NN Marathon Rotterdam
The Lowdown
The NN Marathon Rotterdam is one of Europe’s premier spring marathons with a history stretching back to 1981 and deep roots in Dutch running culture. Held annually in the bustling port city, the event has grown into a fast, internationally respected race that attracts elite fields and enthusiastic mass-participants alike. Rotterdam is known for producing very fast times; the flat, straight course and efficient organization have made it a destination for runners seeking personal bests and qualifying times. The race is organized by the Rotterdam Marathon Foundation with long-standing title sponsorship by NN Group. The course weaves through Rotterdam’s modern skyline and historic waterfront, showcasing landmarks such as the Erasmus Bridge, the lively river Maas quaysides, the iconic Cube Houses and the green expanse of Kralingen. Runners experience long, flat stretches, wide boulevards and supportive local crowds; aid stations are frequent and well run, and the city’s energetic atmosphere — from brass bands to neighborhood cheering sections — keeps runners motivated across the 42.195 km. The event is AIMS-certified, holds World Athletics Label status and is recognized as a Boston Marathon qualifying course, making it both a festive mass-participation experience and a serious racing opportunity for elite and club athletes.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
Major marathon
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Excellent spectator turnout
Registration opens for NN Marathon Rotterdam 2026
Jun 12, 2025Organisers opened general entry registration for the 2026 NN Marathon Rotterdam with a limited number of entries available and a new charity places programme; early-bird entries sold quickly.
Organisers confirm sustainability and course improvements for 2026 edition
Nov 20, 2024The race announced measures for the 2026 event including reduced single-use plastics, enhanced recycling at aid stations, and adjustments to start/finish logistics to improve athlete and spectator flows.
Boston Qualifier
This race is a certified Boston Marathon qualifying event. Achieve your qualifying standard here on a verified course.
Erasmus Bridge (Erasmusbrug)
Iconic cable-stayed bridge spanning the Nieuwe Maas that runners cross with panoramic views of the skyline
De Hef / Koningshaven Bridge
Historic vertical-lift railway bridge near the riverfront, a distinctive industrial landmark along the course
Markthal Rotterdam
Large horseshoe-shaped indoor market hall with striking architecture and colorful ceiling murals near the city center
Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen)
Famous tilted yellow cube residential buildings designed by Piet Blom, located near Old Harbor (Oude Haven)
Euromast
185-meter observation tower and park landmark offering city views, visible from several points on the route
Stadion Feyenoord (De Kuip)
Major football stadium in the Feijenoord district that the race passes close to
Kralingse Plas and Kralingse Bos
Large lake and adjacent park area popular with locals, offering a green, scenic stretch near the eastern part of the course
Rotterdam, Netherlands
NL
Average rate for 3-star accommodations near the start line
Official Hotel Partner PortalVerified
This race offers exclusive rates and guaranteed entry packages through their official travel partner. Booking through the portal is recommended.
Eligibility
- Minimum age 18 on race day
Required Documents
- e-ticket
- medical passport (on back of bib)
Entry Methods
- Online registration
- Bib transfer (until 2025-04-12)
Cancellation & Refund Policy
No refunds under any circumstances
Entries are non-transferable to another runner
Deferrals to the following year allowed only for medical reasons with a valid doctor’s note and payment of an administration fee (request must be submitted by 31 March 2026)
Changes of race distance (e.g., full to relay/half) not permitted after 1 March 2026
Race organizer may cancel or postpone event for safety or force majeure; in such case registration transfer to the rescheduled date is offered but no cash refunds
The NN Marathon Rotterdam is run on a very flat, fast course through the city and along the Nieuwe Maas, making it popular for runners chasing personal bests and national records.
The race traditionally finishes on Coolsingel in the heart of Rotterdam near the city hall, providing a memorable city-center finish with strong spectator support.
Race weekend includes a runners' expo, pre-race pasta party, a kids' run and elite pacemakers; all finishers receive a technical shirt and a commemorative finisher medal.
There are frequent aid stations approximately every 5 km offering water, sports drinks and energy gels, and organizers recommend using Rotterdam's extensive public transport system as on-street parking is limited on race day.
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Community
Stories, tips, and race-day snapshots from runners who have tackled this course.
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