Course Map
Route based on 2025 course — may differ slightly from this year.
About this Race
The Turkish Airlines Istanbul Marathon holds a unique distinction as the only marathon to span two continents, starting on the Asian side and crossing the Bosphorus Bridge into Europe in its opening miles. The route then runs through the historic heart of the city toward the Sultanahmet district near the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, with a generally favorable, gently descending tendency after the bridge. Held in November, it offers cool conditions and an unforgettable intercontinental crossing closed to traffic just for the runners. The blend of ancient skyline and the symbolic bridge defines the day. It suits runners drawn to a one-of-a-kind concept and a richly historic course over a guaranteed personal best.
Course Insight
Istanbul is the only marathon spanning two continents, launching in Asia and crossing the Bosphorus into Europe, a singular intercontinental opening over the bridge. The crossing brings a net downhill that tempts an early surge you'll regret, so meter that free speed. The rolling city that follows never lets you fully settle. November conditions are usually mild. Bank the bridge descent gently and the back half stays under your control rather than running you.
Difficulty Breakdown
A balanced marathon with no single defining challenge.
Course Details
- Course type
- Point-To-Point
- Elevation gain
- 178m
- Elevation loss
- 188m
- Highest point
- 91m
- Lowest point
- 1m
- Net elevation
- -10m
- Start
- Asian side, near the Bosphorus Bridge
- Cutoff time
- 6h 20m
Course Records
- Men's
- 2:09:44 — Daniel Kibet (Kenya), 2019
- Women's
- 2:18:35 — Ruth Chepngetich (Kenya), 2018
Race History
The Turkish Airlines Istanbul Marathon was first held in 1979 and holds the unique distinction of being the only marathon to span two continents, crossing the Bosphorus from Asia into Europe. Its dramatic intercontinental bridge crossing, closed to traffic for race day, became its signature feature. From its early editions it grew into a major international event finishing near the historic Sultanahmet quarter. Run each November, it draws a large global field to the storied city.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- Istanbul Airport (IST), Sabiha Gökçen (SAW)
- Best area to stay
- Sultanahmet for atmospheric hotels near the historic course, Beyoğlu around Taksim for lively central stays, and Kadıköy for value options on the Asian side near the start.
- Getting to the start
- It's point-to-point starting on the Asian side at the Bosphorus Bridge; use the organised shuttles toward the start, as the bridge approach is controlled.