Oberbank Marathon
The Lowdown
The Oberbank Linz Donau Marathon is a well-established spring marathon with roots going back to the late 20th century and has grown into one of Austria’s most popular city marathons. Traditionally held in April, the race attracts a mix of elite runners chasing qualifying times and recreational participants drawn by Linz’s scenic riverfront and efficient race organization. The event is AIMS-certified and the course is recognized as a Boston Marathon qualifying route, making it a key target for athletes pursuing fast times. The course is celebrated for its flat, fast profile along the Danube (Donau), offering long, uninterrupted stretches of smooth pavement, sweeping river views, and iconic city backdrops including the Pöstlingberg and parts of Linz’s historic center. Runners experience a mix of urban and riverside scenery with well-supported water stations, enthusiastic crowds, and local bands creating a lively atmosphere. The finish area—close to central Linz and stadium facilities—provides a welcoming celebration space for families and finishers, combining efficient logistics with Austrian hospitality to make the race enjoyable for goal-oriented competitors and first-time marathoners alike.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
Large field
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Good crowd energy
Organizers announce revised 2026 course with smoother city-center finish
Oct 15, 2024Race organizers confirmed a revised route for the 2026 Oberbank Linz Marathon that shortens the final kilometer through the Hauptplatz and avoids several stretches of historic cobblestones to improve footing for fast finishes. The change keeps the start near the Linzer Stadion but moves the finish to a slightly wider section of the city center to accommodate larger elite and mass fields and better broadcast access.
Registration for 2025 edition sets new participation high, prompting earlier 2026 launch
Feb 20, 2025The 2025 Linz Marathon reached a record participation level, with race organizers reporting approximately 10,500 marathon finishers across all race categories, the largest field in the event's recent history. Due to rapid sell-out of marathon slots, organizers opened 2026 registration earlier than usual and increased available race-capacity planning.
Boston Qualifier
This race is a certified Boston Marathon qualifying event. Achieve your qualifying standard here on a verified course.
Hauptplatz
The historic main square of Linz, a central gathering point with baroque buildings and the race atmosphere
Donauufer (Danube Riverbank)
Scenic riverside stretch along the Danube where runners follow the waterfront views
Nibelungenbrücke
Key bridge crossing over the Danube offering city skyline vistas
Lentos Kunstmuseum
Modern art museum on the riverbank that the course passes by, known for its glass façade
Ars Electronica Center
Landmark media arts center beside the Danube, often visible along the route
Neuer Dom (Linz Cathedral)
The imposing New Cathedral near the city center, a notable architectural sight on the course
Pöstlingberg viewpoint
Elevated area overlooking Linz with the pilgrimage basilica, visible from segments of the route and a landmark for spectators
Other distances available during the event weekend:
Linz, Austria
AT
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 for marathon entrants
- Online registration and full payment required by posted deadline
- Bib number is non-transferable and must be picked up in person or by authorized representative with ID
- Participants must provide emergency contact information during registration
- Runners with pacemakers, pregnancy, or medical conditions should obtain medical clearance before racing
- Race organizers reserve the right to refuse or remove entrants who are medically unfit or violate rules
- Compliance with World Athletics competition rules and local event regulations required
- Foreign participants must ensure they have appropriate travel documentation and insurance
Required Documents
- Photo ID
- Medical certificate (physician's certificate of fitness to run, issued within 12 months)
- National federation start permit / license (if competing as a licensed athlete, if applicable)
Entry Methods
- Online Registration
- On-site/Expo Registration (limited)
- Club/Team Entry
- Tour Operator/Travel Package
Cancellation & Refund Policy
No refunds for cancellations by participant
Bib transfer/name changes permitted until 30 days before the race (by 2026-03-13) subject to an administration fee
Deferral to the next edition (2027) allowed if requested at least 30 days before the race; administration fee may apply
If the organizer cancels the event, registered participants will be offered a full refund or deferral to a future edition
The Oberbank Linz Marathon is a flat, fast city course that runs along the Danube and finishes in the historic Hauptplatz in the center of Linz.
Finishers receive a custom finisher medal and a technical race shirt, and there is a large post-race area with food and refreshments for participants.
The event weekend includes a runners' expo with packet pickup, a pasta party the evening before the race, and a popular Kids' Run for families.
Aid stations with water, sports drink and sponges are placed approximately every 3–5 kilometers, with medical crews and refreshment stands along the route.
Public transportation is strongly recommended for participants due to limited parking on race day; good spectator spots include the Hauptplatz finish area and several bridges over the Danube.
Community
Stories, tips, and race-day snapshots from runners who have tackled this course.
Community Reviews
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