Paris Marathon 2026: Your Complete Guide to Running the World’s Most Beautiful Marathon

The Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris 2026 promises to be one of the most spectacular running events of the year. Set for Sunday, April 12, 2026, this iconic race will once again transform the streets of Paris into a 42.195km celebration of running, culture, and human achievement.

With over 60,000 participants from 145+ nationalities and 250,000 spectators lining the course, the Paris Marathon has earned its reputation as one of the world’s largest and most festive marathons. Whether you’re a seasoned runner chasing a personal best or a first-time marathoner looking for an unforgettable experience, this guide covers everything you need to know.

Why the Paris Marathon Should Be on Your Bucket List

The Paris Marathon isn’t just a race—it’s a moving tour through one of the world’s most beautiful cities. The course takes you past iconic landmarks that most tourists can only dream of experiencing up close, all while surrounded by enthusiastic crowds and live music performances strategically placed throughout the route.

What sets this marathon apart is its unique combination of challenging terrain and breathtaking scenery. You’ll run through seven different districts of Paris, experiencing everything from the grandeur of the Champs-Élysées to the tranquil paths of the Bois de Vincennes.

The Course: A 42.195km Tour of Paris

Start to 10K: The Postcard Beginning

Your journey begins at the foot of the iconic Arc de Triomphe before descending the legendary Champs-Élysées. Within the first 6 kilometers, you’ll pass some of Paris’s most famous landmarks:

• Place de la Concorde
• Hôtel de Ville
• Opéra Garnier
• Place Vendôme
• The Louvre

This opening section feels like running through a postcard, with flat terrain perfect for settling into your race pace while soaking in the atmosphere.

10K to 20K: The Challenge Begins

After reaching Place de la Bastille, the course heads toward Porte d’Auteuil with a gentle but noticeable incline leading into the Bois de Vincennes. This section becomes more challenging with alternating ascents and descents, requiring careful energy management. The tree-lined paths provide a welcome change of scenery and some protection from wind.

20K to 30K: Return to the City

As you return to central Paris around kilometer 20, you’ll feel the energy of the spectators in full force. The atmosphere becomes increasingly festive as you pass through the first tunnel at Tuileries. This section offers glimpses of Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Musée d’Orsay.

30K to Finish: The Final Push

The most iconic moment comes around kilometer 30 when the Eiffel Tower comes into view—a sight that has brought tears to many runners’ eyes. The final stretch takes you through the Bois de Boulogne before the triumphant finish at Place de l’Étoile, back where your journey began at the Arc de Triomphe.

Registration: Securing Your Spot

Key Registration Dates

• Priority Registration Opens: April 22, 2025
• General Registration Opens: April 24, 2025
• Platform: Timeto.com (official registration platform)

Registration Options

Standard Registration: Individual runners can register directly through the official platform when registration opens. Places are limited and typically fill quickly, so mark your calendar for the registration opening date.

Charity Bibs: One of the most popular ways to secure guaranteed entry is through charity partnerships. With a reduced registration fee of €49, you commit to raising at least €210 for one of 50+ partnering charities including WWF, American Cancer Society, Make-A-Wish UK, and many others.

Corporate Packages: Companies can register teams of employees, with over 650 companies and 18,000 employees participating in recent editions.

Tour Package Guarantees: Several travel companies offer guaranteed entry packages that include accommodation, race entry, and additional services for international runners.

What’s Included in Your Entry

• Race bib with your name/nickname and nationality flag
• Timing chip and live race tracking
• Finisher t-shirt and medal
• Runner bag and completion diploma
• Access to training plans and race day pacers
• Refreshment stations every 5km
• Bag storage facilities (bags must not exceed 45x36x20 cm)

Training for Paris: What You Need to Know

Course-Specific Training Tips

The Paris Marathon’s varied terrain requires specific preparation. While much of the course is relatively flat, the sections through the Bois de Vincennes include rolling hills that can be challenging if you’re not prepared.

Hill Training: Incorporate regular hill repeats and longer hill runs into your training. Focus on maintaining effort rather than pace when climbing, and practice efficient downhill running technique.

City Running Preparation: Practice running on hard surfaces like concrete and asphalt. The urban environment means you’ll be running on unforgiving surfaces for the entire distance.

Crowd Management: With 60,000+ runners, the start can be congested. Practice running in groups and be comfortable with close proximity to other runners.

Weather Considerations

April in Paris typically offers mild spring weather, with temperatures ranging from 8-15°C (46-59°F). However, conditions can vary, so prepare for potential rain and wind. The course includes several tunnels and areas where wind can be a factor, particularly along the Seine.

