Asics is one of the biggest names in running, with a range that stretches from comfortable shoes for everyday miles to stability shoes, trail footwear and some of the lightest carbon-plated racing shoes available. The brand is still closely associated with Gel cushioning, but modern Asics running shoes use a much wider collection of foams and technologies. That breadth can make the range more complicated than it first appears. A Gel-Nimbus designed around maximum cushioning has a very different purpose from a Novablast, while the Gel-Kayano and GT-2000 provide additional stability and the Metaspeed family sits at the specialist racing end of the range. This guide explains what Asics running shoes are known for, how the main technologies and ranges differ and some of the models worth knowing about. It is a starting point rather than a complete catalogue, with a large number of models, previous generations and regional variations available at the same time. Who Is Asics? Asics is a Japanese sportswear company whose story began in Kobe in 1949, when Kihachiro Onitsuka founded Onitsuka Co. Ltd. In the difficult years following the Second World War, Onitsuka believed sport could help improve the lives and wellbeing of young people. The company initially concentrated on sports footwear, including basketball shoes, before becoming increasingly involved in running. The Marathon Tabi appeared in 1953, while the Magic Runner followed later in the decade as the company continued developing footwear for runners and other athletes. A major change came in 1977 when Onitsuka Co. merged with GTO Co. and Jelenk Co. to create Asics Corporation. The name was formed from the Latin phrase Anima Sana In Corpore Sano, commonly translated as "a sound mind in a sound body". Research and sports science subsequently became important parts of the company's approach. Asics opened its Research Institute of Sports Science in Kobe in 1990, creating a dedicated facility for studying athletes, human movement, materials and sporting equipment. Running remains central to Asics today. Long-established names such as the Gel-Kayano, Gel-Nimbus and Gel-Cumulus now sit alongside newer ranges including the Novablast, Superblast and Metaspeed, giving the company one of the broadest selections of running footwear available. What Makes Asics Running Shoes Different? Asics does not have one particular type of running shoe. Its range stretches from relatively straightforward shoes for everyday road running to maximum-cushion models, stability shoes, faster training footwear, carbon-plated racers and trail shoes. For many years, Asics was particularly associated with Gel cushioning and fairly traditional running shoes. Those models still form an important part of the collection, but the character of the range has changed considerably as lighter foams and more performance-focused designs have appeared. The Gel-Cumulus and Gel-Nimbus provide different levels of cushioned neutral running, while the Gel-Kayano and GT-2000 cover additional stability. The Novablast provides a more energetic everyday option, the Superblast moves further towards performance training and the Metaspeed family is designed around racing. Understanding those different roles is more useful than simply looking for the Asics shoe with the most advanced sounding technology. How Do Asics Running Shoes Fit? Fit varies across Asics running shoes. A highly cushioned Gel-Nimbus can feel different from a stability-focused Gel-Kayano or a lightweight Metaspeed racing shoe, so do not assume that finding your size in one Asics model guarantees exactly the same fit in another. Check the length, toe room and hold around your heel and midfoot. Your feet can expand during longer runs, making the fit you experience after several miles more important than how a shoe feels for a few moments when you first put it on. If possible, try the particular model you are considering with the socks you normally use for running. This becomes particularly important when moving between very different parts of the Asics range or changing substantially from the type of shoe you normally wear. What About Heel Drop? There is no single heel drop across Asics running shoes. The difference in height between the heel and forefoot varies between models because a maximum-cushion road shoe, stability shoe, trail shoe and specialist racer are designed around different requirements. Heel drop can be useful when comparing a new shoe with something you already run comfortably in, particularly if you are considering a substantial change. It should not be treated as a measure of how cushioned, fast or suitable a shoe will be. The overall ride also depends on stack height, the type and amount of foam, sole geometry, stiffness and the way the shoe works with your stride. Check the specification of the exact model and generation you are considering rather than assuming similar Asics shoes will have the same drop. Read more about heel drop here. What Is Asics Cushioning Like? There is no single Asics cushioning experience. The company uses different foams and cushioning systems to create shoes ranging from soft maximum-cushion models to lightweight performance footwear. Gel is historically the technology most closely associated with Asics, and modern PureGel continues that story in shoes such as the Gel-Nimbus. It now works alongside newer midsole foams rather than being the single defining feature of the shoe. FF Blast Plus is used in highly cushioned models such as the Gel-Nimbus, while FF Blast Max appears in shoes including the Gel-Cumulus, Novablast and GT-2000. At the performance end of the range, FF Leap provides a lightweight and highly responsive material for shoes including the Superblast and Metaspeed family. Do not choose an Asics shoe solely because it contains a particular foam. The amount of cushioning, geometry and other components surrounding it all influence how the finished shoe actually feels. What Is PureGel? Gel cushioning became one of the technologies most strongly associated with Asics running shoes. Older models often made the Gel units highly visible, helping the technology become an easily recognisable part of the brand. PureGel represents a newer approach. Rather than relying on the large visible inserts associated with some older Asics shoes, the material can be incorporated more discreetly into the construction to help soften impact. The Gel-Nimbus 28, for example, combines PureGel with FF Blast Plus cushioning. Modern Asics cushioning therefore relies on the interaction between different materials rather than Gel working in isolation. What Are FF Blast And FF Leap? Asics uses several different performance foams across its current running shoes. The names can initially make the range difficult to understand, but they allow the company to alter the balance between cushioning, weight and responsiveness according to the purpose of each shoe. FF Blast Plus is used in shoes where soft cushioning remains a priority. FF Blast Max provides a more energetic ride and appears in models including the Gel-Cumulus 28, Novablast 6 and GT-2000 15. FF Leap sits further towards the performance end of the range. Asics describes it as its lightest and most energetic foam, and it appears in specialist racing footwear as well as the Superblast 3. The presence of one of these foams does not tell you everything about how a shoe will feel. Midsole geometry, stack height, outsole construction and the way different materials are combined all influence the finished ride. How Does Asics Stability Technology Work? Stability has been an important part of the Asics running range for decades, but the way the company provides support has changed substantially. Older stability shoes often relied on firmer material around the inside of the midsole to influence foot movement. Modern Asics designs increasingly use geometry, cushioning and the shape of the shoe to provide guidance without relying solely on a traditional medial post. The Gel-Kayano 33 introduces FluidSupport, replacing the 4D Guidance System used in the previous generation. It combines two layers of cushioning with geometry intended to adapt to changing needs through the stride. The GT-2000 15 uses Asics' 3D Guidance System instead. That means even within the company's stability range there is not one single approach to support. What Is AsicsGrip? AsicsGrip is the company's high-performance outsole rubber and appears across road, racing and trail shoes. Its purpose is to provide traction while allowing Asics to tailor the outsole to the job of the individual shoe. The amount and positioning of AsicsGrip varies. The Novablast 6, for example, uses it in the forefoot, while the Trabuco 14 uses AsicsGrip as part of an outsole designed specifically for off-road surfaces. Do not assume that two shoes using AsicsGrip will therefore provide identical traction. Outsole coverage, tread pattern and the surface the shoe has been designed for all remain important. Does Asics Make Neutral Running Shoes? Yes. A substantial part of the Asics road running range consists of neutral shoes, with options covering everyday mileage, maximum cushioning, faster training and racing. The Gel-Cumulus is one of the more conventional everyday options, while the Gel-Nimbus provides greater cushioning. The Novablast offers a livelier alternative, while the Superblast moves further towards performance training and long runs at a range of paces. Neutral does not mean that every shoe will feel equally stable beneath you. Platform width, midsole geometry, stack height and upper construction can all influence how secure a neutral shoe feels. If you already have a neutral shoe that works well, compare its fit and ride with the Asics model you are considering rather than choosing solely because both are described as neutral. Does Asics Make Stability Running Shoes? Yes. Stability shoes have been an important part of the Asics range for decades, with the Gel-Kayano and GT-2000 among its best-known models. The Gel-Kayano is the more highly cushioned option. The latest generation uses FluidSupport, combining dual-layer cushioning and geometry to provide adaptive guidance rather than relying solely on the firm medial posts traditionally associated with stability footwear. The GT-2000 provides another route into the stability range and uses Asics' 3D Guidance System. It is a more conventional everyday option for runners who want additional guidance without necessarily wanting the maximum cushioning of the Kayano. Not every runner who overpronates automatically needs a stability shoe. Comfort, fit and how the shoe feels while you are actually running remain important considerations. Does Asics Make Carbon Plated Running Shoes? Yes. Asics makes specialist carbon-plated racing shoes, with the Metaspeed family sitting at the top of its road racing range. The Metaspeed Sky Tokyo and Metaspeed Edge Tokyo are designed around different ways runners increase their speed. The Sky is intended for runners who tend to increase speed more through stride length, while the Edge is designed around runners whose cadence increases more significantly as they accelerate. The Metaspeed Ray takes the concept in another direction. It combines FF Leap cushioning with a minimal carbon plate in an exceptionally lightweight construction and is particularly targeted towards elite and forefoot runners. A carbon racing shoe is not essential simply because you are entering a race. Fit, comfort, stability and how confidently you can run in the shoe over your chosen distance remain more important than the presence of a carbon plate. Read more about super shoes here. Does Asics Make Trail Running Shoes? Yes. Asics has an extensive trail running range covering everything from regular off-road training to longer runs across more demanding terrain. The Trabuco family is one of the best-established parts of the collection. The Trabuco 14 combines FF Blast Max cushioning with AsicsGrip outsole rubber and is designed around cushioning, traction and confidence across unpredictable trail surfaces. The wider range includes other options such as the Trabuco Max, giving runners different combinations of cushioning, protection and trail performance. Choose a trail shoe according to where you actually run. Dry park paths, muddy woodland, loose rock and technical mountain trails place very different demands on grip, protection and stability, so a road shoe with a substantial outsole is not automatically a substitute for dedicated trail footwear. Read more about trail shoes here. Which Asics Running Shoes Should You Consider? The Asics range is extensive and changes regularly, with previous generations often remaining available alongside newer shoes. The models below represent some of the main parts of the current range rather than every Asics running shoe you can buy. Asics Gel-Cumulus 28 The Gel-Cumulus 28 is one of the places to start if you want a neutral Asics shoe for regular road running. It uses FF Blast Max cushioning and is designed to provide a smooth, cushioned ride without pushing as far towards maximum cushioning as the Gel-Nimbus. Consider it for easy runs, steady mileage and general training. Its relatively straightforward role makes the Cumulus family a useful starting point for runners who want an everyday Asics road shoe without moving immediately towards one of the more specialised models. Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 The Gel-Nimbus 28 (pictured above) is the maximum-cushion option within this part of the Asics road range. It combines FF Blast Plus cushioning with PureGel and places greater emphasis on comfort than outright speed. It is particularly suited to easy running and longer runs where cushioning is a priority. The modern Nimbus is substantially different from some of the firmer versions runners may remember from years ago, reflecting the wider move towards higher levels of cushioning in road shoes. Choose it because you enjoy its fit and highly cushioned ride rather than simply because the Nimbus name has been part of the Asics range for so long. Asics Gel-Kayano 33 The Gel-Kayano (pictured below) is one of the best-known stability shoe families in running. The Gel-Kayano 33 introduces FluidSupport, replacing the 4D Guidance System from the previous generation, and combines FF Blast Max with FF Blast Plus cushioning. It is designed for runners wanting substantial cushioning alongside additional guidance. The modern Kayano is far removed from the heavily structured stability shoes many runners associate with earlier generations, with Asics now using cushioning and geometry to create a more adaptive form of support. If you have run in older versions of the Kayano, do not assume the latest model will feel identical simply because the name remains the same. Asics GT-2000 15 The GT-2000 15 provides another option for runners looking for additional stability. It uses FF Blast Max cushioning alongside the 3D Guidance System and has a different role from the more highly cushioned Gel-Kayano. Consider it if you want support in an everyday road shoe but do not necessarily want the maximum-cushion approach of the Kayano. As with any stability shoe, choose it because the combination of fit, cushioning and guidance feels right for you rather than simply because you have previously been told that you overpronate. Asics Novablast 6 The Novablast helped change perceptions of what an Asics running shoe could feel like. The Novablast 6 combines FF Blast Max cushioning with an FF Turbo Squared trampoline pod in the forefoot, creating a more energetic approach to everyday training. It occupies a different position from the Gel-Cumulus and Gel-Nimbus. All are neutral road shoes, but the Novablast places greater emphasis on bounce and an energetic toe-off rather than simply providing traditional everyday cushioning. Consider it if you want one of Asics' more lively training shoes without moving all the way to a specialist racing model. Asics Superblast 3 The Superblast 3 sits at the premium performance end of the Asics training range. It introduces FF Leap, the lightweight and responsive foam also associated with the company's performance footwear, into a highly cushioned shoe designed to handle regular training. Its strength is versatility. The combination of cushioning and responsiveness allows it to cover long steady runs while also making sense for faster running and sections at marathon pace. That makes the Superblast particularly interesting for runners who want one performance-focused shoe to cover several types of training. It is not a carbon-plated racer, despite sharing some of the technology and character associated with Asics' faster footwear. Asics Metaspeed Sky Tokyo And Metaspeed Edge Tokyo The Metaspeed Sky Tokyo and Metaspeed Edge Tokyo are specialist carbon-plated road racing shoes. Asics has developed the two models around different ways runners increase speed rather than offering one flagship racer intended to work identically for everyone. The Sky is designed around runners who increase their stride length more significantly as they accelerate, while the Edge is aimed at runners whose cadence increases more. Both use premium performance foams and carbon plates but arrange their components differently. If you are considering either shoe for an important race, use it in training first. The distinction between Sky and Edge is useful, but comfort and how confidently you can run in the shoe remain essential. Asics Metaspeed Ray The Metaspeed Ray sits at the extreme performance end of the Asics range. It weighs approximately 129g in Asics' listed sample size and combines FF Leap cushioning with a minimal carbon plate. Asics positions it particularly towards elite runners and those who land towards the forefoot. This is therefore not simply a lighter version of a conventional running shoe or automatically the best Asics racer because it weighs less. It is a highly specialised piece of racing footwear. Many recreational runners will find more practical race-day options elsewhere in the Asics range. Asics Trabuco 14 The Trabuco 14 is designed as a dedicated trail running shoe rather than a road shoe adapted for occasional off-road use. It combines FF Blast Max cushioning with an AsicsGrip outsole and a fit designed to provide greater security through the midfoot while retaining room towards the forefoot. It is a useful place to start within the Asics trail range if you want a shoe for varied off-road running. Other Trabuco models and more specialised trail shoes are also available, so match the footwear to the terrain and type of running you intend to do. Trail conditions vary enormously. The fact that a shoe works well on straightforward paths does not necessarily make it the right choice for steep, wet or highly technical terrain. Asics Gel-Kayano 33 Are Asics Running Shoes Good For Beginners? They can be. Asics makes shoes suitable for runners at very different levels, and there is no reason a new runner needs to avoid the brand simply because part of its range contains highly technical performance footwear. If you are starting to run, concentrate on finding a comfortable shoe that fits securely and suits the majority of your running. A neutral everyday model such as the Gel-Cumulus may be a sensible place to start for some runners, while others may prefer the additional cushioning of the Gel-Nimbus or support of the GT-2000. There is no need for a beginner to buy a carbon-plated Metaspeed or build a rotation of several different shoes. One comfortable everyday running shoe can cover a great deal of running while you learn what type of fit, cushioning and ride you prefer. Are Asics Running Shoes Sustainable? Asics has set environmental targets across its wider business and has been working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with its operations and products. It has also increased its use of recycled and lower-impact materials in parts of its footwear and clothing ranges. Those company-wide initiatives should not be taken to mean that every Asics running shoe has the same environmental credentials. Materials, manufacturing processes and the amount of recycled content can vary between models and generations. If environmental impact influences your choice, check the material and sustainability information for the exact model you are considering. Durability, how frequently you replace your shoes and whether you buy footwear that genuinely suits your running are relevant parts of the decision too. Read more about sustainable running shoes here. Are Asics Running Shoes Worth Trying? Asics is worth considering whether you want a comfortable shoe for everyday running, maximum cushioning, additional stability, something more responsive for faster training, trail footwear or a specialist racing shoe. The strength of the range is the amount of choice, but that also makes understanding the purpose of each model important. A Gel-Cumulus, Gel-Nimbus, Gel-Kayano, Novablast, Superblast and Metaspeed may all be Asics road running shoes, but they have been designed with very different priorities. Start with the job you need the shoe to do, then compare models within that part of the range. Fit remains more important than the Asics name on the side, and even the most technically advanced shoe is the wrong choice if it does not work comfortably with your feet and your running. Final Thoughts On Asics Running Shoes Asics has been making footwear for athletes for more than 75 years, and running has played an important part in the company's development. Its modern range combines that history with cushioning, stability systems and performance technology that bear relatively little resemblance to some of the traditional Asics shoes runners may remember from previous decades. The Gel-Cumulus and Gel-Nimbus provide different approaches to neutral cushioned running, the Gel-Kayano and GT-2000 cover additional stability, the Novablast and Superblast bring a more energetic character to training, the Metaspeed family focuses on road racing and the Trabuco range takes Asics onto the trails. There are many more models and previous generations available than we can usefully cover in one guide. Start with the type of running you actually do and choose from that part of the range. The best Asics running shoe for you is not necessarily its lightest or most technically advanced model, but the one that fits properly and does the job you need it to do. Read about other shoes brands here. Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Edinburgh Marathon Festival brings together nine running events across one weekend in Scotland’s capital. You can take on the marathon, half marathon or a four person relay, or choose from the 10K, 5K and children’s races. The marathon is the headline event, beginning among Edinburgh’s historic landmarks before following the coast into East Lothian. The 2027 festival takes place on Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 May. The marathon and half marathon start in Edinburgh and finish in Musselburgh, so planning your journey after the race is an important part of preparing for the weekend. The Destination Edinburgh gives runners plenty to explore beyond the race. The Old Town, Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street Gardens all feature in or around the opening section of the marathon route. Holyrood Park, with Arthur’s Seat rising above it, is the setting for Saturday’s 5K and 10K races. Think about your race before choosing where to stay. Accommodation in central Edinburgh may make the marathon or half marathon start easier to reach, but you will finish in Musselburgh rather than back in the city centre. If family or friends are coming to support you, they will need to plan their journey to the finish too. Edinburgh is a city best explored on foot, although its hills and steps can add up quickly. Save a longer sightseeing day for after your race if you want fresh legs at the start. History Of The Edinburgh Marathon Festival The modern Edinburgh Marathon began in 2003. Since then, the event has grown into a full weekend of running, adding distances that allow children, first time runners and relay teams to take part alongside marathon runners. The marathon has developed a reputation as a race with strong personal best potential. Its route begins in the city, descends towards the coast and then follows generally flat roads through East Lothian. That combination has helped make Edinburgh a popular choice for runners seeking a first marathon or a faster time. Who Organises The Edinburgh Marathon Festival? The Edinburgh Marathon Festival is organised by GSi Events Ltd. The company also organises other running events in Scotland, including the Scottish Half Marathon, Scottish 10K and Kilomathon Scotland. When Is The Edinburgh Marathon Festival 2027? The festival takes place on Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 May 2027. Saturday begins with the 10K at 9:00am and the 5K at 11:00am, followed by the junior and children’s events. On Sunday, the half marathon is scheduled to start at 8:00am. The marathon and team relay are scheduled for 10:00am. Check your event information pack nearer the time for the final instructions on when and where to arrive. Which Races Are Part Of The Festival? The Edinburgh Marathon covers the full 26.2 miles from the city into East Lothian and back to the finish in Musselburgh. The half marathon uses the opening part of the route and also finishes in Musselburgh. The Hairy Haggis team relay divides the marathon between four runners. The legs are approximately 8.3, 5.5, 8 and 4.4 miles, giving each team member a different part of the course. It is worth agreeing who will run each leg before entering, particularly if some teammates are more comfortable with longer distances. Saturday’s 10K and 5K take place around Holyrood Park. The junior programme includes a 5K, 2K, 1.5K and kids’ kilometre, with age ranges specified for each race. Together, the events make it possible for a group or family to take part at several different distances across the weekend. Race Weekend Arrangements Your event information pack will be made available through your MyRunning account before race weekend. Read it even if you already know Edinburgh: it contains the instructions for your race, including travel, baggage and arrival arrangements. Marathon runners can use baggage trucks to send a tagged bag from the start to the finish area. Pack something warm and dry for afterwards, especially if you expect to spend time waiting in Musselburgh. Baggage arrangements differ for other races, and the relay does not have the same service for teams. The distance between start and finish is the main logistical point to resolve in advance. Check the organiser’s transport options, plan where you will meet supporters and allow for race day road closures. Race Morning The marathon starts on Potterrow, near the University of Edinburgh’s McEwan Hall. The half marathon also starts on Potterrow, but two hours earlier. Give yourself enough time to reach the correct start area, use the facilities and settle in before your race begins. If you are travelling in from elsewhere in Edinburgh, check your route shortly before the weekend. Roads used by the events may be closed, and the best journey on an ordinary Sunday may not be possible on race morning. Keep your return journey from Musselburgh in mind when making plans. Read more about race day strategy here. Edinburgh Marathon Course The Edinburgh Marathon course has two distinct parts. It begins with a tour of central Edinburgh, taking runners past landmarks in the Old Town and near Holyrood. It then heads east through Portobello and Musselburgh, continuing along the East Lothian coast towards Gosford House before turning back to finish in Musselburgh. The route descends substantially from the city towards sea level, after which much of the running is flatter. That profile can help runners aiming for a quick time, but the early downhill miles and the exposed coastal sections both deserve respect. Potterrow And The Old Town Starting near McEwan Hall, runners head past Greyfriars Kirkyard before crossing the Royal Mile. St Giles’ Cathedral and Edinburgh Castle provide some of the most memorable sights of the opening miles. There is plenty to draw your attention here, and the descent can make the pace feel easier than it really is. Take time to settle into the race rather than using energy to weave through the field or chase an ambitious early split. Princes Street Gardens And Holyrood The course continues through Princes Street Gardens, where runners can see the Scott Monument, before returning towards the Royal Mile. It then passes the Scottish Parliament, with views towards Arthur’s Seat and Salisbury Crags. This is the most concentrated stretch of Edinburgh landmarks. The route soon begins to leave the centre behind, so enjoy the setting while keeping your effort controlled for the longer coastal miles ahead. Portobello And Musselburgh Runners head east towards Portobello promenade, where the city gives way to the seafront. The route continues into Musselburgh and past its historic golf links. The half marathon finishes in Musselburgh. Marathon runners continue beyond it into East Lothian, knowing they will return to the same area much later. That can be a difficult moment if you have not looked at the route beforehand, so treat Musselburgh as a marker in your marathon rather than the beginning of the finish. East Lothian And Gosford House Beyond Musselburgh, the course passes through communities along the East Lothian coast before reaching the grounds of Gosford House. The roads here feel different from the busy opening miles in Edinburgh, with longer stretches where pacing and concentration become more important than the landmarks. The coastal setting can be enjoyable in calm weather and demanding when the wind picks up. Run by effort when conditions require it, and keep following the fuelling plan you practised during training. The Return To Musselburgh The route turns near Gosford House and heads back towards Musselburgh. By now the marathon distance, rather than the course profile, is likely to be the biggest challenge. Break the final miles into manageable sections, keep taking on fuel and fluids as planned, and leave enough energy for the approach to the finish. There is no better feeling! By JJZG123458923 - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=48497591 How Difficult Is The Edinburgh Marathon Course? Edinburgh avoids the sustained climbs that make some marathons hard to pace. Its descent out of the city and flatter later miles give runners a genuine opportunity to run well. The course still has challenges. Starting downhill too quickly can leave your legs tired later, and the coastal section may be exposed to wind. The organiser currently states a maximum marathon time of six hours and 30 minutes, measured from when the back of the race crosses the start line. Check the final 2027 rules before entering if you expect to be close to that limit. What Makes The Edinburgh Marathon Festival Special? The range of races makes the festival feel like a shared weekend rather than a single event. Friends and family can choose different distances, children can take part on Saturday, and relay teams can experience the marathon course together on Sunday. The marathon itself offers a journey that changes character as it unfolds. Edinburgh’s historic streets provide an impressive opening, while the coastal roads of East Lothian create the space and rhythm for the longer part of the race. Is Edinburgh Marathon A Fast Course? Edinburgh has strong potential for a fast marathon. The opening descent and generally flat coastal roads can help runners maintain momentum, and the event has long promoted the course as one suited to personal best attempts. That does not mean the quickest approach is to push hard from the start. Control the downhill section, settle into your planned effort and be prepared to adjust if there is a headwind along the coast. A well paced first half will give you more options on the return towards Musselburgh. Read more about pacing here. Is Edinburgh Marathon Good For First Time Runners? Edinburgh can be a good choice for a first marathon. The course has no prolonged climbs, the opening miles offer plenty to look at and the size of the event creates a strong sense of occasion. First time runners should pay particular attention to pacing and travel. The downhill start may encourage you to run too fast, while the finish in Musselburgh means you need a plan for getting back afterwards. Read the time limit and event pack before race weekend so there are no surprises on the day. How To Enter The Edinburgh Marathon Festival 2027 Entries for the 2027 festival are available through the event website. Choose your distance and check its start time, age requirements and entry conditions before registering. The organiser says the marathon has sold out every year since 2008. If Edinburgh is a priority, entering once you are confident about the distance is safer than assuming a place will still be available nearer race day. Running The Edinburgh Marathon Festival 2027 For Charity Charities offer places in events across the Edinburgh Marathon Festival, including the marathon and half marathon. You can explore the charities listed by the organiser and apply for a place with a cause that matters to you. Check the registration fee, minimum fundraising target and conditions before accepting a charity place. Requirements vary between charities. If you secure your own entry, you may also be able to join a charity team and fundraise with that place. Starting early gives you time to explain your connection to the cause, share your training and build support steadily. Whether you are running 5K or a marathon, bringing people into the journey can make the fundraising feel like part of the event rather than an extra task at the end. Read more about choosing a charity entry here. Where To Stay Edinburgh has a huge range of accommodation, but marathon weekend brings thousands of runners and supporters into an already popular visitor destination. Staying in the city centre gives you the widest choice of hotels, restaurants and transport connections, while areas around the Old Town, New Town and Haymarket can all provide convenient bases if you also want to explore Edinburgh during your visit. The marathon is a point-to-point race that heads out of central Edinburgh towards the coast before finishing in East Lothian, so there is no single location that is perfect for both ends of race day. Many runners will find staying centrally the simplest option, but make sure you understand the organiser's arrangements for getting back from the finish before choosing your accommodation. Prices can rise considerably around major weekends in Edinburgh, so booking early is particularly worthwhile. If central accommodation is expensive, look further out along good public transport routes rather than assuming you need to stay within walking distance of the race area. Compare Edinburgh Marathon accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict The Edinburgh Marathon Festival 2027 works particularly well for runners travelling with friends or family who want different challenges from the same weekend. Its programme ranges from children’s races to the full marathon, with Edinburgh providing plenty to enjoy around the running. For marathon runners, the appeal is the change from city landmarks to open coastal roads. The course offers personal best potential, but its early descent and possible coastal wind still call for sensible pacing. Plan your journey from the Musselburgh finish, and you can concentrate on the race itself when Sunday arrives. Race Website https://www.edinburghmarathon.com/ Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

