Race guide
Dublin Marathon Guide
The Dublin Marathon is a rolling city road marathon held in October, known for friendly crowds and an honest, undulating course. The middle of the race includes a gradual climb that demands restraint. Mild autumn weather generally helps; effort-based pacing on the rises, rather than rigid even splits, is what runs Dublin well.
- Location
- Dublin, Ireland
- Distance
- Marathon (42.2 km / 26.2 mi)
Typical conditions
Held in October. Cool to mild (8–14°C) and sometimes wet or breezy. Typical of Irish autumn — variable but rarely extreme.
Course & elevation
- Rolling through the city and its parks, with a notable gradual climb around the middle of the race.
- A net-downhill final third that lets you build pace if you held back earlier.
- Strong, warm crowd support throughout.
Pacing strategy
- Hold back on the mid-race climb; it is gradual but long enough to punish an aggressive effort.
- Use the downhill final third to build momentum into the finish.
- Pace by effort on the undulations rather than forcing even splits.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Dublin Marathon hilly?
It is rolling, with a notable gradual climb in the middle of the race. It is an honest course rather than a flat one.
How should I pace the Dublin Marathon?
Pace the mid-race climb by effort, hold back early, and use the net-downhill final third to build toward the finish.
When is the Dublin Marathon?
October, with cool, sometimes wet or breezy weather typical of Irish autumn.
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