Shanghai Marathon 2026
6.12.26
Marathon
4 Nights
Guaranteed Entry
Shanghai Marathon: Returning Bigger and Faster
The Shanghai Marathon is now a candidate race for the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors, featuring a flat, fast course ideal for athletes chasing a personal best (PB). The race starts at the Bund and showcases breathtaking views of the city.
Book the 2026 Shanghai Marathon with Sports Tours International and get guaranteed marathon entry, group shake -out run, escorted trip to the Shanghai Marathon expo and a sightseeing tour to experience the city’s unique blend of rich history and vibrant culture.
As one of the highest-rated marathons in Asia, this Platinum Label Road race attracts thousands of participants from around the world. From the race start along the Huangpu River to the modern skyline and historic districts, the event offers a unique marathon experience. With other races, qualifying times, and world-class organisation, the Shanghai Marathon is truly an unforgettable global event.
Due to race regulations, we are unable to sell packages to Chinese passport holders, including those living overseas.
ENTRY & EXTRAS
Marathon Entry
€300
SHANGHAI MARATHON ROUTE
The route starts at the Bund and finishes at the Xujiahui Sports Park. The route passed through several key districts, including Huangpu, Jing’an, and Xuhui, showcasing some of Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
Getting to Shanghai:
International travellers arrive at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), approximately 30 km (19 miles) from the city centre.
• Taxi: Licensed taxis are available outside the terminals. Fares to central Shanghai typically range from CNY 150–250, depending on traffic. Apps like DiDi provide a convenient alternative. Avoid unofficial taxi offers.
• Maglev & Metro: The Maglev train connects Pudong Airport to Longyang Road Station in about 8 minutes. From there, transfer to the Shanghai Metro for access to the city centre.
Getting around Shanghai:
Metro: Shanghai has one of the world’s largest metro systems, with 16 lines covering the city’s major attractions and districts. Trains are frequent, affordable, and signage is in both Chinese and English.
Public Transportation Card: The Shanghai Public Transportation Card (Jiaotong Card) is rechargeable and provides seamless access to metro, buses, and ferries, making travel simple and cost-effective.
Taxi: Licensed taxis and DiDi are widely available for flexible, door-to-door travel. Be cautious of unlicensed taxis, especially near airports or tourist hotspots.
WHY BOOK WITH US?
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.
INCLUDED IN YOUR PACKAGE:
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- 4-night accommodation at 4* & 5* hotels in prime locations
- Comprehensive support from Sports Tours reps in your hotel
Itinerary
DAY 1 – ARRIVAL DAY
Make your way to your centrally located 4 or 5-star hotel, just steps from the iconic Bund and close to the marathon start line. Our Sports Tours International reps will be on hand throughout the day to greet you, assist with check-in, and answer any questions.
Use the afternoon to relax, adjust to the time zone, or take a short stroll along the Huangpu River before a relaxed welcome drink gathering in the evening, a perfect chance to connect with fellow runners and our team before the big day.
DAY 2 – shake out run & expo
Start your day with an energising 5KM shake-out run, guided by our reps, the perfect way to loosen up, beat jet lag, and get into race mode.
We’ll then head to the official Shanghai Marathon Expo, where you’ll collect your bib and explore partner stalls and official merchandise.
Today’s all about getting prepped, informed, and inspired.
DAY 3 – ESCORTED Expo TRIP
Today you have another opportunity to visit the marathon Expo for bib collection.
We’ll head to the official Shanghai Marathon Expo, where you’ll collect your bib and explore partner stalls and official merchandise.
Today’s all about getting prepped, informed, and inspired.
DAY 4 – Shanghai Marathon Race Day!
Race day begins with a short walk to the start line alongside fellow runners, with our reps nearby for any last-minute support.
As you take on the course, soak up the electric atmosphere and iconic city sights, while your friends and family cheer you on from our exclusive Cheer Zone.
In the evening, celebrate your achievement in style at our Post-Race Celebration – a chance to relax, share stories, and toast to an unforgettable day.
DAY 5 – Departure Day
Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel before checking out. Whether you’re continuing your travels or heading home, our team will be on hand to assist with departure arrangements or any last-minute needs.
Leave Shanghai with medals, memories, and maybe even a new personal best.
Accommodation
To ensure our runners best experience at the Shanghai Marathon, we are offering a selection of accommodation options at some of Shanghai’s most iconic and strategically located hotels.
By booking with Sports Tours International, you are not just getting a room. You are joining the Sports Tours community. From early runner’s breakfast to guided escorts to the Shanghai Marathon expo, we handle the logistics so you can focus on your 26.2 mile marathon journey.
For special requests or questions, contact our team: 01 903 6942 or customerservice@sportstoursinternational.ie
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Things to do in SHanghai
EXPLORE THE BUND
The Bund is Shanghai’s iconic waterfront, where historic European-style buildings line the river opposite Pudong’s modern skyline. It’s especially stunning at night when the skyscrapers light up.
TAKE IN THE VIEWS FROM SHANGHAI TOWER
Standing at 632 meters, the Shanghai Tower is the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world. The observation deck on the 118th floor offers 360-degree views of the city. The high-speed elevator ride to the top is an experience, reaching speeds of over 20 meters per second.
