Course Map
About this Race
The Sofia Marathon is a course through the Bulgarian capital, run at modest elevation around 550 metres with the Vitosha mountain rising on the city's edge. The mild altitude and largely manageable terrain shape the day in the historic Balkan city. Held in October, it offers crisp autumn conditions and a striking mountain backdrop. The cityscape and the mountain define the day. It suits runners who want an accessible Balkan capital race with mountain scenery and don't mind the modest elevation over a sea-level personal best.
Course Insight
Sofia runs at around 550 metres through the Bulgarian capital, an October marathon where mild altitude and some rolling terrain shape the effort. Adjust your pace slightly for the thinner air and run the rises by feel. The mountain-backed setting is scenic. Crisp autumn air suits racing. Pace conservatively for the altitude and the course stays manageable.
Difficulty Breakdown
Mostly due to tough late hills.
Course Details
- Course type
- Loop
- Elevation gain
- 196m
- Elevation loss
- 210m
- Highest point
- 577m
- Lowest point
- 533m
- Net elevation
- -14m
- Start
- Starts at Knyaz Alexander I Square in central Sofia, directly in front of the National Art Gallery.
- Cutoff time
- 5h 30m
Race History
The Sofia Marathon is a course through the Bulgarian capital, run at modest elevation with the Vitosha mountain rising on the city's edge. Its mild altitude and largely manageable terrain, set against the mountain backdrop, gave it character. Over the years it drew a steady field. Held each October, it remains an accessible Balkan capital race with mountain scenery.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- Sofia (SOF)
- Best area to stay
- The city centre for proximity to the route and full hotels, the Oborishte district for charming options, and the outskirts for value stays.
- Getting to the start
- The start is near the centre; take the metro or walk from central hotels to the start.