Bologna Marathon
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
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.
Bologna Marathon 2027 race day
The next Bologna Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 7 March 2027 with a 9:00 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 50 m of climbing on a very flat layout.
Bologna Marathon course route
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.
Bologna Marathon elevation profile
The Bologna Marathon course is very flat over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 50 metres of climbing and 50 metres of descent, with minimal net elevation change from start to finish.
Entry requirements
The Bologna Marathon is held on the first Sunday of March. Registration is at https://www.bolognamarathon.run/en/.
Bologna Marathon course videos
Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.
Termal Bologna Marathon 2025 - Official Trailer
3° Bologna Marathon (2024): fly over the marathon 3D course map!
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 very 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 on www.bolognamarathon.run/en/ 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. Registration is at https://www.bolognamarathon.run/en/.
- 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 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
Nearby Marathons
Other races closest to Bologna.
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The Maratona di Ravenna runs through the former Byzantine capital of Italy, passing UNESCO-listed early Christian mosaics and Adriatic seafront sections. About 3,500 finishers each November experience a flat course linking Ravenna's ancient heritage with the Po delta lowlands. It is one of Italy's most culturally distinctive regional marathons.
Next race: Sunday, 1 November 2026
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