Bologna Marathon

BolognaEmilia-RomagnaItaly

Next race

Sunday, 7 March 2027

9:00 am start

Distance

42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Historic urban road

Elevation

Flat · 50 m gain

50 m climbing

Race profile

Overview

The Bologna Marathon attracts about 5,500 runners each March through Italy's gastronomic capital. The course passes the Two Towers (Due Torri), Piazza Maggiore, and the portico-lined streets that make Bologna famous. March mild weather and flat Emilia-Romagna terrain create ideal conditions for a spring marathon in northern Italy.

Bologna Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.

Typical participants: Approximately 5,500 finishers

Weather: Cool to mild and humid spring
7–10°C · humidity 65–80%
Marathon weather guide →

Course & terrain

Bologna Marathon course

Course route details and elevation profile for race-week planning.

The Bologna Marathon is a very flat loop starting and finishing in Piazza Maggiore, threading past the Due Torri, the Basilica di San Petronio, and the city's portico-lined streets. Its even profile favors steady pacing, and spectators fill Piazza Maggiore and the historic centre beneath the arcades.

Registration

Bologna Marathon entry requirements

The Bologna Marathon is held on the first Sunday of March. Registration is at https://www.bolognamarathon.run/en/.

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bologna Marathon elevation profile?: The Bologna Marathon has 50 metres of total climbing and 50 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is flat, with 0 metres of net change from start to finish.
How long is the Bologna Marathon?: The Bologna Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Historic course starting and finishing in Piazza Maggiore.
What time does the Bologna Marathon start?: The 2027 Bologna Marathon starts at 9:00 am local time on Sunday, 7 March 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Where does the Bologna Marathon start and finish?: The race starts and finishes in Piazza Maggiore, Bologna's central square beside the Basilica di San Petronio.
Does the Bologna Marathon pass the Two Towers?: Yes. The Due Torri (Asinelli and Garisenda towers) are among the course highlights.
When is the Bologna Marathon?: The Bologna Marathon is held on the first Sunday of March.
Is the Bologna Marathon flat?: Yes. Bologna sits on the flat Po plain and the course has negligible climbing.
What is Bologna weather like in March?: March mornings are cool, typically 6–12 °C (43–54 °F), warming into mild spring afternoons.

Last updated 11 October 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.

Close to this race

Nearby Marathons

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The Maratona di Padova attracts approximately 2,000 finishers each April through the university city of Galileo and St. Anthony. The course passes the Basilica di Sant'Antonio, Prato della Valle — one of Europe's largest squares — and the Brenta River on flat Veneto terrain. April's Veneto spring and the ancient academic atmosphere make it a charming northern Italian marathon.

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VeronaVenetoItaly· 108 km away

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The Verona Marathon attracts about 6,000 runners each November through the city of Romeo and Juliet. The course passes the Arena di Verona Roman amphitheatre, the Adige River, and the historic centre before a finish in Piazza Bra. November autumn weather and a largely flat profile make it one of northern Italy's most popular marathons.

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