The marathon that is attracting attention from around the world
The Berlin Marathon is one of the most famous marathons in the world, held in the German capital of Berlin.
With a flat course and a history of numerous world records, it is a coveted stage for runners around the world. The first race was held in 1974, during the East and West German era, and has now grown into a large-scale event with approximately 40,000 runners participating every year.
The course that runs through the city of Berlin passes through historical buildings and beautiful parks, providing runners with an unforgettable experience.
An urban run that combines history and speed!
The Berlin Marathon course is flat with only 20m of elevation difference, and is known as one of the flattest courses in the world. Thanks to this flat course, many world records have been set. Runners take on this stage with the aim of breaking their personal bests.
Course Overview
・0km to 5km： The 42.195km journey through Berlin begins at Großer Tiergarten, a park that is a place of relaxation for Berliners.Less than 1km into the run, runners are suddenly greeted by the Siegessäule (Victory Column), a tourist attraction in Berlin.
・5km to 10km：Tourist attractions such as the Reichstag and the Berlin TV Tower welcome runners.As you travel along the flat course while taking in the beautiful cityscape that gives a sense of the fusion of history and modernity, you will soon pass the 21km halfway point.
・10km to 21.1km：Runners feel the weight of history as they tour the remains of the Berlin Wall. And Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church welcomes runners as a symbol of peace.
・21.1km to 30km：Run through Berlin’s main street, Unter den Linden.The streets lined with historical buildings energize runners.
・30km to 42.195km：Run through Museum Island and the Brandenburg Gate, the finish line, comes into view.Aim for the finish line while receiving enthusiastic cheers from the roadside.
Participant comments
“Thanks to the flat course, I was able to improve my personal best!”
“I was deeply moved to be able to run while touring historical buildings.”
“My best memory was being able to interact with runners from all over the world.”
Strategy
The key to conquering the Berlin Marathon is to take full advantage of the flat course from the start by setting an aggressive but consistent pace. Unlike courses with major elevation changes, you can maintain your rhythm throughout the entire 42.195km. Focus on hitting even splits and conserve energy in the early and middle stages, knowing you can unleash your speed on the flat final 10 km, especially on the run-in toward the Brandenburg Gate. The favorable climate makes it a low-risk environment for weather-related issues, allowing you to focus purely on your performance.
The Berlin Marathon is a 42.195km journey dedicated to speed. Run through a city steeped in history, alongside runners from around the world, and seize your moment to run your fastest time.
2025 Berlin Marathon Summary
・Date and time: September 21, 2025
・Number of finishers: –
・Average time: –
MEN
1: Sabastian Sawe: 2:02:16
2: Akira Akasaki: 2:06:15
3: Chimdessa Debele: 2:06:57
4: Guye Adola: 2:07:11
5: Yuhei Urano: 2:07:35
6: Hassan Chahdi: 2:07:43
7: Shin Kimura: 2:08:37
8: Hendrik Pfeiffer: 2:09:14
9: Joseph Tiophil Panga: 2:09:35
10: Ahmed Ouhda: 2:10:39
WOMEN
1: Rosemary Wanjiru: 2:21:05
2: Dera Dida: 2:21:08
3: Azmera Gebru: 2:21:29
4: Viola Cheptoo: 2:21:40
5: Fantu Worku: 2:21:57
6: Fabienne Königstein: 2:22:17
7: Degitu Azimeraw: 2:23:02
8: Domenika Mayer: 2:23:16
9: Honami Maeda: 2:24:36
10: Mestawut Fikir: 2:24:52
2026 Berlin Marathon
Calling all runners out there, this 42.195km race is a chance to make history. Join fellow runners from around the world as you run on the fastest course, aiming for a personal best and an unforgettable experience.
・Location: Straße des 17. Juni (Start and Finish near the Brandenburg Gate)
・Date and time: September 27, 2026
・Start time: 9:15 a.m. (runners)
Berlin: a vibrant city where history and culture intersect
Berlin, a symbol of the Cold War, is now known as a global cultural city. Its charm lies in the unique atmosphere that combines history and modernity. The history of the Berlin Wall, which once divided the city, has now become the soil for creating new culture, and continues to attract creators and thinkers from all over the world.
The Berlin Wall is not just a historical relic. It is a symbol of division and unity, and a desire for peace. You can see and feel the contrast between the East and West, and feel the weight of history. It is also recommended to visit the Berlin Wall Museum and learn about the situation at that time through photos and videos.
Berlin, where diverse cultures blend together, has many art museums and galleries, where you can experience a wide range of art works from modern art to classical art. In addition, you can enjoy cuisine from all over the world at international restaurants, making you feel like you are traveling around the world.
Berlin’s nights are full of energy. Numerous clubs and bars line the streets, attracting young people from all over the world. Dance the night away to the latest music, interact with locals, and find your own Berlin night.
If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in nature, we recommend green spaces such as the Tigarten. In the vast green spaces, you can enjoy yoga, picnics, and socialize with locals in the prostor (prostol) squares.
Berlin’s food is diverse. You can taste local flavors such as currywurst and Berlin-style doner kebabs, or enjoy cuisine from all over the world. The Mitte district in particular is known as an area where restaurants from various countries gather.
Berlin is not just a tourist destination. It is a living city, constantly changing. Find your own story in this city where history and the future intersect.
