Run through the ancient city where history and culture breathe, and shake your senses. Vienna, a 42.195km dream
The Vienna City Marathon is one of Europe’s leading urban marathons, held in the historic city of Vienna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Held every April, it is a spectacular 42.195km journey starting from the Imperial Bridge in Prater Park, and passing through Vienna’s magnificent architecture and historical landmarks such as the Vienna State Opera and Schönbrunn Palace.
The start from the Reichsbrücke over the Danube is spectacular, and the beautiful tree-lined streets and historic buildings of Vienna are challenging, but the endless 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.
Vienna City Marathon: A 42.195km journey that stirs the senses
The Vienna City Marathon is not just a race. It is an unforgettable adventure through beautiful and historic Vienna, which still conveys the splendor of the Habsburg dynasty. Push your limits and write your story with runners from all over the world on the banks of the Danube.
Course Overview
Starting Point
The emotional journey begins at the Reichsbrücke over the Danube River. Runners lining up at the starting line of the bridge early in the morning are treated to breathtaking views of the vast Danube River, the modern skyline of Vienna, and the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace in the distance. The first few kilometers are a gentle downhill, but the excitement of running across this iconic bridge will lift your spirits.
Sights along the way
The Vienna City Marathon course attracts runners with its diverse scenery and enthusiastic cheering.
・1-5 miles：After descending the Reichsbrücke, you will enter the beautiful tree-lined streets of Prater Park. This relatively flat section is surrounded by warm cheers from spectators, allowing for a comfortable start. The “Giant Ferris Wheel of Prater,” the world’s oldest Ferris wheel, can also be seen nearby.
・6-15 miles：Run along the Danube River and head towards the center of Vienna, passing landmarks such as the Vienna State Opera and the Secession Building. This section is lined with historic buildings, giving you the feeling of running through a museum. The enthusiastic cheers of the spectators along the road will help you keep up your pace.
・16-22 miles：As you approach the middle of the race, you will pass by the magnificent gardens of Schönbrunn Palace. The vast grounds and beautiful palace provide visual enjoyment to runners and make them forget their fatigue. Afterwards, you will run through Vienna’s residential areas and return to the city center.
・23 miles to the finish：At the end of the race, you will run through even more historic buildings, such as the University of Vienna and the City Hall. And then, finally, you will enter the Ringstrasse in front of the Vienna State Opera. The finish line is right in front of you.
Finish point
Finish in front of the magnificent Vienna State Opera! The sense of accomplishment of completing a historic city marathon 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 about 100m in elevation gain and about 100m in cumulative elevation descent. The highest point is 178m and the lowest point is 156m. Vienna is relatively flat, but the bridges over the Danube and some gentle slopes are the undulations of the course.
・Weather：Vienna, where the race is held in late April, often has the perfect weather for running. The average temperature is 8-15°C, and it is usually sunny with gentle winds.
Participants’ comments
・ “It was a truly wonderful experience to run through the historic streets.”
・ “The support from the sidelines was warm and touching!”
・ “Running next to Schönbrunn Palace was a great memory.”
・ “The finish at the Vienna State Opera was like a movie.”
・ “It felt like the whole city was celebrating the marathon.”
・ “There’s no other marathon with such a beautiful course.”
・ “In Vienna, the city of music, it felt like I was running to music.”
・ “The beauty of the city and the warm cheers of the spectators guided me to the finish line.”
Strategy
The key to conquering the Vienna City Marathon is to get into rhythm on the flat section of Prater Park at the beginning, and maintain your pace while enjoying the historic buildings of Vienna. Refresh yourself with the magnificent view of Schönbrunn Palace, and prepare for the gentle ups and downs of the Ringstrasse towards the end. The course is relatively flat overall, but pacing is important on the bridges and some gentle slopes. The weather is often suitable for running, so you’ll be able to perform to the best of your ability.
Vienna City Marathon is a 42.195km journey that will thrill all your senses. Run through a city where history and culture breathe with runners from all over the world, and experience the greatest thrill and sense of accomplishment of your life.
2025 Vienna City Summary
・Date and time: April 6, 2025
・Number of finishers: 9,284 (Men: 6,907, Women: 2,364, Non-binary: 13)
・Average time: –
MEN
1: Haftamu Abadi: 2:08:28
2: Mica Cheserek: 2:10:23
3: Mogos Tuemay: 2:10:33
4: Asbel Rutto: 2:11:37
5: Edward Koonyo: 2:12:29
6: Geoffrey Kimutai Koech: 2:12:31
7: Justus Kangogo: 2:13:25
8: Felix Kurui: 2:14:36
9: Andreas Vojta: 2:15:01
10: Andrew Davies: 2:17:39
WOMEN
1: Betty Chepkemoi: 2:24:14
2: Rebbeca Tanui: 2:25:18
3: Catherine Cherotich: 2:25:45
4: Fabienne Königstein: 2:28:49
5: Faith Chepkoech: 2:30:00
6: Nora Szabo: 2:30:31
7: Risper Chebet: 2:32:39
8: Eva Wutti: 2:37:43
9: Noreen Kimutai: 2:39:51
10: Rutendo Nyahora: 2:41:44
2026 Vienna City Marathon
Run through Vienna and surpass yourself. 42.195km will unleash a new you
・Location: Prater Park (Start at Reichsbrücke)
・Date and time: April 12, 2026
・Start time: 9:00 AM
Vienna: City of Music and Art, a daily life called elegance
Vienna is truly the “City of Music,” still conveying the splendor of the Habsburg dynasty. The beautiful cityscape woven by magnificent palaces and historic buildings instantly captures the hearts of visitors, and its elegance and culturally rich atmosphere are unforgettable once you set foot in the city. The vast gardens of Schönbrunn Palace, the echoing opera melodies of the Vienna State Opera, and the solemn presence of St. Stephen’s Cathedral bring the weight of history. Each tells its own story and fascinates visitors.
From the sophisticated boutiques of Kärntner Straße and Graben to the lively Naschmarkt, and the historic cafes where Vienna’s cafe culture thrives, Vienna is a melting pot of art where diverse cultures breathe. Cuisines from all over the world line the streets, and museums and galleries are always showcasing art from classical to contemporary. Whether you’re listening to classical concerts at the Konzerthaus or strolling along the Danube River to watch a breathtaking sunset, there is endless discovery and excitement to be had.
This city, where historical buildings and contemporary art coexist and is constantly changing, shows a new face every time you visit. Filled with creative energy and infinite possibilities, Vienna 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.
