Rhein-Ruhr Marathon

DuisburgNorth Rhine-WestphaliaGermany

Next race

Sunday, 23 May 2027

9:00 am start

Distance

42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Urban road

Elevation

Flat · 50 m gain

50 m climbing

Race profile

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.

Typical participants: Approximately 1,144 finishers

Weather: Mild and humid spring
12–17°C · humidity 65–75%
Marathon weather guide →

Course & terrain

Rhein-Ruhr Marathon course

Route map and elevation profile for race-week planning.

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 route map

Registration

Rhein-Ruhr Marathon entry requirements

The Rhein-Ruhr Marathon is held in May, typically on the fourth Sunday. Registration is at https://www.rhein-ruhr-marathon.de/.

Common questions

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 flat, with 0 metres of net change from start to finish.
Where can I find the Rhein-Ruhr Marathon route map?: This page includes a Rhein-Ruhr Marathon course map showing the full 42.195 km route from start to finish. Passes the Innenhafen marina, the Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord (former steelworks), and the Rhine riverfront.
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 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.
When is the Rhein-Ruhr Marathon?: The Rhein-Ruhr Marathon is held in May, typically on the fourth Sunday.
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 11 October 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.

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