TCS Sydney Marathon
If you have questions regarding Marathon Tours & Travel’s Sydney Packages please: EMAIL OUR TRIP DESIGNER or CALL 617-242-7845
Marathon Tours & Travel is proud to be the Official Travel Agency for the TCS Sydney Marathon. The 2024 TCS Sydney Marathon made history again beating the record set in 2023 as Australia’s biggest marathon field. Now in a landmark achievement, the TCS Sydney Marathon has been named the 7th Abbott World Marathon Major joining the series in 2025. Join us to run one of the most breathtaking courses in the world.
Think of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sydney Opera House and its ingenious shape, like billowing white sails, and the impressive steel arch of the Harbour Bridge. The blue waters of the harbour and the white sands and curling waves of Bondi Beach will also come to mind. These beautiful images inspire people from all over the world to visit Sydney. Once here, they discover so much more to see and do. This beautiful cosmopolitan city celebrates its cultural diversity and heritage, and passion for arts and sports.
The Sydney Marathon is the sole remaining participant legacy of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. It is run on one of the most spectacular courses in the world, taking in all of Sydney’s iconic landmarks and providing all runners with a unique opportunity of crossing the Sydney Harbour Bridge traffic free.
The marathon has been awarded the prestigious top honor of the International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF) Road Race Gold Label status – recognizing the event alongside household names of marathons such as London, Boston and New York.
The TCS Sydney Marathon is the first Abbott World Marathon Majors Candidate to become an Abbott World Marathon Major since Tokyo Marathon in 2013. Read the news release here.
The Sydney Marathon is an AbbottWMM Marathon Tours & Travel World Age Group Qualifying Race.
Meals Included
Breakfast daily at the hotel
Guide
Hosted on-site by Marathon Tours & Travel
Trip Extension
Post-Race Extensions Available
Accommodation
Five nights' accommodation in Sydney
Entry
Guaranteed race entry available
Celebration Party
Post-race celebration reception
Excursions
Sydney Harbour Cocktail Cruise & City Bus Tour
Medal Bling
Finishers will receive a commemorative medal
Travel Package Information
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Itinerary
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Thursday, August 28
Arrive in Sydney and transfer on your own to the hotel. Upon arrival, join us for a welcome brunch and Q&A briefing from 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM where you will meet fellow travelers and your MTT Hosts.
We recommend using your free afternoon to visit the Sydney Running Show, where you will pick up your race kits before exploring the local neighborhoods in Sydney. (Brunch included)
Friday, August 29
After breakfast, the group will depart on an unforgettable panoramic Sydney half-day sightseeing tour. During the tour we will visit the historic Rocks area, enjoy magnificent views of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and visit Bondi Beach. At the conclusion of the tour, you will be dropped off at the Sydney Marathon Expo to collect your race kits. The rest of the day is free to enjoy at your leisure.
This evening, Marathon Tours & Travel will host a Sydney Harbour Cocktail Cruise. There is no other Sydney venue more desired, no views more captivating, than the spectacular Sydney Harbour. Cocktail cruise includes canapes and one (1) drink per person. (Breakfast included)
Saturday, August 30
Today you can enjoy the sights of Sydney at your leisure. Relax at one of the famous beaches, visit the Taronga Zoo to see the koalas, or head to the Sydney Running Show for last minute race gear purchases. Tonight, join us for our pre-race dinner at the hotel. (Breakfast and dinner included)
Sunday, August 31
Race Day! This morning, a representative from Marathon Tours & Travel will escort you to the starting line. Your hotel is located 800 meters from the finish line, for an easy walk back. This evening, the group will gather for a post-race reception to celebrate your accomplishment at a nearby restaurant! Celebration reception includes canapes and one (1) drink per person. (Breakfast included)
Monday, September 1
Join one of MTT’s optional tours or explore Sydney on your own. (Breakfast included)
Blue Mountains Tour – Explore one of the seven national parks that make up the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. Your guide will take you off the beaten track to visit remote lookout locations and discuss the history, flora and fauna of this magnificent region. The day begins with early access to Calmsley Hill, a working farm home to Kangaroo’s, Emu’s, Wombat and Koala’s. The tour will continue with stops at Wentworth Falls, Jamison Creek, and Eaglehawk Lookout, before guests set off on a self-guided hike (~2 hours) along the top of the Grose Valley. You will enjoy a picnic lunch before finishing the day at the Blue Mountains Botanic Gardens where there’s time for a short inspection of the flora including the ancient Wollemi Pine. (Picnic lunch included) $215.00 USD/person
Hunter Valley Tour – Join us for a day of indulgence in Australia’s oldest and best-known wine region. The day will feature multiple tastings led by in-house wine experts at some of the most prestigious wineries in the area. A lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients will be served with a refreshing beverage while you immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the Hunter Valley. (Tastings & Lunch included) $270.00 USD/person
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Extensions
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Post-Race Extension to the Great Barrier Reef
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Tuesday, September 2
Transfer from your hotel in Sydney to Sydney International Airport for your flight to Cairns. Upon arrival you will be transferred to the Shangri-La Cairns. You will have the remainder of the day at your leisure to relax at the hotel or go into town to explore Cairns.
