© Berlin Marathon
The 10 Biggest Marathons in Germany
Running a marathon in Germany means discovering a country where the love of distance running is deeply rooted in modern capitals, historic cities and lush green landscapes. Each race carries a strong local identity, blending tradition with sporting innovation. Whether the goal is a personal best, an urban adventure or pure curiosity, beyond the Berlin giant there is always a German marathon ready to deliver a memorable experience. Here is a tour of the ten races that make Germany’s running scene thrive.
| 1. Berlin Marathon
✓ The world record temple
There is no escaping Berlin. Since 1974, the Berlin Marathon has attracted the world’s best athletes alongside thousands of runners chasing personal records. Its famously flat and fast course cuts through the German capital, from Potsdamer Platz to the Brandenburg Gate, passing iconic landmarks such as Unter den Linden and the Reichstag.
Before the late Kelvin Kiptum broke the men’s world record in Chicago on October 8, 2023, the fastest marathon times in history had been set here: Eliud Kipchoge’s 2:01:09 in 2022 for the men, and Tigist Assefa’s 2:15:37 for the women. More than a race, Berlin is a full-scale festival. In the most recent edition, exactly 55,146 runners were registered for the marathon alone, with nearly 80,000 participants across all events. Thousands of volunteers and an electric atmosphere from start to finish once again confirmed Berlin’s status as the ultimate marathon stage.
| 2. Hamburg Marathon
✓ The marathon of ports and bridges
Germany’s second most famous marathon takes place in the port city of Hamburg. Founded in 1986, the race offers a course that blends urban life with nature, following the banks of the Elbe River and crossing the historic city center. Large crowds and constant entertainment turn the event into a true urban celebration.
The relatively flat course encourages fast times, showcased by Bernard Koech’s 2:04:09 and Dorcas Tuitoek’s 2:20:09 performances in 2023. Hamburg also stands out for its friendly spirit and high-quality organization. Organizers are expecting up to 20,000 marathon runners for the 2026 edition, alongside 8,000 half-marathoners and 1,500 relay teams—bringing the total to as many as 34,000 runners across all distances over the weekend.
| 3. Frankfurt Marathon
✓ Stock-market speed
Germany’s financial capital hosts one of the fastest marathons in Europe. Since 1981, the Frankfurt Marathon has offered a dynamic course through the city’s key districts and along the Main River, combining a modern skyline with panoramic views.
Frankfurt appeals equally to elite athletes and ambitious amateurs seeking serious times. In 2024, more than 25,000 runners competed across all events. Hawi Feysa set the women’s course record in 2:17:25, while Bernard Biwott clocked 2:05:54 for the men. The marathon is part of a full running weekend that includes a half marathon and relay races, making it a safe bet for anyone chasing speed in a contemporary urban setting.
| 4. Cologne Marathon
✓ The cathedral marathon
Founded in 1997, the Cologne Marathon is defined by its route through the old town and along the Rhine River. The finish line, dominated by the iconic Cologne Cathedral, provides one of the most striking marathon endings in Europe. In 2024, 5,621 runners completed the full marathon.
Blending heritage with a welcoming atmosphere, the race attracts runners of all levels. The course records stand at 2:06:53 for the men and 2:25:35 for the women. Enthusiastic crowds line the streets, creating a festive environment that is ideal for a first marathon or a personal best attempt.
| 5. Munich Marathon
✓ Bavaria’s flagship marathon
Head south to Munich, the heart of Bavaria. Launched in the 1980s, the marathon winds through the historic city center, the Englischer Garten and along the Isar River. Munich seamlessly combines culture, gastronomy and sport—often punctuated by Bavarian hospitality and, for some, a celebratory beer after the finish.
The course is moderately fast, perfect for challenging oneself while enjoying the city’s architecture and charm. In 2025, around 28,500 participants took part across all events. The men’s course record stands at 2:09:46 (Michael Kite, 2000), while the best women’s performance is close to 2:28.
| 6. Düsseldorf Marathon
✓ 42.195 km along the Rhine
Since 2003, Düsseldorf—the capital of North Rhine-Westphalia—has hosted a marathon known for its flat course and relaxed atmosphere. Runners pass through the city center, follow the Rhine and explore both modern and historic neighborhoods.
The Düsseldorf Marathon attracts a mix of local and international runners. This year, 3,273 marathon finishers crossed the line, supported by steady crowd encouragement throughout the course. Accessible yet performance-oriented, Düsseldorf boasts course records of 2:07:48 for the men and 2:25:25 for the women.
| 7. Hanover Marathon
✓ The baroque marathon
Established in 1991, the Hanover Marathon blends urban streets with expansive green spaces. The start and finish are located near the city center, and the course passes through the Herrenhausen Gardens, a baroque jewel of the region. Last year, 3,677 runners completed the marathon alone, while total participation across all events (marathon, half marathon, 10K, relay, walking races and kids’ events) reached 26,612. It is an ideal race for runners seeking a calm yet demanding marathon in a city where nature and urban design coexist harmoniously.
| 8. Leipzig Marathon
✓ The student marathon
In Leipzig, long-standing running tradition meets the vibrant energy of a rapidly growing university city. Dating back to 1897 in various forms, the marathon features a flat course through historic streets, green parks and a lively city center. In 2024, 788 runners finished the marathon distance (148 women and 640 men).
Leipzig’s 42.195 km course is appreciated for its laid-back atmosphere and genuine opportunities to run fast, combining cultural heritage with athletic performance.
| 9. Bonn Marathon
✓ The Rhine classic
Former capital of West Germany, Bonn has hosted a marathon since 1979. The course follows the Rhine River and winds through historic and leafy districts. In 2025, nearly 18,000 runners registered across all distances, a new participation record. The event emphasizes friendliness and hospitality, supported by a strong volunteer presence. It is an excellent choice for runners looking to experience an authentic German marathon away from the largest international crowds.
| 10. Freiburg Marathon
✓ Where the border meets a permanent celebration
In southwest Germany, just a few kilometers from the French border, the Freiburg Marathon unfolds each spring as a long ribbon of sound and color—guitar riffs, brass bands, improvised choirs and constant encouragement. A race where legs and ears work equally hard.
Each year, around 10,000 runners take part in the marathon and half marathon combined, proof that crossing the Black Forest never happens in silence. The course is fairly fast, allowing front-runners to push the pace. In 2023, winning times were around 2:20 for the men and 2:45 for the women—solid benchmarks for those aiming to compete at the front.
➜ Discover all races in Germany
Dorian VUILLET
Journalist