This is not just another half marathon. Göteborgsvarvet, often called the Gothenburg Half Marathon by English speaking runners, is billed as the world’s largest half marathon. Its appeal goes well beyond the size of the field: runners cross two bridges over the Göta River, pass through neighbourhoods with a strong shipbuilding history and return to a stadium finish, with music and crowds accompanying them around the city. The 2027 race takes place on Saturday 22 May. Entries sold out within days of registration opening, but the organisers have an official waiting list for places released by runners who can no longer take part. If Gothenburg is on your running bucket list, here is what to expect from the race and how to pursue a 2027 entry. The Destination Gothenburg is Sweden’s second largest city and a destination that rewards a little time beyond race day. Its waterfront reflects a long history of shipping and industry, while its trams make it relatively easy to explore the city without a car. Haga is a good place to start. Its older streets, independent shops and cafés offer a change of pace from the busy race area, and a Swedish cinnamon bun makes a welcome post race treat. The city centre offers museums, restaurants and squares, while Gothenburg’s seafood is another reason to stay for an extra day. Runners will already get to know Slottsskogen, the large park beside the start and finish. If your legs allow it after the race, you could return for a slower walk or spend time at nearby attractions. With longer to spare, Gothenburg’s archipelago offers another side of the destination. History Of Göteborgsvarvet The first Göteborgsvarvet was held in 1980, when around 1,800 runners took part. The start moved to Margretebergsgatan in 1982, and that area remains the starting point today. The event has since grown into an enormous citywide occasion. The organisers reported 55,000 runners registered for the 2026 half marathon, a striking change from the modest field that lined up for the inaugural race. Who Organises Göteborgsvarvet? Göteborgsvarvet is organised by the Göteborg Athletic Association in support of athletics in the region. Around 3,000 volunteers are involved through affiliated clubs, with other sports clubs also contributing to the event. That local involvement is part of the race’s character. It may attract runners from around the world, but it remains closely connected to Gothenburg’s sporting community. When Is Göteborgsvarvet Half Marathon 2027? Göteborgsvarvet Half Marathon takes place on Saturday 22 May 2027. The first start is scheduled for 1:00pm, making this an unusual major half marathon for runners more accustomed to early morning starts. Your allocated wave matters when planning the day. The organisers use a staggered start, so check the time in your race confirmation and plan your food, travel and arrival at the start around your own wave. Göteborgsvarvet Expo Runners collect their race bibs at the Göteborgsvarvet Expo at Friidrottens Hus, close to the start and finish. The organisers currently list the 2027 Expo for 20–22 May, with running exhibitors alongside bib collection. Collecting your bib on Thursday or Friday should leave you with a more relaxed race day. If Saturday collection is your only option, allow plenty of time before your wave and check the final opening hours and collection instructions, as the organisers say these may be updated. Read more about running event expos here. Race Day The start is on Margretebergsgatan, near Slottsskogsvallen. The start and finish area is a busy part of the event, so give yourself time to reach it, find the facilities you need and get into the correct wave. Walking, cycling or using public transport are the organisers’ recommended ways to travel there. Unlike an early morning race, Göteborgsvarvet gives you much of the day before you start. That can be convenient, but it is worth practising how you will eat and drink before an afternoon half marathon. The organisers provide water stations around the course, with sports drink at some of them; check the final race instructions if you plan to rely on what is provided. The race also has timed checkpoints. The maximum time available depends on your starting wave, so anyone concerned about the cut offs should read the current participant information carefully rather than assuming there is one simple finish time limit for every runner. Göteborgsvarvet Course Göteborgsvarvet takes runners through parks, waterfront districts and the city centre, crossing the Göta River twice before finishing on the track at Slottsskogsvallen. The bridges and several shorter climbs make it a more varied course than the distance alone might suggest. The Start And Slottsskogen The race begins on Margretebergsgatan, close to the finish stadium. Runners enter Slottsskogen within the first kilometre, but this is no gentle warm-up through the park. The route turns near the Natural History Museum before climbing Säldammsbacken. There is already music and plenty of support here, which can make it tempting to push harder than planned. Settle into your effort and remember that the first bridge is still ahead. Majorna And Älvsborgsbron After leaving the park, the course runs through Majorna. Its residential streets and lively crowds lead towards Röda Sten and the climb onto Älvsborgsbron, the suspension bridge that carries runners across the river to Hisingen. This is one of Göteborgsvarvet’s defining moments. The climb demands some effort, but the height gives runners views across the port, the river and, on a clear day, towards the coast. Once over the bridge, the course descends towards Färjenäs and Eriksberg. Eriksberg And Lindholmen The next stretch follows Hisingen’s waterfront. Runners pass through Eriksberg, a former shipbuilding area where the large old gantry crane remains a reminder of its industrial past. The river views, music and flatter running offer a chance to regain a rhythm after the bridge. The route continues into Lindholmen around the halfway stage. Former shipyards have given way to offices, places to study, restaurants and waterfront paths, making this one of the clearest examples of how Gothenburg has changed. Enjoy the flatter kilometres, but keep enough in reserve for the return crossing and the city centre. Frihamnen And Hisingsbron After Lindholmen, runners reach Frihamnen, another former port area being reshaped as the city develops. By this point you are well into the second half of the race, and the music stations provide a welcome lift on the approach to Hisingsbron. Hisingsbron takes the course back across the Göta River. It is a different kind of crossing from the larger Älvsborgsbron, but it still breaks up your rhythm. Once back on the south side, the city centre and some of the busiest spectator areas are close. The City Centre And Avenyn Around 15 kilometres, the route passes Gustaf Adolfs Square and heads through central Gothenburg. The atmosphere builds along Avenyn, the city’s main boulevard, as runners climb towards Götaplatsen and its Poseidon statue. This section can feel harder than it looks on a map. The uphill running comes late in the race, when your legs may be tiring, but the dense crowds and music help carry you towards the top. It is one of the best places on the course to take in the scale of Göteborgsvarvet. Vasa, Linné And The Stadium Finish After turning at Götaplatsen, runners head through Vasastaden and Linné. There are still several kilometres to cover, so resist the urge to treat the city centre crowds as a sign that the finish is immediately ahead. The final kilometre returns through Slottsskogen, bringing you back near where the race began. The support grows again as runners approach Slottsskogsvallen and finish inside the stadium. After two bridges, the waterfront and a tour of the city, it is a fitting end to a half marathon that feels like a journey through Gothenburg. Runners reach central Gothenburg after crossing Hisingsbron, passing along the canal before heading towards Avenyn. How Difficult Is The Göteborgsvarvet Course? Göteborgsvarvet is not a completely flat city half marathon. The early section through Slottsskogen includes a hill, and the climb onto Älvsborgsbron is one of the course’s most memorable challenges. There is another bridge crossing later, followed by an uphill stretch on Avenyn when many runners will already be feeling the distance. None of that means you need to fear the course. It does mean that a little hill running in training is sensible, particularly if most of your usual routes are flat. Starting the early kilometres at a controlled effort should leave you better placed to enjoy the crowds and the stadium finish. What Makes Göteborgsvarvet Special? Its scale is the obvious answer, but the atmosphere is what turns that scale into an experience. Göteborgsvarvet takes over the city for the day, carrying runners from a green park to the riverfront, over two bridges and through busy central streets. The afternoon start adds to the occasion. By the time later waves are moving around the course, the event has been underway for hours, with spectators and music helping to keep the celebration going. Few half marathons offer quite this combination of field size, changing scenery and a stadium finish. Is Göteborgsvarvet A Fast Course? You can run a strong time at Göteborgsvarvet, but it would be a mistake to choose it purely because you expect a flat route. The climbs, bridges and sheer number of runners all deserve a place in your race plan. If a personal best is your goal, pay attention to your starting wave and practise running hills without forcing the pace. If your priority is the experience, this is the sort of course where it is worth looking up, taking in the city and enjoying the support. Read more about race day strategy here. Is Göteborgsvarvet Good For First Time Half Marathon Runners? It can be an excellent first half marathon for a runner who has trained for the distance. The route is varied, support is widespread and the large field means you will have company throughout the race. A first timer should still prepare for the hills and read the wave and checkpoint information carefully. Practising your race day food and drink routine is especially useful because an afternoon start may be different from the timing of your usual long runs. How To Enter Göteborgsvarvet 2027 Standard entries for Göteborgsvarvet 2027 have sold out. Registration opened in May 2026 and all places were taken within days. The organisers operate an official waiting list. Joining it is free, but it does not guarantee a place. When a registered runner releases an entry, the offer goes to the person who is next on the list; that person has three days to complete registration before it passes to the next runner. Use the official race website to join or check your waiting list status. Do not treat the first come, first served registration process described in older guides as a current way to buy a 2027 place. Running Göteborgsvarvet For Charity Göteborgsvarvet already supports local sport through its organising association. Runners can also use their half marathon challenge to raise money for a cause that matters to them; the organisers say participants have helped raise more than 14 million Swedish kronor for charity since 2011. If you already have an entry, you can choose a charity and give supporters a reason to follow your training as well as race day. Explain why the cause matters to you, share how preparation is going and keep your fundraising message personal. The organisers say they will update their charity information during autumn 2026. If you hope to obtain a place through a charity, check the official arrangements when they are published and confirm what entry, if any, a particular charity can offer before making travel plans. Fundraising alone does not establish that you have a race place. Read more about raising money for charity if you have your own entry here. Where To Stay Göteborgsvarvet is one of the world's largest half marathons, so accommodation is worth arranging well in advance. Central Gothenburg provides the widest selection of hotels, restaurants and transport connections, while areas around Linné and Haga can also make attractive bases if you want to explore more of the city during your stay. Gothenburg has an extensive tram network, so you do not necessarily need to stay immediately beside the race area. A centrally located hotel with a convenient tram connection can give you more choice while still making race-day travel straightforward. With such a large number of runners and supporters arriving for Göteborgsvarvet, however, leaving accommodation until the last minute can significantly reduce your options. Compare Gothenburg Half Marathon accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict Göteborgsvarvet deserves its place on a half marathon bucket list. Crossing the river twice, hearing music throughout the course and finishing at Slottsskogsvallen make it feel like an event built around the whole city. It will particularly appeal to runners who value atmosphere as much as their finishing time. The course has enough climbing to reward sensible pacing, and the size of the event calls for a little planning, but both are part of what makes the day memorable. The immediate challenge for 2027 is securing an entry. With standard places sold out, the official waiting list is the route to watch while you consider your travel options. Race Website https://www.goteborgsvarvet.se/en Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The California International Marathon takes runners from the Folsom area through a series of communities towards a finish at the California State Capitol in Sacramento. Known as CIM, it is popular with runners aiming for a personal best or a Boston Marathon qualifying time, but it also welcomes people taking on their first marathon. The 2026 race takes place on Sunday 6 December. Its course drops in elevation overall, with rolling roads in the first half and a flatter approach to the finish. That combination makes it a race where sensible pacing can pay off. The Destination Sacramento is California’s capital, and it offers plenty to explore around race weekend. The Old Sacramento Waterfront brings together historic buildings, shops and restaurants beside the Sacramento River. Nearby, the California State Railroad Museum tells the story of the railways that helped shape the region. The California State Capitol is both a city landmark and the destination for your marathon. Sacramento also has a strong food scene, with restaurants making the most of produce grown in the surrounding region. Save a longer walk around the city for after the race if you want fresh legs at the start. Where you stay deserves more thought than it might for a race that starts and finishes in the same place. Downtown Sacramento puts you near the finish, the expo and a main bus departure point. Folsom is closer to the start, but you will need to plan how to get back after finishing. History Of The California International Marathon The first California International Marathon took place in 1983. Its route from the Folsom area to Sacramento has remained a defining part of the event, giving runners a journey through neighbouring communities before the State Capitol finish. Over the years, CIM has developed a reputation as a race where runners go after ambitious times. It is also an established community event, organised by a local running association and supported by volunteers along the course. Who Organises The California International Marathon? CIM is organised by the Sacramento Running Association, a nonprofit organisation involved in running events and programmes in the Sacramento area. That local connection is part of the race’s appeal. The course passes through several communities on its way into the city, with volunteers staffing the aid stations and helping runners reach the finish. When Is The California International Marathon 2026? The 2026 California International Marathon is scheduled for Sunday 6 December. The marathon mass start is at 7:00am near Folsom Dam, and the race finishes at the California State Capitol. It is an early morning even before the running begins. Check your assigned transport options and the organiser’s final race instructions well before you travel. California International Marathon Expo The CIM Expo is where runners collect their race packets. For 2026, it is scheduled for Friday 4 December from noon to 7:00pm and Saturday 5 December from 9:00am to 5:00pm at the Sacramento Convention Center on K Street. The expo also brings together running brands, merchandise and race information. Allow time for collection when booking your trip: there is no race morning packet pickup. Check what identification and confirmation details you need to bring. Read more about race expos here. Race Morning CIM starts near Folsom Dam and finishes 26.2 miles away in Sacramento. Marathon runners must use the organiser’s buses or shuttles to reach the start, so choosing a convenient pickup point is an important part of planning your weekend. The buses leave early. Those from the downtown convention centre are scheduled to depart by 4:30am, with different times for other locations. Check the final transport information for the pickup point you intend to use, and take suitable clothing for the wait before the start. Gear check is available at the expo and during bus loading at the designated downtown location, but there is no general gear check service at the start line. Read the final instructions carefully if you want clothing or other items waiting for you after the race. Read more about race day strategy here. California International Marathon Course CIM is a point to point marathon with a net elevation drop of 366 feet. It begins near Folsom Dam, passes through communities including Orangevale, Citrus Heights, Fair Oaks and Carmichael, then enters Sacramento for the State Capitol finish. The overall drop makes the course attractive to runners seeking a fast time, but it does not mean every mile is downhill. Rolling roads in the earlier part of the race require a measured effort before the flatter closing miles. The Start And Opening Miles The race begins near Folsom Dam, away from central Sacramento. The opening stretch takes runners towards Orangevale and Citrus Heights, with changing elevation as the field starts to settle. It can be easy to run too quickly here, especially if you have travelled to CIM with a target time in mind. Let the crowd spread out and find an effort you can sustain rather than forcing your pace on every rise. Through Fair Oaks And Carmichael The course continues through Fair Oaks and Carmichael. These communities give CIM a different feel from a marathon that stays on city centre streets throughout. You will see residential areas and local supporters as you work through the middle miles. The rolling terrain remains important. Run the rises with control and use the easier stretches to recover your rhythm. The relay exchange near mile 13.5 also provides a useful landmark as you move beyond halfway. Into Sacramento Later in the race, the route heads towards Sacramento and becomes flatter. That may sound appealing, but the miles can still feel demanding if you used too much energy on the earlier hills. Aid stations provide regular opportunities to take on fuel. The organiser lists 17 along the 2026 course, with water and a sports drink at each and additional fuel at three stations. Check the details before race day and practise your own nutrition plan in training. The State Capitol Finish The closing miles bring runners through Sacramento towards the State Capitol. After the succession of communities along the route, the finish gives the race a clear final destination. Supporters should agree on a meeting point with you in advance. Roads and pedestrian access around the finish are affected on race day, so it may take time to find one another after you have crossed the line. The Marathon finishes in front of Sacramento's State Capitol Building. How Difficult Is The California International Marathon Course? CIM is capable of producing fast times, but calling it flat would give runners the wrong impression. Its first half includes rolling hills, while the overall elevation drop and flatter finish become more helpful if you have paced those earlier miles well. The race has a six hour course limit. Sweep runners set off after the final starters and mark the end of official course support. If you expect to be close to that limit, read the organiser’s rules carefully before deciding whether this is the right marathon for you. What Makes The California International Marathon Special? You start near Folsom Dam, run through several communities and gradually make your way into Sacramento, rather than repeatedly circling a small part of one city. It also brings together runners with very different goals. Some arrive hoping to qualify for Boston or set a personal best; others want the satisfaction of completing their first marathon. The course gives each of them the same unmistakable destination at the State Capitol. Is The California International Marathon A Fast Course? Yes, CIM is a good option if you are aiming for a fast marathon. It is a certified Boston Marathon qualifying course, and its net elevation drop and flatter final section make it attractive to runners pursuing a time goal. The best approach is to respect the rolling first half. Running every early downhill aggressively or pushing hard over each rise could leave you struggling when the course finally levels out. Aim for a controlled effort that gives you a chance to finish strongly. Is The California International Marathon Good For First Time Marathon Runners? It can be a rewarding first marathon if the six hour course limit suits your expected finish time. CIM has an established route, pace teams and frequent aid stations, and the journey towards Sacramento gives you a series of places to work towards. Prepare for the practical side as well as the distance. Train on some rolling roads, practise your fuelling, collect your packet before race day and know exactly where to board your start line bus. Taking care of those details will make the early morning much easier. How To Enter The California International Marathon 2026 Standard entries for the 2026 marathon have sold out. The organiser says its additional donation entry opportunity and Gold entry draw have also closed. The official marathon transfer process is scheduled to open on 1 October. If you are looking for a place, use only the organiser’s Race Roster transfer system and check the current registration instructions before arranging travel. Availability will depend on existing entrants choosing to transfer their places. Running The California International Marathon For Charity CIM has an affiliated charity programme, and partner charities may have a limited number of marathon entries available. Contact a charity directly to confirm whether it has a 2026 place, what fundraising commitment applies and what support it offers. If you already have your own entry, you can choose a cause that matters to you and fundraise as you train. The organiser’s separate donation entry option for 2026 has sold out, so check charity place availability rather than assuming a donation will secure a race entry. Read more about choosing a charity entry here. Where To Stay Sacramento is the obvious place to base yourself for the California International Marathon, particularly because the point-to-point course finishes in the city. Staying around Downtown or Midtown gives you a wide choice of restaurants and hotels while putting you in a convenient location for the finish and the rest of your race weekend. The marathon starts outside central Sacramento, so being close to the start is less important than understanding the organiser's race-morning transportation arrangements. Check the latest bus information before race weekend and choose accommodation that makes getting to your designated departure point straightforward. With thousands of runners travelling to Sacramento for the marathon, booking early is sensible. Compare California International Marathon accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict The California International Marathon combines the appeal of a fast course with a strong sense of place. Running from the Folsom area through local communities into Sacramento makes the miles feel like a journey, while the State Capitol provides a memorable finish. Its net downhill profile deserves attention, but so do the rolling roads that come before the flatter final section. If you prepare for both the course and the early race morning logistics, CIM offers an excellent setting for an ambitious marathon goal. Race website https://runcim.org/ Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Love Run Philadelphia Half Marathon brings runners into the city for a spring race that combines busy downtown streets with miles beside the Schuylkill River. Its finish near the Philadelphia Museum of Art gives you a chance to celebrate beneath the famous Rocky Steps. The 2027 race takes place on Sunday 21 March. There is a 7K as well as the half marathon, so you can choose the distance that suits your plans while enjoying the same race weekend atmosphere. The Destination Philadelphia deserves more than a quick visit for the race. Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell tell part of the city’s history, while Reading Terminal Market gives you somewhere to explore its food. The Philadelphia Museum of Art is both a major attraction and the landmark around which race day is centred. The Rocky Steps are likely to be on your list whether you run the race or not. From the top, you can look down the Benjamin Franklin Parkway towards the city. Save that climb, and any longer days of sightseeing, until after you have finished if you want to keep your legs fresh. Center City is a practical area to consider when booking accommodation. Check the journey to the race area and the 2027 packet pickup location before choosing a hotel. History Of The Love Run Philadelphia Half Marathon The first Love Run took place in 2014. It has grown into a large spring event, with the organiser reporting more than 15,000 runners across the half marathon and 7K. The race has developed an identity built around Philadelphia itself. Its course brings runners past familiar city sights before the half marathon moves towards the river, and both distances share a finish by the Art Museum. Who Organises The Love Run? The Love Run is part of the Motiv Sports portfolio. When Is The Love Run Philadelphia Half Marathon 2027? The 2027 Love Run Philadelphia Half Marathon and 7K are scheduled for Sunday 21 March. The organiser has opened registration for both distances. Check the final athlete guide nearer race weekend for your start time and arrival instructions. Love Run Philadelphia Expo Runners need to arrange packet pickup before race morning. The organiser says there is no race morning pickup and has previously offered collection at its Health and Fitness Expo, alongside other options. The expo page currently shows 2026 dates and a venue at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Treat the 2027 location and opening hours as unconfirmed until the organiser updates them. If you are travelling to Philadelphia, allow enough time to collect your materials before race day. Read more about race expos here. Race Morning The race is centred on the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Eakins Oval. The organiser describes both distances as finishing at the foot of the Rocky Steps, although its existing race day page gives a more specific start location on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Check the 2027 athlete guide for the entrance you need and the precise start point. Expect roads around the Parkway to be affected on race morning. Plan your route in advance and leave time for the journey, toilets and getting into position. If you are staying close enough to walk, that may be simpler than relying on a vehicle to reach the start area. Love Run Philadelphia Half Marathon Course The half marathon combines an opening section in Center City with running beside the Schuylkill River. That change in scenery is one of its strengths: you experience Philadelphia’s broad streets and landmarks before heading into a quieter part of the route. The organiser has course maps on its website, but use the final 2027 map when planning your pacing or arranging where supporters will watch. Street level details can change between editions. The Start And City Centre The opening miles take runners along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and through Center City. You pass through the heart of Philadelphia, with City Hall among the landmarks associated with this section of the race. A large field can make the beginning feel crowded. Give yourself time to settle into your pace rather than spending energy trying to get around other runners. Towards The Schuylkill River After the downtown section, the half marathon heads towards the Schuylkill River and the Fairmount Park area. The surroundings open up, providing a different feel from the first few miles. This is a good point to check your effort. The change of scenery can make the middle miles pass quickly, but you still have a substantial part of the half marathon ahead of you. The Riverside Miles The river section gives the course room to breathe after the city centre. It is a chance to find a steady rhythm and take in a side of Philadelphia that visitors concentrating on its historic district might otherwise miss. Check the final course information for the position of water stations. If you have a particular fuelling plan, practise it in training rather than leaving those decisions until race morning. The Art Museum Finish The closing part of the race brings you back towards the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Finishing at the foot of the Rocky Steps is the moment that makes this race unmistakably Philadelphia. Take time to enjoy it. After collecting your medal, the finish festival gives you a place to celebrate before heading off to explore more of the city. The Rocky statue near the Love Run finish at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. How Difficult Is The Love Run Philadelphia Half Marathon Course? The Love Run offers a mixture of city and riverside running without being defined by a major climb. The organiser promotes it as a course where runners can pursue a fast time, although you should look at the final route and elevation profile before deciding how to pace it. The usual half marathon challenges still apply. A crowded start, conditions on the day and an ambitious early pace can all make the later miles harder. Run the opening section with enough control to enjoy the return to the Art Museum. Read more about race day strategy here. What Makes The Love Run Special? Few races can give you such a recognisable finish. The Rocky Steps provide a landmark for runners and supporters, while the route lets you experience both central Philadelphia and the Schuylkill River in one morning. The 7K also broadens the weekend’s appeal. Friends or family members who do not want to run a half marathon can take part in a shorter event with the same finish area and race atmosphere. Is The Love Run A Fast Course? It could be a good choice if you are targeting a half marathon personal best. The organiser describes the route as fast, and the early city streets offer space to establish a rhythm once the field spreads out. Do not assume that every section will feel effortless. Check the final 2027 map and elevation profile, then choose a pace that leaves you able to run strongly through the riverside miles and back towards the finish. Is The Love Run Good For First Time Half Marathon Runners? Yes, particularly if you would enjoy a large event with plenty happening around you. The city centre opening, change to riverside running and memorable finish give you landmarks to work towards throughout the race. Plan the practical details early. Enter the correct distance, arrange packet pickup and check how you will reach the start. On race day, focus on a comfortable opening pace rather than getting carried along by the crowd. How To Enter The Love Run Philadelphia Half Marathon 2027 Registration for the 2027 half marathon is open through the official Love Run website. The 7K has its own entry page, so check your chosen distance before paying. Entry prices are released in stages and may rise as places sell. The organiser says the event has sold out in previous years, making early registration sensible if you have decided to run. Read the entry terms before booking travel, particularly if your plans might change. Running The Love Run For Charity You can enter the race and fundraise for a charity you choose. Speak to the charity first if you would like to know whether it offers a Love Run place or support for runners using their own entries. The event also promotes Philly Runs Free, a partnership with Legacy of Hope. Its published terms say runners who register through that programme and raise at least $250 can receive a refund of their race entry and processing fees. The partnership page does not clearly confirm that these terms apply to 2027, so check directly before registering on the expectation of a refund. Give supporters a reason to follow your journey. Tell them why the cause matters to you and share your progress as training builds towards race day. Read more about running for a charity using your own entry here. Where To Stay Philadelphia is an easy city to turn into a race weekend, with many of its major attractions, restaurants and hotels concentrated around Center City. Staying centrally gives you good public transport connections and makes it straightforward to explore areas such as the historic district before or after the race. Accommodation around Logan Square and the Parkway can also be convenient for runners who want to stay closer to the race area. If central hotels are expensive, look slightly further out but check your transport options before booking. The Love Run attracts thousands of runners into Philadelphia, so securing accommodation early can give you a better choice of locations and prices. Compare Love Run Philadelphia Half Marathon accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict The Love Run is a strong choice for a spring half marathon with a real sense of place. The downtown opening, riverside miles and finish by the Rocky Steps give the course variety and a memorable final moment. Philadelphia also makes it easy to turn race day into a longer trip. Once the organiser publishes its final 2027 athlete guide, check the start arrangements, course and packet pickup details, then enjoy planning the rest of your visit. Race website https://www.loverunphilly.com/ Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Walt Disney World Marathon takes runners through one of the world’s most recognisable holiday resorts. Disney characters, entertainment and theme park scenery make it a very different experience from a conventional city marathon. The 2027 marathon takes place on Sunday 10 January, with the first runners starting at 4:30am. It is the final race of a weekend that also includes a 5K, 10K, half marathon and two challenges. If you are considering an entry, you will need to plan around the early start, an expo visit and the cost of travelling to Walt Disney World. The Destination Walt Disney World Resort is near Orlando, Florida. Its four theme parks are Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. For runners, the attraction is seeing familiar parts of the resort in a different setting, with characters and entertainment adding to the race atmosphere. There is plenty to do beyond the marathon, but a Disney holiday can involve hours of walking. If the race is your main goal, avoid filling the preceding days with long visits to the parks. You can explore more freely once you have crossed the finish line. Think about race morning when choosing where to stay. A hotel that is convenient for sightseeing may involve a less straightforward journey to the start before dawn. Check the final event transport information before settling your plans. History Of The Walt Disney World Marathon The Walt Disney World Marathon began in 1994. Since then, the event has grown into a running festival with four individual races and two challenges that combine distances across consecutive days. The 2027 weekend marks the 30th anniversary of the Walt Disney World Half Marathon. Donald Duck appears across the weekend’s race themes, while the marathon features Mickey and Minnie. Who Organises The Walt Disney World Marathon? The marathon is organised by runDisney, Disney’s running events programme. The races take place at Walt Disney World Resort, and participants collect their race materials at the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo. runDisney publishes a digital event guide for participants closer to race weekend. Use it for the final course, transport, start and spectator arrangements, which may differ from previous editions. When Is The Walt Disney World Marathon 2027? The marathon takes place on Sunday 10 January 2027, with the first start scheduled for 4:30am Eastern Time. Marathon Weekend begins with the expo on Wednesday 6 January. The 5K follows on Thursday 7 January, the 10K on Friday 8 January and the half marathon on Saturday 9 January. An early start calls for more planning than a typical morning race. Your assigned start group will determine some of the detail, but everyone should be prepared to travel to the event site well before dawn. January conditions in Florida can vary. Check the forecast close to race day and prepare for the possibility that it will feel different at the start from later in the morning. Walt Disney World Marathon Expo The runDisney Health & Fitness Expo takes place at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Participants must attend at least one day before their first race to collect their bib. The 2027 expo runs from Wednesday 6 to Saturday 9 January, with different opening hours on each day. Marathon runners need to collect their materials by Saturday because the expo will not be open on race morning. If you are running the Dopey Challenge, your first event is Thursday’s 5K, so you need to attend on Wednesday. Participants must also complete a digital waiver for each race they are entering. The expo includes participant shirts, race information and official merchandise. Collect what you need for the race first, then enjoy looking around without losing track of your plans for the following morning. Read more about race expos here. Race Morning The first marathon start is at 4:30am. By the time you have travelled to the event site, found the correct area and reached your start group, it will have been a very early morning. Check the final event guide for transport times, arrival instructions and the location of your start group. If friends or family are coming to support you, agree on where you will meet afterwards and check which viewing areas they can reach. Runners who indicated an expected marathon finish of five hours or less were required to submit verified proof of time for start group placement. Check your assigned group and its instructions before race morning. Read about race day strategy here. The 2026 marathon started and finished near EPCOT. Change the EPCOT image caption from “The start and finish is at EPCOT” to “The 2026 marathon started and finished near EPCOT. Walt Disney World Marathon Course The 2027 course has not yet been confirmed. In 2026, the marathon started near EPCOT and took runners through all four Walt Disney World theme parks. It headed north to Magic Kingdom, continued to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, passed the Blizzard Beach area and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, then returned to EPCOT for the finish. Long stretches on resort roads connect the famous sections. The contrast is part of the challenge: you may be running towards Cinderella Castle at one point and concentrating on your pace along a quieter road at another. The route, park sections and mile markers may change for 2027. From EPCOT To Magic Kingdom The 2026 race began near EPCOT before runners made their way towards Magic Kingdom. The opening stretch included resort roads, so the first major park moment did not arrive immediately. With music, character appearances and thousands of runners setting off before dawn, it was an exciting place to start, but also an easy place to run too quickly. Magic Kingdom provided one of the course’s defining sections. Runners entered the park, travelled along Main Street, U.S.A. towards Cinderella Castle and continued through its themed lands before heading back out onto the resort roads. If that section returns in 2027, it will be the moment many runners have been picturing throughout their training. It is also where the temptation to stop for photographs can begin to affect your pace. Towards Disney’s Animal Kingdom After Magic Kingdom, the 2026 course headed across the resort towards Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This connecting portion accounted for several miles and felt different from running through a park. Characters and entertainment helped break it up, but runners still had to manage their effort, food and drink without relying on a landmark around every corner. The route then entered Animal Kingdom before continuing towards the western side of the resort. By this stage, the excitement of the start had begun to give way to the physical work of a marathon. Runners who had stayed controlled through Magic Kingdom were better placed to enjoy the second half. Blizzard Beach And Disney’s Hollywood Studios The 2026 route passed through the Blizzard Beach parking area on its way towards Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This was a reminder that the marathon links widely separated parts of Walt Disney World: reaching the next park can take longer than the park section itself. Hollywood Studios arrived late in the race, when its scenery and entertainment offered a welcome change after the connecting roads. The course then continued towards the EPCOT resort area. For many runners, getting through this stretch meant the finish was beginning to feel close, although there were still miles to cover. The Return To EPCOT The closing part of the 2026 race took runners through the EPCOT resort area and back into EPCOT before finishing near where the marathon had begun. After travelling around so much of Walt Disney World, returning to the starting area gave the route a satisfying conclusion. If you are arranging for friends or family to watch in 2027, wait for runDisney’s course map and spectator instructions before choosing a location. The 2026 journey is a useful guide to the character of the marathon, but it cannot confirm where the next race will take runners or when they will reach each park. How Difficult Is The Walt Disney World Marathon? Disney’s entertainment can make the marathon feel less formal than some major road races. The distance remains demanding, and the early start, travel and time spent walking around the resort can all affect how you feel in the second half. For 2027, runDisney requires participants to maintain a minimum pace of 16 minutes per mile and recommends training at 15 minutes per mile. If you plan to stop for character photographs, consider the time those stops will take. Runners expecting to be close to the minimum pace should read the race policies carefully before the event. What Makes The Walt Disney World Marathon Special? The appeal is the combination of a marathon and a Disney experience. Characters, costumes, entertainment and theme park scenery give runners reasons to look up and enjoy the journey as well as concentrate on the distance. The wider weekend adds to that feeling. Some runners are taking on their first 5K, while others are returning for another marathon or attempting four races in four mornings. That range of goals creates an atmosphere that extends well beyond Sunday’s start line. Is The Walt Disney World Marathon A Fast Course? You can run the marathon with a finish time in mind, but this is an event where many people choose to spend time enjoying the surroundings. Character photographs and changes of pace can make a personal best less likely if you want to experience everything along the way. Be honest about your priority before race day. If you have a time goal, decide which stops you are prepared to make. If the experience matters most, pace yourself so you can enjoy it while staying comfortably within runDisney’s requirements. Disney medals are known for being amongst the best in the running world Is The Walt Disney World Marathon Good For First Time Runners? It can be a memorable first marathon for someone who enjoys a large, lively event. Entertainment along the route gives you moments to look forward to, and the finish provides an occasion worth travelling for. A first time runner still needs to prepare for the full distance and the practical demands of the weekend. Collect your bib before race day, work out your early morning journey and train with the pace requirement in mind. Leave enough space in your holiday to arrive at the start rested. The Other Races And Challenges Marathon Weekend offers a race on each of four consecutive mornings. The 2027 programme includes a 5K on Thursday, 10K on Friday, half marathon on Saturday and marathon on Sunday. Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge combines the half marathon and marathon for 39.3 miles across two days. The Dopey Challenge includes all four races, covering 48.6 miles from Thursday to Sunday. Completing a challenge requires preparation for repeated early starts and running on tired legs, as well as for Sunday’s marathon distance. How To Enter The Walt Disney World Marathon 2027 General registration opened on 17 March 2026. At the time of writing, runDisney lists the marathon and the other races and challenges as sold out. Check the official Marathon Weekend page for the current position before making travel plans around an entry. A participating charity or a runDisney travel provider may offer another route into the event. Ask whether an entry for the marathon itself is available and check the full commitment or package cost before paying. The organiser’s published marathon registration price was $255 through 14 September 2026 and $265 from 15 September, including its listed platform service fee. Those prices do not mean general places are currently available. Travel, accommodation and any park visits are separate costs. Running The Walt Disney World Marathon 2027 For Charity A charity place may still be an option when general registration has sold out. runDisney publishes a list of participating charities for Marathon Weekend, including American Cancer Society, Give Kids the World, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Georgia and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Blood Cancer United is the weekend’s featured charity partner, but it is not the only charity involved. Contact a charity directly to ask whether it still has a 2027 marathon entry available. Some may offer places for other weekend races but have filled their marathon allocation. Fundraising targets, registration arrangements and what is included differ, so check the full commitment before applying. Read about running on a charity entry here. Where To Stay Choosing where to stay for the Walt Disney World Marathon is slightly different from most destination races because many runners choose to stay inside Walt Disney World Resort itself. Disney Resort hotels range from value accommodation to luxury resorts, and staying on site can make the very early race mornings easier. Race weekend transportation has traditionally been provided from Disney Resorts Collection hotels and selected other resorts, so check the arrangements for the 2027 Marathon Weekend before booking. Staying on site is not essential. Orlando and the wider Walt Disney World area have an enormous selection of hotels, apartments and resorts, often with more choice at different price points. This can work particularly well if you are travelling with family, hiring a car or extending your trip beyond the race weekend. If you stay outside Disney, check how you will reach the race and Expo because normal hotel theme-park shuttles should not be assumed to provide runDisney race transportation. Whichever option you choose, book early. Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend attracts runners from around the world, and many visitors stay for several nights to combine the races with time in the theme parks. Compare Walt Disney World Marathon accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict The Walt Disney World Marathon is at its best when you embrace what makes it different. A start before dawn, a journey across the resort and the chance to encounter Disney characters give the race a character of its own. It takes planning and can become an expensive trip, particularly for runners travelling from overseas. Secure your entry before booking around the race, prepare properly for 26.2 miles and leave room to enjoy the experience once you get there. Race Website https://www.rundisney.com/events/disneyworld/disneyworld-marathon-weekend Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Paris Marathon gives runners the chance to experience the French capital from the middle of its streets. Its grand avenues, parks and river views have made it one of Europe’s best known marathons, drawing people who want a fast race as well as those who want to enjoy the city. The Asics Marathon de Paris 2027 takes place on Sunday 4 April. It will be the 50th edition of the race and the first under the new organiser. General entry is now decided by lottery, making this an important year to check the current arrangements rather than rely on advice from previous editions. The Destination Paris offers plenty to make a marathon trip feel like more than a race weekend. You could visit the Louvre, see Notre-Dame, explore the streets of Montmartre or spend time along the Seine. The city’s cafés and neighbourhoods give you good reasons to stay after the marathon too. Be selective about sightseeing before you run. Paris is easy to explore on foot, but a long day of walking can leave you tired before you reach the start. Choose one or two places you especially want to see and save the rest for afterwards. History Of The Paris Marathon The modern Paris Marathon began in 1976 and has grown into one of the world’s largest city marathons. Its field brings together elite athletes, experienced runners, first time marathoners and people raising money for causes that matter to them. The 2027 race marks the Paris Marathon’s 50th edition and a change of organiser. Amaury Sport Organisation (A.S.O.), which ran the event through 2026, has been replaced by Cadence Running United. Asics is the new title partner, and general entry now uses a lottery rather than the previous first come, first served system. When Is The Paris Marathon 2027? The Asics Marathon de Paris 2027 takes place on Sunday 4 April. The organiser has confirmed the date, with the detailed race day schedule to follow. Paris will be really busy across the marathon weekend, so think about travel and accommodation early. If you are coming from another country, allow enough time to collect your bib and settle in before race day. Paris Marathon Expo And Bib Collection The organiser has not yet announced where and when runners will collect their bibs in 2027. The 2026 expo was held at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, but its location and timetable should not be used to plan this year’s collection. Check the participant instructions before you travel, particularly for identification and any health documentation required to complete your entry. Give yourself enough time to collect your bib without making it the last task of a tiring day. Read more about race expos here. Race Morning A major marathon involves more waiting and walking before the start than many runners expect. Once your start time and access instructions arrive, work backwards from them to plan when you need to leave your accommodation. Road closures may change the journey you would normally take across Paris. Leave time to reach your assigned entrance, use the facilities and settle into your starting area. Beginning the marathon feeling calm is worth more than squeezing in extra minutes of sleep. Read more about race day strategy here. Paris Marathon Course The course described here is the 2026 route. The 2027 course has not yet been confirmed, so these details show what runners experienced in the most recent edition rather than the route you should expect to follow on 4 April. The Champs-Élysées Start The 2026 marathon began on the Champs-Élysées, with runners heading down the famous avenue towards Place de la Concorde. It was an impressive opening, with the scale of the street matching the size of the event. Even on a broad road, a large field can make the first kilometres crowded. Letting the runners around you settle before worrying about a precise pace was a sensible way to avoid wasting energy. East Through Paris From the centre, runners headed east through the city towards the Bois de Vincennes. The route took them away from the opening crowds and towards longer stretches where it became easier to establish a rhythm. This was a useful part of the race for taking stock. The excitement of the start had passed, but there was still a long way to go. Maintaining a comfortable effort and following a fuelling plan mattered more than gaining a few seconds. The Bois de Vincennes The Bois de Vincennes formed a substantial part of the eastern section. Its greener surroundings offered a change from the central avenues and space to concentrate on running. It could also feel quieter than the streets packed with spectators. Keeping focused through these kilometres helped runners return to the city with enough energy for the second half. Along The Seine Back in central Paris, the course followed stretches beside the Seine. The organiser highlighted sights including Notre-Dame and the Eiffel Tower, making this one of the most memorable parts of the route. The river section included underpasses that added short descents and climbs. They were manageable, but repeatedly forcing the same pace through them could cost energy. Holding a steady effort was a better approach. The Bois de Boulogne And Finish Late in the race, runners entered the Bois de Boulogne. With fewer central city landmarks and less concentrated support, this section could feel demanding when the marathon distance was beginning to take its toll. The course then headed to its finish on Avenue Foch, near the Arc de Triomphe. After the quieter park kilometres, the final approach brought back the crowds and the atmosphere of a major city marathon. Runners approach Pont de Bir-Hakeim beside the Seine, with the Eiffel Tower in the background. How Difficult Is The Paris Marathon Course? The organiser listed approximately 256 metres of climbing, while the Seine underpasses created shorter changes in level that could affect a runner’s rhythm. The course was also a test of pacing. An exciting start encouraged runners to go too quickly, while the later park kilometres called for patience and concentration. Those are useful lessons for marathon preparation, whatever shape the new route takes. What Makes The Paris Marathon Special? Paris offers variety across a marathon distance. Its historic streets, parks and river views create a stronger sense of travelling through a city than running repeated loops or staying within a single district. The event’s size adds to that experience. Sharing the course with over 50,000 runners and seeing supporters out across the city can make the race feel like a major occasion from start to finish. The 50th edition gives 2027 an additional sense of significance. Is The Paris Marathon A Fast Course? Many runners have chosen Paris with a personal best in mind. Previous routes have offered broad roads and long stretches where it was possible to settle into a steady pace, although they have also included climbs and busy early kilometres. For 2027, wait for the official map and elevation profile before setting a course specific pacing plan. In the meantime, training to hold a sustainable effort and practising your race day fuelling will serve you well. Is The Paris Marathon Good For First Time Runners? Paris can be an exciting first marathon for someone who has prepared for the distance. The city provides plenty of motivation, and the size of the event gives runners a sense of being part of something significant. The logistics deserve attention alongside the training. Find out when to collect your bib, read the final start instructions and practise eating and drinking on long runs. Runners pass through the 12th arrondissement near Dugommier, around kilometre 24 How To Enter The Paris Marathon 2027 General entry is through a lottery. Applications are open until 11.59pm Paris time on 30 September 2026. Entering is free, and applying earlier within the window does not improve your chances. Each person may enter only once. Lottery results were announced on 1 October. If selected, you will have 72 hours from the notification to complete your registration and pay the €169 general entry fee. If you are not selected in the initial draw, you remain in consideration for any later draws held to allocate available places. Runners can also apply as a team of two to six people. If one team member is selected, the whole team is selected, although you can run separately on race day. Participants must have been born no later than 31 December 2007, and places cannot be transferred to another person. Read more about running with a tour operator here. Running The Paris Marathon For Charity The organiser offers Charity Entries through partner charities. You choose a participating organisation, create a fundraising campaign on the dedicated platform and receive your place when you reach the required fundraising target. Check the target and conditions before committing. In particular, find out when the money must be raised and what happens if you cannot run. If you secure a general entry through the lottery, you can also contact a charity about fundraising with your own place. Read more about applying for charity entries here. Where To Stay Paris offers an enormous choice of accommodation, but location matters when you have a marathon to run. The race starts on the Champs-Élysées and finishes in western Paris near the Arc de Triomphe, so staying in the 8th, 16th or 17th arrondissements can put you relatively close to the key race-day areas. Central accommodation also makes it easier to enjoy Paris before and after the marathon. You can often find more choice by staying further away and using the Métro, but check your race-morning journey before booking. With tens of thousands of runners travelling to Paris for the weekend, hotels in convenient locations can fill quickly, so securing accommodation early is sensible once your plans are confirmed. Compare Paris Marathon accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict The Paris Marathon offers the scale of a major international race in a city that rewards a longer visit. Its 50th edition on 4 April 2027 is particularly interesting because runners will experience the event under a new organiser. Tour operator places are still available, as well as charity places for runners who want to raise money for a cause. Race website https://www.asicsmarathondeparis.com/en Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The United Airlines NYC Half is one of the most spectacular half marathons in the world. Starting in Brooklyn and finishing in Central Park, its 13.1 miles take runners across the Brooklyn Bridge, along the FDR Drive, through the heart of Manhattan and into Times Square