Wednesday, September 3
Today you will walk from the hotel to the port for your full day Great Barrier Reef Cruise. You will explore three different sites from an amazing selection of exclusive locations at the stunning Agincourt Ribbon Reefs. Enjoy over 5 hours at the reef with unlimited snorkeling and up to three certified dives and introductory diving (diving is at an additional cost). At the conclusion of the cruise you will return to the hotel. (Breakfast and lunch included.)
Thursday, September 4
After breakfast, you will meet your guide for a full day tour of the local area. The day will begin with a visit to the Cattana Wetlands for a guided walk and morning tea. The tour will then continue to Barron Falls, where you will meet your local Djabugay Cultural guide for boardwalk and discussion of the history and culture of the surrounding environment. From Barron Falls, the tour will continue to Kuranda, the famous village in the rainforest. You will have ample time to explore the heritage markets, enjoy lunch on your own, and visit one (or more) of the local attractions. The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway will take you back to Cairns via the “scenic route.” Upon arrival at the Shangri-La Cairns, you will have the evening at your leisure. (Breakfast included)
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Packages & Rates
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Sydney Tour | Five-Night Package: August 28 – September 2, 2025
Features:
- Five night’s accommodations
- Breakfast daily at the hotel
- Welcome Gift for runners
- Welcome Brunch
- Half-day guided sightseeing tour of Sydney
- Sydney Harbour Cocktail Cruise
- Group Shakeout Run
- Pre-race Dinner
- Post-race Celebration Reception
- Hosted on-site by Marathon Tours & Travel
- All taxes included
- Guaranteed race entry (cost is in addition to the package price)
Post-Race Extension to the Great Barrier Reef | Four Night Package: Tuesday, September 2 – Saturday, September 6, 2025
Features:
- Four nights’ accommodation at the Shangri-La Cairns
- Breakfast daily at the hotel
- One-way flight from Sydney to Cairns
- Airport transfer to Sydney International Airport
- Full Day Great Barrier Reef Tour (diving available at an additional charge)
- Full Day Waterfalls, Wetlands, & Kuranda Tour
- Farewell Reception
- All taxes included
- Services of Marathon Tours & Travel Staff
Please Note:
- We are not allowed to sell Guaranteed Race Entry Only
- Rates may change due to currency fluctuations and city taxes
Not Included:
- Australian Travel Visa – Required for U.S. and Canadian residents
- International airfare to/from Sydney
- Great Barrier Reef airfare from Cairns (CNS) to your connecting international flight
- All activities listed as optional
- Meals unless noted on the itinerary
- Gratuities and tips
- Incidentals
- Travel Insurance (highly recommended)
Airfare:
Sydney Package: Flights should be book to and from Sydney Airport (SYD) and should arrive on Thursday, August 28, 2025 before 10:00 AM. You can depart on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 at any time that is convenient for you.
Great Barrier Reef Extension: Guests on the post-race extension to the Great Barrier Reef should book your return flight on Saturday, September 6 from Cairns (CNS) to your home airport.
