TCS Amsterdam Marathon
The Lowdown
The TCS Amsterdam Marathon is one of Europe’s most historic and fast marathons, first held in 1975 and grown into a premier autumn event that attracts elite athletes and recreational runners from around the world. Held in the heart of the Netherlands’ capital, the race has a long reputation as a PB- and record-friendly course thanks to its flat, well-maintained streets and typically cool October weather. Over the decades it has become a highlight of the international road-running calendar, regularly hosting world-class performances while remaining accessible and welcoming to mass participants. The course showcases Amsterdam’s iconic scenery and cultural landmarks: runners pass the stately Museumplein and Rijksmuseum, thread through leafy Vondelpark, follow the Amstel River with views of historic bridges and canal houses, and wind through lively neighborhoods before finishing in the historic Olympic Stadium. The route is certified and accurately measured, with abundant crowd support, live music, and energetic aid stations that create a festive but focused race atmosphere. The event provides excellent logistics and race-day services, making it ideal for both ambitious time-goers and first-time marathoners. The Amsterdam Marathon is AIMS-certified and recognized as a World Athletics-label road race, and performances on the course are accepted for Boston Marathon qualification. With professional organization, scenic urban views, and a typically fast course, the Amsterdam Marathon offers a memorable, well-supported marathon experience set against one of Europe’s most picturesque cities.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
World-class event
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Excellent spectator turnout
This race qualifies for the Boston Marathon
Race Weekend
Other distances available
Notable Landmarks
Olympic Stadium: The race starts and finishes at this historic venue, originally built for the 1928 Summer Olympics.
Rijksmuseum Passage: Runners pass through the iconic Rijksmuseum, experiencing its stunning architecture firsthand.
Amstel River: The course includes a scenic stretch along the Amstel River, offering views of stately mansions and traditional windmills.
Vondelpark: Amsterdam's largest public park, which participants traverse twice during the marathon.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
NL
Based on nearby accommodations
- All participants are required to pick up their bib numbers in person at the Marathon Expo held at RAI Amsterdam during the specified dates and times. Remember to bring a valid photo ID when collecting your bib number. If you're unable to attend, someone else can collect it on your behalf, provided they have the confirmation email.
- Proper registration and bib.
- photo ID
- Confirmation email
- Online portal
- Tour operators
- Charity
Cancellation & Refunds
Policy details
No refunds under any circumstances (including injury or change of plans).
Name change / bib transfer to another runner allowed until 2026-09-30 (administration fee €10).
Transfer of entry to the following year's race (2027) allowed only if event is cancelled by the organiser; otherwise deferrals are not permitted.
If the organiser cancels or postpones the event for reasons beyond their control (force majeure), entrants will be offered transfer to the rescheduled date or the next year, or a partial credit voucher (up to 50%) at the organiser's discretion.
Race insurance is recommended; the organiser is not liable for personal costs (travel, accommodation) if you do not participate.
The race finishes with a memorable lap inside Amsterdam's historic Olympic Stadium, a highlight for runners and spectators alike.
The course is very flat and fast, taking runners along the Amstel River and through historic neighborhoods and park sections with multiple scenic canal and bridge views.
There is a race expo and an official pasta party on the weekend before the marathon, and finishers receive a custom medal and a technical finisher shirt.
Well-stocked aid stations are placed roughly every 5 kilometers offering water, sports drink and gels, and medical support is available along the route.
Organizers recommend using Amsterdam's efficient public transport to reach the start area due to limited parking; there are full elite fields with pacemakers and age-group awards and prize money for top finishers.
Community
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