Berlin Marathon
Berlin, Germany · Last Sunday of September
The fastest marathon course in the world on paper: wide boulevards, gentle curves, and virtually no climbing. More world records have fallen here than anywhere else. Pacing discipline is the only hazard — the course gives you no excuse to slow down.
Course
Elevation gain
73 m
Net elevation
-6 m
Finishers
~50,000
Month
September
Last Sunday of September
Race-day weather
Median start temp
12°C
Historical range
7–22°C
Hot-year risk
Moderate
Usually cool and overcast, but late-September warm spells happen — 2025 started around 22°C.
Getting in
Lottery. Lottery opens ~11 months out; fast-time entry available for sub-elite standards. Official site ↗
Pacing plans for Berlin Marathon
Course-adjusted splits for every common goal — not flat even splits, but pacing that matches where this course is fast and where it bites.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Berlin Marathon a fast course?
Yes — it is one of the fastest marathon courses in the world. The course has 73 m of total elevation gain. We rate it 10/10 for PR potential.
What is the weather usually like at the Berlin Marathon?
The median start-line temperature is around 12°C, with a historical range of roughly 7–22°C. Usually cool and overcast, but late-September warm spells happen — 2025 started around 22°C.
How do you get into the Berlin Marathon?
Lottery. Lottery opens ~11 months out; fast-time entry available for sub-elite standards.
Is the Berlin Marathon a Boston qualifier?
Yes — the Berlin Marathon is a certified course accepted by the B.A.A. for Boston qualifying times.