Rates per person and in US dollars
Sydney Tour | InterContinental Sydney Double Occupancy Single Occupancy Sofitel - Classic Room $1460 per person $2255 Sofitel - Superior Room $1600 per person $2440 InterContinental - Classic Room $1740 per person $2790 InterContinental - Eastern Harbour View Room $1890 per person $3095 InterContinental - Bridge View Room $2205 per person $3725 Capella - Deluxe Room $2550 per person $4400 Capella - Premiere Room $2800 per person $4890 Additional Nights Upon request Race Entry FeesSydney Marathon $375 Sydney Marathon 10K $TBA Sydney Mini Marathon 4.2K $TBA Optional Day ToursBlue Mountains Tour | Monday, September 1 $215 per person Hunter Valley Tour | Monday, September 1 $270 per person Post-Race Extension to the Great Barrier ReefFour Night Package: Tuesday, September 2 - Saturday, September 6, 2025 Double Occupancy Single Occupancy Deluxe Room $1415 per person $1930 Premiere Room $1465 per person $2025
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Hotels
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Capella Sydney
Escape to a destination where history and contemporary meet in the historical heart of Sydney. Originally built as the Department of Education in 1912 and reawakened as Capella Hotels’ first Australian outpost, discover a new benchmark in luxury hospitality that is footsteps away from Sydney’s most iconic landmarks.
InterContinental SydneyLocated a half mile from the finish line in the centrally positioned heart of Circular Quay. The InterContinental Sydney extends breathtaking panoramic views of the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Set within the beautifully restored Treasury Building of 1851, this hotel is renowned as one of the city’s prized icons.
Sofitel Sydney WentworthSydney’s iconic first 5-star hotel in Australia. Our hotel is an unparalleled luxury retreat located in the heart of Sydney’s CBD amidst the bustling business and shopping districts. Sofitel will provide an all-encompassing experience where entertainment, leisure, conferencing and unparalleled hospitality will converge seamlessly, transcending traditional hotel boundaries.
Shangri-La The Marina, CairnsExperience the warmth of our genuine Australian hospitality at Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns. Prominently situated on the marina. Laze by the pool, surrounded by lush tropical gardens or adventure out to Carin’s favorite attractions including local markets, waterfalls and World Heritage listed rainforests and landmarks.
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Event Information
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Race Date: Sunday, August 31, 2025
Race Time:
2025 Race Times are to be confirmed – please use 2024 as a guide
- 6:00 AM – Marathon
- 7:20 AM – 10K
- 8:00 AM – Mini Marathon 4.2K
Course: Introduced in 2001, the inaugural Sydney Marathon followed the same course as the marathon during the 2000 Summer Olympics the previous year. The 2025 marathon course will incorporate changes to enhance the experience to make it “a faster, more scenic and spectator friendly course”. The Sydney Marathon course is AIMS Certified accurate course. Marathon Course Map and Marathon Course Profile.
Entry Fee:
- Marathon – $375
- 10K – TBA
- Mini Marathon 4.2K – TBA
Eligibility: Sydney Marathon – 18 years +
Time Limit: Seven (7) Hours. The marathon will have cut-off points along the route. For more information go here.
Awards: Marathoners who finish their running event within the time limit will receive a commemorative medal and also receive a finishers t-shirt.
Temperature: September is the beginning of the spring season in Sydney. Daytime temperatures will range from 60°F – 68°F (16°C – 20°C). You will want to be prepared for some potential chilly westerly winds and chance of rain.
Difficulty: Moderate. See Marathon course profile here.
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Registration & Booking
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Rates: All prices are based on current exchange rates and may change due to currency fluctuations. All payments to Marathon Tours & Travel will be processed in US Dollars.
Reservation and Payments: A completed tour application together with a non-refundable deposit of $500 per person must be received before confirming your reservation. Final payment must be received before June 1, 2025. Final payments received after June 1, 2025 are subject to a $50 late payment fee. Bookings made after June 1, 2025 will require full payment at time of booking.
Cancellations: All payments, including your deposit, are non-refundable and non-transferrable. Non-transferrable includes applying your balance to another person, another year or another trip. Should you cancel for any reason, you will forfeit your trip investment. Therefore, travel insurance for every trip is highly recommended. All cancellations must be received in writing.
Note Included in the Price: All items not specifically listed under tour features. The race entry fee is an additional cost to the package price.
Insurance: For your protection, trip cancellation, baggage, health and accident insurance is highly recommended for all participants. However, no representation or description of the insurance made by our staff constitutes a binding assurance or promise about the insurance.
