Berlin Marathon

The BMW Berlin Marathon is not just a race—it's a journey through history, culture, and the heart of Germany's capital. Known as the world's fastest marathon course, Berlin has witnessed more world records than any other marathon in the world.

Why Run the Berlin Marathon?

• World Marathon Major: One of the prestigious six Abbott World Marathon Majors
• Fastest Course: Home to numerous world records, including the current men's world record
• Historic Route: Run through 600+ years of Berlin history, from the Brandenburg Gate to the Reichstag
• Incredible Atmosphere: Over 1 million spectators line the streets
• Flat & Fast: Perfect for achieving your personal best time

Course Highlights

The Berlin Marathon course is famous for its flat profile and wide boulevards, making it one of the fastest marathon courses in the world. Starting and finishing near the iconic Brandenburg Gate, runners experience the best of Berlin:

Key Landmarks Along the Route

• Start/Finish: Brandenburg Gate - Berlin's most iconic landmark
• Reichstag Building: Germany's parliament building with its glass dome
• Potsdamer Platz: The vibrant square that symbolizes Berlin's reunification
• Siegessäule (Victory Column): Berlin's golden angel at the heart of Tiergarten park
• Charlottenburg: Berlin's western district with beautiful tree-lined streets
• Kurfürstendamm: Berlin's famous boulevard, often called the "Ku'damm"

Course Profile

The Berlin Marathon is renowned for being exceptionally flat, with an elevation gain of only 42 meters over the entire 42.195 km distance. This pancake-flat course is what makes it ideal for personal bests and world records.

World Records

Berlin holds a special place in marathon history. The course has seen more world records than any other marathon:

• Men's World Record: Eliud Kipchoge set the previous world record here in 2018 (2:01:39)
• Current Record: Kelvin Kiptum ran 2:01:09 in 2023
• Multiple world records by legends like Haile Gebrselassie, Patrick Makau, and Dennis Kimetto

Race Day Experience

With over 50,000 participants from more than 150 countries, the Berlin Marathon is truly an international celebration of running. The race atmosphere is electric, supported by:

• 450+ bands and performance groups along the course
• 1+ million spectators cheering you on
• World-class organization and support
• Perfect September weather conditions

Training Tips

Given the flat profile, Berlin is perfect for runners targeting a specific time goal:

1. Focus on sustained pace training: Practice holding your goal marathon pace for extended periods
2. Train on flat terrain: Your training terrain should mirror the course
3. Work on cadence: The fast course rewards efficient turnover
4. Don't be intimidated: While elite runners aim for world records, Berlin welcomes all paces and abilities

After Your Race

Celebrate your achievement in Berlin! Whether you've set a personal best, completed your first marathon, or qualified for Boston, your Berlin Marathon experience deserves to be remembered.

Commemorate Your Achievement

Create a stunning custom map poster of your Berlin Marathon route with makemap. Simply:

1. Download your GPS data from your running watch or Strava
2. Upload it to makemap's editor
3. Customize your poster with your finish time, date, and personal message
4. Choose from various styles and sizes

Transform your Berlin Marathon memory into a beautiful piece of art for your home or office.

Getting There

Berlin is easily accessible from around the world:

• Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER): Main international airport, 30 minutes from city center
• Train: Excellent rail connections throughout Europe
• Public Transport: Berlin's efficient U-Bahn and S-Bahn make getting around easy

Registration

The Berlin Marathon typically sells out quickly. Registration usually opens in October for the following year's race. There are several ways to secure a spot:

• Regular lottery: Open to all runners
• Charity entries: Run for a good cause
• Time qualification: Faster runners may receive guaranteed entries
• Tour operators: Some running travel companies have guaranteed entries

When to Visit

The Berlin Marathon takes place in late September, offering ideal running conditions:

• Temperature: Usually 10-15°C
• Weather: Generally dry with mild temperatures
• City atmosphere: Perfect time to explore Berlin's cultural scene

Start planning your Berlin Marathon journey today, and when you cross that finish line at the Brandenburg Gate, make sure you're ready to turn your achievement into art with makemap!