Maratón Barcelona
The Lowdown
The Zurich Marató Barcelona is one of Europe's premier marathon events, combining world-class racing with the stunning Mediterranean backdrop of Catalonia's capital city. Established in 1978, this AIMS-certified and World Athletics Gold Label Road Race has grown into Spain's second-largest marathon, attracting over 20,000 runners annually from more than 70 countries. The flat, fast course makes it an ideal Boston Marathon qualifier and personal record opportunity, with the race typically starting and finishing near the iconic Arc de Triomf. The route showcases Barcelona's architectural treasures and vibrant neighborhoods, taking runners past landmarks including the Sagrada Familia, along the scenic beachfront promenade, through the historic Gothic Quarter, and up the elegant Passeig de Gràcia. Runners experience the unique energy of this cosmopolitan city while enjoying mild Mediterranean weather, typically perfect for marathon running in mid-March. The course's minimal elevation gain and strategic positioning away from the hottest summer months have helped thousands of runners achieve qualifying times and personal bests. The marathon atmosphere is electric, with enthusiastic local crowds lining the streets, live music performances throughout the course, and aid stations offering both traditional sports nutrition and local treats. Whether you're chasing a PR, seeking a Boston qualifier, or simply want to experience one of Europe's most beautiful marathon courses, the Marató Barcelona delivers an unforgettable running experience in one of the world's most captivating cities.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
Major marathon
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Good crowd energy
2025 general registration sold out rapidly, largest field expected for 2026
Oct 1, 2025Organizers reported that general entry spots for the 2025 edition filled within days, prompting a larger starting-capacity plan for 2026. Based on the speed of sell-out and expanded wave starts, race directors estimate the 2026 marathon will host the largest field in recent years, with registration capacity increased to accommodate roughly 20,000 finishers.
Prize-money boost announced for 2026 elite field
Nov 15, 2025The Zurich Marató Barcelona organizer announced an increase in elite prize money for the 2026 race, raising the winners' purse to €40,000 for both men and women and adding time-bonus increments for course records. The change is intended to attract a deeper international elite roster and comes with targeted appearance fees for invited athletes.
This race qualifies for the Boston Marathon
Race Weekend
Other distances available
Notable Landmarks
Plaça d'Espanya
Race starts at this iconic square featuring the Venetian Towers and Magic Fountain
Montjuïc
Runners ascend the Olympic hill with views of the 1992 Olympic Stadium
Camp Nou
Pass by FC Barcelona's legendary football stadium
Sagrada Família
View Gaudí's masterpiece basilica around the halfway point
Torre Agbar
Modern 38-story skyscraper marks the eastern section of the course
Arc de Triomf
Historic red brick archway in the Ciutat Vella district
Parc de la Ciutadella
Barcelona's most central park with the Cascada fountain
Port Olímpic
Finish line area near the Mediterranean Sea and Barcelona's beaches
Barcelona, Spain
ES
Based on nearby accommodations
The race offers a booking portal with partner hotel options
- Minimum age 18 on race day
- Valid photo ID required for bib collection
- Completed online registration and payment of the entry fee
- Medical clearance recommended; participants should be fit to undertake a marathon
- No national federation licence required for general entries (elite athletes must provide accreditation on request)
- Participants must accept and comply with the official race regulations and respect published cut-off times
- Photo ID
- Medical Certificate
- Proof of Age
- Signed Liability Waiver
- Online Registration
- Travel Package
- Charity Entry
- Running Club Entry
Cancellation & Refunds
Policy details
Full refund until 60 days before race (minus administrative fee)
50% refund until 30 days before race
No refund within 30 days of race date
Bib transfer allowed until 7 days before race for €10 fee
No refunds for no-shows or DNS
The Barcelona Marathon is one of Europe's fastest courses, with the current record of 2:03:38 set by Kenenisa Bekele in 2019.
Runners pass iconic landmarks including Sagrada Familia, Camp Nou stadium, and the Arc de Triomf along the mostly flat Mediterranean route.
All finishers receive a commemorative medal, technical shirt, and access to the post-race recovery area with refreshments.
The race typically attracts over 16,000 runners from more than 60 countries, making it one of Spain's premier marathon events.
The course is AIMS certified and serves as a qualifier for major marathons including Boston and New York City.
Community
Stories, tips, and race-day snapshots from runners who have tackled this course.
Community Reviews
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