Helsinki Marathon

Helsinki Marathon course route

The Helsinki Marathon is a loop that starts and finishes at the Olympic Stadium and passes Senate Square, the harbour boulevard, and waterfront views toward Suomenlinna. The course is mostly flat with gentle undulations, and spectators gather at the stadium finish and along the waterfront and Senate Square.

Helsinki Marathon elevation profile

The Helsinki Marathon course is mostly flat with gentle undulations over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 73 metres of climbing and 73 metres of descent, with minimal net elevation change from start to finish.

Entry requirements

For the Helsinki Marathon, the Helsinki City Marathon is typically held on the second Saturday of May each year. May marks the start of Finland's long, light summer — a wonderful time to race in Helsinki. Check helsinkicityrun.fi/en/helsinkicitymarathon for exact dates and registration.

Helsinki Marathon course video

Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.

Marathon course at Helsinki City Marathon

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Helsinki Marathon elevation profile?

The Helsinki Marathon has 73 metres of total climbing and 73 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is mostly flat with gentle undulations, with 0 metres of net change from start to finish.

How long is the Helsinki Marathon?

The Helsinki Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts and finishes at the Olympic Stadium.

What time does the Helsinki Marathon start?

The 2027 Helsinki Marathon starts at 9:00 am local time on Saturday, 8 May 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on helsinkicityrun.fi/en/helsinkicitymarathon/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.

What does the Helsinki City Marathon course look like?

The Helsinki City Marathon hugs the Baltic coastline as it winds through Finland's compact and beautiful capital. The route passes key landmarks including Senate Square, the Helsinki Cathedral, Sibelius Park, and the seafront promenades along the Gulf of Finland, offering runners a tour of the 'Daughter of the Baltic'.

When is the Helsinki City Marathon held?

The Helsinki City Marathon is typically held on the second Saturday of May each year. May marks the start of Finland's long, light summer — a wonderful time to race in Helsinki. Check helsinkicityrun.fi/en/helsinkicitymarathon for exact dates and registration.

Is the Helsinki Marathon course flat?

Yes. Helsinki's mostly flat granite bedrock makes for a gentle course with minimal elevation change. The seafront sections along the Gulf of Finland are especially level, making this a solid course for runners targeting a fast time.

What is the weather like at the Helsinki City Marathon in May?

May in Helsinki offers pleasant spring conditions, typically 8–16 °C, with long daylight hours. Rain is possible but humidity is generally low. The cool air and sea breeze off the Baltic create comfortable marathon running conditions.

Is the Helsinki Marathon part of a larger running event?

Yes. The marathon forms part of the Helsinki City Run event series, which also includes shorter race distances, giving the weekend a festive atmosphere on the waterfront. The event is organised by the Finnish Athletics Federation.