s an ultra of more than 70 km with 5,500 meters of elevation. Shorter distances are also offered.
Date: June
All information about the Olympus Marathon
4. Athens Marathon
The race where it all began. From Marathon to Athens, following in the footsteps of Pheidippides. The original Athens Marathon is more than a race—it’s a historic statement. The course is tough: long climbs, hot climate, lots of asphalt. But goosebumps are guaranteed, especially at the finish in the Panathenaic Stadium. A true bucket-list experience for every runner.
With around 20,000 marathon finishers, it’s one of the largest marathons in Europe.
Date: November
All information about the Athens Marathon
5. Spartathlon
Think a marathon is tough? Try 246 km. Straight. In less than 36 hours. The Spartathlon is perhaps Europe’s hardest ultra: from Athens to Sparta, over mountains, through nights, with strict cut-offs. Finishers belong to the elite—and at the finish, a hand is extended with an olive from an ancient statue. Romance meets madness.
About 5,000 runners reach the finish each year, making it one of the largest ultramarathons on the planet.
Date: September
All information about the Spartathlon
Running under the Cyprus Sun: Mediterranean Races with Heart
Note: The order does NOT indicate a ranking.
6. OlympusMan Trail Run
Ready to take on the most challenging trails of Cyprus? The OlympusMan Trail Run series brings you along the legendary paths of the Troodos Mountains, all the way to the summit of Olympus!
Whether you’re an experienced trail runner or just starting out, there’s a challenge for everyone. Originally part of the legendary OlympusMan Triathlon, the series offers steep climbs and pure trail action.
Date: October / November
All information about the OlympusMan Trail Run
7. Larnaka Marathon
Run along the palm-lined promenade, past St. Lazarus Church, and to the famous Larnaka Salt Lake with turquoise sea views. The Larnaka Marathon feels like a mini-vacation with a medal. Distances range from the marathon to half marathon to 5 km, with sunny vibes to match the weather. And if you still have energy after the finish line, there’s always a tavern with live music.
As the author, I ran in 2024—cool temperatures and a flat course made the marathon a true delight. Even a little rain in the final kilometers didn’t spoil the fun.
Date: November
All information about the Larnaka Marathon
8. Limassol Marathon
Flat, fast, sunny. The Limassol Marathon is perfect for personal best seekers and sun lovers alike. The course runs mostly along the coast, with applause, music, and more palm trees than you can count. Festival vibes mix with running spirit and Cypriot hospitality. And after the race? A swim in the sea, of course.
Including side events, the race draws around 4,000 participants each year.
Date: March
All information about the Limassol Marathon
9. Paphos Marathon (Cyprus Marathon Pafos)
How does this sound: start at the ancient castle of Paphos, finish right by the sea, with a steady 20°C? The Cyprus Marathon Pafos is the perfect spring destination for runners escaping the cold. Small, friendly atmosphere, Mediterranean scenery, and a vacation-style finish. Many runners even stay a few extra days. Well deserved.
With over 3,000 participants in total, the race has already attracted an international fan base.
Date: March
All information about the Paphos Marathon
The 9 Most Beautiful Running Events in Cyprus and Greece
Note: The order does NOT indicate a ranking.
Summary
Whether you want to breathe history like at the Athens Marathon, seek trail running on divine terrain like at the Olympus Marathon, or rack up sun-kissed kilometers under palms like at the Limassol Marathon: Greece and Cyprus offer a unique running panorama. From the epic Spartathlon to the relaxed Navarino Challenge, you’ll find events for every type of runner. With sun, charm, and real character.