BMW BERLIN-MARATHON 2026 Berlin, Germany
Overview
The BMW BERLIN-MARATHON is widely regarded as the fastest marathon in the world, renowned for its flat, loop course that has witnessed more than a dozen world records. On September 27, 2026, over 58,000 athletes from 120 countries will take to the streets for the 52nd edition of this Abbott World Marathon Major. The race is a high-speed tour through the history of Germany’s capital, starting and finishing on the iconic Straße des 17. Juni, with the final sprint passing through the historic Brandenburg Gate.
The marathon is more than just a race; it is a city-wide cultural festival. Over one million spectators line the route, supported by more than 70 live music groups that create an electric, party-like atmosphere every kilometer. The event is uniquely inclusive, featuring elite runners, wheelchair racers, handcyclists, and inline skaters (who traditionally race on Saturday). Whether you are chasing a personal best on the “world record course” or simply looking to experience the emotional power of running through a reunified Berlin, the 2026 marathon promises a world-class experience.
Event Highlights
- The World’s Fastest Course: Experience the legendary flat terrain where Eliud Kipchoge and other legends have set global records; the elevation gain is nearly zero.
- Brandenburg Gate Finish: Experience the “Holy Grail” of marathon finishes—running the final 400 meters through the majestic Brandenburg Gate under the cheers of a massive crowd.
- MARATHON EXPO: Visit Messe Berlin (or Tempelhof Airport, subject to final confirmation) to pick up your bib and explore the latest in global running tech and nutrition.
- Saturday Festival: Bring the family for the Inline Skating Marathon, the Mini-Marathon for students, and the Bambini Run for kids, making it a full weekend of movement.
Why Attend
Berlin is the primary destination for runners looking to “break their limits.” The cool, crisp late September weather (averaging 12–18°C) and the lack of hills make it the most “runner-friendly” major in the world. It is an essential stop for anyone aiming to complete the Abbott World Marathon Majors “Six Star” journey. For international participants, the marathon is a gateway to exploring Berlin’s vibrant art scene, complex history, and famous nightlife, all while the city is in a state of festive celebration.
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The event’s organization is a model of German efficiency, offering comprehensive support including a 4-day public transport ticket included with your registration. From the high-tech Maurten hydrogel fueling stations on-course to the alcohol-free Erdinger beer waiting at the finish line, every detail is designed for athlete performance and recovery. If you want to be part of a race that feels like a massive street party while competing on a stage built for legends, the 2026 BMW BERLIN-MARATHON is your finish line.
Date & Duration
- Main Event Date: Sunday, September 27, 2026.
- Start Time: Handbikers/Wheelchairs begin at 8:50 AM; Runners begin in waves from 9:15 AM.
Venue / Location
- City and Country: Berlin, Germany.
- Venue: Straße des 17. Juni (between Brandenburg Gate and Victory Column).
- Google Maps Address: Straße des 17. Juni, 10117 Berlin, Germany.
Ticket Information
- How Tickets Are Sold: Most entries are allocated via a Public Lottery (which typically opens in late September/early October of the previous year).
- Admission Type: Paid registration for runners; free for spectators along the entire 42.195 km route.
- Ticket Pricing: The standard lottery entry fee is approximately €205 (~$225); Charity entries and Tour Operator packages (which include hotel stays) can range from $1,500 to $4,000.
- Admission Type: Lottery winners are notified in late November; non-lottery runners must secure a spot through official charity partners or tour operators.
- Special Seating or VIP Options: Spectator grandstand tickets for the finish line are available for purchase in early summer 2026 via the official website.
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Contact Information
- Phone: +49 30 30128810
- Website: https://www.bmw-berlin-marathon.com/en/
- Social Media:
- https://www.facebook.com/berlinmarathon
- https://www.instagram.com/berlinmarathon/
- https://www.strava.com/clubs/bmw-berlin-marathon
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/scc-events-gmbh
- https://www.youtube.com/@berlin-marathon
- https://www.tiktok.com/@berlinmarathon?lang=de-DE
- https://www.scc-events.com/en/events/newsletter
Getting There
- Nearest Airports: Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), 25 km from the city center (~30-45 mins via FEX/Regional train or S-Bahn).
- Public Transport: Use U-Bahn (U5) to Bundestag or S-Bahn to Berlin Hauptbahnhof (Central Station), both of which are a short walk to the start area.
- Taxi/Rideshare: Bolt and Uber are widely available; a taxi from BER Airport to Mitte costs approximately $60-80.
- Parking: Street parking is strictly prohibited near the course; use “Park & Ride” lots at the city outskirts and utilize your free 4-day transport ticket.
- Other Access: Your “Start Card” provides free travel on all public transport (Zone ABC) from Thursday to Sunday of the marathon weekend.
Accommodation Options
- Luxury Hotels: Hotel Adlon Kempinski (5-star, 0.1 km from finish, legendary luxury at Brandenburg Gate, ~$600-900/night); The Ritz-Carlton Berlin (5-star, 0.8 km, elegant stay at Potsdamer Platz ~$450-700/night).
- Mid-Range Options: Hilton Berlin (4-star, 1.2 km, located on Gendarmenmarkt/marathon route, ~$250-400/night); Park Inn by Radisson Alexanderplatz (4-star, 2.5 km, iconic tower views ~$180-280/night).
- Budget Stays: Motel One Berlin-Hauptbahnhof (3-star, 1 km from start, trendy and affordable, ~$120-180/night); Meininger Hotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof (Budget, 0.9 km, perfect for groups ~$80-140/night).
Reviews
- The fastest race of my life—I beat my PR by 8 minutes! The crowds at Potsdamer Platz were deafening.
- Drinking an Erdinger Alkoholfrei under the sun after finishing at the Brandenburg Gate is the best feeling in the world.
- The organization is incredible. The bag drop was seamless even with 50,000 people.
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FAQ's
When does the lottery for the 2026 Berlin Marathon open?
The lottery application period typically opens immediately after the 2025 race, usually from late September to early November 2025. Results are announced via email in late November or early December; if you are selected, the registration fee is automatically charged to your payment method. If you miss the lottery, you can still secure a guaranteed entry through one of the many official charity partners or authorized international tour operators.
Is there a mandatory medical certificate for the Berlin Marathon?
Unlike the Paris Marathon, Berlin does not currently require a signed medical certificate from a doctor to participate. However, you are strongly encouraged to complete the "PAPS Science" health check—a short online questionnaire—during your registration to assess your fitness. Medical staff on-site are authorized to remove any participant from the race who appears to be in medical distress or overexerting themselves.
How does the "Poncho vs. Bag Drop" choice work?
During registration, you must choose between a bag drop (dropping your own gear to collect at the finish) or receiving a finisher poncho. If you choose the poncho, you cannot drop any luggage at the start area; however, the warming, reusable poncho is free and waiting for you immediately after the finish. The bag drop option usually costs an additional €5 and allows you to have your personal dry clothes waiting for you in the designated tents after the race.
What is the time limit for the full marathon?
The official time limit for the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON is 6 hours and 15 minutes from the time you cross the starting line. There is a specific cut-off point at KM 33 (Potsdamer Platz) around 3:50 PM; if you haven't reached it by then, you must move to the sidewalk. The finish line at the Brandenburg Gate remains a festive area until the final runners arrive, but official timing and road closures scale back after the 6:15 mark.
Can I get my medal engraved at the finish line?
Yes, medal engraving is a popular service available in the finish area for a fee of approximately €15. You can pre-book this service during your online registration to save time, or pay on the day (though queues can be long). The engraving typically includes your name and your official net finishing time, providing a permanent record of your achievement in Berlin.
