BMW Oslo Marathon
The Lowdown
The BMW Oslo Marathon is Norway’s flagship autumn road race with roots stretching back to the early 1980s; over four decades it has grown from a local city event into a major international marathon that attracts elite athletes, club runners and enthusiastic weekend racers. Held in mid-September, the 2026 race on 2026-09-12 with a 09:25 start continues a tradition of combining competitive racing with a celebration of Oslo’s urban and waterfront character. The event is organized with strong community support and sponsorship, and has established itself as an important fixture on the Scandinavian racing calendar. The course delivers a varied and scenic tour of Oslo: runners pass the modernist Oslo City Hall, loop along the picturesque Oslofjord seawall, cross through historic areas near Akershus Fortress, and run alongside green parklands like Frogner and the waterfront neighborhoods. The route is largely flat with a few gentle undulations, making it attractive for personal bests and qualifying attempts. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming — bands, local supporters and volunteer aid stations create a festive Scandinavian vibe, while excellent event logistics, clear signage and well-spaced aid stations provide a smooth race-day experience. The BMW Oslo Marathon is AIMS-certified and the course is recognized for official entry standards and record ratification; it is also accepted for Boston Marathon qualifying purposes. Whether chasing a fast time, enjoying a scenic urban run, or taking part in the social side of race weekend, participants can expect professional organization, strong community energy and memorable coastal city views. Prices are in Norwegian krone. 900 Norwegian kroner (NOK) converts to about $88.85 USD, and 1100 NOK to about $108.59 USD.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
Medium-sized race
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Good crowd energy
Boston Qualifier
This race is a certified Boston Marathon qualifying event. Achieve your qualifying standard here on a verified course.
Rådhusplassen (City Hall Square)
Skøyen
Frogner
Akershusstranda
Aker Brygge
Akershus Fortress
Grønland
Karl Johans Gate.
Other distances available during the event weekend:
Oslo, Norway
NO
Average rate for 3-star accommodations near the start line
Eligibility
- Minimum age 18 on race day to enter the full marathon
- Registration and race bib must be collected and worn visibly during the race
- Runners must comply with official cut-off time of 6 hours 30 minutes for the marathon
- Medical fitness is required; participants are advised to obtain medical clearance if they have pre-existing conditions
- Entries are non-transferable and name changes may be restricted according to organizer rules
- All participants must follow event and traffic marshals' instructions and race route signage
- No wheeled devices (bicycles, scooters, rollerblades) or animals allowed on the marathon course
- Use of headphones is permitted at personal risk; runners must remain aware of marshal instructions and emergency vehicles
Required Documents
- Photo ID
- Proof of time (official race result for seeding)
- Signed liability waiver
- Emergency contact information
Entry Methods
- Online registration
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Registrations are non-refundable by default, but participants can transfer their spot to someone else for a 100 NOK name change fee.
Cancellation insurance is optional at registration (80–150 NOK) and covers illness, accidents, or unforeseen events—must be purchased at signup.
Participants may change race distances, subject to availability and possible fees; changes on race day are allowed up to 30 minutes before start.
Transfers are managed via a voucher system through “My Page,” but all financial transactions are handled privately between seller and buyer.
Team registrations are binding once invoiced, but participant substitutions are allowed via the team portal.
Public Transit: Oslo has an excellent public transport system (Ruter), including trams, buses, ferries, and metro. Marathon day access to the city center may be limited by road closures, so public transit is the best choice.
Airport to City Center: Oslo Airport Gardermoen is 45 km from the city. The Flytoget express train gets you downtown in ~20 minutes.
Race Day Logistics: Plan to arrive early. Bag drop and changing facilities are available at the event area.
Course Design: The marathon is a double-loop, which can be mentally challenging for some. Consider headphones if you like motivation, but be mindful of rules about audio devices.
Surface & Terrain: Mostly flat, urban roads with some undulating sections; suitable for beginners and PR-seekers alike.
Pacing Teams: Available for various finish times—ideal for goal-setting and consistency.
Nutrition on Course: Aid stations typically provide water, energy drinks, bananas, and energy gels—but check the official 2025 update to confirm.
Toilets: Placed regularly along the course and near the start/finish areas.
Best Viewing Spots:
Aker Brygge: Lively harbor area with great cafes and visibility.
Frognerparken (Vigeland Park): Beautiful park and good spot to cheer runners.
Karl Johans Gate: Oslo’s main pedestrian street—perfect for watching finishers.
Things to Do While Waiting:
Visit the Munch Museum, Akershus Fortress, or take a fjord cruise.
Enjoy food at Mathallen Oslo, a popular food hall near the city center.
Language: Most Norwegians speak fluent English.
Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK) — Credit cards are widely accepted.
Weather Prep: Bring a light rain jacket or windbreaker, as conditions can shift quickly. Morning may start at 7°C and rise to 15°C.
Eco-Friendly Event: Organizers emphasize recycling and public transport, so bring a refillable bottle and use public transit options.
Community
Stories, tips, and race-day snapshots from runners who have tackled this course.
Community Reviews
Learn from fellow runners and share insights that will help the next person toe the line.