Course Map
About this Race
The Cracovia Marathon is a course through the historic Polish city of Kraków, tracing the medieval old town, the Wawel Castle, and the Vistula on gently rolling terrain. The modest undulations give it some character amid the spectacular historic surroundings. Held in April, it offers cool spring conditions and rich medieval scenery. The old town and castle define the day. It suits runners who want a scenic, characterful Polish race steeped in history and don't mind gentle rolling terrain over a flat-out fast time.
Course Insight
Kraków is a spring marathon through the historic Polish city, mostly flat with cobbled stretches around the old town to read carefully. Pace the cobbles by feel and settle into rhythm on the smoother sections. Cool conditions suit racing. The medieval centre is a beautiful backdrop. Pace it evenly and the gentle course rewards restraint.
Difficulty Breakdown
A fast, runner-friendly course.
Course Details
- Course type
- Loop
- Elevation gain
- 120m
- Elevation loss
- 140m
- Highest point
- 217m
- Lowest point
- 199m
- Net elevation
- -20m
- Start
- Starts and finishes on Krakow's Main Market Square (Rynek Glowny).
- Cutoff time
- 6h 0m
Race History
The Cracovia Marathon was first held around 2002, a course through the historic Polish city of Kraków, tracing the medieval old town, Wawel Castle, and the Vistula on gently rolling terrain. Its modest undulations amid spectacular historic surroundings gave it character. From its founding it grew into a popular event. Held each April, it draws a field to the medieval cityscape.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- Kraków/John Paul II Balice (KRK), Katowice (KTW)
- Best area to stay
- Stare Miasto for atmospheric stays near the route, Kazimierz for trendy, characterful options, and Podgórze for quieter, value stays.
- Getting to the start
- The start is near the centre/the stadium; take a tram or walk from central hotels to the start.