How to Enter the Prague Marathon

The Prague Marathon is one of Europe’s must-run events. Its course winds through the heart of a historic cultural capital, drawing thousands of runners every year. In 2025, 10,600 participants lined up for the 30th edition of the Prague Marathon. The race ranks among the continent’s most iconic marathons, and demand for places is high. Before you take to the streets of Prague, you’ll need to secure your entry.

✓ How do you enter the Prague Marathon and secure that coveted bib? We explain everything in this article.

No lottery, but plenty of demand

The Prague Marathon is one of the highlights of the European race calendar. Every year, it attracts thousands of runners from around the world, all eager to tackle the classic distance in the Czech capital. If you want to make it to the start line, keep a close eye on when registration opens. Unlike many major marathons, including the World Marathon Majors such as the London Marathon, New York, Berlin, Chicago, Boston, Tokyo and Sydney, the Prague Marathon does not use a lottery. Places go to the fastest runners to register.

For the 2026 edition, the field will be capped at 10,600 runners for the full marathon. Registration is handled directly through the race’s official website. Early birds get the best deal: entry fees rise in stages as the number of available bibs falls. For the next edition, for example, the first 2,000 bibs were priced at €70, followed by €95 and then the final price of €120. The 2026 edition will take place on May 2 and 3.

Charity programs: run for a cause

Want your 42.195 km to support a cause as well? You can enter the Prague Marathon through a charity bib. Simply contact one of the event’s partner organisations and commit to raising a minimum amount in donations. Once you reach the target, you’ll receive a code to complete your registration. These charity packages often include the full setup: accommodation, meals, local transport, a T-shirt and logistical support. For runners who missed the general registration window, they offer a great alternative and a chance to experience an adventure that is as human as it is athletic.

See Prague with a tour operator

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is a city where every street tells a story. Straddling the Vltava and dominated by the famous Prague Castle, it charms visitors with its grand bridges, cobbled lanes and colourful Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau façades. Nicknamed the “City of a Hundred Spires”, it provides an exceptional backdrop for runners. To enjoy the experience without the logistical headaches, travel agencies and tour operators offer all-inclusive packages covering transport, accommodation, race entry and sometimes even cultural tours. These packages do cost more than a standard entry, usually between €900 and €1,200 per person depending on the options. Be sure to check the cancellation and refund terms before booking.

Our advice: plan your trip with the agency well in advance.

Run the Prague Marathon as a relay

Share the experience with someone close to you! The Prague Marathon relay lets two runners split the 42.195 km. The first sets off from Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí), in the heart of the historic centre, while the second crosses the finish line beneath the same arch. The handover takes place halfway through the race in a designated exchange zone. The result is based on the combined times of the two half-marathon legs. Registration for the relay is available online through the race’s official website. It’s a way for everyone to experience Prague at their own pace.

Take part in one of Europe’s most iconic marathons and run through the heart of Prague during an unforgettable weekend. Don’t miss registration for the 31st edition of the Prague Marathon in 2026.

✓ Find all the Prague Marathon registration details