The Early Years
2004Established in 2004, the Cologne Marathon is now 22 years old. From its first edition in Cologne, it has evolved into a race that reflects the character of its host region in Germany.
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Course & Elevation
The Cologne Marathon is one of Germany's most beautiful city marathons, featuring a flat course that circles the historic city center and Rhine riverfront. Runners experience iconic landmarks including Cologne Cathedral, charming old town streets, and scenic river views. The predominantly flat terrain with minimal elevation change makes it ideal for pursuing personal records.
Surface: road Profile: Flat
Weather
Temperature 14°C
Humidity 75%
Rain Chance 55%
Cool autumn weather with moderate humidity. Expect temperatures in the low to mid-teens Celsius with a possibility of rain; dress in layers and bring rain protection.
The Race
Cologne
Race Lore
A Course Built for Speed
2019The course record of 02:07:56, set by Moses Kiptanui in 2019, speaks to what the Cologne Marathon offers elite athletes: a fast, honest course where serious times are achievable. The record has drawn increasingly competitive fields year after year.
The Fast Lane
Runners come to the Cologne Marathon for one reason: personal bests. The flat, fast course through Cologne has a reputation as a PB factory, with the roads seemingly designed to keep your pace honest and your splits consistent from start to finish.
Where It Begins
For thousands of runners each year, the Cologne Marathon is their first marathon. The combination of a forgiving course, generous time limits, and supportive crowds has earned this race a reputation as the place where marathon journeys begin. The first-timer energy on race morning is palpable.
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Course Record
02:07:56
Moses Kiptanui (2019)
Registration
Registration Opens January
Registration Closes September
Entry Cost €79-€119
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Fun Facts
- ▸ Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, dominates the skyline and serves as both a race landmark and a stunning visual throughout the course.
- ▸ The marathon celebrates Germany's vibrant running culture and attracts elite international runners seeking a fast, flat course for personal records.
- ▸ The October timing coincides with Cologne's pleasant autumn weather and occurs just weeks after major European marathons, making it a popular fall circuit race.
- ▸ The course loops through both the historic Old Town and modern districts, showcasing the city's blend of medieval architecture and contemporary urban design.
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