Warsaw Marathon

The PKO Bank Polski Warsaw Marathon is Poland's most celebrated road race and one of Central Europe's fastest marathons. Held in late September, it takes runners through a city that has rebuilt itself from the ashes of history to become one of Europe's most dynamic and forward-looking capitals. Warsaw's marathon is a race through resilience, beauty, and extraordinary Polish spirit.

Why Run the Warsaw Marathon?

• Fast Course: One of Central Europe's fastest marathons — excellent for personal bests
• Historic Resilience: Run through a city that was rebuilt entirely after World War II — a living monument to human determination
• Riverside Running: Extended stretches along the scenic Vistula River, Central Europe's longest river
• Modern Energy: Experience Warsaw's extraordinary transformation into a modern European metropolis
• Polish Welcome: Experience the passionate and warm Polish running community at its best

Course Highlights

The Warsaw Marathon takes runners through the Polish capital's most important and beautiful areas.

Key Landmarks Along the Route

• Start/Finish: National Stadium (Stadion Narodowy) on the Vistula River
• Old Town: Warsaw's reconstructed medieval old town — a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Royal Castle: The magnificent royal residence at the heart of the Old Town
• Łazienki Park: Running through Warsaw's most beautiful palace park
• Vistula Boulevards: Long stretches along the beautifully developed Vistula riverfront
• Palace of Culture and Science: Warsaw's iconic Soviet-era skyscraper

Course Profile

The Warsaw Marathon follows a largely flat course along the Vistula River and through the city's wide boulevards, with 90 meters of elevation gain across the 42.195 km route. The course's design favors fast running, and the September timing typically brings ideal racing temperatures.

Race Day Experience

The Warsaw Marathon is Poland's running festival:

• National Stadium Start: Beginning in the spectacular modern stadium adds drama from the first step
• Vistula Energy: The riverside crowds are among the most enthusiastic in Central Europe
• Old Town Beauty: Running through the meticulously rebuilt historic center is deeply moving
• Polish Community: Warsaw's running scene has exploded in recent years — the atmosphere reflects it
• September Timing: Autumn in Warsaw is typically perfect for marathon running

Training Tips

To make the most of your Warsaw Marathon:

1. September training: The late September date allows for summer base building — use it
2. Flat course advantage: Warsaw rewards even pacing — plan your race strategy accordingly
3. Vistula stretches: The riverbank miles are inspiring — enjoy the views
4. Old Town section: Short but cobbled in places — stay focused through this stretch

After Your Race

Warsaw is one of Europe's most exciting cities for post-race exploration. From the Old Town's restaurants to the vibrant Praga district across the river, Warsaw rewards every finisher generously.

Commemorate Your Achievement

Create a stunning custom map poster of your Warsaw 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 Warsaw Marathon memory into a beautiful piece of art for your home or office.

Getting There

Warsaw is well connected within Europe:

• Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW): Major hub with connections throughout Europe and beyond
• Warsaw Modlin Airport (WMI): Low-cost connections to European destinations
• Train: Warsaw is connected to Berlin, Prague, Vienna, and other European cities by rail
• Public Transport: Warsaw's metro and bus network efficiently serve the marathon area

Registration

Registration for the PKO Bank Polski Warsaw Marathon opens in spring and fills as September approaches. Options include:

• Individual Registration: Via the official Warsaw Marathon website
• Club Registration: Group rates for affiliated running clubs
• International Support: Strong resources and support for international participants

Weather

The Warsaw Marathon in late September offers excellent autumn running conditions:

• Temperature: Typically 8–16°C on race day — ideal marathon weather
• Autumn Colors: Warsaw's parks and tree-lined boulevards are beautiful in early autumn
• Variable: September in Warsaw can range from warm to cool — prepare for both scenarios

Warsaw is a city whose story will move you. Every building in the Old Town was reconstructed brick by brick from ruins — a testament to Polish determination that gives the marathon a unique emotional depth. Let makemap help you commemorate your achievement with a beautiful custom map poster.