What is the Berlin Marathon 2025?
The BMW Berlin Marathon 2025 is at the heart of the running world – part of the renowned World Marathon Majors and known for its record-breaking, flat course profile. In its 51st edition, the event – often loud and colorful – attracts over 40,000 runners from around 120 nations to the capital. In 2025, it will be held on September 21. .
When and where Does the Marathon Start?
The starting gun fires on Sunday, September 21, 2025. The weekend already opens on Saturday at the Marathon Expo, while the marathon itself begins on Sunday from 9:15 AM for runners in four waves – according to their target time. .
It starts within sight of the Brandenburg Gate on Straße des 17. Juni, right at the “Kleiner Stern”. The finish line is also at the Brandenburg Gate – for many, the most emotional moment of the year. .
What Does the Course Look like?
The course covers about 42 kilometers right through Berlin and is known for its “ultra-flat” profile – ideal for fast times. A staggering 13 world records have already been set in Berlin! You run past iconic landmarks such as the Reichstag, Victory Column, Potsdamer Platz, and the Tiergarten. Thanks to this backdrop, thousands of spectators cheer you on – pure goosebumps.
Who Participates – and why?
NIn addition to the over 40,000 registered runners from all over the world, elite athletes, including wheelchair, handbike, and inline skater teams, also start on Saturday and Sunday morning. You are therefore part of an international community between professional and amateur athletes – an experience that connects.
How Does Registration Work?
The coveted starting places were raffled off in autumn 2024 – via lottery for regular participants, fast runners with qualifying times, and teams. The registration phase was from October 7 to November 21, 2024. Those who didn’t get a spot were left out.
What Extras are there around the Event?
The Marathon Expo on the weekend offers exciting stands – from sports technology to nutrition, accessories, and live workshops. It takes place at Messe Berlin and opens from Thursday. Additionally, on Saturday there’s the well-known “Literature Marathon”, the Bambini/Mini-Marathon for children, and a breakfast run – a true festival all about running..
How Does Race Day Proceed?
On Sunday, runners start in four waves. The classification is based on target times – for example, those aiming for a finish under three hours start earlier. Pacemakers help you maintain your pace. Along the way, there are refreshment stations every five kilometers, medical support, and masseurs on the course and in the finish area.
The finish is in front of the Brandenburg Gate – accompanied by cheering crowds and the coveted finisher’s medal. At the finish, a poncho or (if booked) your clothing bag awaits you, plus a shower and massage. .
Why is the Berlin Marathon Worth it?
Berlin is loud, incredibly colorful, and perfectly organized. The race is known as a former world record host (e.g., Kipchoge 2:01:09 in 2022) and pushes runners to their limits both athletically and emotionally. . The unique atmosphere, the route past top locations in the capital, and the colorful supporting audience make the event an absolute must. At the “Wilder Eber” in Schmargendorf, it gets really loud, as the legendary Samba Percussion Band Sacucaiu no Samba has been really driving the runners at kilometer 28 for years – because this is where the toughest phase of the race begins for many hobby runners.
Hotel for the Berlin Marathon 2025
And if you’re looking for accommodation in Berlin after a strenuous marathon day, we at the little BIG hotels have just the thing for you. Our six hotels in Berlin offer not only comfortable rooms and modern furnishings, but also a great location near the marathon course. Here you can relax and recover to give your all again the next day. We look forward to welcoming you soon!
How to get to the Start Easily?
The solo starter area opens in the morning and is best reached via S-Bahn or U-Bahn (Botschafts- and Hauptbahnhof/U-Bahn Bundestag). Leave about thirty to sixty minutes beforehand – the crowds are large. . By the way, your start pass is valid as a ticket for all public transport from Thursday to Sunday.
Conclusion: Berlin Marathon 2025
The Berlin Marathon 2025 (September 21st) is much more than just a run. It’s a mix of personal challenge, global sporting event, and public festival. You run through history and city life, accompanied by cheering crowds – and celebrate yourself at one of the most beautiful finish lines in the world. Whether as a runner or a spectator – Berlin runs with you.
