Every year, lucky runners from all around the world flock to Berlin for one purpose: to run a marathon. If you’re getting ready to take on the Berlin Marathon 2026, then beyond physical training, make sure you prepare yourself by understanding this guideline!

Runners around the world see major marathons as one of the biggest achievements of their lives. Beyond completing a half marathon or full marathon in their own countries, many dream of ticking off “The Big Six”: the Tokyo Marathon, Boston Marathon, London Marathon, Chicago Marathon, New York City Marathon.. And of course the BMW Berlin Marathon.

The Berlin Marathon is widely regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious long-distance races, forming part of the elite World Marathon Majors. Known for its fast, flat course and a long history of world-record performances, it consistently attracts runners aiming for personal bests.

First held in 1974, with just a few hundred runners and quickly grew into one of the world’s most iconic long-distance races. One of the most remarkable editions came in 1990, when runners passed through the Brandenburg Gate for the first time after the fall of the Berlin Wall. It was an emotional and historic moment symbolising German reunification.

Another unusual year was 2020, when the marathon was cancelled due to the global pandemic, marking a rare break in its annual tradition. Today, the Berlin Marathon continues to attract athletes from around the world, celebrated for its speed, atmosphere, and unforgettable city backdrop.

It typically takes place in late September, when Berlin enjoys mild autumn weather. The weather is cool enough to be perfect for long-distance running. 

Each year, the event draws tens of thousands of runners from more than 100 countries, creating an electric atmosphere of global camaraderie. Streets come alive with supporters, live bands, and city-wide festivities. With the Berlin Marathon 2024 and Berlin Marathon 2025 now in the rear-view mirror, the countdown to Berlin Marathon 2026 is officially underway. 

The Berlin Marathon 2026 and each year is a full weekend of athletic energy, inclusivity, and city-wide celebration. From elite athletes to first-time participants, the event offers several race categories that embrace different abilities and styles. Here’s a clear breakdown of what you can join:

The signature event and the heart of the Berlin Marathon. Known for its famously flat, fast course, it’s perfect for elite athletes aiming for record-breaking times and recreational runners chasing a new personal best.

Held on a separate day (usually Saturday), this category of BMW Berlin Marathon allows inline skaters to race along the same iconic route. Helmets are mandatory, and the general time limit is around 2 hours 10 minutes. Many experienced skaters finish in under 90 minutes thanks to Berlin’s smooth roads and fast course design.

A dedicated race for wheelchair athletes, offering a world-class competition on the same course as the full marathon. Participants finish in the historic area near the Brandenburg Gate, adding an iconic highlight to the experience.

Athletes using handcycles can also compete during the marathon weekend. They race alongside wheelchair athletes, creating a dynamic, inclusive environment that celebrates strength, speed, and resilience.

Usually held during marathon weekend, the 5K fun run (often known as the GENERALI 5K) provides an accessible option for beginners, families, or anyone wanting to enjoy the marathon atmosphere without the commitment of long-distance racing.

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The Berlin Marathon is one of Europe’s most sought-after races, which means entry slots fill quickly and demand grows every year. While thousands of runners come from Germany and neighbouring European countries, a huge portion of participants also arrive from overseas.

International runners, travel-sport enthusiasts, and record-chasers come to Berlin for its famously fast course and vibrant race-day atmosphere. With participants from more than 150 nations, the event brings together a lively blend of cultures, communities, and running traditions across the city streets.

Because the start–finish area sits right around the Brandenburg Gate, you can stay at hotels in Berlin that are within walking distance. Hotels near U-Bahn (underground metro/subway) or S-Bahn (suburban/urban trains that run mostly above ground) are popular choices too!

With accommodation filling up early each year, booking hotels near Brandenburg Gate for your stay through Traveloka is a smart move to secure the best locations for marathon weekend. 

The Berlin Marathon route is world-famous for being flat, smooth, and exceptionally fast. It’s perfect for PB hunters and pros chasing records. 

The course winds through central Berlin, passing historic and cultural landmarks that define the city’s character. Runners can expect minimal elevation gain, wide streets, and September weather that’s typically crisp and runner-friendly.

Here are the Berlin Marathon route details:

The race begins on Straße des 17. Juni, next to the Brandenburg Gate, inside the wide green area of Tiergarten. This central location is not only symbolic but also spacious enough to accommodate the huge number of runners.

From the start, runners head north toward Moabit, passing government buildings and river crossings. The course then swings east toward Mitte, one of the busiest districts, taking runners close to sights like the Reichstag, Museum Island, and Berlin Cathedral.

The route continues further east into Friedrichshain, then south into Neukölln. These areas offer long straight stretches that help runners maintain rhythm, with lively cheering crowds lining the streets.

Moving south and southwest, runners pass through Kreuzberg, known for its energetic neighbourhood vibe, then into Schöneberg before reaching Steglitz. This section of the course winds through more residential zones with wide roads and gentle curves.

After looping through the south, the marathon heads northwest into Wilmersdorf and then Charlottenburg, approaching famous spots like the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church and major shopping avenues such as Kurfürstendamm.

The last few kilometres bring runners back toward Tiergarten, moving past more central U-Bahn and S-Bahn stations before reaching the unforgettable finish line: through the Brandenburg Gate and onto the final stretch.

