EuropeSlovenia

Ljubljana Marathon

A flat, fast tour of the fairy-tale Slovenian capital.

2.5/10 Difficulty
120m Elevation Gain
1996 Founded

Course Map

Elevation Profile
km
mi

About this Race

The Volkswagen Ljubljana Marathon is a flat, fast course through the charming Slovenian capital, tracing the picturesque old town, the river, and the castle-topped hillside on smooth, level roads. The forgiving profile makes it a strong personal-best target. Held in October, it offers crisp autumn conditions ideal for hard racing. The fairy-tale cityscape and warm crowds define the day. It suits the PB chaser who wants a fast, scenic, and accessible central-European race in a cool-weather window.

city flat fast scenic historic pb-friendly

Course Insight

Ljubljana is a flat, fast October marathon through the Slovenian capital, smooth and quick on level ground. The flatness leaves pacing discipline to you on the open early miles. Crisp autumn air suits fast running. The charming city centre is a pleasant backdrop. Pace it evenly and the level course delivers the time you trained for.

Pro tip: It's a flat PB course, so hold back early and let the level roads and crisp air deliver a fast time.

Difficulty Breakdown

2.5/10

A fast, runner-friendly course.

Elevation
2.7
Hill Placement
4.0
Weather
0.0
Turns
3.9

How we calculate difficulty →

Course Details

Course type
Loop
Elevation gain
120m
Elevation loss
117m
Highest point
317m
Lowest point
289m
Net elevation
+3m
Start
Starts on Slovenska cesta, finishes at Congress Square.
Cutoff time
6h 0m

Race History

The Volkswagen Ljubljana Marathon was first held in 1996, a flat, fast course through the charming Slovenian capital, tracing the picturesque old town, river, and castle-topped hillside. Its forgiving profile and warm crowds made it a strong personal-best target. From its founding it grew into Slovenia's premier marathon. Held each October, it draws a field to the fairy-tale city.

Plan Your Trip

Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.

Nearest airport(s)
Jože Pučnik (LJU), Trieste (TRS), Klagenfurt (KLU) & Zagreb (ZAG)
Best area to stay
The Old Town for atmospheric riverside stays near the route, the Center district for full hotels, and Trnovo for charming, quieter options.
Getting to the start
The start is near the centre; walk from central hotels, as the centre is compact.

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