Overview
The Rhein-Ruhr Marathon attracts approximately 1,144 finishers each May through Duisburg at the confluence of the Rhine and Ruhr rivers. The course passes the Inner Harbour (Innenhafen), the Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord, and the Rheinpark on flat industrial-heritage terrain. May's Ruhr spring and the transformed industrial landscape make it a unique marathon in Germany's largest urban agglomeration.
Rhein-Ruhr Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
Rhein-Ruhr Marathon 2027 race day
The next Rhein-Ruhr Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 23 May 2027 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.
Rhein-Ruhr Marathon course route
The Rhein-Ruhr Marathon is an urban road that starts and finishes at the Duisburg Inner Harbour or the Rheinpark. The loop passes the Innenhafen marina, the Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord (former steelworks), and the Rhine riverfront. The flat profile keeps rhythm steady throughout, with only minor bridge ramps or short rises interrupting otherwise even pacing. Spectators gather at the start-finish festival and at organised cheer zones through the city centre and along the main boulevards.
Rhein-Ruhr Marathon elevation profile
The Rhein-Ruhr 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.
Rhein-Ruhr Marathon course videos
Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.
39. Rhein-Ruhr-Marathon Duisburg
40. Rhein-Ruhr-Marathon am 11.06.2023 - Hitzeschlacht von Duisburg
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Rhein-Ruhr Marathon elevation profile?
- The Rhein-Ruhr Marathon 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 Rhein-Ruhr Marathon?
- The Rhein-Ruhr Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts and finishes at the Duisburg Inner Harbour or the Rheinpark.
- What time does the Rhein-Ruhr Marathon start?
- The 2027 Rhein-Ruhr Marathon starts at 9:00 am local time on Sunday, 23 May 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.rhein-ruhr-marathon.de/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- What is the Duisburg Inner Harbour?
- The Innenhafen is Europe's largest inland harbour, transformed from a derelict industrial dock into a marina and cultural quarter — the marathon's centrepiece.
- Is the Rhein-Ruhr marathon flat?
- Yes. The Rhine-Ruhr plain course through Duisburg is flat.
- What is Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord?
- Landschaftspark is a public park built on a former Thyssen steelworks, with climbing walls in blast furnaces and gardens in bunkers — industrial heritage reinvented.
- What weather should I expect in Duisburg in May?
- May in the Ruhrgebiet is mild spring weather, often 12–20 °C (54–68 °F).
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
