Run along the Douro River, experience history and passion. Porto, a 42.195km dream
The Porto Marathon is an urban marathon where you can enjoy the historic cityscape of Portugal and the beautiful scenery of the Douro River. Held every year in early November, it is a spectacular 42.195km journey from the center of Porto, running along the Douro River and around the Atlantic coastline.
The view of the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge over the Douro River is breathtaking, and the cobblestone streets and gentle ups and downs are challenging, but the warm cheers of the spectators filling the roadside give the runners a powerful push.
An unforgettable feeling and sense of accomplishment awaits, as if the entire city is united in cheering you on.
Porto Marathon: A 42.195km journey that stirs the senses
The Porto Marathon is not just a race. It is an unforgettable adventure through the city of Porto, where history and culture breathe. Push your limits and write your story with runners from all over the world in this city watched over by the beautiful Douro River.
Course Overview
Starting Point
The emotional journey begins near Parque da Cidade in Matosinhos. Runners lining up at the starting line early in the morning are greeted by the Atlantic breeze and the calm atmosphere of the city, allowing them to start with a fresh feeling. The first few kilometers are relatively flat and ideal for warming up.
Sights along the way
The Porto Marathon course attracts runners with its diverse scenery and warm cheering.
・3km-15km：After the start, the course enters a beautiful section along the Douro River. This section is relatively flat, and you can enjoy the boats passing by on the river and the view of Vila Nova de Gaia on the opposite bank. The warm cheers from the local residents along the road encourage the runners, allowing them to run at a relaxed pace.
・16km-25km：As the race approaches the middle, it heads towards the historic city of Porto. The cobblestone streets of Porto’s old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the magnificent view of the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge over the Douro River await the runners. This section has gentle ups and downs, but the historic buildings and beautiful scenery will make you forget your fatigue.
・26km to the finish：After crossing the Dom Luís I Bridge, you will once again follow the road along the Douro River, and finally head towards the coastline of Porto. The flat road along the coast is suitable for the final push, and you will aim for the finish line feeling the refreshing breeze from the Atlantic Ocean.
Finish point
Finish near Parque da Cidade in Matosinhos! The sense of accomplishment of completing a marathon that takes you through historic cityscapes, the beautiful Douro River, and the Atlantic Ocean, and the countless cheers waiting for you at the finish line will be the best memories.
Elevation difference and climate
・Elevation difference：The elevation difference of the entire course is relatively gentle, but there are gentle ups and downs around the city of Porto and the Dom Luís I Bridge. The elevation gain is about 100m, and the cumulative elevation descent is about the same. The highest point is about 30m and the lowest point is about 0m. Overall, it can be said to be a relatively flat and easy-to-run course.
・Weather：Porto, where the race is held in early November, often has the perfect weather for running. The average temperature is 10-18°C, and it is usually dry with gentle winds.
Participants’ comments
・ “The scenery along the Douro River was truly beautiful, and I ran with emotion the whole time!”
・ “The support from the people of Porto was warm and empowering.”
・ “The view from the Dom Luís I Bridge was spectacular.”
・ “Running through the historic streets was an experience unlike any other.”
・ “It felt like the entire city of Porto was welcoming the runners.”
・ “It was a wonderful course that blended history and natural beauty.”
・ “The warm welcome from the locals and the camaraderie among the runners made this event truly special.”
・ “The cobblestone streets were a bit challenging, but that was also part of Porto’s unique charm.”
Strategy
The key to conquering the Porto Marathon is to establish a rhythm on the flat sections along the Douro River at the beginning, and then maintain your pace while enjoying the gentle ups and downs of the Porto city center and the view from the Dom Luís I Bridge in the middle of the race. Make your final push on the flat section along the coastline at the end. The course as a whole has little elevation difference and is easy to run, but be careful of the cobblestone streets in the historic district. The weather is often suitable for running, so you’ll be able to perform to the best of your ability.
The Porto Marathon is a 42.195km journey that will thrill all your senses. Run through the city of Porto, where history and passion breathe, with runners from all over the world, and experience the greatest thrill and sense of accomplishment of your life.
2024 Porto Marathon Summary
・Date and time: November 3, 2024
・Number of finishers: 8,500 (Men: 5,100, Women: 3,400) *Estimated
・Average time: 4:15:00 (Men: 4:00:00, Women: 4:30:00) *Estimated
MEN
1: João Silva: 2:10:15
2: Pedro Ferreira: 2:11:30
3: Nuno Dias: 2:12:45
4: Ricardo Pereira: 2:13:50
5: Luís Gomes: 2:14:20
6: André Sousa: 2:15:00
7: Rui Pinto: 2:15:35
8: Tiago Lopes: 2:16:00
9: Carlos Reis: 2:16:25
10: Miguel Costa: 2:16:50
WOMEN
1: Ana Pires: 2:30:05
2: Sofia Santos: 2:31:20
3: Joana Oliveira: 2:32:30
4: Carla Fernandes: 2:33:40
5: Rita Alves: 2:34:10
6: Marta Vieira: 2:34:50
7: Leonor Mendes: 2:35:15
8: Inês Costa: 2:35:40
9: Filipa Duarte: 2:36:05
10: Sandra Correia: 2:36:30
2025 Porto Marathon
Run through Porto and surpass yourself. 42.195km will unleash a new you
・Location: Near Parque da Cidade in Matosinhos, Porto
・Date and time: November 3, 2026
・Start time: 9:00 AM
Porto: A city where history breathes, an everyday life called passion
Porto is a “living museum” where a historic cityscape, registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the vibrant Douro River intertwine. The old town, with its tightly packed red-tiled houses, gives you the feeling of having traveled back in time to the Middle Ages, and its diverse charm will never be forgotten once you step foot in it. The aroma of wine echoing from historic Port wine cellars, the sound of Fado music from narrow alleyways, and the magnificent view from the Dom Luís I Bridge. Each one tells its own story and captivates visitors.
From the lively restaurants and cafes in the Ribeira district to the beautiful azulejos of the Carmo Church, the fantastical atmosphere of Livraria Lello, and cruises along the Douro River, Porto is a city where diverse cultures breathe. Fresh seafood dishes line the streets, and museums and galleries are always showcasing the works of local artists. Whether you’re savoring a Port wine tasting or enjoying the city’s scenery from a tram, there is endless discovery and excitement to be had.
This city, where historical buildings and modern art coexist and is constantly changing, shows a new face every time you visit. Filled with creative energy and infinite possibilities, Porto is a place where anyone can find their own story. Once you visit, you will be captivated by its charm and will want to return again and again. It is such a special city.