EXPLORE TIANZIFANG IN THE FRENCH CONCESSION
Tianzifang is a charming maze of alleys filled with art studios, indie shops, cafés, and restaurants. Set in the former French Concession, it blends historic architecture with a creative, local atmosphere—perfect for coffee, unique souvenirs, and a relaxed escape from the city’s bigger commercial areas.
WHAT PAST PARTICIPANTS SAY
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Jason
Ireland
Have completed a few marathons with this company and have to say they are top class. Always a hassle free enjoyable experience. Definitely worth the money.
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Stephen
Ireland
I want to say a special thanks to the Sports Tours team that supported us. James took a few of us down to the Expo and looked after us really well. A pure gent and he took especially good care of two gentlemen from England who needed an extra hand.
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M
Mike
Ireland
I just wanted to say that the whole package was excellent, but in particular your 2 Irish reps, Eoin and Amy were amazing.
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R
Richard
Ireland
The whole experience was amazing, and I am pleased to say that the reps paid as much attention to us mere mortal supporters as they did to the runners themselves.
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Grainne
Ireland
Another super trip for us with Sports Tours International and we look forward to the next one.
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S
Shane
Ireland
Thank you the team for such an incredible experience over the whole weekend, from the flawless check-in's at Melia Hotel to getting set-up for the start line.
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J
Jim
Ireland
All and all it was a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ experience for me and I would happily recommend Sports Tours International If you are thinking of going to a big city marathon or other sporting event.
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Colm
Ireland
I just wanted to drop a quick note to thank you all for a fantastic trip, Eoin and the team took great care of us and were on hand to give advice whenever we had a question no matter how big or small. They made it an absolute pleasure!
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M
Matthew
Ireland
We really enjoyed the events you put on throughout our stay. Especially the 5K Shakeout Run and the Sightseeing Boat Tour. Not only were these a great way of seeing the city but also a good way to meet other runners.
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Patsy
Tramore, Ireland
Very satisfied with the event and Sports Tours. Great team on site, knowledgeable and good craic!
FAQs
What date is the Shanghai Marathon 2026?
The Shanghai Marathon 2026 is scheduled for Sunday, December 6, 2026. Runners from around the world will gather to experience this candidate race for the Abbott World Marathon Majors and Platinum Label Road Race, recognised by World Athletics for its fast course and world-class organisation.
How can I register for the Shanghai Marathon?
The easiest and most secure way to take part in the Shanghai Marathon 2026 is through a Sports Tours International package, which includes guaranteed race entry.
The public lottery for entries is competitive, and independent runners must manage registration, entry fees, and documentation themselves. Non-lottery or non-elite entry options are limited, so booking through Sports Tours International ensures your race bib, registration, and logistics are handled, giving peace of mind on race day.
What are the Shanghai Marathon qualifying times?
There are no qualifying times required when booking through Sports Tours International.
While elite runners compete for world-class finishing times, recreational participants entering independently must rely on the lottery or charity entry routes. Shanghai’s prestige, Platinum Label Road Race status, and candidacy for the Abbott World Marathon Majors make it one of the highest-rated marathons in Asia.
What travel and accommodation options are available?
Sports Tours International offers carefully selected hotel packages in Shanghai, chosen for their convenient locations near Shanghai Stadium and along the marathon course.
We strongly recommend travel insurance to provide peace of mind when traveling internationally.
Who are the official organisations involved at the Shanghai Marathon?
The Shanghai Marathon is organized by the Shanghai Sports Bureau and sanctioned by World Athletics. It is recognised as a Platinum Label Road Race and is a candidate Abbott World Marathon Majors event. Local authorities coordinate traffic control and safety measures to ensure smooth race day operations for participants and spectators.
What is the expected weather during the Shanghai Marathon?
The marathon takes place in December, when Shanghai experiences cool and dry conditions, with average temperatures between 12–18°C (54–64°F). These ideal conditions make for a comfortable marathon experience while helping runners maintain a steady pace.
Where is the Shanghai Marathon start line?
The race starts at the Bund, a landmark venue that provides an electrifying atmosphere on race day. Transportation from nearby hotels is usually arranged as part of official packages, ensuring a smooth journey to the start line.
Where is the Shanghai Marathon finish line?
The finish line is at the Xujiahui Sports Park. Each finisher receives a custom medal commemorating their achievement in one of Asia’s highest-rated marathons.
How much is the entry fee for the Shanghai Marathon 2026?
Entry fees vary depending on registration method. When booking through Sports Tours International, your race entry is 300 Euros and is part of our package.
What is the history of the Shanghai Marathon?
First held in 1996, the Shanghai Marathon has grown into one of China’s premier road races. Today it is a Platinum Label Road Race and a candidate for the Abbott World Marathon Majors, attracting elite athletes and recreational runners worldwide.
The marathon features full hydration stations along the course, showcases Shanghai’s historic and modern landmarks, and celebrates participants with a custom finisher medal. It is considered a must-run race for marathon enthusiasts across Asia.
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