Vienna City Marathon

What is the route of the Vienna City Marathon

The Vienna City Marathon starts next to the Vienna International Center, in the UNO-City area, and heads toward the Prater, whose iconic Hauptallee avenue is covered in several stretches throughout the race. With only 44 metres of difference between its highest and lowest points, it's a course well suited to chasing a personal best.

After passing the Donaukanal, the route enters the historic centre around the Ringstrasse, past landmarks such as the Vienna State Opera, and approaches Schönbrunn Palace during one of the longest stretches of the second half. Around kilometre 20, the marathon course permanently splits from the half-marathon route.

For the 2026 edition, organisers have adjusted two sections of the circuit: between kilometres 22 and 24 the race now runs along Maria-Theresien-Straße and Roßauer Lände, aiming for a more direct route with more space, while between kilometres 36 and 38 the surface on Schüttelstraße has been renewed and a new cheering zone added.

The closing stretch returns to the Ringstrasse, where the race finishes at Rathausplatz, between the Burgtheater and Vienna's City Hall — a monumental setting that crowns one of Central Europe's fastest and most popular marathons.

Key kilometer points of the Vienna City Marathon

• Km 0-10 — Salida en el Vienna International Center

  Arranque en la zona de la UNO-City en dirección al Prater, recorriendo tramos de la emblemática Hauptallee.

• Km 10-20 — Donaukanal y Ringstrasse

  El trazado rodea el centro histórico junto a la Ópera Estatal de Viena antes de separarse del recorrido de la media maratón.

• Km 20-32 — Palacio de Schönbrunn

  Uno de los tramos más largos de la segunda mitad de carrera, con el palacio como referencia.

• Km 32-42,195 — Maria-Theresien-Straße y meta en la Rathausplatz

  Regreso a la Ringstrasse para cerrar el recorrido entre el Burgtheater y el Ayuntamiento de Viena.

Where to stay for the Vienna City Marathon

The finish line is at Rathausplatz, next to Vienna's City Hall, so staying in the historic centre, near the Ringstrasse, keeps you within walking distance of the finish.

The UNO-City area, near the start, is less practical to stay in as it's further from the centre, so most runners prefer the historic old town.

Getting there from the airport for the Vienna City Marathon

Vienna-Schwechat Airport is connected to the centre by the City Airport Train (CAT), reaching Wien Mitte station in just 16 minutes for about €11-12.

A cheaper alternative is the S7 train, covering the same route in about 25 minutes for around €4.30.

Frequently Asked Questions about Vienna City Marathon

Is there a minimum age to run the marathon?

Yes, you need to be 18 for the marathon distance. 16-year-olds can take part in the half marathon, and from age 14 you can enter the 10K or the team relay.

Where and when do I collect my bib?

Bibs are collected at Vienna Sports World (Marx Halle) on the Friday before the race, or at the Rathausplatz tent on Saturday. You'll need your pickup confirmation email along with a photo ID.

Can someone else collect my bib for me?

Yes, as long as they bring a signed authorisation from you together with their own ID.

Is there a bag storage service?

Yes, but it needs to be booked in advance (by mid-March) for a small fee. Your bag travels from the start to the finish area, where you collect it in the afternoon.

Can I transfer my entry to someone else or defer it to another year?

Both options are available for a fee, with a deadline set by the organisers. There's also a specific deferral option for pregnant runners or new mothers.

What do I get after finishing the race?

Every finisher receives a medal, which can be engraved with your name and time for an extra fee, plus a recovery snack with drinks and fruit at the finish area.

About Vienna City Marathon

The Vienna City Marathon is one of Europe's major marathons and one of the best ways to discover Vienna on foot. The 42.195-kilometre race takes runners through the heart of the Austrian capital, passing some of its most impressive landmarks and avenues in a setting that combines history, architecture and a vibrant sporting atmosphere.

The Vienna City Marathon route crosses different parts of the city and takes runners past iconic locations such as the Ringstrasse, Schönbrunn Palace and the Prater. The urban course and support from spectators make the 42.195 km an appealing experience both for runners targeting a strong time and for those looking to enjoy an international marathon.

Taking part in the Vienna City Marathon is an opportunity to complete 42.195 km while discovering Vienna, experience one of Austria's major sporting events and enjoy a marathon in a historic European city. An ideal race for combining travel, running and the ultimate long-distance challenge.