The Rome Marathon 2025 is the iconic race that takes place every year in March! It attracts thousands of runners and spectators from all over the world! This legendary event traverses the cobbled streets of the Eternal City, unveiling breathtaking views of historic sites such as the Colosseum and the Vatican. Whether you're a seasoned marathon runner or a fan of urban races, this event calls for meticulous preparation. Discover all the fundamental elements to prepare for your participation in the Rome Marathon. They include: the competition route in the city of 7 hills, the different courses, where to pick up your bib and how to get there this year, on Sunday March 16, 2025!
What is the Rome Marathon?
The Rome Marathon is a race held every year in March. Also known as Run Rome The Marathonthis 42.195 km sporting challenge takes runners through world-famous historic sites and monuments. It's an event that brings together sport and culture in a city renowned for its centuries-old heritage. With around 25,000 participants, it'sItaly's biggest marathon. Would you like to run it, embrace Roman history and relive the past while challenging your own limits?
The article to read : How to visit Rome in 3 days? Itinerary tips.
What is the race route?
Are you surprised if I tell you that Rome is one of the 20 most beautiful cities in the world to visit in your lifetime ? That's why the route of the Rome Marathon is designed to reveal a panoramic view of the city's greatest monuments. What's more, the start and finish are at the Colosseum, that symbolic monument where runners set off on a 42 km course through the heart of Rome.
The circuit takes in iconic landmarks such as the Circo Massimo, Castel Sant'Angelo, the Vatican and St. Peter's Basilica, as well as the Tiber River. This demanding challenge is made all the more special by its cobblestones and occasional climbs. Nevertheless, the scenery is well worth the effort.
Good to know: read these articles to find out how to visit the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel in Rome, as well as its 21 must-sees.
Activities to book to explore the city before the race, get your Roma Pass and discover the main attractions.
What are the different routes of the Rome Marathon 2025?
In addition to the 42 km marathon, the organizers are offering a four-person relay race for those who want to share the experience. There is also a 5 km"Fun Run", a shorter course for beginners or families wishing to discover the competition in a festive atmosphere. These options give everyone the chance to find a format to suit their level, whether they want to complete the distance solo, in a relay, or enjoy the city over a shorter distance.
Where can I pick up my race number?
Race numbers for the Rome Marathon can be collected at the Palazzo dei Congressi. It's located in the modern EUR district. Participants can pick up their race kit containing their race number, a technical T-shirt and an official bag. They must do so the day before the event , by presenting ID and registration confirmation. For international runners, this pick-up point is well served by public transport.
How do I get to the event?
Rome is easily accessible by plane, train or car. There are shuttle buses and trains from Fiumicino and Ciampino international airports to the city center. Roma Termini stationis also well connected to the main cities ofItaly and Europe. Once you're there, the metro, buses and streetcars make it easy to get to the course and bib collection areas. Don't forget to plan your journey to avoid stress on race day!
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Where to stay in Rome?
Want to make the most of your stay? Then here are threewell-located hotel options that offer comfort and easy access to the marathon course:
- Hotel Dei Borgognoni: ideally located between the Trevi Fountain and Piazza di Spagna, this charming hotel seduces with its spacious, well-decorated rooms, especially those with terraces. The colonial-inspired common areas and inner courtyard add an elegant touch. An excellent choice for a refined stay in the heart of Rome. Book your stay here.
- Hotel Grifo: nestled in the Monti district, this hotel boasts a magnificent view of Rome's rooftops from its terrace. With a warm welcome, comfortable, well-decorated rooms and attentive (French-speaking) staff. It's a great option for discovering Rome in a friendly setting. You can book directly via this link.
- Hotel Carmel: in the lively Trastevere district, this modest hotel offers simple, affordable rooms. The terrace is a pleasant place to relax, while the winter garden serves as a breakfast room. The friendly staff and central location make this a practical and pleasant choice for a budget stay. Book here.
Good to know: opt for an evening on the Artémide rooftop to enjoy a glass of the precious nectar of the gods.
Which is the easiest marathon in Europe?
While the Rome Marathon is rich in cultural discoveries, it is not the easiest in terms of course. For athletes looking for a more accessible marathon, the Berlin Marathon is known for its ultra-flat route. Indeed, it attracts many runners thanks to its fast pace and world records. Its smooth surface and lack of climbs make it one of Europe's "easiest" and most popular marathons.
The Little Witty's advice on preparing for the Rome Marathon 2025
To make the most of this Roman adventure, it's essential to be well prepared. Here are a few useful tips:
- Train on different surfaces: the Roman course features cobblestones and climbs. So it's important to get used to running on uneven surfaces.
- Arrive a few days early: familiarize yourself with the course and the city environment, and take time to acclimatize.
- Think about your hydration and nutrition: temperatures in March are fickle. Adapt your hydration and nutrition strategies accordingly.
- Equip yourself well: Rome can be unpredictable in terms of weather. Prepare yourself accordingly with appropriate technical clothing.
Good to know: continue the adventure with these 5 must-see places in Italy.
What's the toughest marathon in the world?
For marathoners looking for extreme challenges, the Marathon des Sables, run in the Sahara desert, is considered the toughest in the world. With stages lasting several days in scorching heat and miles of sand, this marathon pushes the limits of human endurance. The Rome Marathon may not be comparable in difficulty, but it still offers a challenge worthy of the history of this thousand-year-old city.
The Rome Marathon 2025 is an unforgettable event for those with a passion for running and culture. Running through the historic streets of Rome is an adventure that will leave a lasting impression. Get ready, train and experience this unique challenge in the heart of the Eternal City! To find out more about holidays and other must-sees in Italy, check out the Petit Futé's festival news section!
