Running through the City of Light, touching history and culture. Paris, 42.195km of emotion
The Paris Marathon is one of the world’s largest urban marathons, running through beautiful cityscapes dotted with World Heritage sites. Held every spring, it’s a spectacular 42.195km journey starting from the Champs-Élysées and touring major tourist attractions in Paris.
The start from the Arc de Triomphe is breathtaking, and the beautiful scenery along the Seine River and the greenery of the Bois de Boulogne enchant runners. The continuous cheers of spectators lining the course strongly encourage runners.
An unforgettable feeling and sense of accomplishment await, as if the whole city is united in supporting you.
Paris Marathon: A 42.195km journey through history and culture
The Paris Marathon is more than just a race. It’s an unforgettable adventure through Paris’s iconic landmarks. Push your limits and write your story with runners from all over the world in the City of Light.
Course Overview
Starting Point
The inspiring journey begins on the Champs-Élysées, with the Arc de Triomphe behind you. Early in the morning, runners lining up at the starting line are treated to a magnificent view of the Champs-Élysées, one of the most beautiful avenues in the world. Running past the Opéra and the Louvre Museum, the historical buildings and grand cityscape of Paris will lift your spirits.
Sights along the way
The Paris Marathon course will captivate runners with its diverse scenery and enthusiastic cheering.
・Early stages：From the Champs-Élysées, you’ll pass through Place de la Concorde and the Louvre Museum before heading towards the Hôtel de Ville (Paris City Hall). The exhilarating feeling of running among historical buildings is exceptional.
・Middle stages：Run along the Seine River, catching glimpses of Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower. The experience of running so close to the Eiffel Tower is a unique highlight of the Paris Marathon. This section is relatively flat and easy to run, and crossing beautiful bridges throughout allows you to feel the diverse facets of Paris.
・Later stages：Enter the Bois de Boulogne, running through lush natural scenery. This is a rare section that allows you to enjoy a forest bath despite being an urban marathon. The undulations in the forest are challenging, but the light filtering through the trees and the tranquility enhance runners’ concentration. After exiting the forest, you return to the city center and head towards the finish.
Finish point
Finish on Avenue Foch, near the Arc de Triomphe! The sense of accomplishment of running through the beautiful streets of Paris and completing one of the world’s leading urban marathons, along with the countless cheers that await you at the finish line, will be your best memories.
Elevation difference and climate
・Elevation difference：The overall elevation difference of the course is relatively small, with an elevation gain of approximately 230m and a cumulative elevation descent of approximately 230m. The highest point is 74m and the lowest point is 27m. While there are some undulations in the Bois de Boulogne, the course is generally known for being flat and easy to run.
・Weather：The weather in early April in Paris, when the event is held, is often ideal for running. The average temperature is 8-15°C, and it is usually mild, with occasional light rain.
Participant comments
・”It was truly like a dream to run through the beautiful scenery of Paris.”
・”I was so moved to run so close to the Eiffel Tower.”
・”The support from the spectators along the course was enthusiastic and constantly encouraged me.”
・”The experience of running among historical buildings was unforgettable.”
・”The greenery of the Bois de Boulogne made me forget the hustle and bustle of the city.”
The Paris Marathon is a 42.195km journey where history and culture breathe. Run through the beautiful city of Paris with runners from all over the world, and experience the greatest excitement and sense of accomplishment of your life!
2025 Paris Marathon Summary
・Date and time: April 13, 2025
・Number of finishers: 55,494 (men: 38,961, women: 16,532, non-binary: 1)
・Average finisher time: –
MEN
1:Biwott Benard:2:05:25
2:Hassan Ibrahim:2:06:13
3:Kiptoo Sila:2:06:21
4:Kinyamal Enock:2:06:32
5:Ngeno Dominic:2:06:37
6:Ayele Dinkalem:2:07:54
7:Ayama Tsedat:2:08:19
8:Kibichy Edwin:2:08:29
9:Kibet Timothy:2:08:38
10:Zewdu Hailu:2:09:03
WOMEN
1:Hirpa Bedatu:2:20:45
2:Dida Dera:2:20:49
3:Tanui Angela:2:21:07
4:Shauri Magdalena:2:21:31
5:Baze Kasanesh:2:24:35
6:Ruguru Janet:2:24:36
7:Alema Kidsan:2:25:22
8:Jeptum Judit:2:25:30
9:Keino Agnes:2:26:09
10:Alemtsehay Zerihun:2:27:39
2026 Paris Marathon
Run through Paris and surpass yourself. The 42.195km will unleash a new you
・Location：Champs-Élysées (near Arc de Triomphe)
・Date and time：April 14, 2026
・Start time：8:00 a.m.
Paris: Where history breathes, daily life is called beauty
Paris, truly the “City of Light,” where art and history from around the world intertwine. The overwhelming skyline created by the Eiffel Tower instantly captivates visitors, and its elegance and culturally rich atmosphere are unforgettable once you set foot in the city. The glamour of the Champs-Élysées, the whispers of history echoing from the Louvre Museum, and the urban tranquility provided by the Seine River. Each tells its own story and captivates visitors.
From the cobblestone alleys of the Marais district to the literary atmosphere of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the artistic heights of Montmartre, and the lively student district of the Latin Quarter, Paris is a melting pot where diverse cultures breathe. Cuisines from all over the world line the streets, and museums and galleries are always showcasing cutting-edge art. Whether you’re savoring an espresso at a café or taking a Seine River cruise to watch a breathtaking sunset, there are endless discoveries and excitements to be had.
Historical buildings and cutting-edge fashion coexist in this ever-changing city, which shows you a new side every time you visit. Filled with creative energy and possessing infinite beauty, Paris is a place where anyone can find their own story. Once you visit, you’ll be captivated by its charm and want to return again and again. It’s such a special city.
