Race guide
Paris Marathon Guide
The Paris Marathon is a scenic, mostly flat road marathon held in April that tours the city’s landmarks. It is fast overall, with a few gentle rises and short cobbled and tunnel sections that interrupt rhythm. Cool spring conditions favour strong times; even pacing and care on the surface changes are the keys.
- Location
- Paris, France
- Distance
- Marathon (42.2 km / 26.2 mi)
Typical conditions
Held in April. Usually cool (8–15°C), sometimes warming through the morning. Good racing weather most years, but warm years happen.
Course & elevation
- Mostly flat with a few gentle rises, starting and finishing near the Champs-Elysees and Arc de Triomphe.
- Short cobbled stretches and a couple of tunnels can briefly disrupt footing and pace — and GPS in the tunnels.
- Long park sections in the second half (Bois de Vincennes and Bois de Boulogne) where focus can wander.
Pacing strategy
- Run even splits; the gentle rises are minor but add up if you ignore them.
- Take care on cobbles and watch for GPS drift in the tunnels — pace by feel there.
- Stay focused through the quieter park sections in the back half where the crowd thins.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Paris Marathon flat?
It is mostly flat with a few gentle rises and some cobbled and tunnel sections that briefly affect rhythm. It is a fast course overall.
When is the Paris Marathon?
April, usually cool in the morning and warming later — good racing weather in most years.
Do the tunnels affect GPS at the Paris Marathon?
Yes, GPS can drift in the tunnels. Pace by feel through them rather than reacting to a jumpy watch.
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