Copenhagen Marathon

CopenhagenDenmark

Next race

Sunday, 9 May 2027

9:30 am start

Distance

42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Urban road

Elevation

Flat · 15 m gain

15 m climbing

Race profile

Overview

The Copenhagen Marathon is one of the world's largest marathons, drawing approximately 12k finishers on an urban road in Copenhagen, Denmark. The course starts and finishes at Islands Brygge. The route passes the Little Mermaid, Nyhavn, Amalienborg Palace, and Frederiksberg. Very flat with only minor bridge gradients over canals.

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

Typical participants: Approximately 12k finishers

Weather: Cool to mild and humid spring
10–14°C · humidity 70–80%
Marathon weather guide →

Course records: Men: 2:08:23 — Birhane Tsegay (2022)Women: 2:22:08 — Mercy Chebwogen (2026)

Course & terrain

Copenhagen Marathon course

Route map and elevation profile for race-week planning.

The Copenhagen Marathon is a very flat loop starting and finishing at Islands Brygge, touring the harbour and city past the Little Mermaid, Nyhavn, Amalienborg Palace, and Frederiksberg. Only minor canal-bridge gradients break the rhythm, and spectators line Islands Brygge, Nyhavn, and the harbourfront.

Copenhagen Marathon route map

Registration

Copenhagen Marathon entry requirements

Registration is first-come, first-served via copenhagenmarathon.dk. The race attracts a strong international field and can sell out quickly, so register as soon as sign-ups open.

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Copenhagen Marathon elevation profile?: The Copenhagen Marathon has 15 metres of total climbing and 15 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is flat, with 0 metres of net change from start to finish.
Where can I find the Copenhagen Marathon route map?: This page includes a Copenhagen Marathon course map showing the full 42.195 km route from start to finish. Passes the Little Mermaid, Nyhavn, Amalienborg Palace, and Frederiksberg.
How long is the Copenhagen Marathon?: The Copenhagen Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts and finishes at Islands Brygge.
Is the Copenhagen Marathon flat?: Yes. The Copenhagen Marathon has 15 metres of total climbing over 42.195 km (26.2 miles) — less than 55 metres of gain — which suits runners chasing personal bests or Boston qualifying times.
What time does the Copenhagen Marathon start?: The 2027 Copenhagen Marathon starts at 9:30 am local time on Sunday, 9 May 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Is the Copenhagen Marathon one of Europe's flattest courses?: Yes. With only around 15 metres of total elevation gain, Copenhagen is among the flattest marathon courses anywhere, with less climbing than Berlin or London — making it an outstanding venue for personal bests and first-time marathoners.
Does the Copenhagen Marathon pass the Little Mermaid statue?: Yes. The course takes runners along the famous Langelinie promenade past the Little Mermaid (Den Lille Havfrue) and by the Kastellet fortress, as well as through Frederiksberg Gardens and past the colourful Nyhavn harbour district.
When is the Copenhagen Marathon held?: The race is typically held on the third Sunday of May, when Copenhagen enjoys long daylight hours and mild spring temperatures — usually 10–15 °C. Organisers publish the confirmed date and start time ahead of race weekend.
How do I enter the Copenhagen Marathon?: Registration is first-come, first-served when entries open. The race attracts a strong international field and can sell out quickly, so register as soon as sign-ups open.
What is the start and finish location for the Copenhagen Marathon?: The marathon starts and finishes near Christiansborg Palace in the heart of the city, with runners circling central Copenhagen twice on a looped course that showcases the harbour, royal palaces, and city parks.

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

Close to this race

Nearby Marathons

Other races closest to Copenhagen.

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The Malmö Marathon attracts approximately 1,500 finishers each October through Sweden's third-largest city linked to Copenhagen by the Öresund Bridge. The course passes the Turning Torso skyscraper, Ribersborg beach, and the Malmöhus Castle on flat Skåne terrain. October's mild southern Swedish autumn and the Öresund views make it Scandinavia's most international city marathon.

Next race: Saturday, 2 October 2027

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Next race: Sunday, 19 September 2027

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HamburgHamburgGermany· 289 km away

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Next race: Sunday, 25 April 2027

World Marathon Major

BerlinBerlinGermany· 355 km away

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The Generali Berlin Marathon is renowned as one of the world's fastest marathon courses, having hosted more men's marathon world records than any other venue. The flat, straight boulevards take runners past the Brandenburg Gate for a spectacular finish. Elite and recreational runners alike target Berlin for personal bests.

Next race: Sunday, 26 September 2027

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