Course Map
About this Race
The Íslandsbanki Reykjavik Marathon is a scenic course through the Icelandic capital, tracing the coastline, harbor, and lava-shaped surroundings of the northern city amid its distinctive landscape. The terrain is largely gentle, run in the cool, crisp air of the high-latitude summer. Held in August alongside the city's lively Culture Night festivities, it offers brisk conditions and a festive atmosphere. The dramatic Icelandic scenery and coastal setting define the day. It suits runners who want a cool-weather race in a strikingly beautiful and unusual northern landscape.
Course Insight
Reykjavik is a cool August marathon along the Icelandic coast, where wind and changeable weather matter more than the largely gentle terrain. Pace for the gusts rather than a still-air split and dress for shifting skies. The cool sea air actually favours racing. The volcanic coastal scenery is striking. Run within yourself and shelter from the wind, and the course stays manageable.
Difficulty Breakdown
Mostly due to significant climbing (284m).
Course Details
- Course type
- Loop
- Elevation gain
- 284m
- Elevation loss
- 287m
- Highest point
- 101m
- Lowest point
- 68m
- Net elevation
- -3m
- Start
- Starts and finishes on Laekjargata in downtown Reykjavik.
- Cutoff time
- 6h 30m
Race History
The Íslandsbanki Reykjavik Marathon was first held in 1984, a scenic course through the Icelandic capital tracing the coastline and lava-shaped surroundings of the northern city. Run in the cool high-latitude summer alongside the city's Culture Night, it built a festive, distinctive character. From its founding it grew into Iceland's premier marathon. Held each August, it draws a field to the strikingly beautiful landscape.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- Keflavík International (KEF), Reykjavík domestic (RKV)
- Best area to stay
- Miðborg downtown for proximity to the route and characterful stays, Laugavegur for lively central options, and the old harbour area for scenic stays.
- Getting to the start
- The start is in downtown Reykjavik; walk from central hotels, as it's a compact central course.