Run on a fast course, make history. Rotterdam, a 42.195km challenge
The Rotterdam Marathon is the largest marathon in the Netherlands, beloved by runners aiming for a personal best due to its flat and fast course. Held annually in April, it starts in front of Rotterdam City Hall, circles through Rotterdam, Europe’s largest port city, and returns to the City Hall.
As you cross the Erasmus Bridge, a magnificent view unfolds, and the enthusiastic cheers of the spectators filling the roadside give the runners a powerful push.
The entire city welcomes the runners, and an unforgettable feeling of excitement and accomplishment awaits.
Rotterdam Marathon: A 42.195km journey to set a personal record on a flat course
The Rotterdam Marathon is not just a race. It is an unforgettable challenge through Rotterdam, where modern architecture and history converge. Push your limits and write your story with runners from all over the world on this flat and fast course.
Course Overview
Starting Point
The challenging journey begins on Coolsingel street in front of Rotterdam City Hall (Stadhuis). With the historic City Hall behind them, Coolsingel is filled with excitement, and runners waiting for the start are greeted by the sight of modern skyscrapers and a vibrant city. From this flat starting point, the anticipation of achieving a personal best builds.
Sights along the way
The Rotterdam Marathon course captivates runners with its flatness and the enthusiastic support along the route.
・Early stages：Heading south from Coolsingel, you will cross the iconic Erasmus Bridge (Erasmusbrug) over the Maas River. The view from this beautiful bridge is breathtaking, allowing runners to enjoy Rotterdam’s magnificent skyline. After crossing the bridge, you’ll be on the south bank of the Maas River. This section is relatively flat and surrounded by enthusiastic roadside support.
・Mid-course：The course winds through the expansive Rotterdam Port area. As Europe’s largest port, it offers dynamic port scenery and many modern architectural structures, keeping the visuals engaging. This urban course has almost no elevation changes, making it easy for runners to maintain a consistent pace, which is ideal for achieving fast times.
・Late stages：You will cross the Erasmus Bridge again, returning to the north bank of the Maas River. Even in this final section heading towards the city center, the cheers from the spectators along the route are continuous. As you return to Coolsingel, the finish line is just ahead.
Finish point
Finish in front of Rotterdam City Hall on Coolsingel street, the same as the starting point! The sense of accomplishment of completing a flat, fast course and the countless cheers waiting for you at the finish line will be the best memories.
Elevation difference and climate
・Elevation difference：The entire course is very flat, with an elevation gain of approximately 41m and a cumulative elevation descent of approximately 40m. The highest point is 11m and the lowest point is 0m, with minimal elevation changes. There are almost no significant ascents or descents, making it known as a course suitable for fast races.
・Weather：In April, when the race is held, Rotterdam typically experiences cool and often ideal weather conditions for running. Average temperatures range from 8-13°C, but on sunny days, they can rise to 15-17°C. If the wind is gentle, a personal best can be expected.
Participants’ comments
・”I was able to set a new personal best on this incredibly flat course!”
・”The support from the sidelines was simply incredible! It felt like the entire city of Rotterdam was cheering me on.”
・”The view from the Erasmus Bridge was truly beautiful.”
・”It felt like a never-ending party. I could feel the energy of the city.”
・”Unlike many other major city marathons, this one has a fantastic vibe to it, everything about it was superb.”
・”Although the wind was strong, I was able to run all the way to the end thanks to the support from the spectators.”
Strategy
The key to conquering the Rotterdam Marathon is to maximize its flat course with precise pacing. While feeling exhilarated by the view from the Erasmus Bridge in the early stages, maintain a steady pace without rushing. Since there are almost no elevation changes, it is important to continue running tenaciously without slowing down from the mid-point to the end. The weather is often suitable for running, but also consider the presence of wind, and maintaining concentration until the end will be the path to a personal best.
The Rotterdam Marathon is the perfect stage to aim for a personal record on a fast course and experience a sense of accomplishment amidst enthusiastic support. Wouldn’t you like to run through the modern city of Rotterdam with runners from all over the world and experience the greatest thrill and challenge of your life?
2025 Rotterdam Marathon Summary
・Date: April 13, 2025
・Number of finishers: –
・Average finish time: –
MEN
1:Abdi Nageeye:2:04:45
2:Amedework Walelegn:2:04:50
3:Birhanu Legese:2:05:16
4:Kenneth Kipkemoi:2:05:43
5:Enock Onchari:2:06:07
6:Lameck Too:2:06:29
7:Godadaw Belachew:2:07:45
8:Ghirmay Ghebreslassie:2:09:13
9:Nekagenet Crippa:2:09:41
10:Stan Niesten:2:10:10
WOMEN
1:Ashete Bekere:2:19:30
2:Viola Kibiwot:2:20:57
3:Selly Chepyego Kaptich:2:22:46
4:Emily Chebet:2:24:49
5:Pascalia Jepkogei:2:24:56
6:Thalia Valdivia:2:25:23
7:Sisay Meseret Gola:2:25:27
8:Maor Tiyouri:2:26:39
9:Zhanna Mamazhanova:2:26:42
10:Sakiho Tsutsui:2:26:51
2026 Rotterdam Marathon
Conquer the fast course and set new records. 42.195km will unleash your potential
・Location: Rotterdam
・Date: April 12, 2026
・Start time: 10:00 AM
Rotterdam: A city building the future, daily life defined by innovation
Rotterdam, a truly “city of the future,” constantly evolving. After suffering devastating damage in World War II, it was rebuilt with bold and innovative architecture, forming a unique skyline that sets it apart from other Dutch cities. The magnificent Erasmus Bridge, the eye-catching Cube Houses, and unique structures like the Markthal instantly captivate visitors, and its creative, energetic pulse is unforgettable once you step foot in the city.
The Port of Rotterdam, one of the world’s leading trade ports, is the heart that sustains this city’s economy and vitality. State-of-the-art logistics facilities line the vast port area, creating a dynamic landscape. Throughout the city, spaces where historical buildings merge with contemporary design are scattered, where old and new coexist in harmony.
Rotterdam, a melting pot of diverse cultures, is also known as a highly international city. People of various nationalities live here, cuisines from all over the world line the streets, and museums and galleries are always showcasing cutting-edge art. From vibrant street art to a lively nightlife, there is endless discovery and excitement to be had.
Filled with creative energy and infinite possibilities, Rotterdam is a city that constantly pursues change and innovation. This special city, which reveals a new face every time you visit, 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.