before the final run towards the finish. More than 30,000 runners took part in 2026, making this one of the biggest half marathons in the United States as well as one of the hardest to enter. If you want a half marathon that feels like a major city marathon condensed into 13.1 miles, there are very few races that can compete. The United Airlines NYC Half The United Airlines NYC Half is organised by New York Road Runners, the organisation behind the TCS New York City Marathon and many of New York's biggest running events. First held in 2006, the race has developed into an internationally recognised event attracting recreational runners and some of the world's leading athletes. The race was originally held during the summer before moving to March in 2010. One of the attractions is that this isn't simply a half marathon taking place somewhere in New York. The route has been designed around the city, giving runners the opportunity to experience locations that would normally be packed with traffic. Brooklyn Bridge, FDR Drive and Times Square all form part of a course that could only really exist in New York. When Is The New York City Half Marathon? The United Airlines NYC Half takes place annually in March. The 2026 race was held on Sunday 15 March with.a date not yet confirmed for 2027. March can produce very different conditions in New York, so runners need to prepare for the possibility of a cold start. Waiting around before the race can feel considerably colder than running through Manhattan later in the morning, making old clothes or additional disposable layers particularly useful. The New York City Half Marathon Course The course is one of the main reasons the United Airlines NYC Half is so popular. It starts in Brooklyn, crosses the Brooklyn Bridge into Manhattan and then works its way north through the city before finishing in Central Park. Don't assume that a sightseeing course means an easy one. There are climbs to deal with, particularly during the Brooklyn section and across the bridge, while the undulations of Central Park arrive just when tired legs would prefer something flatter. The Start In Brooklyn The current United Airlines NYC Half course begins near Prospect Park in Brooklyn, giving runners a very different introduction to New York from the Manhattan landmarks that dominate the second half of the race. The opening miles take runners through Prospect Park before looping around Grand Army Plaza and continuing along Flatbush Avenue, passing Barclays Center on the journey towards Lower Manhattan. Do not expect the opening miles to be completely flat. Prospect Park introduces some early elevation changes, and with the excitement of race morning it can be easy to run harder than planned. Keeping your effort controlled through Brooklyn should leave you in a much better position for the bridge and the second half of the race. Running Across The Brooklyn Bridge The Brooklyn Bridge became part of the NYC Half course for the first time in 2025, replacing the previous crossing of the Manhattan Bridge, and it returned for the 2026 race. Runners approach the bridge at around four miles, making one of New York's most famous landmarks a relatively early highlight of the half marathon. Running across the roadway is a very different experience from walking across the busy pedestrian section as a visitor. There are superb views towards Manhattan, but there is also a noticeable climb. Rather than trying to maintain the same pace you were running on flatter roads, keep your effort controlled and allow the gradient to dictate your speed. After crossing the East River, runners arrive in Lower Manhattan and begin the next part of their journey through the city. The FDR Drive And Manhattan's East Side After the Brooklyn Bridge, the course takes runners onto the FDR Drive for the journey north along Manhattan's East Side. Running along a major New York road normally filled with traffic adds another unusual element to the race, with views towards the East River accompanying much of this section. The atmosphere can be quieter here than in Brooklyn or Midtown, making it a useful opportunity to concentrate on your own running. Settle back into your planned effort after the bridge and avoid pushing simply because there is more open road ahead. At around nine miles, runners leave the FDR Drive and head towards East 42nd Street near the United Nations. From here, the character of the race changes dramatically. Running Through Midtown Manhattan The route along 42nd Street takes runners into the heart of Midtown and past some of New York's most recognisable landmarks. Grand Central Terminal is directly on the route, while the Chrysler Building forms part of the surrounding skyline. After the more exposed section along the FDR Drive, the buildings and crowds of Midtown bring a very different atmosphere. You are also well into the second half of the race by now, so this is where sensible pacing earlier in Brooklyn and across the bridge can begin to pay off. The course then heads towards Seventh Avenue and one of the experiences that makes the NYC Half unlike almost any other half marathon. Running Through Times Square Running through Times Square is one of the defining moments of the United Airlines NYC Half. Streets normally packed with traffic, taxis and visitors are cleared as runners travel through one of the most famous parts of Manhattan. New York Road Runners says the NYC Half is one of only two occasions each year when Times Square is closed to traffic. Giant screens, theatres and skyscrapers surround the course, while large crowds add to the atmosphere as runners make their way north. It is a section worth taking in, particularly if this is your first race in New York. There is still work to do, however, because Central Park and its rolling roads are waiting towards the end of the course. Central Park And The Finish After Times Square, runners continue north before entering Central Park for the final section of the race. The park provides an appropriately memorable setting for the finish, but its roads are not completely flat.The undulations can feel considerably harder after more than ten miles than they would during an easy training run. Runners who have controlled their effort through Prospect Park, the Brooklyn Bridge and Midtown should be better placed to handle the final miles. The finish in Central Park completes an extraordinary journey through New York. Over 13.1 miles, the current course connects two of the city's great parks while taking runners across the Brooklyn Bridge, along the FDR Drive and through Midtown and Times Square before the final run to the finish. Is There A Race Expo? Runners should expect to collect their race materials before race day at the official United Airlines NYC Half Experience. If you are travelling to New York specifically for the race, build packet collection into your itinerary rather than leaving your schedule too tight. NYRR publishes the current requirements and collection arrangements as race weekend approaches. Read about race expos here. Aid Stations New York Road Runners provides fluid and medical support around the course, with exact locations published in the race information for each edition. Runners should check the current race guide before race day rather than relying on previous years, as locations and products can change. Even with organised course support, practise your hydration and fuelling strategy during training. Don't introduce an unfamiliar drink or energy product simply because it happens to be available during the race. What Is The Crowd Support Like? Crowd support varies considerably around the route. Some sections, particularly around Midtown and Times Square, can be extremely lively, while stretches such as the FDR Drive naturally have fewer spectators. The contrast actually adds to the experience. There are periods where you can concentrate on your running followed by sections where the noise and crowds make it difficult not to speed up. What Makes The NYC Half Special? Plenty of half marathons take place in great cities, but very few use their city as effectively as this one. Running across Brooklyn Bridge, along roads normally filled with traffic, through Times Square and finishing in Central Park gives the event a sense of occasion well beyond the distance itself. It also offers a very different experience from the New York City Marathon. The marathon is the bigger event and travels through all five boroughs, but the half marathon concentrates many of New York's most recognisable sights into a much shorter route through Brooklyn and Manhattan. Can You Run The NYC Half For Charity? The United Airlines NYC Half has an official charity programme and this can be one of the best options for runners who miss out through the general drawing. Official Charity Partners receive guaranteed entries that are allocated to runners in return for committing to a fundraising target. The amount you need to raise depends on the charity, so don't assume there is a single fundraising requirement across the entire programme. Charity places can fill quickly because they provide guaranteed entry into an event where demand is considerably higher than the number of places available. If you are already considering combining the NYC Half with fundraising, it is worth investigating the charity route early. Read about applying for a charity entry here. Running through Times Square is a rare opportunity! How To Get A Place In The New York City Half Marathon 2027 Getting into the United Airlines NYC Half can be almost as challenging as training for it. Runners without guaranteed entry can apply through the general entry process, with separate applicant pools for runners from the New York City metro area, other US residents and international runners. There are several routes to guaranteed or potential entry. NYRR members can earn guaranteed entry for the following year's race through the 4 Out of 6 programme by completing four eligible events and meeting the membership requirements. Qualifying performances can also provide a route into the event, although different rules apply depending on whether the qualifying time was achieved at an NYRR event or elsewhere. Official Charity Partners provide guaranteed entries to runners agreeing to the relevant fundraising commitment, while international runners can also obtain guaranteed entry through participating official International Tour Operators by purchasing an eligible travel package. Always check the current requirements directly with New York Road Runners before making travel arrangements. Where To Stay New York has an enormous choice of accommodation, but hotel prices can be high and major race weekends add extra demand. Staying in Manhattan gives you easy access to restaurants, attractions and public transport, with Midtown offering one of the widest selections of hotels and excellent subway connections across the city. Because the NYC Half starts in Brooklyn and finishes in Central Park, there is no single location that puts you conveniently beside both ends of the race. Staying in Manhattan can make the journey back after finishing particularly straightforward, while good subway connections make it possible to travel to Brooklyn on race morning. Alternatively, staying in Brooklyn can give you an easier start to race day, although you will have further to travel after the finish. Wherever you choose, check your race-morning transport options before booking rather than simply looking for the hotel closest to the course. If you are extending your visit beyond the race, also consider which area works best for the rest of your time in New York. Compare New York Half Marathon accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict The United Airlines New York City Half Marathon 2027 deserves its reputation as one of the world's great half marathons. There are bigger races and there are faster courses, but few can match the experience of starting in Brooklyn, running across Brooklyn Bridge, heading through Times Square and finishing in Central Park. It isn't necessarily a course we would choose purely for chasing a half marathon PB. The climbs, huge field and temptation to look around rather than concentrate on pace all work against that. But that rather misses the point of this event. The NYC Half is about experiencing New York in a way that is normally impossible. If you want to combine a major running event with a trip to one of the world's great cities, this belongs near the top of the list. And if you are planning to raise money for charity, the guaranteed-entry charity programme can turn that fundraising commitment into an opportunity to run one of the most sought-after half marathons anywhere in the world. Read about the New York City Marathon here. Race website https://www.nyrr.org Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The New York City Marathon takes runners through all five boroughs, from Staten Island to a finish in Central Park. The bridges, changing neighbourhoods and remarkable crowds make it one of the most memorable races in the world. It also takes more planning than many city marathons. Getting a place can be difficult, and race morning involves an early journey to a start that is a long way from the finish. If New York is on your running list for 2027, this guide will help you prepare for the experience. The Destination New York City is made up of Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Manhattan. The marathon visits all five, giving runners a view of the city that goes well beyond its most famous landmarks. Many visitors base themselves in Manhattan, where Central Park, Broadway and Times Square are within easy reach. Brooklyn and Queens are also worth exploring if you have extra time, particularly for their neighbourhoods and food. The subway makes it possible to see much of the city without a car. Try to save some sightseeing until after the marathon, though. A day spent walking around New York can leave you with surprisingly tired legs before you reach the start line. Accommodation during marathon week can be expensive. Once your entry is confirmed, look at both your journey to the official start transport and your journey back from the finish before choosing where to stay. History Of The New York City Marathon The first New York City Marathon took place in 1970, with runners completing laps of Central Park. In 1976, the course expanded across all five boroughs, creating the journey through the city that defines the event today. The race has since grown into one of the world’s largest marathons. Elite athletes, club runners, first time marathoners and charity fundraisers all take part, supported by crowds throughout the route. New York is also one of the Abbott World Marathon Majors. Read more about the World Marathon Majors here. Who Organises The New York City Marathon? The event is organised by New York Road Runners, usually known as NYRR. Its official name is the TCS New York City Marathon. NYRR publishes the entry requirements, course map and race week instructions. Check its information for the 2027 edition before making final plans, as arrangements can change from one year to the next. You won't be on your own in this race! When Is The New York City Marathon 2027? The marathon traditionally takes place on the first Sunday in November. Following that pattern, the 2027 race would be on Sunday 7 November, but NYRR has not yet confirmed the date. Early November weather in New York can vary. Prepare for a cool wait at the start and check the forecast close to race day before deciding what to wear for the run itself. New York City Marathon Expo Runners collect their race number before race day at the official marathon expo. In recent editions, this has taken place at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in Manhattan, alongside event merchandise and exhibitors. The 2027 opening times and collection requirements have not yet been announced. Allow plenty of time to complete number collection, particularly if you are travelling to New York that week. The expo is part of the excitement, but spending hours walking around it may leave you more tired than expected. Enjoy the occasion without feeling you need to see every stand or try new kit before the race. Read more about running expos here. Race Morning The marathon starts on Staten Island and finishes in Central Park. That distance between the start and finish makes your journey to the start one of the most important parts of race day planning. NYRR provides designated transport arrangements and assigns runners to start waves. Check your 2027 instructions carefully when they arrive, including your transport departure time, start area and wave. Expect an early morning and some time waiting before you run. Bring warm clothing for the start village and plan the food and drink you will need between leaving your accommodation and setting off. Once your wave moves towards the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, the view and excitement can make it tempting to start quickly. Keep your effort under control: there is a long way to go after the bridge. New York City Marathon Course The established course begins on Staten Island, crosses into Brooklyn and continues through Queens, Manhattan and the Bronx before returning to Manhattan for the finish in Central Park. Each borough brings a different atmosphere, while the bridges make the race more demanding than its famous crowds might suggest. The final 2027 course map has not yet been released. Use NYRR’s confirmed map for detailed plans once it becomes available. The course is however very likely to be the same in 2027 as it was in 2026. What a start! From Staten Island Into Brooklyn Runners begin by climbing the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge before descending into Brooklyn. It is a spectacular opening, but the climb and descent can make it difficult to judge your pace. Brooklyn makes up a large part of the race. Its neighbourhoods, music and crowds give runners plenty to take in, although it is important to keep something in reserve for the second half. Queens And The Queensboro Bridge After Brooklyn, the course enters Queens and crosses the Queensboro Bridge into Manhattan. The bridge feels unusually quiet after the support on the streets, and its climb arrives when runners have already covered a substantial distance. Coming off the bridge and turning onto First Avenue is one of the race’s defining moments. The noise returns suddenly as spectators line the avenue and urge runners onwards. First Avenue, The Bronx And Central Park First Avenue provides a lift, but it is easy to mistake that lift for fresh legs. The course still has a long way to go as it continues into the Bronx and then returns to Manhattan. The final miles lead towards and through Central Park. Small rises and turns can feel much harder at this stage, so runners who have managed their effort early are better placed to enjoy the closing stretch. The Finish In Central Park Crossing the finish line in Central Park brings the five borough journey to an unforgettable close. You will receive your medal before making your way through the finish area and towards your onward journey. Agree a meeting point with friends or family before race day. Check NYRR’s 2027 exit arrangements when they are published, as the streets around the park are busy and it may take time to reach the place where you plan to meet. The finish line is imminent How Difficult Is The New York City Marathon Course? New York rewards patient pacing. Its bridges, changing elevation and lively crowds can all encourage you to run harder than intended, particularly during the first half. It is a course you can race well with the right preparation. Include hills in your training and practise holding a steady effort rather than trying to run every mile at exactly the same pace. What Makes The New York City Marathon Special? New York feels like several races within one. The opening bridge, the long stretch through Brooklyn, the quiet crossing into Manhattan and the noise of First Avenue each leave a different impression. The spectators give the event much of its character. Their support follows runners through the boroughs and helps make the final miles feel like part of a citywide occasion. Is The New York City Marathon A Fast Course? A personal best is possible in New York, but it is a demanding course to pace. The bridges and changes in elevation make an even effort more useful than trying to hold one exact pace from start to finish. If time is your main goal, prepare for hills and practise staying controlled when you feel good early in a race. The energy of the crowds is wonderful, but it cannot replace the effort you have spent in the opening miles. Is The New York City Marathon Good For First Time Runners? New York can be an excellent first marathon for someone who has trained for the distance. There are always other runners around you throughout the event, and the crowds provide encouragement across much of the course. Its size makes preparation especially important. Understand how you will collect your number, reach Staten Island, manage the wait before your wave and leave the finish area. Check the confirmed 2027 participant rules and time limits before entering. Spectating At The New York City Marathon Supporters can watch in several boroughs, but travelling between viewing points takes planning. Road closures, crowds and busy subway stations can make it difficult to see a runner as many times as a map might suggest. Use the official 2027 course and spectator guidance to choose viewing points. Agree where supporters hope to see you and where you will meet after the race, then use NYRR’s tracking arrangements when they are available. How To Enter The New York City Marathon 2027 NYRR has not yet announced the full 2027 entry process or application dates. Previous editions have offered a non guaranteed drawing alongside routes for eligible runners that include qualifying standards, NYRR participation programmes, official charity partners and approved international tour operators. The rules, deadlines and costs differ between entry routes. Check the 2027 criteria carefully rather than assuming that a route available in an earlier year will work in the same way. Demand for places is high, so it pays to follow the announcements early. Once you have a confirmed entry, you can make your travel plans and focus on preparing for race day. Read more about tour operators here. Running The New York City Marathon For Charity An official charity place is one way to enter the marathon while raising money for a cause that matters to you. Charities generally ask runners to commit to a fundraising minimum, and the amount and support offered vary between organisations. Before accepting a place, make sure you understand the full fundraising commitment and any other costs. Apply early if you have a particular charity in mind, as popular teams may receive more applications than they can accommodate. Fundraising can add another dimension to the months before New York. Sharing why you chose your charity, along with updates from your training, gives supporters a reason to follow the journey all the way to Central Park. Read more about choosing a charity entry here. Where To Stay New York gives marathon runners an enormous choice of accommodation, but deciding where to stay is particularly important for this point-to-point race. Manhattan provides the greatest selection of hotels and makes it easy to enjoy the city before and after the marathon, with Midtown especially convenient for transport, restaurants and sightseeing. Staying on the Upper West Side can also be attractive for runners who want to be closer to the area around Central Park after finishing. Hotels in New York can be expensive at any time and marathon weekend adds even more demand. Look beyond the nightly price when comparing options and consider transport, additional hotel charges and how easily you can get around the city. Booking early usually gives you considerably more choice. Compare New York City Marathon accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict On The New York City Marathon 2027 The New York City Marathon 2027 deserves its place on many runners’ wish lists. It is a challenging course and race morning takes careful planning, but the journey through five boroughs offers an experience few other marathons can match. For now, keep an eye on NYRR’s confirmed 2027 date and entry information. If you secure a place, prepare for the bridges, plan your journey to Staten Island and give yourself time to enjoy the occasion. Race website https://www.nyrr.org/tcsnycmarathon Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Tokyo Marathon 2027 takes place on Sunday 7 March. Starting among the skyscrapers of Shinjuku and finishing near Tokyo Station, it takes runners through districts that show several sides of Japan’s capital, from Asakusa’s historic streets to the wide avenues of Ginza. Tokyo is one of the World Marathon Majors, and its combination of a fast course and a remarkable destination makes entry highly sought after. Whether you already have a place or are considering a future edition, this guide takes you through the race’s history, course and entry options. The Destination Tokyo is a city that deserves more than a quick visit for the marathon. Shinjuku’s towers and busy streets contrast with the temples and traditional shops of Asakusa, while Ginza offers another change of scene. The course passes through several well known areas, but leave yourself time to explore them without a race number pinned to your shirt. Sensō-ji in Asakusa, Shibuya Crossing and the area around the Imperial Palace are popular places to begin. Tokyo’s rail network makes it possible to see a great deal of the city, although it is worth planning your journeys to the expo and race start before marathon weekend. Food is another part of the experience, from small neighbourhood noodle shops to restaurants serving sushi, rice dishes and grilled food. If you are travelling across time zones, arriving a few days early gives you time to adjust and settle into your usual routine before race day. History Of The Tokyo Marathon The first Tokyo Marathon was held in 2007. It brought elite competition and mass participation together in a major city race, attracting more than 95,000 applicants for its inaugural edition. Its popularity quickly established Tokyo as a destination for runners from around the world. Tokyo joined the World Marathon Majors from its 2013 edition. For runners collecting Major finishes, that gave the race another significance beyond its course and setting. The 2027 event will be its 20th edition, and the organiser has increased the marathon field to 40,000 runners to mark the anniversary. Read more about the World Marathon Majors here. When Is The Tokyo Marathon 2027? The Tokyo Marathon 2027 is scheduled for Sunday 7 March. The marathon starts at 9:10 a.m. local time outside the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku and finishes on Gyoko-dori Avenue near Tokyo Station. The official time limit is seven hours from the starting gun. There are also intermediate cut off points along the route, so runners aiming to use most of the available time should read the final participant information carefully. Who Organises The Tokyo Marathon? The Tokyo Marathon Foundation organises the race, with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Japan Association of Athletics Federations among its co-organisers. Delivering a course across so many central districts requires extensive planning, from road closures and transport to volunteers and runner services. That organisation matters to visiting runners. The start and finish are in different parts of the city and race packs must be collected in person, Work through those practical details before you travel so that race weekend feels straightforward. Tokyo Marathon 2027 Expo And Race Pack Collection Runners must collect their race packs in person at Tokyo Big Sight’s South Exhibition Halls. For 2027, collection is scheduled for Thursday 4 and Friday 5 March from 10:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., and Saturday 6 March from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. There is no race-day collection. The expo takes place across the same three days. Allow time for travel and collection, particularly if you arrive in Tokyo on the Saturday. Check your final runner instructions for the identification and documents required. Read more about race expos here. Tokyo Marathon 2027 Course The route runs from Shinjuku through Suidobashi, Ueno-hirokoji, Kanda, Nihombashi, Asakusa, Ryogoku, Monzen-nakacho, Ginza, Tamachi and Hibiya before finishing near Tokyo Station. It begins with a descent from Shinjuku and is relatively gentle thereafter, making it attractive to runners chasing a fast time. The course also has several turns and sections where runners head out and return along a similar corridor. Those changes of direction are worth understanding before race day, especially the late turn at Tamachi. The approximate distances below follow the organiser’s 2027 course information. Shinjuku To Ueno-hirokoji: 0–11 km The start sits among the tall buildings around the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. The route descends through Shinjuku, and the combination of the gradient and the excitement of a Major can make the opening kilometres feel deceptively easy. By around 7–8 km, runners move through the Suidobashi and Jinbocho areas. The course continues through Kanda to a turning point at Ueno-hirokoji at approximately 10.6 km, then heads back towards Kanda. Settle into your planned effort here rather than trying to gain time from the downhill start. Nihombashi And Asakusa: 11–20 km After Kanda, the route passes through Nihombashi, an area associated with Tokyo’s historic centre. It then continues towards Kuramae and Asakusa, reaching the Kaminarimon Gate area at roughly 18–19 km. This is one of the most recognisable sights on the course and a memorable contrast with the skyscrapers at the start. Runners turn back towards Ryogoku, passing the 20 km point near Kuramae Bridge. Halfway comes shortly afterwards. With several changes of direction in this section, it helps to follow the marked route and maintain your effort rather than reacting to every turn. Ryogoku And Monzen-nakacho: Halfway–28 km From Ryogoku, the course heads southeast towards Monzen-nakacho. The turning point near Tomioka Hachimangu comes just before 24 km, after which runners return towards Ryogoku. You pass through Monzen-nakacho again at around 25 km and reach the Kuramae Bridge area close to 28 km. This extended journey out and back can make progress feel harder to judge than on a course that travels continuously towards its finish. Keep to the food and drink routine you practised in training, even if you still feel comfortable after halfway. Nihombashi, Ginza And Tamachi: 28–38 km The course returns through central Tokyo. It passes the Meijiza area around 30 km, reaches Nihombashi again at about 32 km and enters Ginza at approximately 33 km. The broad avenues give this stage a very different feel from the narrower streets around Asakusa. From Ginza, runners continue through the Hibiya area and head south towards Shiba Park and Tamachi. The turning point near Tamachi Station is at approximately 37.5 km. Knowing in advance that the route takes you away from the finish this late in the race makes it easier to stay patient until you turn back. Hibiya To The Finish: 38–42.195 km After Tamachi, the route heads north again, passing through the Hibiya area at around 41 km. The final approach leads towards Marunouchi and the finish on Gyoko-dori Avenue near Tokyo Station. It is an impressive setting in which to finish a race that has covered so much of the city. Tokyo Tower may be visible in the wider area, but runners do not pass directly by its base. Keep your attention on the final