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During the race, you’ll definitely be tempted to check out all these spots around the city. Just grab your tickets to Berlin’s must-visit attractions through Traveloka. Don’t forget to use the “Things To Do and Attractions Promo” voucher for a nice deal or a little discount!

Getting into the Berlin Marathon 2026 works mainly through a hugely popular lottery. You sign up, wait for the draw, and if your name comes up, secure your spot by completing the official entry. If you prefer a guaranteed place, charity entries are available and support a range of good causes.

The 2026 race will be held on 27 September 2026, with entry allocated through the Abbott World Marathon Majors lottery. Registration for the ballot ran from 25 September to 6 November 2025, and is now closed.

The event follows World Athletics and German Athletics Federation rules.

Anyone falling outside the cut-off will be taken off the course by the “broom bus” and continuing on your own isn’t allowed.

The 2025 entry fee is €205 or approximately S$ 308.77, and the package includes quite a lot:

As an international participant, it’s best to plan your trip well in advance. Book your flight to Berlin from Singapore early and secure a hotel in Berlin that fits your needs, so everything is set long before race week.

Sorting out accommodation and visa matters ahead of time lets you focus fully on training and getting your gear ready. It also ensures you have enough time for mandatory race-pack pickup and ID verification at the Expo.

Arriving a little early is always a bonus and will help with time-zone adjustment and gives you the chance to familiarise yourself with parts of the route. With Traveloka, you can arrange both flights and hotels in one go, making the whole pre-race process far smoother.

Race morning at the Berlin Marathon feels lively and energised. Runners warm up across Tiergarten, music plays from loudspeakers, and volunteers guide participants to their corrals.

Once the race begins, expect enthusiastic crowds, entertainment zones, and checkpoints that keep motivation high. After crossing the finish line, runners receive their medals and can proceed to the recovery area for refreshments, stretching, and photo opportunities.

The Berlin Half Marathon is indeed different from the BMW Berlin Marathon, mainly in distance, timing, and race atmosphere. The half marathon takes place in spring (usually late March) and covers 21.0975 km. Meanwhile, the BMW Berlin Marathon happens in late September and features the full 42.195 km distance, drawing elite athletes, world-record chasers, and tens of thousands of international participants.

The Berlin Half Marathon is Berlin’s famous spring classic, takes place every late March and attracts over 40,000 participants from more than 130 nations. Beyond runners, the event also welcomes inline skaters, wheelchair athletes, and handcyclists, making it one of Europe’s most inclusive races. 

Entry is typically managed through a lottery system, and participants collect their bibs at the Berlin Half Marathon Expo held a few days before race day. 

Here’s what you should prepare before heading to one of the world’s fastest races.

Berlin is easily accessible through Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), making international travel straightforward. Getting there from Singapore is simple too, with plenty of convenient flight options available.

Once you land, reaching the city centre is hassle-free thanks to Berlin’s extensive transport network—U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses—making it easy to move around even during the busy marathon week. And to keep everything organised, Traveloka can help you sort out your airport transfers too.

Hotels in Tiergarten, hotels in Mitte, and hotels in Charlottenburg are preferred by marathon participants thanks to their proximity to the start and finish lines. Staying central also ensures easy access to race expos, restaurants, and tourist attractions.

Book early in Traveloka, as demand rises quickly during marathon season. Make sure you pop in the “Best Price Guarantee” voucher for some cracking deals!

Road closures on marathon day can make driving difficult, so public transport is the most efficient way to move around the city. Trains and buses run frequently and can get crowded near the start areas. Make sure to arrive early to avoid delays. This ensures a smoother and stress-free race day experience.

1. Arrive a Few Days Early – Settle in, adjust to the time zone, and collect your race pack stress-free.

2. Prioritise Rest and Hydration – Berlin weather can be mild, but staying well-rested and hydrated will make a huge difference on race day.

3. Know Your Way to the Start – Plan your U-Bahn/S-Bahn route in advance — race morning gets busy.

4. Dress Smart for Autumn Weather – Layer up and bring disposable warm clothes you can donate before the start.

5. Follow Your Start Wave – It keeps the race smooth and helps you pace properly from the beginning.

6. Stay Hydrated and Fueled – Use the refreshment stations along the course or bring your own hydration pack.

7. Respect the 6:15 Cut-Off – Keep an eye on your pacing or run with a pacer if you’re unsure.

Running Essentials

Documents & Travel Needs

When is the Berlin Marathon 2026 held?

Late September, as per tradition.

How does the entry lottery system work?

You register online, wait for the draw, and complete the payment if selected.

Can beginners join the Berlin Marathon?

Yes, beginners can join the Berlin Marathon as long as they’re prepared for the full 42.195 km distance. While the course is famously flat and supportive for first-timers, it’s still a full marathon, so newcomers should train consistently for several months, follow a structured plan, and be comfortable with long-distance running. 

What is the route like?

Flat, fast, scenic, and passing many of Berlin’s major landmarks.

How long is the cutoff time?

Usually around 6 hours and 15 minutes.

Where can runners stay near the start or finish?

Mitte, Tiergarten, and Charlottenburg offer the closest and most convenient options.

Ready for you Berlin Marathon 2026? For an easier planning experience, Traveloka can help you secure cheap flights, cheap hotels, and activities in one simple platform, letting you focus on your best performance yet. 

And if you’re looking for more ideas for your trip to Berlin, make sure to follow Traveloka on Instagram for fresh travel inspiration.