Maratona da Cidade do Rio de Janeiro

Come for the marathon, stay for the city's dramatic coastline—run past Copacabana and Ipanema before the winter crowds arrive. When you're done, hike to the Christ the Redeemer statue for sweeping views, then reward yourself with a feijoada at a local boteco. Late May brings mild, pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the historic center and its colorful tiled streets.