Race Week: Practical Information

Expo and Bib Collection

Location: Parc des Expositions Porte de Versailles, Hall 1
Dates: Thursday, April 9 to Saturday, April 11, 2026
Important: You must collect your bib in person – no one may pick it up on your behalf

The Paris “Run Experience” expo is one of the largest running expos in Europe, featuring fitness brands, nutrition companies, and extensive customer support. It’s worth visiting even beyond bib collection for the experience and shopping opportunities.

Race Day Logistics

Start Time: Staggered starts based on predicted finish time
Time Limit: 6 hours
Minimum Age: Must be born in 2008 or earlier
Medical Requirements: No medical certificate required for foreign participants in 2026

Support and Amenities

• Refreshment stations every 5km with water, sports drinks, bananas, and pretzels
• Opportunity to refill personal bottles at aid stations
• Extra aid stations added in the second half of the course
• Restrooms available at start, finish, and along the course
• Live music bands positioned strategically throughout the route
• Pacers available for various time goals

Travel and Accommodation

Visa Requirements

Citizens of the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and many other countries do not need a visa for stays under 90 days. However, always check current requirements based on your nationality before traveling.

Travel Insurance

Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers you for sporting activities in France. This is particularly important if you’re traveling from outside the EU.

Getting to the Start

The race starts near the Arc de Triomphe, easily accessible by Paris metro. Plan to arrive early as the area becomes very crowded on race morning. Many hotels offer early breakfast services for marathon participants.

Spectator Information

With 250,000 spectators annually, the Paris Marathon offers excellent viewing opportunities for friends and family. Key spectator spots include:

• Champs-Élysées: Perfect for start line photos and early race viewing
• Place de la Bastille: Around kilometer 10, great for signs and cheering
• Notre-Dame area: Scenic viewing around kilometer 20-25
• Eiffel Tower vicinity: Iconic photo opportunities around kilometer 30
• Finish area: Place de l’Étoile for the triumphant finish

The Paris metro system makes it relatively easy for spectators to move between different viewing points throughout the race.

Making the Most of Your Paris Marathon Experience

Extend Your Stay

Many participants use the marathon as an opportunity for a longer Paris vacation. Popular post-race activities include:

• Champagne region tours (particularly popular the day after the marathon)
• Revisiting landmarks from the course for proper sightseeing
• Exploring neighborhoods not covered by the marathon route
• Celebrating at traditional Parisian restaurants

Recovery and Celebration

Paris offers excellent recovery options, from traditional baths houses to modern sports recovery centers. Many restaurants offer special post-marathon menus for hungry finishers.

Technology and Race Tracking

The Paris Marathon utilizes advanced timing technology with live tracking available through the official race app. This allows friends and family to follow your progress throughout the race and provides accurate split times at various points along the course.

For runners who want to track their races in detail, consider using platforms like RunningLog to track your result, to record your marathon experience with detailed splits and race analysis.

Final Tips for Success

Training

• Start your specific Paris Marathon training at least 16-20 weeks before race day
• Include hill training to prepare for the Bois de Vincennes section
• Practice nutrition and hydration strategies during long runs
• Get comfortable running in crowds and varying paces

Race Day Strategy

• Start conservatively – the excitement and crowds can lead to going out too fast
• Save energy for the rolling hills in the middle section
• Use the crowd energy to boost your spirits during tough moments
• Take time to enjoy the landmarks – this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many

Cultural Considerations

• Learn basic French phrases – locals appreciate the effort
• Understand that Parisians take their running seriously – respect the competitive atmosphere
• Be prepared for different race organization styles compared to other international marathons

Post-Race: Recording Your Achievement

After completing one of the world’s most beautiful marathons, make sure to properly record your achievement. Your finisher’s medal and diploma are just the beginning – document your splits, record your experience, and analyze your performance to help with future racing goals.

The Paris Marathon often serves as a gateway to the World Marathon Majors series, and many runners use this experience as motivation to tackle other major international marathons.

Conclusion: Why Paris Marathon 2026 Should Be Your Next Goal

The 2026 Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris represents more than just a race – it’s a cultural experience, a personal challenge, and an opportunity to be part of one of running’s greatest celebrations. From the moment you descend the Champs-Élysées to your triumphant finish at the Arc de Triomphe, every step offers something special.

With registration opening in April 2025, now is the time to start planning. Whether you choose to register individually, raise money for charity, or book through a tour package, securing your spot early is essential given the race’s popularity.

Remember that the Paris Marathon is as much about the journey as the destination. Use your training time to not only prepare physically but also to learn about the city, plan your race strategy, and build excitement for what promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Mark your calendars: Registration opens April 22, 2025. Race day: Sunday, April 12, 2026.

Start training, start dreaming, and get ready to run through the world’s most beautiful marathon course. Paris is waiting for you.

Planning to run Paris Marathon 2026? Track your training progress and race performance with detailed analytics to make the most of your marathon journey. Good luck with your preparation!