History and passion intertwine in this Mediterranean jewel
The Barcelona Marathon, which was first held in 1990, continues to attract runners from all over the world in Barcelona, a city where history and modernity blend together.
Barcelona established itself as a sports city when it hosted the Barcelona Olympics in 1992. Amid this enthusiastic sports culture, the Barcelona Marathon has grown into a special event that brings together citizens and runners.
A tour of Gaudi architecture and historical buildings
The greatest attraction of the Barcelona Marathon is the course. The course runs through Barcelona’s iconic sites, including Gaudi architecture such as Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlló, the Gothic Quarter, and the beaches, giving you the feeling of touring the city’s tourist attractions. The exhilaration of running while looking out over the Mediterranean Sea is also exceptional.
Course Overview
・Starting point： The starting point of the Barcelona Marathon is in front of the National Art Museum of Catalonia. The runners are excited for the race in the majestic atmosphere surrounded by historical buildings in the heart of Barcelona’s art scene.
・Start to 5km： From the National Art Museum of Catalonia, pass through the Gothic Quarter. You can feel the history as you run through the streets with a medieval atmosphere.
・5km to 10km： Pass through the Gothic Quarter and head to Avenida Marítima, which opens up to the sea. You can enjoy a pleasant run while looking at the blue sky and gentle waves of the Mediterranean Sea.
・10km to 15km： Run along the seaside and pass the Barcelona Olympic Stadium. This is a moment where you can relive the excitement of 1992.
・15km to 20km： Leave the stadium and head to Sagrada Familia. You will be overwhelmed by the grand scale of Gaudi’s masterpiece as you see it up close.
・20km to 25km：Move away from Sagrada Familia and pass through residential areas. You can enjoy a quiet run while getting a glimpse of the local people’s lives.
・25km to 30km：Start climbing Montjuic Hill. It’s a bit of a steep hill, but at the top you will be rewarded with a spectacular view of Barcelona city.
・30km to 35km：Descend Montjuic Hill and return to the city. You will pass Camp Nou (FC Barcelona’s home stadium) and will definitely be excited if you are a soccer fan!
・35km to 40km：The road from Camp Nou to the finish line is relatively flat. You will aim for the finish line while receiving cheers from the roadside.
・40km to the finish：The finish is in front of the National Art Museum of Catalonia. Return to the starting point and reach the exciting finish line.
・Finish Point：In front of the National Art Museum of Catalonia
The finish is in front of the National Art Museum of Catalonia, just like the starting point. Receive your completion medal and feel a sense of accomplishment.
Elevation and temperature
The Barcelona Marathon course is generally flat, but there is a section where you have to climb Montjuic Hill.
The temperature is relatively warm because it is held in March, but it can rise during the day, so you need to be careful about what you wear.
Comments from participants
“It was great to be able to run while looking at Gaudi’s architecture up close!”
“The Mediterranean scenery was really beautiful and helped me forget my fatigue.”
“The cheers from the sidelines gave me strength. I’m really grateful.”
“It was great to be able to experience the tourist atmosphere while running through the streets of Barcelona.”
Strategy
The key to conquering the Barcelona Marathon is to take advantage of the flat and fast course. Get into a good rhythm from the start and maintain your pace throughout the race. Use the excitement of the crowds and the energy from the city’s famous landmarks to push you forward, especially in the later stages. The weather is often suitable for running, so you’ll be able to perform to the best of your ability.
The Barcelona Marathon is a 42.195km journey that will thrill all your senses. Run through a city filled with enthusiastic cheers with runners from all over the world, and experience the greatest thrill and sense of accomplishment of your life.
2025 Barcelona Marathon Summary
・Date and time: March 16, 2025
・Number of finishers: –
・Average time: –
MEN
1: Tesfaye Deriba Ketema: 2:04:13
2: Cornelius Kibet Kiplagat: 2:04:54
3: Enock Onchari: 2:05:20
4: Victor Kipchirchir: 2:05:43
5: Moses Kibet: 2:06:07
6: Mekuant Ayenew Gebre: 2:06:18
7: Samwel Nyamai Mailu: 2:06:47
8: Moses Kemei: 2:06:48
9: Hamid Ben Daoud Ben Akki: 2:06:49
10: Kassahun Hailu Dinku: 2:07:13
WOMEN
1: Sharon Chelimo Arushio: 2:19:33
2: Yebrgual Melese Arage: 2:20:47
3: Linet Masai: 2:21:01
4: Aynalem Desta Gebre: 2:22:11
5: Mekdes Woldu: 2:23:13
6: Selly Chepyego Kaptich: 2:23:40
7: Gojjam Tsegaye Enyew: 2:24:02
8: Viola Chepngeno: 2:26:05
9: Ayinadis Teshome Birle: 2:28:11
10: Zerfie Limeneh Tesema: 2:31:40
2026 Barcelona Marathon
Run through Barcelona and surpass yourself. 42.195km will unleash a new you
・Location: Plaça d’Espanya
・Date and time: March 15, 2026
・Start time: 8:30am
Welcome to Barcelona, a city full of art and vibrancy nestled in the Mediterranean sea!
Gaudi’s fantastic architecture, the historic old town, and the beautiful Mediterranean beaches. Barcelona is a city like no other, where art, history, and nature are exquisitely combined.
Barcelona’s charm is in the Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, Park Güell, and other unique architectures by Antonio Gaudi scattered throughout the city, giving you a fantastical experience that makes you feel like you’re in a dream.
Stroll through the maze-like alleys of the Gothic Quarter and visit Roman ruins. The cityscape where history and modernity coexist will fascinate you. On the other hand, strolling along Las Ramblas, experiencing the bustle of the local market, and the vibrant city of Barcelona will rejuvenate you.
At Barcelona Beach, you can relax in the sun, enjoy the classic Spanish dishes such as tapas and paella, as well as fresh seafood, and the beautiful Mediterranean scenery and delicious food will satisfy your five senses.
There are many world-famous art museums in the city, such as the Picasso Museum and the Miro Museum, where you can experience art and get inspired.
Barcelona is a city where everyone can discover different charms. Whether you want to be moved by art, enjoy historical exploration, or enjoy fine cuisine, you will surely be satisfied.
So why not take a trip to Barcelona yourself? Unforgettable memories await you.
