Officially named the Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris, the Paris Marathon is a grand event that lures runners from across the globe to experience the beauty and vibrancy of the French capital. Covering 26.2 miles, the race starts on the Champs-Élysées and passes iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum before culminating at Avenue Foch near the Arc de Triomphe.
It’s one of the largest marathons globally, attracting tens of thousands of runners, from elite athletes aiming for the top spots to enthusiasts seeking to challenge themselves amidst the scenic backdrop of Parisian streets.
The course itself is quite flat, making it favorable for runners looking to achieve personal records. The supportive atmosphere along the route, with enthusiastic spectators lining the streets and cheering, adds to the event’s electric vibe.
Paris Marathon at a Glance
- Upcoming Race: April 7, 2024
- 2023 Attendance: 50,000
- 2023 First Place (Men’s): 02:07:15
- 2023 First Place (Women’s): 02:23:19
- Official Website: Paris Marathon
(A) Paris Marathon Course Map and Route Info
Paris Marathon often updates its course, albeit slightly. As of 12/12/2023, the 2024 route has not been announced. As soon as it’s released, we’ll update the map below. In the mean time, please visit the official website (linked above) to see the latest information.
Scroll to zoom in and out. Click and hold to move around. Click on icons to see more race info such as gel stations and notable sights along the route. Water and aid stations are not marked on the map because there are plenty.
(B) Paris Marathon Elevation Profile Interactive Chart
(Last Updated: 11/16/2023)
(C) Paris Marathon Expo: Run Experience
Run Experience will take place in the Parc des Expositions – Porte de Versailles. More than 150 exhibitors will be there to showcase their latest products. This is also the only place to pick up your bib number and race packet.
You can get to the Expo by:
- Bus: lines 39 – 42 – 49 – Stop: Station Porte de Versailles,
- Metro: line 12 – Stop: Station Porte de Versailles,
- Tramway: T2 – T3 – Stop: Porte de Versailles
- Car: Périphérique Ouest (West), exits: Porte de Versailles, Porte de la Plaine, Porte de Sèvres
- Taxi: request Parc des Expositions de Paris/Porte de Versailles
(D) Hotels and Lodging
Paris has numerous hotel options and many are within walking distance to the start or finish line. However, these hotel rooms will be booked fairly quickly. Don’t forget 50,000 runners, plus family and friends, will descend on Paris for the race. So you’ll want to book as early as possible.
We found this page that offers many good suggestions for hotels.
(E) Transportation
Metro stations near the start line: Charles de Gaulle Etoile – Line 1, 2 and 6
Metro stations near the finish line: Porte Dauphine – Line 2
(F) Weather
The weather for the Paris marathon can vary, but since it is held in early April, the average temperature ranges from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius (50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit).