The Erfurt Marathon attracts approximately 1,500 finishers each September through Thuringia's medieval capital. The course passes the Krämerbrücke — Europe's longest inhabited bridge — the Domplatz cathedral square, and the Gera River parklands on flat Thuringian terrain. September's golden Thuringian autumn makes it central Germany's most historic regional marathon.
Erfurt Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
The next Erfurt Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 27 September 2026 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.
The Erfurt Marathon is a historic urban road that starts and finishes at the Domplatz cathedral square. The loop crosses the Krämerbrücke, passes the Erfurt Cathedral and Severikirche, and follows the Gera River. The flat profile keeps rhythm steady throughout, with only minor bridge ramps or short rises interrupting otherwise even pacing. Crowd support is strongest around the historic start-finish hub and along the landmark districts that define the city's character.
The Erfurt 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.
The Erfurt Marathon is held in September, typically on the fourth Sunday. Registration is at https://www.erfurt-marathon.de/.
Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
Other races closest to Erfurt.
The Rennsteiglauf Marathon draws approximately 1,500 finishers each May on a mountain road and trail in Neuhaus am Rennweg, Germany. The Rennsteig name carries enormous tradition in German endurance sport. The route passes forest ridgelines, classic Rennsteig segments, and long climbing sections through central Germany's highlands. Expect significant climbs on this hilly course.
Next race: Sunday, 2 May 2027
The Magdeburg Marathon draws approximately 1,500 finishers each October on an urban road in Magdeburg, Germany. Its flatness makes it one of Germany's more under-the-radar fast autumn marathons. The course passes Elbe-adjacent roads, parks, and broad former East German boulevards. The course is very flat throughout.
Next race: Sunday, 4 October 2026
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