BMW BERLIN-Marathon 2026

The BMW Berlin-Marathon follows a looped course that takes in 10 Berlin neighbourhoods and starts and finishes near the Brandenburg Gate. Prepare to take in some of Europe’s most historic landmarks, from the Reichstag to the Brandenburg Gate that looms over mile 26.

Along the route you’ll see frequent refreshment and aid stations, which serve water, sports drinks, energy gels and fruit to the runners. Uniquely, the entire route is within the city centre and the start and finish line are in close proximity.

Getting to Berlin:

If you’re traveling to the Berlin Marathon, you’ll arrive at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), located 28 km from the city center. Opened in October 2020, BER replaced Tegel and Schönefeld Airports.

• Taxi: Taxi ranks are located directly outside Terminals 1 and 5. A taxi to central Berlin typically costs €45–€50 and takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Train: The Airport Express (FEX) and regional trains run about four times per hour from the station under Terminal 1 to Berlin Central Station (Hauptbahnhof).

Getting around the city:

Berlin’s public transportation network is extensive and convenient, covering all corners of the city.

• S-Bahn trains: Lines S9 and S45 run from Terminals 1, 2, and 5 into the city centre.
• U-Bahn trains and buses: Tickets are available at multilingual machines in all S- and U-Bahn stations. Bus fares are paid directly to the driver.
• Additional options: Taxis, rideshare services, and bicycles are widely available, offering flexible ways to explore Berlin before and after the marathon.

With Sports Tours, you never run alone. We’ll meet you at your hotel, escort you to the race expo and get you to the start line with ease. Join us for a 5KM shakeout run, meet fellow runners and celebrate together post-race.

Please make your own way into the city from Berlin Brandenburg Airport. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to visit the marathon expo to collect your race bib. Our Sports Tours reps will be available to accompany those arriving on morning flights.

In the evening, please join us for complimentary welcome drinks – a great opportunity to meet fellow runners and the Sports Tours International team.

The BMW Berlin-Marathon official Breakfast Run starts at 9:30am, with a short bus transfer from near the hotel to the event’s starting point. The route covers approximately 6 km. Alternatively, runners and spectators are welcome to join our guided 5KM shakeout run, departing from each hotel.

Following the run, we will be hosting a pre-race briefing session. The briefing provides valuable insights and last-minute advice to help you prepare for race day, as well as the opportunity to ask any questions.

For those who have not yet visited the marathon expo, our Sports Tours reps will accompany the group to collect their Berlin Marathon bib number and any pre-ordered items.

You may also choose to watch the Inline Skating event, which typically begins around 3.30pm near the Brandenburg Gate or at a location closer to the hotel. The remainder of the day is free for sightseeing.

There is also the option to join the second day of our guided Berlin Walking Tour to discover more about the city’s Third Reich and Cold War heritage.

Today you’ll take your place on the start line of the BMW Berlin-Marathon! Runners can travel for free on public transport by showing their race bib. The start and finish are located on Straße des 17 Juni, just past the Brandenburg Gate. After crossing the finish line, please remember to return your timing chip in one of the collection buckets.

Friends and family who are visiting to spectate at the Berlin Marathon will be guided to our dedicated cheer zone to support you during the race. Once you’ve finished, our Sports Tours reps will warmly welcome you back at the hotel.

This evening, we invite you and your companions to a post-race celebration with a true Bavarian experience at the Hofbräu Wirtshaus. Enjoy live traditional music including Schuhplattler dancing, yodelling, alphorn performances, plus food and drinks in a festive atmosphere.

Kindly arrange for your hotel check-out and proceed with your onward travel. Alternatively, should time allow, you may wish to explore more of Berlin before your departure.