Overview
The Marathon de Caen draws approximately 2,500 finishers each May through the Norman capital rebuilt after D-Day. The course passes the Caen Memorial, the Château de Caen, and the Orne River on flat Calvados terrain. May's Normandy spring and the city's powerful WWII heritage make it one of northern France's most meaningful regional marathons.
Marathon de Caen is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
Marathon de Caen 2027 race day
The next Marathon de Caen is scheduled for Sunday, 23 May 2027 with a 8:30 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 50 m of climbing on a very flat layout.
Marathon de Caen course route
The Marathon de Caen is a historic urban road that starts and finishes near the Caen Memorial or the Château de Caen. The loop follows the Orne River, passes the memorial to peace, and crosses the rebuilt city centre. 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.
Marathon de Caen elevation profile
The Marathon de Caen 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.
Entry requirements
The Marathon de Caen is held in May, typically on the fourth Sunday. Registration is at https://www.marathon-caen.fr/.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Marathon de Caen elevation profile?
- The Marathon de Caen has 50 metres of total climbing and 50 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is very flat, with 0 metres of net change from start to finish.
- How long is the Marathon de Caen?
- The Marathon de Caen is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Historic course starts and finishes near the Caen Memorial or the Château de Caen.
- What time does the Marathon de Caen start?
- The 2027 Marathon de Caen starts at 8:30 am local time on Sunday, 23 May 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.marathon-caen.fr/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- Does the Caen Marathon pass the Caen Memorial?
- Yes. The Caen Memorial Museum for Peace, one of Europe's most important WWII museums, is a landmark along the course.
- When is the Marathon de Caen?
- The Marathon de Caen is held in May, typically on the fourth Sunday. Registration is at https://www.marathon-caen.fr/.
- Is the Caen Marathon flat?
- Yes. The Normandy plain course through Caen is flat and fast.
- What is the Château de Caen?
- The Château de Caen is an 11th-century Norman castle built by William the Conqueror, anchoring the historic quarter near the marathon route.
- What weather should I expect in Caen in May?
- May in Caen is mild Normandy spring, often 12–18 °C (54–64 °F). Atlantic breezes and occasional showers are possible.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
Nearby Marathons
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