The Istanbul Marathon offers runners a truly unique experience as the only marathon in the world that starts in Asia and finishes in Europe. Scheduled for November 2, 2025, this premier event draws tens of thousands of participants to Istanbul, Turkey, for a race that is as much a cultural journey as it is an athletic challenge. The course famously crosses the Bosphorus Bridge and winds through the city’s most historic districts, making it a bucket-list race for marathoners and travelers alike.
A Race Unlike Any Other: Bridging Continents
The defining feature of the Istanbul Marathon is its transcontinental route. Participants begin their journey on the Asian side of the city, with the starting corrals positioned on the approach to the 15 July Martyrs Bridge, more commonly known as the Bosphorus Bridge. This is a rare opportunity, as the bridge is normally closed to pedestrians.
For the first few kilometers, runners are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Bosphorus strait and the city’s sprawling skyline. The feeling of running from one continent to another is a powerful and unforgettable moment that sets this marathon apart from all others. It symbolizes the city of Istanbul itself—a vibrant metropolis that has historically bridged East and West.
The Course: A Journey Through History
Beyond the intercontinental crossing, the Istanbul Marathon course is a fast and scenic tour through thousands of years of history. The route is certified by World Athletics and is known for being relatively flat, which is conducive to personal bests, despite a few rolling hills.
The Marathon Route (42.195 km)
After crossing the Bosphorus Bridge into Europe, marathoners descend toward the coast, passing iconic landmarks such as Dolmabahçe Palace and the Naval Museum. The route follows the water, offering views of the Golden Horn as runners make their way toward the historic peninsula.
The final kilometers are perhaps the most spectacular, taking runners past the Spice Bazaar, through Gülhane Park, and into the heart of the ancient city. The finish line is located in the historic Sultanahmet Square, also known as the Hippodrome, with the magnificent Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia providing a stunning backdrop for an epic conclusion.
The 15K Route
For those seeking a shorter distance, the event also includes a popular 15K race. This option provides the same iconic experience of starting in Asia and running across the Bosphorus Bridge into Europe. The 15K course follows much of the marathon route along the coast before finishing in the Yenikapı district, allowing participants to soak in the incredible atmosphere without committing to the full marathon distance.
Race Day Experience and Logistics
As a World Athletics Gold Label Road Race, the Istanbul Marathon is known for its precise and professional organization. The event has grown significantly since its inception in 1979, now accommodating a massive field of runners with well-managed logistics.
Organization and Support
On the course, runners can expect frequent and well-stocked hydration stations providing water, sports drinks, and sometimes snacks like fruit. Aid stations with medical support are also strategically placed along the route to ensure participant safety. The streets are lined with enthusiastic spectators, creating a vibrant and supportive atmosphere from start to finish.
Getting to the Start
Race organizers make getting to the start line remarkably easy. On race day, all registered participants can use the city’s public transportation, including ferries, metro, and buses, free of charge by showing their race bib. Special ferries and shuttle buses are arranged to transport runners from designated points on the European side to the start area in Asia, ensuring a seamless and stress-free morning.
The Finish Line Celebration
Finishing a marathon in a location steeped in the history of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires is a profound experience. After crossing the line, runners are greeted with a well-organized finish area offering refreshments, photo opportunities, and a finisher’s medal. The post-race celebration allows athletes to recover and celebrate their achievement in one of the world’s most historic public squares.
Why Run the Istanbul Marathon?
The Istanbul Marathon is more than just a 42.195-kilometer race; it is an immersive experience. It offers the perfect fusion of a world-class athletic competition with rich cultural tourism. Runners not only get to achieve their fitness goals but also to see a city’s most famous sights in a way that few tourists ever will—on foot, with the streets cleared just for them.
The combination of its unique transcontinental course, the historical significance of its landmarks, and the impeccable organization makes it a must-do event. It provides a rare opportunity to run through history and create a memory that will last a lifetime.
