Half Marathons and Marathons in Portugal: Races You Can Run in 2026
If you’ve been thinking about running a half marathon or even going all-in on a marathon this year, you’re not alone.
Spring and summer are some of the best times to race in Portugal. The weather is ideal, the race calendar is full, and there’s something special about lining up at the start knowing months of training are about to be put to the test.
Whether you’re chasing a personal best, running your first 21K, or just looking for a new challenge, here are some half marathons and endurance races in Portugal you can still add to your 2026 calendar.
🌿 Why This Is the Perfect Time to Plan Your Race Season
From April onwards, Portugal’s race calendar really comes alive.
You’ll find:
- Coastal routes with incredible views
- Flat, fast courses for PB attempts
- More relaxed races with a strong community vibe
- Unique endurance formats that go beyond the traditional marathon
Planning ahead now means you can:
- Structure your training properly
- Choose races that match your goals
- Stay motivated with a clear objective
📍 1. 12ª Meia Maratona Ilha Verde
📅 April 12, 2026 — Ponta Delgada, São Miguel (Azores)
If you’re looking for something truly special, this race in the Azores delivers.
Running through the streets of Ponta Delgada with the Atlantic Ocean as your backdrop is an experience that goes far beyond performance.
Distances available:
- Half Marathon (21.1 km)
- 10 km
- 5 km
- Walk and kids race
👉 Perfect for: combining racing with travel and unforgettable views
🌉 2. Grande Prémio LXTriathlon
📅 April 19, 2026 — Lisbon
Right in the heart of Lisbon, this event offers a great mix of distances and a vibrant race atmosphere.
Distances:
- Half Marathon (21 km)
- 10 km
- 3 km walk
- Kids race
👉 Perfect for: a fast, accessible race with great energy and community
🌊 3. Meia Maratona Atlântico Ocidental
📅 June 6, 2026 — Santa Cruz das Flores (Azores)
A more remote and wild experience, this race takes you to one of the most untouched islands in the Azores.
Expect dramatic landscapes, ocean views, and a race that feels like an adventure.
👉 Perfect for: runners looking for something different and less crowded
🌙 4. Zumub 24H Run Mem Martins – Sintra
📅 May 9–10, 2026 — Mem Martins (Sintra)
If you’re thinking beyond the classic marathon, this is where things get interesting.
Formats include:
- 24-hour race
- 12-hour race
- 3-hour race
- Night marathon
This is not just about distance — it’s about mindset, resilience, and pushing limits.
👉 Perfect for: endurance athletes looking for a real challenge
🔥 5. 24h de P
📅 September 5–6, 2026 — Santa Maria da Feira
Another iconic endurance event in Portugal, offering both solo and team formats.
Options:
- 24h individual
- 24h team (relay)
- 12h
- 3h
- Night marathon
👉 Perfect for: racing with friends or testing your limits over long hours
🧠 Choosing the Right Race for You
Not every race needs to be about performance.
Ask yourself:
- Do I want a fast course or a scenic experience?
- Am I aiming for a PB or just to enjoy the race?
- Do I want a big event or something more local?
Portugal offers all of it — you just need to pick what fits your current moment.
🚀 Ready to Find Your Next Half Marathon or Marathon?
Whether you’re planning your first 21K or looking for your next big endurance challenge, there are plenty of options waiting for you.
👉 Explore more races on RaceFinder.
Every race starts long before the start line. It starts when you choose your next challenge.