Travel Insurance for U.S. Residents
Travel Insurance for Canadian ResidentsSecurity Policy: Marathon Tours & Travel’s security policy requires that anyone staying in our room block must be registered as part of our package. If a registered client attempts to house a non-registered guest and /or invite them to attend any of our scheduled activities, the registered guest’s tour package will be forfeited and parties may be denied access to future tours. Please note that no exceptions will be made as this policy will be strictly enforced.
Responsibility: These tours are operated by Marathon Tours, Inc. of Chelsea, MA who acts only as an agent for the passenger to the companies offering such services and assumes no liability for injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity caused by any reason whatsoever by any party offering such services. All terms and conditions offered are governed by the laws of Massachusetts. The right is reserved to cancel the tour prior to departure with a refund, less applicable credit card and processing fees, made as full settlement to the passenger. The right is reserved by Marathon Tours, Inc. to deny acceptance of a booking application by any person. Marathon Tours, Inc. may make any changes or alterations in the itinerary as it deems necessary for the proper handling of the tour. The sole responsibility of any airline used is limited to that set out in the passenger contract evidenced by the ticket. The airlines concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time that the passengers are not on board their aircraft.
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Testimonials
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"This was such a wonderful experience..." - 2022
This was such a wonderful experience for my wife and I. Every time I think our trips with Marathon Tours & Travel can’t get better, they seem to keep raising the bar. It is so nice to have a stress-free time, the staff really is more like friends to us.
"The information about travel and what to expect was extremely helpful..." - 2022The information about travel and what to expect was extremely helpful – it really eliminated surprises and reduced stress.
"Once in a lifetime opportunity..." - 2022Once in a lifetime opportunity to explore Australia that you shouldn’t pass up!
"The company on the trip and the MTT efforts were extraordinary..." - 2022I loved getting to experience a lot of what Sydney has to offer and the Great Barrier Reef! The company on the trip and the MTT efforts were extraordinary, as usual.
"Ann was great and I hope I told her so..." - 2019Ann was great and I hope I told her so. She was very attentive to the group but down to earth and realistic with everything. She also made sure everything took place as scheduled and there was not one hiccup, at least that I am aware of. This was our first trip and my wife, who was reluctant to do this in the first place, by the time we left was asking when we were going to do another one.
"It was great!" - 2019It was great! Clean city, no crime. Scenery was amazing. 10k was fun, hard surfaces, but finishing at the iconic opera house was unreal! I had to pinch myself! Smiling from ear to ear marveling in all the runners! Loved it!
"Everything was well planned..." - 2019Everything was well planned. The hotel was in a great location, I could walk to pretty much everything that I wanted to see.
"Our family had a wonderful time on the trip..." - 2019Our family had a wonderful time on the trip. We credit Ann for a large part of our conclusion. My wife accompanied my Son and I for the first time; Ann and rest of group made her feel like one of the group , even though she did not participate in the Race. She had a much more enjoyable experience than I think she expected.
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Abbott World Marathon Majors Age Group World Championship
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This event is an Abbott World Marathon Majors Marathon Tours & Travel Age Group World Championship Qualifying Race. If you achieve the automatic qualifying time for your age group, found here, you’ll be invited to the 2025 Age Group World Championship race (destination still to be announced). For more information on the Age Group World Rankings and Championship click here.
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Recommended Resources
Meet the Reps
MaryKate Riordan
Trip Designer
MaryKate Riordan
Trip Designer
MaryKate joined the Marathon Tours & Travel team after receiving her B.A. in Sport Leadership & Administration from UMass Boston. Prior to completing her degree, MaryKate spent five years as a stewardess in the private yachting industry where she developed strong skills in customer service, travel logistics, and cultural immersion while exploring the world on the high seas. These remarkable years fueled her passion for travel and led her to a new hobby: marathon running. MaryKate has completed multiple marathons including Boston (2022) and Chicago (2023) as well as a variety of ultramarathons including the Comrades Marathon (Back to Back finisher 2018-2019). She also enjoys playing tennis, skiing, swimming, and searching for the best cup of coffee in town. She is excited to bring the knowledge she has gained from these experiences to the team where she will assist in cultivating many unforgettable trips.
