Running has gained popularity in Brazil, leading many enthusiasts to travel to other locations for training. The Melhores Destinos portal conducted a survey to identify the most sought-after destinations by these runners, both within and outside the country, by analyzing Google searches between August 2025 and July 2026 for terms such as 'marathon' and 'running in'.
Of the five most searched international cities, four are part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors circuit, which includes eight of the world's largest marathons. The exception in this group is Buenos Aires, which stood out without being part of this circuit.
International Ranking
London led the ranking with 36.8 thousand searches, hosting one of the planet's most competitive marathons. In 2026, there were over 1.1 million registrations for the draw for spots, although only about 60 thousand runners reached the starting line.
Buenos Aires ranked second with 35.8 thousand searches, trailing the English capital by only a thousand searches. Its proximity to Brazil is cited as a factor that may justify its placement.
Boston came in third with 31 thousand searches and hosts the world's oldest marathon, held since 1897. This race is known for its high demands; when the limit of 30 thousand participants is exceeded, priority is given to participants who have completed previous marathons with good performance, following time criteria established by the organization.
Berlin was fourth with 22 thousand searches, and its fast course has already generated 13 world records. Finishing the top 5, New York registered 19 thousand searches, offering a city-sized marathon, with over 59 thousand runners traversing the five boroughs and more than one million spectators watching.
Destination Analysis
Leonardo Marques, director of Melhores Destinos, commented that 'a major marathon transforms the trip around a specific date. The runner needs to coordinate registration, travel, and accommodation, and often takes advantage of the race to get to know the destination.'
He added that Buenos Aires attracts attention by providing this more accessible and closer international experience to Brazil, unlike London, Boston, Berlin, and New York, which possess the prestige of major world marathons but involve longer and more expensive trips.
National Ranking
In Brazil, Rio de Janeiro obtained first place with 281 thousand searches. In 2026, the Rio Marathon had 70 thousand registered participants, approximately 75% of whom came from outside the capital.
Porto Alegre secured second place with 131 thousand searches. In its 41st edition, the Gaúcho marathon received about 30 thousand athletes, from various Brazilian states and more than 25 countries.
São Paulo appears in third place, with 126 thousand searches. Followed by Brasília, with 76 thousand searches, and Belo Horizonte, with 71 thousand.