The Prague International Marathon is one of Central Europe's most respected long-distance running events. Held each May in the heart of the Czech capital, it draws tens of thousands of runners from over 100 countries. The course winds through Prague's historic centre, past the Old Town Square, along the Vltava riverbank, and across several of the city's famous bridges. For many runners, it is as much a sightseeing tour as a race.
The Course
The full marathon (42.195 km) starts and finishes near the Old Town Square. The route is largely flat, which makes Prague one of the faster marathon courses in Europe. Runners pass through Malá Strana, cross Charles Bridge (or nearby bridges depending on the year's route), and follow the Vltava embankment for a significant stretch.
There is also a half marathon option, which shares much of the same route but with a shorter loop. Both distances are well-supported with water stations, medical teams, and enthusiastic crowds throughout.
When to Register
The Prague Marathon typically opens registration in autumn of the previous year. Places fill up quickly, particularly for international runners who need to arrange travel and accommodation. Early registration also usually comes with a price advantage. Check the official RunCzech website for current dates and pricing.
Training for Prague
If you are targeting a spring race in Prague, your training block will run through the Czech winter, which can be cold and icy. A few things to keep in mind:
- January and February temperatures in Prague regularly drop below freezing. Layer up and consider trail shoes with grip for icy paths.
- The Stromovka park and the Vltava embankment paths are popular year-round training routes and are usually cleared of snow fairly quickly.
- Indoor track sessions at facilities like the Strahov athletics complex can supplement outdoor runs when conditions are poor.
- Many Prague runners use the Letná plateau for tempo work due to its flat surface and good lighting.
Recommended Training Routes in Prague
Getting your long runs in before race day is easier if you know where to go. These routes are popular with local runners and offer good conditions year-round:
Vltava Embankment Loop
A classic route running from the National Theatre along the right bank of the Vltava, crossing at Palackeho Bridge, and returning along the left bank. The full loop is around 10 km and can be extended easily. The surface is mostly paved and well-lit.
Stromovka Park
Prague's largest park offers a network of paths suitable for easy runs and recovery jogs. The park is flat, traffic-free, and pleasant in all seasons. A full lap of the outer perimeter is approximately 4 km.
Divoká Šárka
For runners who want hills and trail surfaces, the Šárka valley in Prague 6 provides a genuine off-road experience within the city. The terrain is more demanding and the paths can be muddy in wet weather, but it is a welcome change from pavement.
Race Day Logistics
Prague is a compact city and the marathon start area is well-connected by public transport. The metro lines A and B both have stops close to the Old Town Square. Avoid driving to the start, as road closures affect a large area of the city centre on race morning.
Bag drop is available near the start and finish. The finish line area can become crowded, so arrange a clear meeting point with any supporters in advance. The post-race area typically includes food, drinks, and medical support.
Accommodation Tips
Book accommodation well in advance if you are travelling to Prague for the marathon. Hotels in the city centre fill up months ahead of the race. Staying within walking distance of the start line reduces stress on race morning. Areas like Vinohrady or Žižkov offer good value and are 20 to 30 minutes on foot from the Old Town.
Beyond the Marathon
RunCzech, the organisation behind the Prague Marathon, also runs several other events throughout the year, including the Prague Half Marathon in spring and various shorter races. If you are building towards the full marathon, these can serve as useful benchmark races during your training block.
For a broader view of running events across the Czech Republic, the Czech Athletics Federation maintains a calendar of registered road races at all distances.