Paris Marathon 2026: Explore the Full 42 km Route through Iconic Monuments
On Sunday April 12, 2026, Paris will host one of its major sporting events. The Paris Marathon 2026 will gather about 60,000 runners from around the world.
Route highlights
The race begins on the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, beneath the Arc de Triomphe. Runners will immediately encounter Parisian cobblestones and a charged atmosphere.
The course passes Place de la Concorde, Opéra Garnier and Rue de Rivoli. It continues to Bastille, Place de la Nation and Rue de Picpus.
- Avenue Daumesnil toward Bois de Vincennes.
- Château de Vincennes as an early landmark.
- Return at kilometer 25 along the quays of the Seine.
- Spectacular views of Grand Palais, Les Invalides and the Eiffel Tower.
- Pont du Garigliano as a key stage.
- Crossing the Bois de Boulogne before the final urban section.
- Trocadéro then the finish on Avenue Foch.
The course echoes the previous year while retaining its charm. The route invites runners to experience the full 42 km route amid iconic monuments.
Elevation and race strategy
The route is not flat. Runners will face 292 metres of climbs and 289 metres of descents across 42 kilometres.
These elevation changes can affect pacing and effort. Climbs may feel harder late in the race and descents can stress joints.
Specific training on rolling terrain will help. Race strategy should factor in these variations.
Logistics, aid stations and start waves
Organizers provide 10 food refreshment points, roughly every five kilometres. Four additional water points will be available in the second half.
Starts are organized in waves by target times. The first wave for wheelchair athletes departs at 7:55 am.
The final wave for sub-4:30 goals will leave at 11:32. This staggered system helps manage the field.
International field and atmosphere
The event brings athletes from 145 nationalities. Organisers expect about 250,000 spectators along the route.
The crowds create a lively, galvanising environment for runners. Finishers receive the “Médaille qui régale”.
The medal grants special offers in Parisian establishments on race day and the following day. Filmogaz.com will continue to follow developments and share updates ahead of the event.
