Warsaw Marathon

Warsaw Marathon course route

The Warsaw Marathon is a flat capital loop starting and finishing at the Palace of Culture and Science, passing the Old Town, Lazienki Park, and the Vistula embankment. The park and riverside sections are the easiest because they stay smooth and level, while the long urban straights and subtle drags are tougher than they first appear. Spectators gather at the Palace of Culture and Science, around the Old Town, and along the Vistula embankment.

Warsaw Marathon route map

Official course map — view on race website

Warsaw Marathon elevation profile

The Warsaw Marathon course is mostly flat with gentle undulations over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 113 metres of climbing and 113 metres of descent, with minimal net elevation change from start to finish.

Entry requirements

The ORLEN Warsaw Marathon uses open registration at maratonwarszawski.com with no ballot or qualifying time. Sign-up for the September race typically opens in spring. As Poland's largest marathon with 8,000–10,000 finishers, early registration is advisable for preferred start-wave assignment, though the field rarely sells out months in advance.

Warsaw Marathon course video

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

9th Warsaw Half Marathon - the course

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Warsaw Marathon elevation profile?

The Warsaw Marathon has 113 metres of total climbing and 113 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.

Where can I find the Warsaw Marathon route map?

This page includes a Warsaw Marathon course map showing the full 42.195 km route from start to finish. The official course map is published at maratonwarszawski.com/en/. Passes the Old Town, Łazienki Park, and the Vistula embankment.

How long is the Warsaw Marathon?

The Warsaw Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts and finishes at the Palace of Culture and Science.

What time does the Warsaw Marathon start?

The 2026 Warsaw Marathon starts at 9:00 am local time on Sunday, 27 September 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on maratonwarszawski.com/en/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.

Is the Warsaw Marathon Poland's largest marathon?

Yes. The Maraton Warszawski is Poland's biggest and most prestigious marathon, consistently attracting 8,000–10,000 finishers. It is the country's top road-running event and draws strong international participation from across Central and Eastern Europe.

Does the Warsaw Marathon run along the Vistula River?

Yes. The course follows extended sections of the Vistula (Wisła) riverbanks — Warsaw's defining geographical feature — passing the restored Old Town, the Royal Castle, and the scenic Łazienki Royal Baths Park. The Vistula boulevard sections offer wide-open views and flat terrain.

When is the Warsaw Marathon held?

The race is typically held on the last Sunday of September, when Warsaw's continental autumn brings crisp, dry conditions ideal for fast running — typically 10–16 °C. Check maratonwarszawski.com/en for the exact date.

Is the Warsaw Marathon course flat?

Largely flat, with around 113 metres of total climbing. The Vistula riverside sections and city park roads are almost entirely level; minor rises occur in the older city districts. Warsaw's geography — a city on a plain — naturally produces a fast course.

What is significant about Warsaw's rebuilt Old Town on the marathon course?

Warsaw's UNESCO-listed Old Town was almost completely destroyed in World War II and meticulously reconstructed from historical plans and paintings. Running through it during the marathon is a powerful reminder of the city's resilience, and the baroque townhouses and market square are a highlight of the route.