kilometres, then enjoy the finish as it comes into view. Runners pass through Shinjuku in the opening 2 kilometres of the Tokyo Marathon. Aid Stations The Tokyo Marathon has aid stations along the route, but the organiser has not yet published the final station locations or food and drink provision for 2027. Use the runner guide when it is released to check what will be available and where. Plan your race nutrition around products you have used in training. If you intend to rely on anything supplied by the event, check the confirmed 2027 details first, including the location of food stations and any ingredient information relevant to you. Read more about race day nutrition here. How To Enter The Tokyo Marathon The main public entry route is the general draw. Applications for 2027 were open from 14 to 28 August 2026, with results announced on 18 September. Other routes include One Tokyo membership categories and Run as One semi-elite entry for runners who meet the relevant conditions. Official international tour packages with guaranteed entry may also be offered through appointed partners. If you are still seeking a 2027 place, check current availability directly with the organiser or an authorised provider before booking travel. A charity place has its own application process. An unsuccessful application in the general draw does not automatically transfer a runner into charity entry. Read more about buying race packages from a tour operator here. Run The Tokyo Marathon 2027 For Charity Some charities have Tokyo Marathon places available for runners who commit to fundraising for them. If you have missed out through the general entry draw, this is another route worth exploring. Availability varies, so check charities’ current event pages and contact them directly about a 2027 place. Each charity sets its own terms. You may be asked to pay a registration fee and agree to a minimum fundraising target. Before applying, make sure you check the target and when the fundraising payments are due. Choose a cause you want to support and give yourself enough time to fundraise alongside your training. A charity place can get you to the Tokyo start line while making the miles you run count for something beyond the race. Where To Stay Tokyo is enormous, so choosing the right area can make a big difference to your marathon weekend. Shinjuku is a particularly practical base, with a huge choice of hotels, restaurants and transport connections, while areas such as Tokyo Station, Ginza and Shimbashi provide convenient alternatives if you also want to explore the city during your stay. Tokyo's rail and metro networks make it possible to stay much further from the central areas, but check your race-morning journey carefully before booking. Hotels can also be very different in size and style from those you may be used to elsewhere, so look closely at room details as well as price and location. Compare Tokyo Marathon accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict The Tokyo Marathon earns its place among the world’s most sought-after races. It offers the possibility of a quick time, but the course is memorable for more than its speed: runners travel from Shinjuku’s towers to Asakusa’s historic streets, through Ginza and back towards a finish near Tokyo Station. Securing a place remains the biggest hurdle. Once you have one, study the course’s turning points, arrange your expo visit and plan the journey to the start. Then you can give the race itself your full attention. A group of runners celebrate finishing the Tokyo Marathon in Kabukichō, Shinjuku Race website https://www.marathon.tokyo/en/ Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Paris Half Marathon, officially known as the Hoka Semi de Paris, is one of Europe's biggest half marathons and a popular way to start the spring running season. The race takes runners through eastern Paris, alongside the River Seine and through the Bois de Vincennes before returning towards a finish at Place de la Bastille. For anyone who wants to experience a major running event in Paris without taking on the full marathon distance, the Paris Half Marathon is certainly one to consider. The Destination Paris hardly needs an introduction. The French capital is one of Europe's great city-break destinations, making the Paris Half Marathon particularly appealing if you want to combine a race with a few days away. The River Seine runs through the heart of the city and many of Paris's most famous attractions are relatively easy to reach from the centre. The Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, Notre-Dame Cathedral and Sacré-Cœur are among the obvious places to visit, while the city also has countless museums, galleries, cafés, restaurants and neighbourhoods to explore. The half marathon concentrates primarily on the eastern side of Paris rather than passing every famous landmark. Instead, the race experience includes the Seine, Boulevard Saint-Germain, Bibliothèque Nationale de France, Bois de Vincennes, Château de Vincennes, Hôtel de Ville, Rue de Rivoli and Bastille. Paris is also very easy to reach from the UK. Eurostar services arrive at Gare du Nord, while Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports provide extensive international connections. Once you are there, the Metro and RER networks make getting around the city relatively straightforward. History Of The Paris Half Marathon The first Paris Half Marathon was held in 1993 and the event has developed into one of the biggest races over the distance anywhere in the world. The race has had several title sponsors over the years and was previously known as the Harmonie Mutuelle Semi de Paris. Hoka became title sponsor in 2025 as part of a five year partnership, making the official event name the Hoka Semi de Paris. Participation has continued to grow with a record 50,000 entrants in 2026. Who Organises The Paris Half Marathon? The Paris Half Marathon is organised by Amaury Sport Organisation, better known as A.S.O., one of the world's largest sports event organisers. A.S.O. also organises the Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris and has a huge international portfolio of sporting events that includes the Tour de France and Dakar Rally. More than 500,000 competitors take part in mass participation events organised by A.S.O. and its subsidiaries each year. When Is The Paris Half Marathon 2027? The Hoka Semi de Paris is traditionally held in March and is one of the first major European half marathons of the spring. The official date for the 2027 Paris Half Marathon had not been announced when this guide was updated. If you are planning to travel to Paris for the race, wait for confirmation from the organisers before booking non-refundable travel or accommodation. The Paris Half Marathon Running Village Runners need to visit the official HOKA Semi de Paris Running Village before race day to collect their race bib. For the 2026 event, the village was held at the Grande Halle de la Villette on the Friday and Saturday before the race. The village includes event partners and running brands alongside race information and opportunities to buy running kit. The 2026 edition featured almost 30 exhibitors. The location and opening arrangements for 2027 should be checked once they are confirmed. Give yourself enough time to collect your bib rather than leaving it until the last possible moment, particularly if you are travelling into Paris on the Saturday. Race Morning With around 50,000 runners taking part, race morning is busy and it is worth arriving in plenty of time. Runners are allocated to starting areas based on their expected finishing time, with bibs checked as they enter their designated area. The race uses waves and smaller groups to manage the number of runners entering the course. This helps spread the field, although you should still expect the opening stages to be crowded. Recent editions have started on Boulevard Saint-Germain and finished at Place de la Bastille. Public transport is generally the best way to reach the start because of road closures around the race route. A free bag-drop facility has also been provided for runners, with the 2026 facility located on Boulevard de la Bastille. The exact arrangements for 2027 may change, so check the final runner instructions for your start time, access point, baggage arrangements and recommended Metro or RER stations. Paris Half Marathon Course The Paris Half Marathon course provides a tour of eastern Paris, combining major city streets, stretches alongside the Seine and a substantial section through the Bois de Vincennes. Recent editions have started on Boulevard Saint-Germain before heading east through the city and alongside the Seine. Runners pass the Bibliothèque Nationale de France before continuing towards the Bois de Vincennes. The Bois de Vincennes is one of the largest green spaces in Paris and gives the middle part of the race a very different atmosphere from the city streets. The route takes runners through this part of eastern Paris and past the Château de Vincennes before turning back towards the centre. The return journey takes runners through the Daumesnil area and back towards central Paris. Later stages feature Hôtel de Ville and Rue de Rivoli before the final approach towards the finish at Place de la Bastille. It is worth understanding the nature of the route before you enter. Although this is very much a Paris city race, a substantial section takes place in and around the Bois de Vincennes, where spectator support is generally thinner than on the central city sections. The contrast between the quieter park and the busier streets is one of the characteristics of the race. Aid stations are positioned approximately every 5km. The organisers have been reducing single-use items at the event and encourage runners to carry their own suitable container for drinks, so check the 2027 hydration arrangements carefully before race day. As with any major city event, the exact route can change from year to year. Check the official 2027 course map when it is released rather than relying on the route used for previous editions. The finish area at Bastille What Makes The Paris Half Marathon Special? The sheer scale of the event is one of its biggest attractions. There are not many opportunities to join around 50,000 other runners on closed roads through the centre of one of Europe's great cities. The course also provides an interesting mixture of Paris. You get the Seine, major boulevards and historic architecture alongside the much greener surroundings of the Bois de Vincennes before returning to the city for the finish at Bastille. For runners who would love to race in Paris but are not ready to tackle the full Paris Marathon, it is an obvious alternative. It is also an attractive early-season race for more experienced runners looking for a major European half marathon. Is The Paris Half Marathon Good For First Time Runners? The Paris Half Marathon is a very good option for runners taking on 13.1 miles for the first time. You certainly will not be alone, as 34% of the 2026 field were first-time half marathon runners. The size of the field means there are runners covering a wide range of paces, while the atmosphere of a major international event can provide plenty of motivation. The trade-off is the sheer number of people taking part, so runners who prefer small, quiet races may find Paris a little overwhelming. If you enjoy big events and want your first half marathon to feel like a real occasion, however, Paris has a lot going for it. Running The Paris Half Marathon For Charity Charity fundraising has become an important part of the Hoka Semi de Paris. The 2026 event included 5,000 charity bibs supporting 110 organisations, with €1.3 million raised through the programme. A charity place can therefore provide another way of getting into the race. Depending on the charity, runners may need to pay a registration fee and commit to raising a specified fundraising target in return for their place. If you secure your own entry through the normal registration process, you can of course still use the Paris Half Marathon to raise money for a charity of your choice. Do You Need A Medical Certificate? The health requirements for French running events have changed in recent years, so be careful about following information from older Paris Half Marathon guides. For recent editions, adult runners have been able to meet the health requirement through an eligible French athletics licence or the French Athletics Federation's PPS, the Parcours Prévention Santé or Health Prevention Course. The PPS system replaced the traditional requirement for many runners to obtain a medical certificate from their doctor. The process must be completed within the timeframe specified for the event. Check the requirements shown in your registration account for the 2027 race rather than assuming that documentation used for an earlier French event will still be valid. How To Enter The Paris Half Marathon 2027 Registration for the Hoka Semi de Paris is completed online through the official event registration system. Entries are normally sold in different price bands, so registering early can mean paying less for your place. There is no traditional ballot system like the one used by some of the world's biggest marathons. Places are available through the registration process until the relevant allocation sells out, making this an event where it pays to make your decision early. Charity bibs can provide another entry route, while international runners may also find packages offered by authorised travel operators. Once you have registered, keep an eye on your runner account and emails from the organisers for information about the PPS requirements, start allocation, bib collection and final race instructions. Where To Stay Paris offers an enormous range of accommodation, so you can choose between staying close to the heart of the city or finding better value slightly further out. The Marais and areas around Bastille can make excellent bases for a race weekend, with plenty of restaurants and straightforward access to many of the city's attractions. Staying close to a Métro station is often more important than being within walking distance of the course. Hotel prices vary enormously across Paris and can rise around major events. Check your transport options before booking and consider neighbouring arrondissements if accommodation in your preferred area is expensive. Booking early gives you more freedom to balance location, price and the kind of weekend you want. Compare Paris Half Marathon accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict The Paris Half Marathon deserves its place among Europe's major half marathons. It combines the atmosphere and scale of a huge international running event with an opportunity to see a different side of Paris from the one experienced by most tourists. The Bois de Vincennes section means you should not expect crowds packed several deep for the entire 13.1 miles, but that is part of the character of the course. You move between busy Paris streets, stretches near the Seine and a large green space before returning towards Bastille for the finish. For first-time half marathon runners, there is the reassurance of being surrounded by thousands of others taking on exactly the same challenge. More experienced runners get the opportunity to race on closed roads through one of Europe's great cities. Add in a weekend in Paris and it is easy to understand why the HOKA Semi de Paris has grown into one of the biggest half marathons in the world. Race website https://www.hokasemimarathondeparis.com/en Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

Looking for a fast European half marathon with world class racing, spectacular architecture and a course through one of the continent's great cities? The Prague Half Marathon should certainly be on your list. It has developed into one of Europe's most prestigious half marathons, combining an international mass participation field with elite racing at the highest level. Prague is also one of the six races in the SuperHalfs series, alongside Lisbon, Berlin, Copenhagen, Cardiff and Valencia. With 17,000 runners expected for 2027 and demand for places now massively exceeding capacity, getting onto the start line has become a challenge in itself. If you're running the Prague Half Marathon 2027, here's everything you need to know. Prague Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic and one of Europe's most popular city break destinations. Much of its appeal comes from the combination of historic architecture, the River Vltava and a remarkably well preserved city centre that makes exploring on foot particularly rewarding. The Old Town is home to Old Town Square and the famous Astronomical Clock, while Charles Bridge connects the historic centre with Malá Strana beneath Prague Castle. Wenceslas Square, the Jewish Quarter and the banks of the Vltava add still more places to explore within a relatively compact area. That compactness makes Prague particularly suitable for a running weekend. The city's metro and tram network makes getting around straightforward, while many of the major sights are within walking distance of the centre. Just remember that cobbled streets and hours of sightseeing are probably better saved until after you've completed your 13.1 miles. The Prague Half Marathon The Prague Half Marathon was first held in 1999 and has developed into one of the highest profile half marathons in Europe. Organised by RunCzech, it combines a huge international mass participation field with elite racing and a course through the historic heart of the Czech capital. The event holds a World Athletics Elite Label and has produced some exceptionally fast performances. The men's course record is 58:24, set by Kenya's Sabastian Sawe in 2024, while Joyciline Jepkosgei holds the women's record of 1:04:52. The scale and popularity of the event have continued to grow. The 2026 edition had a capacity of 17,000 and demand was so great that more than 100,000 people attempted to register when entries opened. RunCzech responded by introducing a ballot for the 2027 race rather than continuing with a first come, first served system. Its position within the SuperHalfs has added another international dimension, bringing runners to Prague as part of a challenge that now connects six of Europe's leading half marathons. Read more about the SuperHalfs here. When Is The Prague Half Marathon 2027? The 2027 Generali Prague Half Marathon takes place on Saturday 3 April, with the race scheduled to start at 10:00am. It will be the 27th edition of the event and once again has a maximum capacity of 17,000 runners. Early April can provide excellent conditions for half marathon running, although spring weather in Prague can vary considerably. Cool temperatures would be ideal for runners chasing a PB, but warmer conditions, rain or wind are all possible, so check the forecast during race week before making your final decisions about clothing, hydration and pacing. Is There A Prague Half Marathon Expo? Yes. The Prague Half Marathon has a Running Expo where runners collect their race number and start package before the event. For the 2026 race, the Expo was held at the Křižík Pavilions at the Výstaviště exhibition grounds in Prague 7. The final venue, opening hours and collection arrangements for the 2027 Running Expo should always be checked before travelling. Don't simply assume that details from the previous year will remain unchanged, particularly if you're arranging flights or planning to arrive in Prague late on Friday. Allow enough time to collect your race pack without turning the day before the race into a stressful dash across the city. The final RunCzech runner information will contain the arrangements you need for race weekend. The Prague Half Marathon Course One of the great attractions of the Prague Half Marathon is the opportunity to run through the historic heart of the Czech capital. The route traditionally uses the River Vltava and central Prague to create a course that combines fast running with some of the city's most recognisable landmarks. There is one important qualification for anyone planning for 2027. RunCzech has not yet published the final 2027 course map and is currently displaying the route from 2026. The previous course therefore provides the best indication of what runners can expect, rather than a guarantee that every street and landmark will be included in exactly the same way. Starting In Holešovice The 2026 race started and finished on Bubenské nábřeží in Holešovice, close to the Vltava and Holešovice Market. This put runners alongside the river almost immediately and provided relatively quick access towards central Prague. With 17,000 runners taking part, the opening stages can inevitably be busy. Make sure you're in the appropriate starting area and resist the temptation to waste energy weaving between other runners simply because your opening kilometre is slightly slower than planned. Into Historic Prague The 2026 course quickly took runners towards the historic centre, with landmarks including the Prague Metronome, Rudolfinum and the area around the Jewish Quarter appearing during the early stages. This is where Prague begins to feel very different from a conventional road race. Historic buildings, river views and some of the city's best known sights appear in quick succession, creating plenty of distractions from the running itself. The atmosphere can make the opening kilometres feel deceptively easy. If you're targeting a particular time, settle into your intended effort rather than allowing the occasion and the runners around you to dictate your pace. Along The Vltava The River Vltava is central to the Prague Half Marathon experience. Significant sections of recent courses have followed the river, giving runners longer stretches where they can settle into their rhythm while still enjoying views across the city. The 2026 route headed south along the river and passed Císařská louka before returning towards central Prague. The Dancing House, one of the city's most distinctive modern buildings, appeared around the middle part of the race. These longer sections are where sensible pacing can make a significant difference. The excitement of the start has passed but there is still plenty of running ahead, so concentrate on maintaining a controlled effort rather than trying to gain a few unnecessary seconds. Through The New Town The 2026 course continued through central Prague and included sections around the New Town and Wenceslas Square. This provides another change of surroundings and takes runners through an area that has played an important role in modern Czech history. By this stage you're well into the second half of the race and maintaining your pace begins to require more concentration. If you've been sensible during the opening kilometres, this is where that restraint can start to pay off. Old Town Prague One of the highlights of the 2026 route came as runners headed towards the Powder Gate, Municipal House and Old Town Square. Few half marathons can offer this concentration of internationally recognisable landmarks within a single section of the course. Old Town Square is surrounded by historic buildings and is home to the Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock. Running through this part of Prague gives the race a genuine connection with the city rather than simply using its streets to create a fast 21.097km course. There is still enough distance remaining at this point to punish anyone who has pushed too hard earlier. Use the atmosphere to maintain your effort and save any significant increase in pace until you're confident you can sustain it to the finish. The Final Kilometres The closing kilometres of the 2026 course took runners back towards Holešovice and the finish on Bubenské nábřeží. With tired legs, this is where sensible pacing earlier in the race can make the biggest difference. If you've managed the opening congestion, resisted going too quickly through the city centre and maintained a controlled effort along the river, the final few kilometres provide an opportunity to start racing rather than simply hanging on. We will know the exact 2027 closing section once RunCzech publishes the new course map. Runners pass the Church of St Nicholas in Prague’s Old Town Square, around 14–15 km into the Prague Half Marathon Is The Prague Half Marathon Fast? Yes. Prague has an outstanding reputation for fast running and the course records demonstrate its potential. Sabastian Sawe ran 58:24 in 2024, while Joyciline Jepkosgei's women's record stands at 1:04:52. For mass participation runners there are a few additional factors to consider. A field of 17,000 can create congestion, particularly early in the race, while turns and sections through the historic city can interrupt your rhythm more than an extremely simple out and back course. None of that prevents Prague from being a genuine PB opportunity. Cool spring conditions, high quality competition and plenty of runnable sections make this an excellent choice if you're targeting a fast half marathon, provided you position yourself appropriately and don't waste energy during the opening kilometres. Aid Stations Refreshment points are provided around the Prague Half Marathon course, although the exact locations and products available for 2027 will be confirmed in the final runner information. If you're planning to use gels or other sports nutrition, practise your strategy during training rather than relying entirely on what might be available on race day. Carrying nutrition you already know works for you removes one unnecessary variable from your race. The same applies to hydration. Early April may be cool, but conditions can vary considerably, so adjust your drinking to the weather and your own requirements rather than automatically changing a strategy that has worked during training. What Is The Crowd Support Like? Prague combines a large international field with the atmosphere of running through a major European capital. Central sections of the course can provide excellent support, particularly where spectators have easy access to the route and around the city's major landmarks. RunCzech also uses music and entertainment to add to the race atmosphere. With runners travelling from across Europe and much further afield, the event has a noticeably international feel that fits its position within the SuperHalfs. There can inevitably be quieter stretches, particularly on longer riverside sections. That contrast is part of the race, with calmer kilometres giving way to much busier areas as runners return towards central Prague and eventually the finish. Read more here about the importance of spectators and how to look after them. Prague And The SuperHalfs Prague is one of the six races that make up the SuperHalfs series, alongside Lisbon, Berlin, Copenhagen, Cardiff and Valencia. Runners can create a SuperPassport and record each race as they work their way through the series. Complete all six and you earn the SuperMedal and become a SuperRunner. There is no requirement to run the races in a particular order, making the challenge an excellent way of combining half marathon running with visits to six very different European cities. Being a SuperHalfs runner doesn't automatically guarantee you a Prague entry, so you still need to secure a legitimate race place. With demand now significantly exceeding capacity, that is an increasingly important part of planning your SuperHalfs challenge. Can You Run The Prague Half Marathon For Charity? Yes. RunCzech reserves some Prague Half Marathon entries for charity programmes, providing another potential route into an event where general places are now extremely difficult to obtain. This is particularly significant for 2027 because the main ballot has already taken place and the race has reached capacity. RunCzech has confirmed that remaining registrations through charitable organisations will be made available in September, although availability will inevitably be limited. Running Prague for charity can also turn the race into something much bigger than simply completing another half marathon. The combination of a major international event, a famous destination and the challenge of 13.1 miles gives fundraisers plenty to build their story around. Check the conditions attached to an individual charity place before committing. Fundraising expectations and entry arrangements can vary, so make sure you understand what is required by the organisation providing your place. Read more about applying for a charity entry here. Runners cross Prague’s Old Town Square with the Church of Our Lady before Týn behind them. How Do You Get A Place In The Prague Half Marathon 2027? Getting a place has become considerably more difficult. Demand for the 2026 race was so intense that more than 100,000 people attempted to register when entries opened, despite the event having capacity for 17,000 runners. For 2027, RunCzech replaced the previous first come, first served system with a ballot. Applications were open from 21 July until 11 August 2026, with runners selected randomly for the opportunity to register. The ballot is now closed and the race has reached full capacity. RunCzech says the remaining ways of securing a place are through the ballot process or by obtaining a registration code from an official travel agency or charity partner. Remaining registrations through charitable organisations are due to be released in September. If you're still looking for a 2027 entry, use the official RunCzech routes rather than unofficial offers. When demand is this much greater than the number of available places, it's particularly important to make sure any entry you're buying is legitimate. Where To Stay Prague works particularly well for a race weekend because many of its best known areas can be explored on foot. Staying in or around Prague 1 puts you close to the Old Town, restaurants and many of the city's major attractions, making it a convenient option if you are combining the half marathon with a short break. Areas such as Malá Strana and the New Town provide further choices within easy reach of the centre. Accommodation in central Prague can fill quickly around major events, so booking early is worthwhile. If you stay further from the centre, look for somewhere close to a metro or tram connection and check your race-morning journey before confirming your booking. Compare Prague Half Marathon accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict Prague has just about everything you could want from a major European half marathon: a fast course, world class elite racing, a huge international field and the opportunity to run through one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. The route is a major part of its appeal. Running alongside the Vltava and through the historic centre gives the Prague Half Marathon an identity that goes far beyond simply chasing a quick 13.1 miles, although we'll know the precise route for 2027 only when RunCzech publishes the final map. Its place in the SuperHalfs has made Prague even more desirable, while the introduction of a ballot demonstrates just how difficult obtaining an entry has become. That popularity is understandable because Prague manages to combine a genuine destination race with a course capable of producing exceptionally fast times. Whether you're chasing a PB, completing another SuperHalfs race, raising money for charity or simply looking for an outstanding European half marathon, Prague deserves a place near the top of your running list. Race Website https://www.runczech.com/en/events/generali-prague-half-marathon-2027-2 Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

