Istanbul Marathon

Istanbul Marathon course route

The Istanbul Marathon is a point-to-point intercontinental course that starts on the Asian side, crosses the Bosphorus on the 15 July Martyrs Bridge, and finishes in Sultanahmet on the European side. The flatter miles after the crossing are easiest while the bridge ascent is the signature tougher section, and spectator support is strongest near the bridge approaches, along the Bosphorus-side run-in, and in Sultanahmet.

Istanbul Marathon elevation profile

The Istanbul Marathon course is mostly flat with gentle undulations over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 183 metres of climbing and 183 metres of descent, with minimal net elevation change from start to finish.

Entry requirements

Registration is available at maraton.istanbul. International runners can sign up directly online; places are limited and demand is high due to the race's unique transcontinental status, so early registration is strongly advised.

Istanbul Marathon course video

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

Istanbul Marathon 2025: 3D Video Course Map | 42.2 km - Istanbul

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Istanbul Marathon elevation profile?

The Istanbul Marathon has 183 metres of total climbing and 183 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 Istanbul Marathon?

The Istanbul Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. From the Asian side to Sultanahmet on the European side — the only intercontinental marathon.

Is the Istanbul Marathon flat?

Yes. The Istanbul Marathon is mostly flat with gentle undulations with 183 metres of total climbing over 42.195 km (26.2 miles) — a profile that suits runners chasing personal bests or Boston qualifying times.

What time does the Istanbul Marathon start?

The 2026 Istanbul Marathon starts at 9:00 am local time on Sunday, 1 November 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on maraton.istanbul/?lang=en confirm any last-minute schedule changes.

Does the Istanbul Marathon cross from Asia to Europe?

The Istanbul Marathon is widely promoted as the world's only marathon whose course crosses from Asia to Europe on foot, starting on the Asian side at Bağcılar and crossing the 15 July Martyrs Bridge (formerly the Bosphorus Bridge) into Europe.

Can all runners cross the Bosphorus Bridge at the Istanbul Marathon?

The bridge crossing is a feature of the full marathon; the road is closed to traffic for the event, giving runners exclusive use of the bridge over the Bosphorus Strait for race day.

When is the Istanbul Marathon held?

The race is typically held on the first Sunday of November, when Istanbul's autumn weather — usually 12–18 °C — creates good running conditions. Check maraton.istanbul for the confirmed date.

What does the Istanbul Marathon course look like on the European side?

After crossing the Bosphorus, runners travel through the historic European districts — past Dolmabahçe Palace, along the Golden Horn waterway, and through the commercial heart of Taksim and Beşiktaş — finishing near Sultanahmet with views of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

How do I register for the Istanbul Marathon?

Registration is available at maraton.istanbul. International runners can sign up directly online; places are limited and demand is high due to the race's unique transcontinental status, so early registration is strongly advised.