Course Map
Route based on 2023 course — may differ slightly from this year.
About this Race
The Florence Marathon is a fast, flat course through the cradle of the Renaissance, passing the Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio, the Uffizi, and the artistic treasures of the Tuscan city. The level profile and smooth roads make it a strong personal-best target. Held in November, it offers crisp autumn conditions ideal for racing amid spectacular surroundings. The unmatched artistic backdrop defines the day. It suits the PB-focused runner who wants a fast course wrapped in one of the most beautiful historic cities in the world.
Course Insight
Florence is a flat, fast November marathon through the Renaissance heart of the city, quick on level ground with cobbled patches in the historic centre to read carefully. Pace the cobbles by feel and otherwise settle into an even rhythm. Mild autumn air suits fast running. The art-soaked surroundings are a gorgeous backdrop. Pace it evenly and the flat course delivers a clean day.
Difficulty Breakdown
A balanced marathon with no single defining challenge.
Course Details
- Course type
- Loop
- Elevation gain
- 148m
- Elevation loss
- 151m
- Highest point
- 55m
- Lowest point
- 45m
- Net elevation
- -3m
- Start
- Starts and finishes at Piazza del Duomo.
- Cutoff time
- 6h 0m
Race History
The Florence Marathon was first held in 1984, a fast, flat course through the cradle of the Renaissance past the Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio, and the artistic treasures of the Tuscan city. Its level profile amid spectacular surroundings made it a strong personal-best target. From its founding it grew into one of Italy's premier marathons. Held each November, it draws a large field amid the artistic backdrop.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- Florence/Peretola (FLR), Pisa (PSA) & Bologna (BLQ)
- Best area to stay
- The Centro Storico for atmospheric stays near the route, the Oltrarno for characterful artisan-quarter options, and the Santa Maria Novella area for transport-convenient hotels.
- Getting to the start
- The start is near the city centre; walk from central hotels, as the centre is compact.