Course Map
Route based on 2025 course — may differ slightly from this year.
About this Race
The Bologna Marathon is a course through the medieval Emilia-Romagna city famed for its kilometres of porticoes, tracing the historic center and surrounding terrain on a largely flat profile. The level roads make it a reasonable personal-best target. Held in spring, it offers mild conditions and the distinctive arcaded scenery of one of Italy's great food-and-culture cities. The historic center defines the day. It suits runners who want a flat-leaning, characterful Italian race steeped in medieval atmosphere in a pleasant spring window.
Course Insight
Bologna is a flat-ish March marathon through the arcaded northern city, runnable on gentle terrain in cool spring conditions. The mostly level course leaves pacing discipline to you on the open early miles. The porticoed streets are a distinctive backdrop. Spring air suits fast running. Pace it evenly and the gentle course rewards a measured effort.
Difficulty Breakdown
Mostly due to tough late hills, lots of turns.
Course Details
- Course type
- Loop
- Elevation gain
- 150m
- Elevation loss
- 148m
- Highest point
- 78m
- Lowest point
- 23m
- Net elevation
- +2m
- Start
- Starts and finishes on Via Indipendenza.
- Cutoff time
- 5h 30m
Race History
The Bologna Marathon grew into a course through the medieval Emilia-Romagna city famed for its kilometres of porticoes, tracing the historic center on a largely flat profile. Its arcaded scenery and level roads gave it a distinctive character. Over the years it drew a steady field to the food-and-culture city. Held in spring, it remains a flat, characterful Italian race.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- Bologna/Marconi (BLQ), Florence (FLR)
- Best area to stay
- The Centro Storico for atmospheric stays under the porticoes near the route, the university quarter for lively options, and the outskirts for value stays.
- Getting to the start
- The start is near the centre by Piazza Maggiore; walk from central hotels, as the centre is compact.