Run Rome The Marathon gives runners a remarkable way to see the Italian capital. The race starts near the Colosseum and travels through the city past ancient landmarks, along the Tiber and towards views of St Peter’s Basilica. For many runners, experiencing Rome on closed roads is as compelling as the marathon itself. The Rome Marathon 2027 takes place on Sunday 14 March. It is also part of the new European Marathon Classics series, which links eight races across the continent. If you are considering an entry, it helps to understand the participation rules, the seven hour time limit and the practicalities of travelling to Rome for race weekend. The Destination Rome is worth more than a brief race weekend. The Colosseum, Roman Forum and Circus Maximus are close to the marathon’s central race area, while the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and Vatican City offer plenty to explore after you have finished running. Choose accommodation with race morning in mind. A hotel that looks close to the start on a map may still involve a longer walk once roads close and access routes are controlled. Check how you will reach your assigned entrance when the final instructions become available. It is tempting to spend every spare hour sightseeing, particularly if this is your first visit. Keep the day before the race manageable and save the longest walks for afterwards. You will enjoy Rome more if you reach the start feeling rested. History Of Run Rome The Marathon Rome’s marathon history predates the event’s current name. Over successive editions, the race grew into an international event attracting runners from Italy and abroad. A new organising group won the rights to stage the race from 2020. At the launch of that project in December 2019, the established Rome Marathon was presented under the name Acea Run Rome The Marathon. Acea was announced as its title sponsor. The new name accompanied a renewed version of the existing event, rather than a separate marathon. The 2027 race will be its 32nd edition. Rome also became one of the eight European Marathon Classics when the series launched in 2026, adding a new goal for runners who enjoy combining marathons with travel. Who Organises Run Rome The Marathon? The 2027 event rules name Infront Italy, Corriere dello Sport and Rome Marathon Runners as the organisers. The full sponsored event name is Acea Run Rome The Marathon. Run Rome The Marathon is part of European Marathon Classics, alongside the marathons in Vienna, Madrid, London, Copenhagen, Warsaw, Lisbon and Frankfurt. Runners can earn the series’ finisher award by completing five different member races. Joining the series does not include entry to any of its marathons, so you must register for each race separately. When Is Run Rome The Marathon 2027? Run Rome The Marathon takes place on Sunday 14 March 2027. The published rules give an approximate start time of 8:30am, with final arrangements for the starting areas to follow closer to the event. Early spring may bring comfortable running weather, but conditions on the day are never guaranteed. Check the forecast during race week and be ready to adjust your clothing and pace, particularly if you have trained through a colder winter. The associated Water Fun Run Saturday 5K is scheduled for 13 March. It offers another way for family members and travelling supporters to take part in the weekend. Run Rome The Marathon Expo Runners must collect their bib and race pack in person at the Expo Village. The 2027 rules say that bibs will not be posted, but the expo location and opening hours are to be communicated later. The organiser has used Circus Maximus for its Expo Village. Some pages on its website still display the 2026 expo timetable, so do not rely on those hours for the 2027 race. Check your confirmation email and the final event information before arranging your arrival. Leave enough time to collect your bib without rushing across the city. While you are there, check your assigned starting area and read any updated instructions for race morning. Read more about race expos here. Race Morning The organiser says the marathon will start on Via dei Fori Imperiali, with the Colosseum behind the runners. It is an impressive place to begin, but reaching your position within a large field will take time. Your starting area will be shown on your bib. Under the published 2027 rules, areas are assigned using the personal best time you provide where applicable, while the detailed starting grid arrangements will be announced later. Plan your journey using the final race instructions. Road closures and controlled entrances may mean that the shortest route on a map is unavailable on the morning. Allow time to reach your entrance, use the facilities and settle before the start. Read more about race day strategy here. Run Rome The Marathon Course Run Rome The Marathon starts on Via dei Fori Imperiali near the Colosseum. The most recent detailed course, used in 2026, first headed south through the city before returning along the Tiber towards St Peter’s Basilica. It then travelled through districts north of the Vatican, followed the river farther north and returned through central Rome. That route finished inside Circus Maximus. The organiser has confirmed the Via dei Fori Imperiali start for 2027 and promotes many of the same landmarks, but the complete 2027 course map has yet to be published. The kilometre points below describe the 2026 route and may change. The Start And Southern Loop With the Colosseum behind them, runners began on Via dei Fori Imperiali and reached Piazza Venezia almost immediately. From there, the 2026 course followed Via del Teatro di Marcello past the first kilometre, then headed towards the Bocca della Verità and the Tiber. The route continued through the Ostiense area, crossing Ponte Settimia Spizzichino at around six kilometres before passing through streets south of the historic centre. This opening loop took runners away from the best known monuments, giving the field time to spread out before it returned towards the river. By around ten kilometres, runners were back near Piazza dell’Emporio. They then followed the Tiber north towards the Vatican. If the 2027 route retains this shape, the early southern loop is a good reason to resist starting too quickly: the most recognisable central landmarks are still ahead. Along The Tiber Towards St Peter’s Basilica On the 2026 course, runners followed a succession of roads beside the Tiber from approximately 11 kilometres. After crossing Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II, they turned onto Via della Conciliazione at around 13 kilometres, with St Peter’s Basilica ahead. That approach is one of the race’s defining views. The route then passed through the streets around Borgo Sant’Angelo and continued towards Piazza Cavour. Runners saw the Vatican relatively early in the marathon, so it marked a memorable stage of the journey rather than the beginning of the final stretch. Prati And The Halfway Point After Piazza Cavour, the 2026 route continued through Prati, including Via Cola di Rienzo and the roads around Piazza del Risorgimento. It then moved through the wider streets north of the Vatican towards the halfway point on Circonvallazione Trionfale. This part of the course offered a change from the ancient centre and riverside landmarks. At halfway, runners still had a substantial journey north before turning back towards the finish. It was a useful place to check effort and fuelling rather than treating the return through central Rome as close at hand. North Along The River From halfway, the 2026 route travelled through streets around Piazza Mazzini before returning to the Tiber near 24 kilometres. It then passed the Foro Italico area and continued along the river, reaching the Acqua Acetosa area at approximately 30 kilometres. These longer stretches placed more emphasis on maintaining effort than on moving from one famous monument to the next. They also arrived at a demanding point in the race. Anyone who had been carried along by the atmosphere near the start would need to manage the kilometres here with care. The Return Towards Central Rome After about 30 kilometres, runners turned back through the Flaminio area. The 2026 route reached Piazza delle Belle Arti and followed the Tiber towards the historic centre, passing through the Ripetta area at around 36 kilometres. The landmarks then arrived more quickly. Runners passed Piazza del Popolo near 37 kilometres and continued along Via del Babuino towards Piazza di Spagna. At this stage, the return of Rome’s familiar streets offered encouragement, although there were still several kilometres and changes of direction before the finish. The Final Kilometres And Circus Maximus The 2026 course wound through central Rome after Piazza di Spagna, passing streets around Via del Corso and Corso del Rinascimento. At approximately 40 kilometres it reached Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, then returned to Piazza Venezia near 41 kilometres. From there, runners headed past Via del Teatro di Marcello and the Bocca della Verità before finishing inside Circus Maximus. It made for a finish distinct from the start near the Colosseum, with the final stretch bringing runners back towards the ancient heart of the city. The exact 2027 finish approach has not yet been confirmed in a detailed course map. Check that map before making a plan for your last kilometres or telling supporters where to watch. Heading past The Colosseum How Difficult Is The Run Rome The Marathon Course? The organiser’s published elevation figures suggest that major climbs are not the central challenge in Rome. The route’s turns, varied road surfaces, crowding and possible changes in weather may matter more to your pacing than its overall height profile. Do not confuse a relatively gentle elevation profile with an easy marathon. You still need to prepare for the full distance, practise your fuelling and leave enough energy for the later kilometres. The published 2027 time limit is seven hours. The organiser will also set intermediate checkpoint times, which have not yet been announced. Read those carefully if you expect to finish close to the limit. What Makes Run Rome The Marathon Special? The setting is the clearest answer. Beginning near the Colosseum and running past landmarks from different periods of Rome’s history gives the marathon an identity that goes far beyond its finish time. European Marathon Classics adds another reason to take part. Rome can be the start of a longer journey through the series or one of the five different races you need for its finisher award. Verified results from earlier editions can also count under the series’ rules. For travelling runners, the event offers the chance to build a memorable trip around a marathon. Supporters can enjoy the city, and the Saturday 5K gives them an opportunity to be involved in race weekend. Is Run Rome The Marathon A Fast Course? It is possible to run a strong time in Rome, but the elevation profile alone cannot tell you how fast the race will feel. Road surfaces, turns, the number of runners around you and the weather all affect your ability to hold an even pace. If a personal best is your goal, start with control and run according to the conditions. The atmosphere near the Colosseum can encourage runners to push too hard before they have settled into the distance. Rome’s greatest strength is the experience of running through the city. Compare its course with other marathons if a predictable, uninterrupted rhythm is your main priority. Is Run Rome The Marathon Good For First Time Runners? Rome can be a rewarding first marathon for someone who wants a large international event and a course filled with memorable sights. The seven hour limit gives many runners a realistic finishing window, although the intermediate checkpoint times will matter if you expect to be near it. The entry requirements deserve attention before you pay. The documents you need depend on your nationality, where you live and whether you enter as a competitive or non-competitive participant. The minimum age under the 2027 rules is 20 during the year of the race. Once your entry is settled, give yourself time to organise travel, bib collection and the route to your starting area. Sorting out those details early will make race weekend easier to enjoy. How To Enter The Rome Marathon 2027 Registration for Run Rome The Marathon 2027 is open through the organiser’s website. You can enter online as an individual or as part of a group, and your place is confirmed after payment. The online registration service charge is additional to the race entry fee. Check which participation category applies to you. The 2027 rules include a non-competitive option for foreign citizens living outside Italy who meet the age requirement and accept the relevant declaration when registering. Other participants may need recognised athletics membership or a Runcard and an appropriate medical certificate. Italian citizens living abroad are not included in the foreign non-competitive category. The organiser can close registration early if capacity is reached and may then open a waiting list. Enter through the official route, check the full fee displayed at checkout and make sure any required documents have been accepted. Runners beside San Carlo al Corso, at Piazza Augusto Imperatore, in the later stages of the race Running The Rome Marathon For Charity The event’s charity programme centres on the Run4Rome Relay. Four people share the marathon distance, each completing one leg while supporting a participating nonprofit organisation. It offers an option for runners who want to experience race day as a team and fundraise together. The organiser also promotes an international charity programme for runners interested in the full marathon or relay. Check the current opportunities directly with the participating charity, including how entry is provided, what you need to pay and any fundraising commitment. You can enter the marathon yourself and raise money independently as well. Explain why you chose your cause, share the progress of your training and give supporters a reason to stay involved through to race day. Read more about applying for charity entries here. Where To Stay Rome gives you plenty of options for turning marathon weekend into a city break. Staying around the historic centre puts many of the city's famous sights, restaurants and attractions within walking distance, while areas such as Monti can provide a convenient base with good access to public transport. Accommodation around Termini can also be practical if arriving in Rome by train or travelling to and from the airports. Rome is a large and busy city, so check how easily you can travel from your accommodation to the race area before booking. The marathon brings runners from around the world to the city, making it sensible to secure your accommodation early, particularly if you want to stay centrally. Compare Rome Marathon accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict Run Rome The Marathon makes the city central to the race experience. The start near the Colosseum, the journey through Rome and the views towards its best known landmarks give runners much more to remember than a finish time. Its place in European Marathon Classics provides an additional goal, but Rome stands on its own as a destination marathon. Check the participation requirements before entering, plan your race morning carefully and give yourself enough time to enjoy the city after you have crossed the finish line. Race Website https://www.runromethemarathon.com/en/ Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Barcelona Marathon has grown into one of Europe's major city marathons, offering runners the opportunity to complete 26.2 miles through the heart of one of Spain's most fascinating cities. Officially known as the Zurich Marató Barcelona, the event has grown rapidly in recent years, with all 32,000 available places for the 2026 race selling out. Barcelona also makes an excellent marathon weekend destination, with Gaudí's extraordinary architecture, the Mediterranean waterfront, historic neighbourhoods and a huge choice of places to eat and drink. If you're thinking about running the Barcelona Marathon 2027, here's everything you need to know. The Destination Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia and one of Europe's most popular city break destinations, making it an obvious place to combine a marathon with a few days away. Sitting on Spain's Mediterranean coast, the city brings together distinctive architecture, historic neighbourhoods, beaches, parks, food and football within a relatively compact area. Much of Barcelona's identity is associated with architect Antoni Gaudí. His most famous work is the extraordinary Sagrada Família, but you'll also find Casa Batlló and Casa Milà in the centre of the city, while Park Güell is another of Barcelona's best known attractions. Several of these landmarks feature either directly on or close to the marathon route. Away from Gaudí, you can explore the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, walk along La Rambla towards the waterfront or head to Barceloneta and the Mediterranean. Montjuïc provides another very different part of the city, with parks, museums, sporting venues and views across Barcelona. Football is also a huge part of the city's identity through FC Barcelona, although Camp Nou has been undergoing a major redevelopment, so check the latest arrangements if you're hoping to include a stadium visit during your marathon trip. Barcelona is also an easy city in which to clock up far more steps than you intended, so keep the sightseeing relatively restrained before race day and save some of the longer walks for after you've collected your medal. The Barcelona Marathon The Barcelona Marathon is a major international road race covering the traditional marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres or 26.2 miles. Its combination of a relatively fast course, famous landmarks and a March date has helped establish Barcelona as an increasingly popular European spring marathon. The course was substantially redesigned in 2024 with the aim of making it faster and taking runners through more central parts of Barcelona. It starts on Passeig de Gràcia and finishes close to the Arc de Triomf, with many of the city's best known sights appearing along the way. When Is The Barcelona Marathon 2027 ? The Barcelona Marathon 2027 takes place on Sunday 14 March 2027. March can provide good conditions for marathon running, although you shouldn't automatically assume it will be cool. Barcelona has a Mediterranean climate and temperatures can rise during the morning, particularly if it is sunny. Check the forecast carefully during race week and be prepared to adjust your pacing and hydration strategy if conditions are warmer than expected. How Many Runners Take Part? The Barcelona Marathon has expanded significantly in recent years, with the 2025 event attracting 27,000 registrations before the 2026 marathon increased capacity to 32,000 and sold every available place. It is now firmly established as one of Europe's larger city marathons. The field is also extremely international, with runners travelling from across Europe and much further afield. That helps give the expo, start and race itself the atmosphere of a genuinely international marathon rather than an event dominated by runners from its home country. The growth also changes how you should approach entering the race. Barcelona shouldn't now be regarded as a marathon where you can necessarily wait until the last minute to secure a place, particularly if you've already booked flights and accommodation. The Barcelona Marathon Course One of Barcelona's biggest attractions is the opportunity to run through parts of the city that would normally be dominated by traffic. The current course starts on Passeig de Gràcia and takes runners through central Barcelona, passing some of the city's most recognisable landmarks before eventually finishing close to the Arc de Triomf. The route was designed to be flatter and faster, with long stretches where runners can establish a consistent rhythm. That makes it potentially attractive if you're chasing a PB, although you still need to respect the marathon distance and avoid getting carried away during the opening kilometres. Just as importantly, this is a course worth looking at rather than simply watching the kilometre numbers tick past on your GPS watch. The architecture and changing character of the different parts of Barcelona are an important part of the race experience. The Start On Passeig De Gràcia The marathon begins on Passeig de Gràcia, one of Barcelona's grandest avenues and an impressive location for the start of a major city marathon. This is also where you immediately encounter some of the architecture that makes Barcelona so distinctive. Casa Batlló, one of Antoni Gaudí's most famous creations, is located on Passeig de Gràcia, while Casa Milà is another of his celebrated buildings in this part of the city. With tens of thousands of runners starting together, expect the opening kilometres to be busy and don't waste energy weaving through people simply because your first kilometre is slightly slower than planned. Running Towards The Sagrada Família One of the undoubted highlights of the Barcelona Marathon is the section around the Sagrada Família. Gaudí's enormous basilica is one of the world's most recognisable buildings and seeing it while running a marathon is a very different experience from visiting it as a tourist. This is one of those moments when it is worth looking up from your watch and taking in where you are. There aren't many marathons where you get the opportunity to run past a landmark quite like this on closed city streets, although the early part of the race is still a time for restraint rather than getting carried away by the atmosphere. Through The Heart Of Barcelona As the course continues, runners encounter a mixture of wide avenues, residential areas and some of the city's busiest districts. The route includes sections around central Barcelona and brings runners towards areas including Plaça de Catalunya, putting you right in the heart of the city. The central location also helps with spectator support, as friends and family can use Barcelona's public transport network to move between different viewing points. They should plan where they want to watch in advance, however, rather than assuming it will always be easy to cross a marathon route containing tens of thousands of runners. Towards The Mediterranean Another distinctive feature of the Barcelona Marathon is the contrast between the architecture of the city centre and the more open sections closer to the Mediterranean. The course reaches areas around Barcelona's waterfront, giving the marathon a noticeably different feel from some of the more enclosed streets elsewhere on the route. These exposed sections can also feel different depending on the weather, with sunshine, rising temperatures or wind becoming more noticeable. By this stage of the race, maintaining an appropriate effort is more important than rigidly chasing an exact pace if conditions have changed. Back Into The City The later stages take runners back towards the centre, when the marathon inevitably becomes more about managing tired legs than admiring Barcelona. This is where sensible early pacing starts to pay off, because a relatively fast course won't protect you from a difficult final 10 kilometres if you've run the first 32 too quickly. The increased crowds as you return towards central Barcelona can provide a welcome lift. Use the support, concentrate on maintaining your form and break the remaining distance into manageable sections rather than thinking about everything still to come. The Finish At Arc De Triomf The Barcelona Marathon finishes close to the Arc de Triomf, providing an impressive setting for the final part of the race. After 42 kilometres through the city, it gives runners one final Barcelona landmark as they approach the end of their marathon. The combination of the central finish, spectators and the knowledge that you've just completed a marathon through Barcelona makes this one of the memorable parts of the event. Take in the finish rather than worrying too much about your watch during those final few hundred metres. There is history everywhere Is The Barcelona Marathon Fast? Barcelona has genuine PB potential, with the current course designed to reduce climbing and provide long sections where runners can settle into a consistent pace. The men's and women's course records were both broken in 2025, with Tesfaye Deriba Ketema running 2:04:13 and Sharon Chelimo finishing in 2:19:33. For recreational runners, those same course characteristics can help, but don't choose Barcelona simply because it is described as fast. Your training, pacing, fuelling and race day weather will have a much greater influence on your finishing time than relatively small differences between marathon courses. There are still gradual changes in elevation and you'll certainly notice them more after 30 kilometres than you did at the beginning. Overall, however, Barcelona shouldn't be regarded as a particularly hilly marathon and it can be a good option if you're targeting a PB. Is There A Race Expo? Runners need to collect their race number before the marathon at Expo Sports, the official Barcelona Marathon running expo, which has recently been held at Fira de Barcelona. The expo brings together running brands, exhibitors and other event activities alongside race number collection. It is also open to friends, family and other visitors rather than being restricted to marathon participants. There is no race morning bib collection, so make sure your travel plans give you enough time to visit the expo. Check the final 2027 runner instructions for confirmed opening times and collection requirements before travelling. Read more about race expos here. Aid Stations Regular aid stations are provided around the Barcelona Marathon course, with water and isotonic drinks available to runners. Additional nutrition including gels and bananas has also been available at selected stations in recent editions. You should still have your own fuelling strategy rather than simply taking whatever appears at each station. Practise your marathon nutrition during training so you know how much carbohydrate and fluid you plan to consume and when you are going to take it. Race organisers can also change the brands or products supplied from year to year. If you intend to rely on the official gels or sports drink, check what will be provided in the final race information and ideally test the products before marathon day. What Is The Crowd Support Like? Barcelona attracts a mixture of local spectators and supporters who have travelled with runners from around the world. The central route also provides plenty of opportunities for spectators to reach different parts of the course using the city's public transport network. There are organised entertainment and cheering points along the route, while the major landmarks and central sections naturally attract larger crowds. As with almost every city marathon, you shouldn't expect continuous walls of spectators for the entire 26.2 miles, and there will be quieter sections where you can concentrate on your running. What Makes The Barcelona Marathon Special? Barcelona itself is the biggest reason this marathon stands out. Running past the Sagrada Família and Gaudí's architecture before experiencing the city centre and Mediterranean waterfront gives the course a character that is difficult to reproduce elsewhere. The March date is another attraction for UK runners, providing an opportunity to race a spring marathon while also turning the trip into a short break in one of Europe's most popular cities. The race has also become much bigger without losing the sense that Barcelona itself is an important part of the experience. You're not simply running 26.2 miles on an urban course because the city provides the backdrop throughout much of the race. Just be careful how much sightseeing you do beforehand, as spending an entire Saturday covering miles around Barcelona isn't ideal preparation for running a marathon the following morning. Can You Run The Barcelona Marathon 2027 For Charity? The Barcelona Marathon actively encourages charity fundraising and has worked with migranodearena, a charitable crowdfunding platform that allows runners to create fundraising challenges for non-profit organisations. There is also nothing stopping runners with their own Barcelona Marathon place from fundraising for a charity in the UK or elsewhere. You don't need an official charity entry to turn your marathon into a fundraising challenge. An overseas marathon can give you a particularly strong fundraising story, with the training journey, trip to Barcelona and race itself providing plenty of opportunities to keep supporters involved. It can be much more effective than simply sharing your fundraising page once and hoping people donate. How To Get A Place In The Barcelona Marathon 2027 Entry is considerably more straightforward than for marathons that operate a ballot system, as you can register directly for the Barcelona Marathon online while places remain available. The growing popularity of the race means that doesn't necessarily mean entries will remain open until close to race day. The 2026 marathon reached its 32,000 capacity around three months before the event, showing how quickly Barcelona is growing. Entry prices are normally structured in bands, so registering earlier can also mean paying less for your place. If Barcelona Marathon 2027 is definitely part of your plans, securing your entry early makes sense. International runners may also find packages through authorised tour operators, but always check exactly what is included before booking rather than assuming every package provides a guaranteed race place. Where To Stay Barcelona has a huge range of accommodation, from hotels in the heart of the city to apartments and smaller properties in quieter neighbourhoods. Staying around Eixample is particularly convenient for a marathon weekend, with plenty of restaurants, good transport connections and easy access to many of Barcelona's main attractions. The Gothic Quarter and areas closer to the waterfront are alternatives if you want to combine the race with more sightseeing. The Barcelona Marathon attracts thousands of runners from outside the city, so accommodation can become more expensive as race weekend approaches. Wherever you choose to stay, check the public transport connections carefully and book early if you want the widest choice of locations and prices. Compare Barcelona Marathon accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict The Barcelona Marathon has become a much bigger event in a relatively short period of time, and it's easy to understand why. You get a relatively fast course, a huge international field and the opportunity to run through one of Europe's great cities. For us, the real attraction is the course itself. Running past the Sagrada Família is a genuine marathon highlight, but it isn't the only one, with Gaudí's architecture, the wide avenues, central Barcelona, the Mediterranean waterfront and the finish close to Arc de Triomf combining to make the city an important part of the race rather than simply somewhere that happens to host it. Barcelona also works particularly well as a marathon weekend. It is easy to reach from the UK, public transport makes getting around straightforward and there is more than enough to do if you want to stay for a few days after the race. The rapid growth of the event does mean you should expect a busy expo, crowded start areas and tens of thousands of other runners. It also means you should no longer assume you can leave entering until close to race day, but if you're looking for a European spring marathon with PB potential where the race itself also feels like an experience, the Barcelona Marathon 2027 should be high on your list. Read more on how to choose your next event here. Race website https://www.zurichmaratobarcelona.es/en/ Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Cape