Overview
The Ljubljana Marathon draws about 4,500 finishers each October through Slovenia's compact capital. The course passes Ljubljana Castle, the Triple Bridge, Tivoli Park, and the Ljubljanica River embankment. October autumn colours and a flat valley setting make it the largest marathon in Slovenia.
Ljubljana Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
Ljubljana Marathon 2026 race day
The next Ljubljana Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 18 October 2026 with a 9:00 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 100 m of climbing on a mostly flat with gentle undulations layout.
Ljubljana Marathon course route
The Ljubljana Marathon is a city loop that starts and finishes in Congress Square and follows the Ljubljanica River past Ljubljana Castle hill, Tivoli Park, and the Plecnik embankments. The riverside miles are easiest because they stay mostly flat, the minor rises toward the castle hill and tighter old-town turns are tougher, and spectator support is strongest in Congress Square, along the embankments, and around Tivoli Park.
Ljubljana Marathon elevation profile
The Ljubljana Marathon course is mostly flat with gentle undulations over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 100 metres of climbing and 95 metres of descent, with a net climb of 5 metres from start to finish.
Ljubljana Marathon course video
Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.
Trasa 19. Ljubljanski maraton 42km (19th Ljubljana Marathon Course Preview)
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Ljubljana Marathon elevation profile?
- The Ljubljana Marathon has 100 metres of total climbing and 95 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is mostly flat with gentle undulations, with 5 metres of net climb from start to finish.
- How long is the Ljubljana Marathon?
- The Ljubljana Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts and finishes in Congress Square (Kongresni trg).
- What time does the Ljubljana Marathon start?
- The 2026 Ljubljana Marathon starts at 9:00 am local time on Sunday, 18 October 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.ljubljanskimaraton.si/en/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- Where does the Ljubljana Marathon finish?
- The finish is in Congress Square in the heart of Ljubljana's historic centre.
- Does the Ljubljana Marathon pass the castle?
- The course passes below Ljubljana Castle with views of the hilltop fortress above the old town.
- Is the Ljubljana Marathon flat?
- Largely yes. The Ljubljana basin keeps the course mostly flat along the river.
- What is Ljubljana weather like in October?
- October mornings are cool, typically 6–12 °C (43–54 °F), with autumn colours in Tivoli Park.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
