Bologna Marathon 2026

Bologna Marathon 2026

The Bologna Marathon 2026 returns to bring color and energy to the city streets with one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year — an occasion that combines a passion for running, community participation, culture, and an authentic atmosphere. This international event welcomes athletes and enthusiasts from all over Italy and the world, ready to run beneath arcades, across historic squares, and through the unique urban landscape of one of Europe’s oldest cities.

The event offers a diverse and inclusive program designed for professionals, amateur runners, and families. The official FIDAL races include the traditional Marathon (42.195 km), the evocative 30 km dei Portici, and Run Tune Up, Bologna’s half marathon (21.097 km), now in its twenty-second edition and one of the region’s most popular races.

There are also non-competitive activities open to everyone, designed to celebrate running as a collective and accessible experience:

• City Run – 5 km, a walk and run through the historic center supporting a solidarity project;

• Kids Marathon, dedicated to young runners, introducing them to sport through play and fun.

Bologna City Run: Running Together for Research

The Bologna City Run is a 5 km route through the historic center that involves families, casual walkers, and anyone wishing to take part without competitive pressure — enjoying the city at their own pace, together. This initiative has always been closely linked to the Bologna Marathon’s fundraising projects: in this edition as well, a donation will be made for every registration to support a research project by the University of Bologna, the event’s institutional partner.

In an edition dedicated to “Bologna la Dotta”, the goal is clear: to support knowledge and engage the university community, encouraging young people — and the wider public — to feel part of the event. Running through the city becomes a symbolic and collective gesture, embracing the edition’s motto: Think Smart, Run Far!

A Weekend of Sport, Culture, and Community

The beating heart of the event will be Piazza Maggiore, the finish area and home of the Marathon Village: a lively meeting place hosting side events, talks, live music, wellness activities, and opportunities to discover the city. A full weekend to experience Bologna through sport, social interaction, and the renowned local cuisine that has made the city famous worldwide.

Whether you’re seeking a personal challenge, a shared experience, or the chance to rediscover Bologna from a new perspective, the Bologna Marathon 2026 is the event to mark on your calendar.

Get ready to run, enjoy, and celebrate. Bologna is waiting for you!