Town Marathon enters a new era in 2027. On Sunday 23 May, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon will stage its first race as an Abbott World Marathon Major, becoming the eighth marathon in the series and the first Major on the African continent. Cape Town already had plenty to recommend it before achieving Major status. Table Mountain dominates the skyline, the Atlantic Ocean is never far away and the race gives runners the opportunity to combine a marathon with a longer trip to one of the world's great destination cities. For runners hoping to take part in 2027, planning is particularly important. The general ballot has already taken place, but charity entries and places through official international tour operators provide alternative routes into the race. The Destination Cape Town is a destination where it makes sense to allow considerably more time than simply race weekend. The city sits between Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, combining beaches, mountains, history, restaurants and outdoor activities within a relatively compact area. The V&A Waterfront is one of the main visitor areas, with hotels, restaurants, shops and attractions clustered around the harbour. From here you can visit Robben Island, while Table Mountain, Cape Point and the Cape Winelands provide obvious additions if you have several days available. Try not to fill every day before the marathon with sightseeing. Table Mountain and Cape Town's coastline are difficult to resist, but long periods walking and standing can leave your legs more tired than expected. Save some of the bigger excursions until after you have finished the race. History Of The Cape Town Marathon The Cape Town Marathon dates back to 1994 and has developed considerably over the decades that followed. It hosted the South African Marathon Championships for the first time in 1996 and subsequently established itself as one of the leading road races on the African continent. Its international profile continued to grow, with the race achieving IAAF Silver Label status in 2014 and becoming the first African marathon to receive IAAF Gold Label status in 2017. Another major step followed in 2021 when Cape Town was announced as an Abbott World Marathon Majors candidate race. The planned final assessment in 2025 could not take place after severe weather forced the marathon to be cancelled on race morning. Cape Town returned successfully in May 2026 and completed the assessment required to join the series. On 10 June 2026, Abbott World Marathon Majors confirmed that Cape Town had passed its assessment and would become its eighth member. The 2027 race will therefore be the first Cape Town Marathon staged as a full Abbott World Marathon Major. Runners who finished the 2026 Cape Town Marathon received a provisional AbbottWMM star, which became a full Cape Town star when the race's Major status was confirmed. Read more about the World Marathon Majors here. When Is The Cape Town Marathon 2027? The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon takes place on Sunday 23 May 2027. The wider running weekend runs across 22 and 23 May, with the 5K and 10K Peace Runs and trail events taking place on the Saturday before the marathon. The move to May is particularly relevant if you have previously associated Cape Town with an October marathon. May is autumn in South Africa, so check the forecast as race weekend approaches rather than assuming the conditions you might expect from a European or North American May marathon. Cape Town Marathon Expo And Race Pack Collection The 2027 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Expo and registration will be held at DHL Stadium from Thursday 20 May to Saturday 22 May. Registration is scheduled from 9am to 7pm on Thursday, 9am to 7.30pm on Friday and 9am to 2pm on Saturday. The expo includes running brands, official marathon merchandise, food and other exhibitors. Check your final participant information before travelling so that you know exactly what identification and documentation you need for collection. Read more about race expos here The DHL Stadium, where the Expo is held Race Morning The 2027 marathon will use two start areas around Green Point and Mouille Point. The Stadium start is on Fritz Sonnenberg Road beside DHL Stadium, while the Beach Road start is on Beach Road in Mouille Point. Your seeding information will tell you which start you have been allocated. Start times for 2027 have not yet been confirmed. Once your wave, start and access information have been issued, work backwards to decide when you need to leave your accommodation. A Major with thousands of runners involves queues, walking and waiting before you actually begin running, so allow considerably more time than the journey itself requires. Read more about race day strategy here Cape Town Marathon Course The final Cape Town Marathon 2027 course has not yet been confirmed, so runners should not assume that every road and kilometre point will remain unchanged. The 2026 route does, however, give a good indication of the character of the marathon and the different challenges runners may encounter. The 2026 course started around Green Point and Mouille Point before heading away from the Atlantic coast towards Cape Town's southern suburbs. Runners travelled through areas including Rondebosch, Newlands and Claremont before turning back through Salt River and Woodstock towards central Cape Town. The closing stages passed through Company's Garden and Long Street before returning to Green Point and heading out along the Sea Point coastline. It creates a marathon of very different sections. There is an elevated highway, leafy southern suburbs, views towards Devil's Peak, historic central Cape Town, the most significant climb of the race after 30km and a long coastal section when runners are already approaching the end of the marathon. The Two Starts The 2026 marathon used two start areas close to DHL Stadium. The Stadium Start was on Fritz Sonnenberg Road in Green Point, while the Beach Road Start was in Mouille Point. Five start waves were divided between the two locations, with runners further separated into seeded batches. The system was introduced to reduce congestion and pressure at pinch points, particularly during the first 10km of the marathon. For 2027, check your final race instructions carefully rather than simply following other runners towards the start. Your assigned start, wave and access route will be important information on race morning. The Highway At approximately 6.5km, the 2026 course took runners along the highway near the N2 off-ramp. It is one of the more unusual sections of the Cape Town Marathon and gives spectators on the pedestrian bridge above a striking view of thousands of runners moving along the road below. The early kilometres are still a time for restraint. The excitement of the start, fresh legs and large groups of runners moving together can make your intended marathon pace feel unusually easy. Allow the race to settle before deciding whether you need to make any adjustments. Rondebosch And The Southern Suburbs The 2026 route reached Rondebosch at approximately 15 to 17km. The surroundings become greener as runners move through Cape Town's southern suburbs, providing a noticeable contrast with the roads encountered earlier in the marathon. Rondebosch Park at 17.2km was one of the main spectator areas in 2026, with organised entertainment adding to the local support. This is also a useful point to assess how your race is developing. You are far enough into the marathon for your effort to have settled, but still have most of the distance ahead. The route through this part of Cape Town also takes runners through areas around Newlands and Claremont before reaching one of the most distinctive sections of the course. Rondebosch Common Between approximately 20 and 22km, the 2026 course looped around Rondebosch Common. The protected open space provides a striking contrast with the surrounding suburbs, with Devil's Peak forming the backdrop behind the runners. The halfway point falls within this part of the marathon. The second half contains some of the course's most demanding sections, including the major climb through Company's Garden. Rondebosch Common is also particularly good for spectators because the shape of the route provides several vantage points without requiring them to travel far. Salt River And Woodstock At approximately 26.7km, runners reached Salt River Circle before continuing into Woodstock between roughly 27 and 29km. This part of the course begins the transition from the southern suburbs back towards central Cape Town. Woodstock has its own distinctive character, with the route passing along Albert Road and close to landmarks including the Old Biscuit Mill and Woodstock Exchange. The 2026 event also featured music and entertainment through this section. This can be an important stage psychologically. The halfway point is well behind you and central Cape Town is getting closer, but there is still a considerable amount of running ahead. Keeping on top of your fuelling here could prove valuable when the course begins climbing after 30km. Darling Street At around 30km, the 2026 route reached Darling Street and some of the most historically significant surroundings of the marathon. Runners passed the Castle of Good Hope, the Grand Parade and Cape Town City Hall. It was from the balcony of City Hall that Nelson Mandela addressed a huge crowd following his release from prison in February 1990, and his statue now stands outside the building. This section provides a particularly strong sense of running through Cape Town rather than simply around it. It also marks the beginning of a more demanding part of the course. Company's Garden Between approximately 30.7 and 32.1km, runners entered the Company's Garden section. The organiser describes this as containing the longest and steepest climb of the marathon, and its position after 30km makes the gradient particularly significant. Company's Garden is one of Cape Town's most historic green spaces, with mature trees providing a very different environment from the surrounding city streets. The shade can be welcome, but runners chasing a time should pay more attention to their effort than to maintaining an exact pace as the road climbs. Trying to force your target pace uphill this late in a marathon can use energy you will need during the final 10km. Allowing the pace to slow while maintaining a controlled effort may be the more effective approach. Long Street After climbing through the Company's Garden section, the 2026 route reached Long Street between approximately 32.1 and 33.3km. This time the gradient works in the runner's favour. Long Street provides a long, straight downhill section and was also one of the livelier spectator areas on the 2026 course. Tired legs can respond differently to downhill running after more than 30km, so avoid suddenly forcing the pace simply because the road begins to descend. Let the gradient help you while remaining in control. Green Point The course returned to Green Point Main Road at approximately 34km. Familiar surroundings and the proximity of the finish area can make it feel as though the marathon is almost complete, but one of Cape Town's most distinctive challenges still remains. Instead of heading directly towards the finish, runners continue towards Sea Point and the Atlantic coastline. Knowing that this section is coming can make an important psychological difference, particularly when you are already well beyond 20 miles. Sea Point And The Loop Of Death From approximately 36.3km to 41.4km, the 2026 course followed Beach Road and the Sea Point coastline. The organiser itself refers to this section by its local nickname, the "Loop of Death". The name is delivered with a sense of humour, but it reflects the challenge of its position. With the finish relatively close, runners head away from it along the coast before turning back towards Green Point. At this stage of a marathon, those kilometres can feel considerably longer than they would earlier in the race. It is also one of the most spectacular sections. The Atlantic Ocean provides the backdrop and the out and back nature of the route allows supporters to see runners travelling in both directions. Conditions could make a difference here. An exposed coastal section late in the marathon may feel very different depending on the wind, so maintaining a controlled effort rather than becoming fixated on your kilometre splits can be useful. The Finish At Green Point After completing the Sea Point loop, runners finally turn back towards Green Point. The 2026 finish was on Vlei Road, where the blue finish carpet brought runners to the end of 42.2km. The 2026 marathon had an overall cut off of six and a half hours, with ten intermediate cut off points positioned around the route. Runners expecting to be towards the back of the field should check the 2027 cut off arrangements when they are published rather than considering only the final finishing time. The finish will carry additional significance in 2027. It will be the first Cape Town Marathon staged as a full Abbott World Marathon Major and the first edition in which runners arrive knowing from the start that they are completing Africa's first Major. The lead group in the early stages of the race - Photo: Axxter99, “2026 Cape Town Marathon – Victoria Road 4143”, via Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How Difficult Is The Cape Town Marathon Course? Cape Town should not be judged simply by its overall elevation. Where the harder sections occur is just as important as the total amount of climbing. On the 2026 route, the longest and steepest climb came through Company's Garden between approximately 30.7 and 32.1km. It was followed almost immediately by the downhill along Long Street, before runners returned through Green Point and faced more than 5km around the Sea Point coastal loop. Wind can also influence the difficulty. The closing coastal kilometres are exposed to the Atlantic, so conditions on race day could make this part of the course easier or harder than the elevation profile alone suggests. That makes Cape Town a marathon where effort based pacing can be useful. Rather than forcing the same pace uphill, downhill and potentially into a coastal wind, allowing your pace to change while keeping your effort controlled could help preserve energy for the final kilometres. The 2027 route may change, so wait for the official map and elevation profile before developing a precise race plan. If it retains the character of the 2026 course, however, including hills, controlled downhill running and some long runs over varied terrain in your preparation would make sense. What Makes The Cape Town Marathon Special? Cape Town brings something genuinely different to the Abbott World Marathon Majors. It joins Tokyo, Boston, London, Sydney, Berlin, Chicago and New York, while becoming the first race in Africa to achieve Major status. The setting is a major part of its appeal. Few big city marathons can combine an internationally recognised city with an iconic mountain and the Atlantic coastline within the same race weekend. Its arrival as a Major also makes 2027 a historic edition. Anyone taking part will be running in the first Cape Town Marathon staged as a full member of the Abbott World Marathon Majors. Cape Town also changes the challenge for runners collecting Major stars. AbbottWMM continues to recognise the traditional Six Star journey, while Cape Town and Sydney can count towards the expanded series. There is currently no Eight Star Medal, with AbbottWMM planning its next new completion medal when another candidate race successfully joins the series. Is The Cape Town Marathon A Fast Course? Cape Town can produce quick running. The 2026 race produced new men's and wheelchair course records, demonstrating that fast performances are possible when conditions are favourable. That does not mean every runner should approach Cape Town as they would a particularly flat marathon. Gradient, wind, temperature and congestion can all influence your race, while the final 2027 course should be studied before setting a precise target. A sensible approach is to train to maintain an even effort rather than becoming completely dependent on hitting the same pace on every kilometre. That gives you more flexibility if the course or weather demands it. Is The Cape Town Marathon Good For First Time Runners? Cape Town could make an unforgettable first marathon for someone who has prepared properly for the distance. Major status brings the scale and atmosphere of an international event, while the destination gives runners plenty to look forward to beyond their finishing time. A first marathon here will require careful organisation, particularly if you are travelling internationally. Accommodation, flights, expo registration and getting to the correct start all need to be considered alongside your training. The marathon distance itself remains the biggest challenge. Give yourself enough time to prepare, practise your fuelling during long runs and arrive in Cape Town early enough to recover from your journey before race day. How To Enter The Cape Town Marathon 2027 The general ballot for the 2027 Cape Town Marathon opened on 10 June 2026 and closed on 24 June. Successful and unsuccessful applicants were notified on 26 June, so the general ballot is no longer an entry option for the 2027 race. There were also separate arrangements for runners eligible for the Candidacy Club and for runners who had sponsored entries following the cancellation of the 2025 marathon. These were not part of the normal general ballot process. If you missed the ballot, there are still other routes worth investigating. International Tour Operator and charity entries opened on 26 June 2026 on a first come, first served basis. Check the official marathon website for current availability rather than assuming that places remain. Official international tour operators can be particularly useful for runners travelling from overseas because packages may combine a race place with accommodation and other travel arrangements. Check exactly what is included and the cancellation conditions before booking. All 2027 entries are non transferable and substitutions are not permitted. The organiser says a deferral window will open closer to race day for eligible runners who can no longer participate, allowing qualifying entries to be deferred to 2028. Sponsored 2027 marathon entries cannot be transferred, substituted or deferred. Never buy a race number privately from another runner. Running using someone else's bib is prohibited by the organiser. There is plenty of on course support! - Photo: Axxter99, “2026 Cape Town Marathon – Victoria Road 4101”, via Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Running The Cape Town Marathon For Charity Charity entry is particularly relevant for 2027 because the general ballot has already closed. Official charity entries opened on 26 June 2026, providing another potential route into the marathon while giving runners the opportunity to use their Major experience to raise money for a cause. Check current availability directly through the official Cape Town Marathon charity programme and understand the fundraising commitment before accepting a place. Find out how much you need to raise, when the target must be reached and what happens if injury or another problem prevents you from running. If you already have your own Cape Town place, you can still choose to fundraise independently for a charity that matters to you. Read more about applying for charity entries here or applying through a tour operator here. Where To Stay Cape Town offers plenty of options for combining the marathon with a longer trip. The City Bowl is a convenient base with restaurants, attractions and transport nearby, while the V&A Waterfront has a large choice of hotels and puts you close to one of Cape Town's most popular visitor areas. Sea Point is another option if you would prefer to stay closer to the coast. With Cape Town joining the Abbott World Marathon Majors, international interest in the race is likely to increase. If you are travelling from overseas, booking accommodation early is sensible, particularly if you plan to extend your stay and explore more of Cape Town and the surrounding region after the marathon. Compare Cape Town Marathon accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict The Cape Town Marathon was already one of the most distinctive destination marathons in the world. Becoming Africa's first Abbott World Marathon Major gives the race even greater international significance. The first Major edition on 23 May 2027 combines a historic moment for marathon running with a destination offering mountains, coastline, culture and plenty to explore beyond race day. The general ballot has finished, so anyone still hoping to run in 2027 should investigate current charity and official international tour operator availability rather than waiting for general entry to reopen. For runners who do secure a place, Cape Town offers something no other race in the series can replicate: the opportunity to run an Abbott World Marathon Major on the African continent. Race website https://capetownmarathon.com/ Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

Adidas is one of the biggest names in running, with a range that stretches from comfortable shoes for everyday miles to some of the fastest racing shoes in the sport. The brand is particularly well known for its Adizero range, but there is much more to Adidas running shoes than carbon technology and marathon racing. That breadth can make the range more complicated than it first appears. An Adizero racing shoe has a very different purpose from a Supernova designed for regular training, while Adidas also makes shoes for faster workouts, supportive running and trails. This guide explains what Adidas running shoes are known for, how the main technologies and ranges differ and some of the models worth knowing about. It is a starting point rather than a complete catalogue, with different generations and regional variations often available at the same time. Who Is Adidas? Adidas is a German sportswear company founded by Adolf “Adi” Dassler in Herzogenaurach in 1949. Its roots go back further, however. Adi and his brother Rudolf had previously produced specialist footwear for athletes through their family shoe business before going their separate ways. Adi established Adidas, while Rudolf founded Puma, creating two sportswear companies in the same German town that would become global rivals. Running was part of the story long before the modern recreational running boom. Adidas developed footwear for track athletes and subsequently became an important name in road running as the sport grew. Today it is one of the world's largest sporting goods companies, with running remaining an important part of its performance range. What Makes Adidas Running Shoes Different? Adidas does not have one particular type of running shoe. Its range stretches from relatively straightforward shoes for everyday running to highly specialised racing shoes developed for elite athletes. The Adizero family is the performance end of the road range. Shoes within it are generally designed around lower weight and faster running, although their purposes vary considerably. The Evo SL is a lightweight performance shoe, the Boston is designed with faster training in mind and the Adios Pro is a specialist racing shoe. Supernova provides another route into the range for runners prioritising everyday comfort and support, while Adidas Terrex covers trail running. Understanding those families is more useful than simply looking for the Adidas shoe with the most advanced sounding technology. How Do Adidas Running Shoes Fit? Fit varies between Adidas running shoes. A lightweight Adizero model designed to hold your foot securely at speed can feel different from an everyday running shoe, so do not assume that finding your size in one Adidas model guarantees the same fit in another. Check the length, toe room and hold around your heel and midfoot. Your feet can also expand during longer runs, making the fit you experience after several miles more important than how a shoe feels for a few moments when you first put it on. If possible, try the particular model you are considering with the socks you normally use for running. This becomes especially important when moving between very different parts of the Adidas range. What About Heel Drop? There is no single heel drop across Adidas running shoes. The difference in height between the heel and forefoot varies between models because the shoes are designed for different types of running. Heel drop can be useful when comparing a new shoe with something you already run comfortably in, particularly if you are considering a substantial change. It should not be treated as a measure of how cushioned, fast or suitable a shoe will be. The overall ride also depends on the amount and type of foam, sole geometry, stiffness and the way the shoe works with your stride. Check the specification of the exact model and version you are considering rather than assuming shoes from the same Adidas family will be identical. Read more about heel drop here What Is Adidas Cushioning Like? There is no single Adidas ride. The company uses different cushioning systems across its range, and a shoe designed for comfortable everyday miles can feel markedly different from an Adizero racing shoe. One of the most important developments came in 2013 with the introduction of Boost. Developed with German chemical company BASF, the cushioning combined softness with energy return and subsequently appeared across a large part of the Adidas range. The performance range has since moved towards lighter foams. Lightstrike and particularly Lightstrike Pro have become important parts of the Adizero family, while the Supernova Rise 3 uses Dreamstrike+ cushioning for a softer everyday ride. Do not choose an Adidas shoe solely because it contains a particular foam. The amount of cushioning, geometry and other components surrounding it all influence how the finished shoe actually feels. What Are Adidas EnergyRods And Energyrim? EnergyRods became one of the most distinctive technologies in Adidas performance running shoes. Rather than relying solely on a conventional full carbon plate, Adidas developed a system of rods within the midsole, with different versions appearing in its performance shoes. The Boston 13, for example, uses Energyrods 2.0 alongside Lightstrike Pro as part of a shoe designed primarily for faster training. Adidas has now introduced another approach at the top of its racing range. The Adizero Adios Pro 5 replaces the EnergyRods used in the previous Adios Pro with a carbon fibre infused Energyrim. This provides stiffness around the Lightstrike Pro midsole while allowing the foam to sit uninterrupted directly beneath the foot. The technology is therefore evolving, and the presence of carbon alone does not tell you how an Adidas shoe will run. Foam, geometry, weight and the way the carbon structure is incorporated all influence the finished ride. What Is Continental Rubber? Continental Rubber has become a recognisable feature of many Adidas running shoes. Adidas works with tyre manufacturer Continental on outsole rubber designed to provide traction, and it appears across both road and trail models. The presence of Continental Rubber does not mean every outsole is the same. Coverage, tread pattern and lug depth vary depending on the job of the shoe, while a road racing outsole has very different demands from one designed for trails. Look at the complete outsole of the model you are considering, particularly if you regularly run on wet roads or other surfaces where grip is important. Does Adidas Make Neutral Running Shoes? Yes. A substantial part of the Adidas road running range consists of neutral shoes, with options covering everyday mileage, faster sessions and racing. Neutral does not mean that every shoe will feel equally stable beneath you. The width of the platform, midsole geometry, stack height and upper construction can all influence how secure a neutral shoe feels. If you already have a neutral shoe that works well, compare its fit and ride with the Adidas model you are considering rather than choosing solely because both are described as neutral. Does Adidas Make Stability Running Shoes? Yes. The Supernova Solution is Adidas' dedicated supportive option within the Supernova family. It uses Stability Support Rods and geometry designed to provide additional guidance and support while retaining the cushioning expected from an everyday running shoe. That approach is different from the traditional firm medial post once commonly used in stability shoes. Modern support can also come from geometry, a broader platform, sidewalls and the way different sections of the midsole work together. If you know that you prefer a supportive shoe, the Supernova Solution is a more logical part of the Adidas range to investigate than simply choosing one of its neutral daily shoes because it feels stable when you first put it on. Does Adidas Make Carbon Plated Running Shoes? Yes, although Adidas does not use exactly the same carbon construction across all of its performance shoes. The Adizero Adios Pro 5 uses the new carbon fibre infused Energyrim with Lightstrike Pro cushioning, while earlier Adios Pro generations used carbon infused EnergyRods. The specialist Adios Pro Evo family has also been developed around extremely low weight and elite road racing performance. A carbon racing shoe is not essential simply because you are entering a race. Fit, comfort and how confidently you can run in a shoe over your chosen distance remain more important than the presence of carbon. Read more about carbon plated running shoes here. Does Adidas Make Trail Running Shoes? Yes. Adidas uses the Terrex name for much of its trail and outdoor footwear, with the Agravic family forming an important part of its current trail running range. The Terrex Agravic 4 is an all round trail running shoe designed for training across varied terrain. It uses Lightstrike cushioning and a Continental Rubber outsole, providing a very different combination of cushioning and grip from Adidas' road shoes. Choose a trail shoe according to where you actually run. Dry park paths, muddy woodland, loose rock and technical mountain trails place very different demands on grip, protection and stability, so a road shoe with a substantial outsole is not automatically a substitute for a dedicated trail shoe. Read more about trail running shoes here. Which Adidas Running Shoes Should You Consider? The Adidas range is extensive and changes regularly, with previous generations often remaining available alongside newer shoes. The models below represent some of the main parts of the range rather than every Adidas running shoe you can buy. Adidas Supernova Rise 3 The Supernova Rise 3 is one of the places to start if you want an Adidas shoe for regular road running rather than racing. It uses a full length Dreamstrike+ midsole and is designed around comfortable everyday mileage rather than outright speed. Consider it for easy runs, regular training and accumulating mileage without needing the aggressive feel of a performance model. For runners new to Adidas, the Supernova family is a more logical starting point than automatically choosing one of the brand's fastest shoes. Adidas Supernova Solution The Supernova Solution is the model to investigate if you want more dedicated support. It combines the comfort focused approach of the Supernova family with Stability Support Rods designed to provide additional guidance. It has a different purpose from the lightweight Adizero shoes. Choose it for the way its support and cushioning work on your regular runs rather than because you think a stability shoe is automatically better than a neutral one. Adidas Adizero EVO SL The Adizero EVO SL (pictured above) brings some of the character of Adidas' racing range into a more versatile lightweight shoe. It uses Lightstrike Pro cushioning and takes inspiration from the exceptionally light Adios Pro Evo 1. That makes the Evo SL worth considering for faster training and for runners who simply enjoy a lighter, more energetic shoe. Its role is different from the Adios Pro even though both sit within the broader Adizero family. Adidas Adizero Boston 13 The Boston 13 (pictured below) sits between a conventional daily running shoe and Adidas' specialist racers. Adidas designed it particularly for fast workouts and tempo runs, using Lightstrike Pro cushioning and Energyrods 2.0. Think of the Boston as a performance training shoe rather than simply a less expensive version of the Adios Pro. It is designed to help cover the faster training that leads towards race day rather than being the brand's ultimate racing model. