The increase in searches for short trips to cities hosting marathons in Europe has marked a new season of sports travel. Searches for the term "marathon abroad" have risen by 1255% over the past year, indicating a growing desire among runners to combine race day with a quick city trip.
Searches Have Peaked
Research conducted by a company owned by Tripadvisor shows that searches for marathons abroad have reached their highest level in 2026. This timing is appropriate, as studies indicate that one-quarter of global marathons take place in October.
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According to this data, searches for 24-hour plans in cities hosting marathons have also increased by 500%. Travel experts predict that this type of travel could lead to an increase in bookings beyond the summer peak.
Combining Two Challenges: Sports and Travel
Defining "sports travel" as a new trend in the travel world has gained significant popularity among those who prioritize health and fitness. These individuals tend to combine the challenge of a major race with visiting a new and exciting destination. Recent observations show that videos related to the best places to host sports events and marathon travel plans have garnered significant attention and thousands of views on social media.
Marathons are typically annual events, with 42% of them taking place in the autumn. October alone hosts 23% of all events. Some of the major sporting events this autumn include the marathons in Amsterdam, Munich, Lisbon, and Budapest.
Increase in Day Trip Searches
Analyses indicate that searches for 24-hour travel plans to cities hosting these events have significantly increased. Last month, searches for "what to do in Hamburg" saw a 500% increase. Additionally, searches for "what to do in Lisbon for a day" increased by 400%, and in Munich by 250%.
This trend towards short trips is also linked to a new trend called "micro-adventures." These trips allow travelers to have a maximum experience of a destination within a limited time, typically immersing themselves in a city for 24 hours.
For runners and micro-adventure enthusiasts, guided tours and organized experiences are a suitable way to get acquainted with a destination and engage with local culture. Research shows that searches for day tours in various cities across Europe have also significantly increased over the past year. Searches for "day tours in Budapest" have risen by over 400%, and for "day tours in Amsterdam" by over 100%.
The increase in searches for cooking classes in Lisbon and food tours in Rome indicates that these travelers are not just content with seeing attractions, but are also seeking cultural and culinary experiences that can make their trip more memorable.
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