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 5 The Adios Pro 5 is the latest generation of Adidas' flagship road racing shoe. It uses Lightstrike Pro cushioning with the new carbon fibre infused Energyrim, replacing the EnergyRods found in the previous generation. The shoe is designed specifically for racing, including the marathon, and represents a significant change in the construction of the Adios Pro family. It is a specialist performance shoe rather than an obvious choice for everyday mileage. If you are considering it for a marathon or another important race, use it in training first and make sure its fit and ride work for you at your intended race pace. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 2 The Adios Pro Evo 2 sits at the extreme performance end of the Adidas range. It followed the exceptionally light Evo 1 and was developed as a specialist race day shoe with a strong focus on minimising weight and maximising performance. This is not simply an upgraded daily running shoe. It is an expensive and highly specialised piece of racing footwear, and most recreational runners will find more practical options elsewhere in the Adidas range. Adidas Terrex Agravic 4 The Terrex Agravic 4 is designed as a versatile trail running shoe rather than a road shoe adapted for occasional off road use. It combines Lightstrike cushioning with a Continental Rubber outsole and a construction intended to provide protection and stability on trails. It is a useful place to start within the Terrex range if you want a shoe for regular trail running. More specialist trail shoes are also available, so match the model to the terrain and type of running you intend to do. The Boston 13 Are Adidas Running Shoes Good For Beginners? They can be. Adidas makes shoes suitable for runners at different levels, and there is no reason a new runner needs to avoid the brand simply because much of its marketing focuses on performance. If you are starting to run, concentrate on finding a comfortable shoe that fits securely and suits the majority of your running. An everyday model such as the Supernova Rise 3 is likely to make more sense for many beginners than a specialist Adizero racing shoe. As your running develops, you may decide to add a lighter shoe for faster sessions or racing. There is no requirement to build a rotation, however. One comfortable everyday running shoe can cover a great deal of running. Are Adidas Running Shoes Sustainable? Adidas has increased its use of recycled and alternative materials across its wider footwear and clothing business and has experimented with different approaches to reducing the environmental impact of footwear. Futurecraft.Loop, introduced in 2019, was one example of the company's work on footwear designed around recyclability. Those company wide initiatives should not be taken to mean that every Adidas running shoe has the same environmental credentials. Materials and manufacturing processes vary between models, and a recycled component does not by itself make an entire shoe sustainable. If environmental impact influences your choice, check the material information for the exact model you are considering. Durability, how frequently you replace your shoes and whether you buy footwear that genuinely suits your running are relevant parts of the decision too. Read more about sustainable running shoes here. Are Adidas Running Shoes Worth Trying? Adidas is worth considering whether you want a comfortable shoe for everyday running, something lighter for faster training, additional support or a specialist racing shoe. The strength of the range is the amount of choice, but that also makes understanding the purpose of each model important. Start with the job you need the shoe to do, then compare models within that part of the range. A Supernova Rise, Supernova Solution, Evo SL, Boston and Adios Pro may all be Adidas road running shoes, but they are designed with very different priorities. Fit remains more important than the three stripes on the side. A highly regarded shoe that does not work with your feet or your running is still the wrong shoe for you. Final Thoughts On Adidas Running Shoes Adidas has been making footwear for athletes for generations, and running has been part of the company's story since before the Adidas name was created. Its modern range combines that history with some of the most advanced technology currently used in road and trail running shoes. The Supernova family provides options for everyday and supportive running, the Evo SL and Boston occupy different parts of the faster training market, the Adios Pro family focuses on road racing and Terrex takes Adidas onto the trails. There are many more models and previous generations available than we can usefully cover in one guide. Start with the type of running you actually do and choose from that part of the range. The best Adidas running shoe for you is not necessarily its fastest or most expensive model, but the one that fits properly and does the job you need it to do. Read about the other main shoe brands here. Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Lisbon Half Marathon is one of Europe's most distinctive half marathons, combining a fast course with one of the most memorable starts in mass participation running. Thousands of runners begin their race on the huge 25 de Abril Bridge before heading alongside the River Tagus towards the finish in Belém. Officially known as the EDP Lisbon Half Marathon, the event is also part of the SuperHalfs series alongside Prague, Berlin, Copenhagen, Cardiff and Valencia. That has increased its international appeal considerably, but Lisbon's reputation as a major half marathon was established long before the SuperHalfs series arrived. The race has also become synonymous with exceptionally fast running. Jacob Kiplimo returned to Lisbon in March 2026 and ran 57:20, breaking the men's half marathon world record by ten seconds. Whether you're chasing a personal best, collecting another SuperHalfs race or simply want to experience running across the 25 de Abril Bridge, Lisbon has plenty to offer. The Destination Lisbon is Portugal's capital and one of Europe's most popular city destinations. The River Tagus plays a major role in the character of the city and also dominates the half marathon, with much of the race taking place close to its banks. For runners, March makes Lisbon an appealing destination for an early season half marathon. The city also provides plenty to do around the event weekend, although the race itself doesn't attempt to provide a sightseeing tour of central Lisbon in the way some city races do. Instead, the Lisbon Half Marathon has two outstanding landmarks at either end of the experience: the 25 de Abril Bridge at the start and the historic Belém area at the finish. Lisbon Half Marathon History The Lisbon Half Marathon was first held in 1991 and has developed into one of Portugal's biggest running events. Its association with fast running stretches back decades, although earlier versions of the course did not always meet the requirements for record purposes. The race's modern reputation has been built on some exceptional elite performances. Zersenay Tadese ran a half marathon world record of 58:23 in Lisbon in 2010, while Jacob Kiplimo lowered the record to 57:31 here in 2021. Kiplimo returned on 8 March 2026 and produced another extraordinary performance, winning in 57:20. That took ten seconds from Yomif Kejelcha's previous official world record of 57:30, set in Valencia in 2024. The event is organised by Maratona Clube de Portugal and is a World Athletics Label road race. When Is The Lisbon Half Marathon 2027? The EDP Lisbon Half Marathon 2027 takes place on Sunday 7 March. The March date makes it an attractive early season target, particularly for runners who want a competitive half marathon before moving into the spring marathon season. How Many Runners Take Part? Lisbon is a major mass participation event. SuperHalfs currently lists a race capacity of 21,000 for the EDP Lisbon Half Marathon, while the wider weekend also includes the Vodafone 10K and attracts thousands more participants. The size of the field creates plenty of atmosphere, particularly around the bridge start and finish, but runners should expect the opening stages to be busy. Getting into a sensible position before the race starts can make the first few kilometres easier. Lisbon Half Marathon 2027 Expo Race number collection takes place before race day at the event's Sport Expo. Runners should therefore allow enough time in their plans to collect their race pack rather than expecting to pick it up on the morning of the race. The Expo is normally held over the three days immediately before the event and includes race pack collection alongside exhibitors and other event activity. Exact 2027 opening times, collection requirements and arrangements should be checked against the final participant information before travelling. It is particularly important to have everything organised before race morning because of the unusual logistics involved in reaching the start on the 25 de Abril Bridge. Read more about race expos here. Race Morning The start is one of the features that makes Lisbon different from almost every other major half marathon. The mass participation field begins on the 25 de Abril Bridge, which crosses the River Tagus between Lisbon and Almada. Runners cannot simply approach the bridge on foot from central Lisbon, so the official race morning transport arrangements need to be followed. Accommodation that appears geographically close to the bridge may therefore not provide the easiest journey to the start. Check the final instructions from the organisers carefully and allow plenty of time. With thousands of runners travelling towards an unusual start area, arriving early is considerably better than discovering on race morning that the bridge isn't accessible from the direction expected. Once runners reach the start, however, the setting is impressive. The enormous suspension bridge stretches across the Tagus with Lisbon visible beyond it, creating an atmosphere very different from a conventional city centre start. Lisbon Half Marathon Course The 21.1km Lisbon Half Marathon course is best known for its opening across the 25 de Abril Bridge. For many runners, those first kilometres will be the defining memory of the entire event. The bridge is spectacular, but runners should pay attention to the road surface. Metal gridded sections around the centre of the roadway can be uncomfortable underfoot, so keeping towards the smoother sections where possible can make the opening part of the race more comfortable. After leaving the bridge, the course reaches the northern side of the Tagus and settles into the flatter riverside section that makes up much of the race. The contrast is noticeable: the dramatic elevated start gives way to long stretches of relatively flat running beside the river. The course heads west along the Tagus before turning back towards Belém. There are long, straight sections where runners can settle into a consistent rhythm, one of the reasons Lisbon can be a good race for anyone targeting a quick time. Those same stretches can become mentally demanding later in the race. Long out and back sections always seem considerably longer when fatigue starts to build, and Lisbon is no exception. The final part of the course brings runners back towards the finish in Belém, one of Lisbon's most recognisable districts and home to some of the city's most important historic buildings. The area around the Jerónimos Monastery provides an impressive backdrop as runners complete the race. After the long riverside sections, reaching Belém brings the crowds, finish infrastructure and atmosphere back into focus. For runners completing Lisbon as part of their SuperHalfs journey, it also means another race can be added to their SuperPassport and another step taken towards the SuperMedal. The finish area in Belém Is The Lisbon Half Marathon Fast? Lisbon has one of the strongest records of fast half marathon performances anywhere in the world. Jacob Kiplimo's 57:20 world record in 2026 is the most obvious evidence, following his previous Lisbon world record of 57:31 in 2021. Zersenay Tadese also set a world record here in 2010. Elite world records don't automatically make a course perfect for every recreational runner, and the opening across the bridge needs to be taken into account. Once runners reach the riverside, however, the course provides long stretches of flat running where maintaining a consistent pace is relatively straightforward. For anyone arriving in good shape and getting favourable weather conditions, Lisbon certainly has personal best potential. Aid Stations Runners should expect regular refreshment points around the course, with the organisers providing race support as participants make their way along the Tagus towards Belém. The exact contents and locations of the 2027 aid stations should be checked when the final race information is released. As with any half marathon, runners who intend to use energy gels or other nutrition should practise their strategy during training rather than introducing something unfamiliar on race day. What Is The Crowd Support Like? Lisbon isn't a race where runners should expect dense crowds lining every kilometre. Some of the riverside sections are relatively open and the nature of the course means support can vary considerably. The busiest areas provide plenty of atmosphere, particularly around the start and finish, and the sheer number of runners ensures there is rarely any sense of being alone on the course. If continuous crowd support is one of the main things you look for in an event, there are other European half marathons that offer more. Lisbon's appeal lies more in the bridge, fast course, riverside setting and overall race experience. Vodafone 10K The event weekend also includes the Vodafone 10K, providing an option for runners who want to take part in the Lisbon weekend without tackling the half marathon distance. The 10K contributes to the scale and atmosphere of the event and makes Lisbon a useful option for groups where not everyone wants to run a half marathon. Anyone specifically collecting SuperHalfs races should remember that it is the EDP Lisbon Half Marathon that counts towards the series, not the 10K. Lisbon And The SuperHalfs Series Lisbon is one of the six races in the SuperHalfs series, joining Prague, Berlin, Copenhagen, Cardiff and Valencia. Runners create a free SuperPassport and complete all six half marathons to become a SuperRunner and receive the SuperMedal. The races can be completed in any order and there is no longer a time limit for completing the series. When entering a SuperHalfs race, runners should include their SuperPassport number in their registration so the result can be added automatically after the event. Lisbon is an excellent race with which to start or continue a SuperHalfs journey. The 25 de Abril Bridge gives it a feature completely different from the other races in the series, while its March date fits neatly at the beginning of the European running season. Read more about the SuperHalfs here. What Makes The Lisbon Half Marathon Special? The 25 de Abril Bridge is the obvious answer. There are thousands of half marathons around the world, but very few allow ordinary runners to take over a huge suspension bridge normally dominated by road traffic. The world record history gives Lisbon another point of distinction. The fact that Jacob Kiplimo has twice broken the half marathon world record here puts the event firmly on the international running map. Add the riverside route, finish in Belém and membership of the SuperHalfs series and Lisbon offers considerably more than simply another fast European half marathon. Can You Run The Lisbon Half Marathon 2027 For Charity? Yes. There are official guaranteed charity entries available for the Lisbon Half Marathon through the SuperHalfs charity programme. SuperHalfs works with international charity partners that have limited guaranteed places in its events. Individual charities set their own requirements, including their fundraising targets, so runners should check the conditions attached to a particular charity place before applying. This is particularly useful if standard Lisbon entries have sold out because charity entry can provide another legitimate way of securing a place while raising money for a good cause. There is also a SuperCharity Voucher for runners who want to complete the entire SuperHalfs series for charity. The current scheme requires a refundable deposit of £175 or €200 and a commitment to raise £1,950 or €2,245 across the six race series. Runners who already have their own Lisbon place can still fundraise for charity without using one of the guaranteed charity entries. How To Enter The Lisbon Half Marathon 2027 The entry process changed for 2027 with the introduction of a ballot for standard places. The 2027 ballot opened on 23 April 2026 and closed on 19 May 2026. There was no charge to enter the ballot, with successful runners subsequently given the opportunity to complete their registration and pay for their place. Group applications were also possible for up to three people, allowing runners who wanted to take part together to enter the ballot as a group. With the main ballot now closed, anyone still looking for a 2027 place should check the official event website for the latest availability rather than assuming standard entries remain available. SuperHalfs identifies three principal ways of entering its races: direct race registration or ballot, an official travel agency package, or charity entry. Both travel and charity options can potentially provide entry after ordinary places have sold out. Where To Stay Lisbon is a great city for extending your half marathon trip into a longer break, but the unusual point to point course is worth considering when choosing where to stay. The race starts on the opposite side of the Tagus at the 25 de Abril Bridge and finishes beside the Jerónimos Monastery in Belém, so staying close to the finish can be particularly convenient once you have completed the race. Belém and the riverside areas west of central Lisbon are worth considering, while staying more centrally gives you a much wider choice of hotels, restaurants and attractions. Wherever you stay, check the organiser's race-morning transport arrangements before travelling to the start and book early if you want the widest choice of accommodation. Compare Lisbon Half Marathon accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict The Lisbon Half Marathon deserves its place among Europe's leading half marathons. It doesn't provide the constant sightseeing of a race winding through the heart of a capital city, and some of the long riverside sections are less exciting than the spectacular opening might suggest. But that opening matters. Running across the 25 de Abril Bridge with thousands of other runners is a genuinely memorable experience, and the finish in Belém provides another strong setting at the opposite end of the race. The fast course, remarkable world record history and position within the SuperHalfs series add to the appeal. For runners chasing the six race SuperMedal it is an essential stop, but Lisbon is good enough to justify the trip even if SuperHalfs isn't part of the plan. If you're looking for a major European half marathon in early spring, particularly one with genuine personal best potential and a start you are unlikely to experience anywhere else, the Lisbon Half Marathon is an excellent choice. Race website https://www.running-portugal.com/lisbon/lisbonhalf/en/home.html Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Berlin Half Marathon takes you through both western and eastern Berlin before a final run through the Brandenburg Gate. Its flat profile attracts runners chasing a personal best, while the landmarks, music and crowds give you plenty to enjoy at any pace. The 2027 race takes place on Sunday 4 April. It is one of the six SuperHalfs, and its popularity means getting a place now requires some planning. The lottery has closed, but charity and official tour operator entries offer other possibilities. The Destination Berlin is worth exploring beyond the race route. You can visit the Brandenburg Gate, Museum Island and the Berlin Wall Memorial, then spend time in neighbourhoods that each have a different character. A longer stay gives you room to enjoy the city without trying to fit everything into the day before your run. Berlin is also bigger than it may appear when you are looking for a hotel. Check the public transport journey to the start near the Brandenburg Gate and to the expo at Tempelhof before booking. Save the longest sightseeing walks for after the race. History Of The Berlin Half Marathon The modern Berlin Half Marathon grew from races held in East and West Berlin before reunification. It has become one of the world’s largest half marathons, bringing runners from many countries onto the capital’s streets each spring. Berlin joined the SuperHalfs series in 2024. For runners collecting the six races, it adds a course that combines the scale of a major city event with a finish at one of Europe’s best known landmarks. Who Organises The Berlin Half Marathon? The race is organised by SCC Events, which also organises the Berlin Marathon. The half marathon is part of SuperHalfs alongside Lisbon, Prague, Copenhagen, Cardiff and Valencia. You can register for a free SuperHalfs passport and provide its number when entering a race in the series. Berlin counts towards your progress whether it is your first SuperHalf or your sixth. Read more about the SuperHalfs here. When Is The Berlin Half Marathon 2027? The race takes place on Sunday 4 April 2027. Runners are currently scheduled to start in waves from 10:05am, following the inline skating, wheelchair and handbike starts. Your own start time and access instructions will depend on your assigned group. Check the final race information before travelling, along with the weather forecast for the weekend. Berlin Half Marathon 2027 Expo You must collect your race materials in person at the Half Marathon Expo. For 2027, it is scheduled for Friday 2 and Saturday 3 April at the former Tempelhof Airport. Bring your start card and a photo ID, and allow time to travel there before it closes. You will need both a wristband that you collect at the expo and your bib to enter the start and finish area on race day. There is no race material collection on Sunday. Read more about race expos here. Race Morning The start is on Straße des 17. Juni, between the Brandenburg Gate and the Victory Column. It is a large event with wave starts, so leave time to reach the correct entrance and find your block. Check your baggage choice before leaving your accommodation. Runners who booked a clothing bag can use the designated drop off, while those who chose the finish poncho cannot leave a bag there. Berlin Half Marathon 2027 Course The current course starts west of the Brandenburg Gate, runs out to Charlottenburg Palace, then returns through western Berlin towards Potsdamer Platz. From there it crosses the historic centre, heads east to a turning point and finishes along Unter den Linden and through the Brandenburg Gate. The organiser describes it as a low elevation course, but its appeal is as much about the changing city as its potential for a fast time. The following landmarks and kilometre points reflect the current published route; check the final map before race weekend. The Start To Charlottenburg Palace From the start on Straße des 17. Juni, you run with the Victory Column ahead and the Brandenburg Gate behind. The route continues past the Technical University at around 2km, crosses Ernst-Reuter-Platz and follows Otto-Suhr-Allee towards Charlottenburg Palace at approximately 4km. This is a striking but busy opening. The wide roads make it tempting to move around other runners, so concentrate on finding a comfortable rhythm. At Charlottenburg Palace, the course makes a sharp left turn towards Schlossstraße and begins its journey back across western Berlin. Kurfürstendamm To Halfway The route reaches Kurfürstendamm at around 6.7km. Music and spectators build along this section as you head past Café Kranzler and towards the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church at roughly 9km. You then continue past Wittenbergplatz, close to the KaDeWe department store, before reaching Nollendorfplatz at around 10.5km. The left turn onto Potsdamer Straße comes near 11km. By now you will have seen a very different side of Berlin from the broad avenue where you started. Potsdamer Platz And The Historic Centre Potsdamer Straße takes you past the area of the Neue Nationalgalerie and the Berlin Philharmonie. You reach Potsdamer Platz and nearby Leipziger Platz at around 13km, then continue east along Leipziger Straße. The route turns towards the streets beside Gendarmenmarkt, a square framed by the German and French cathedrals and the Concert Hall. From here you pass towards the Humboldt Forum at approximately 15km. These kilometres offer a succession of landmarks, but they are also a good point to check your effort before the final stretch. The Eastern Turnaround Beyond the historic centre, the route passes the Red Town Hall and continues east along Karl-Marx-Allee. There is a turnaround shortly after 17km, bringing you back past the Red Town Hall at around 18.5km. Seeing runners travelling in the opposite direction adds energy to this section. The distance may be starting to tell, though, so focus on maintaining your own pace rather than responding to runners around you. The organiser also has a cut off point at kilometre 18, which matters if you expect to be close to the time limit. Unter Den Linden And The Finish The final two kilometres take you west along Unter den Linden. Berlin Cathedral appears at approximately 19.3km, followed by more historic buildings as the Brandenburg Gate comes into view ahead. You run through the gate with about 150 metres still to go. Keep moving until you cross the finish line beyond it. It is a memorable ending, whether you have spent the morning pursuing a time or taking in the journey across Berlin. Heading past the Reichstag Aid Stations And Race Support The current course information lists refreshment points at approximately 5km, 9.8km, 12.3km, 14.1km, 17.5km and 19.5km. Water is available at most of them, alongside selected drinks or food. The 12.3km point supplies gels but does not supply water. The stations are on the right hand side of the route. Check the final details when you plan what to carry, and practise any race nutrition during training. Do not rely on taking a gel with water at 12.3km. How Difficult Is The Berlin Half Marathon Course? Berlin has a low elevation profile and no substantial hill that dominates the race. That makes it easier to plan an even effort than on a more undulating course, although the crowded opening and the half marathon distance still demand preparation. The organiser currently lists a 3 hour 15 minute time limit, measured from crossing the start line, and a cut off at kilometre 18. If you expect to be near either limit, read the final participant instructions carefully. What Makes The Berlin Half Marathon Special? The course gives you more than a quick tour of famous sights. You move from the broad roads near the Tiergarten to Charlottenburg, through the busy streets of western Berlin and across the historic centre before returning to the Brandenburg Gate. Music, cheering points and spectators add to the atmosphere along the way. Its place in the SuperHalfs series also means many runners arrive with a wider journey in mind, alongside those running their first half marathon or aiming for a faster time. Is The Berlin Half Marathon A Fast Course? Berlin is a strong choice if you are looking for a fast half marathon. The course has little elevation change, and its broad roads can help you settle into a steady pace once the field opens up. That does not make a personal best automatic. Avoid spending too much energy weaving through the opening kilometres, and keep enough in reserve for the eastern turnaround and the final run along Unter den Linden. Is The Berlin Half Marathon Good For First Time Runners? Yes, provided you are comfortable with a large event. There are no major hills to prepare for, and the changing surroundings can help break the distance into manageable stages. Pay attention to the practical details before travelling. You must collect your race materials before Sunday, wear your bib and wristband on race day, and reach the correct start area. Check that the time limit also suits your planned pace. How To Enter The Berlin Half Marathon 2027 General runners’ places for the Berlin Half Marathon 2027 were allocated through a lottery. Applications ran from 2 April to 28 May 2026, and the results have been issued. The general lottery is therefore no longer a route into the 2027 race. The organiser lists official charity partners and tour operators as alternative ways to secure a place. It also advertises entries associated with its running camps. Availability, prices and conditions differ, so check the full offer before booking travel. What a place to finish! Running The Berlin Half Marathon For Charity Official charity partners offer runners a chance to secure an entry while supporting a cause. This may be an option if you missed out in the lottery, subject to places still being available. Choose a charity that matters to you and ask about its fundraising target, registration payment and support before applying. Your training and the journey to Berlin can then become part of the story you share with supporters. Read more about choosing a charity entry here. Where To Stay Berlin is a large city, so choosing accommodation with race morning in mind can make your weekend much easier. The Berlin Half Marathon starts on Straße des 17. Juni between the Brandenburg Gate and Victory Column, making Mitte and the areas around Tiergarten particularly convenient if you want to stay relatively close to the start. You do not need to stay beside the course, though. Berlin's extensive public transport network means accommodation close to a U-Bahn or S-Bahn station can work well and may give you more choice. The race attracts a large international field, so book early and check your journey to the start before choosing your hotel. Compare Berlin Half Marathon accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict The Berlin Half Marathon deserves its place among the SuperHalfs. The route gives runners a genuine opportunity to run well, but it also delivers a distinctive journey through the city, ending with a run through the Brandenburg Gate. It takes some planning to get an entry and manage the expo and race morning. Once those details are sorted, there is plenty to enjoy on the course and across Berlin during the rest of your visit. Race website https://www.generali-berliner-halbmarathon.de/en/ Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.