The Early Years
2004Established in 2004, the Istanbul Half Marathon is now 22 years old. From its first edition in Istanbul, it has evolved into a race that reflects the character of its host region in Turkey.
Get Your Training Plan
Free, personalized for this race
Course & Elevation
The Istanbul Half Marathon traverses the iconic Bosphorus waterfront, starting from Sultanahmet and finishing in Besiktaş. Runners experience stunning views of the historic city skyline, crossing multiple bridges and passing through vibrant neighborhoods. The course combines urban exploration with gentle rolling terrain alongside one of the world's most strategically important waterways.
Surface: road Profile: Rolling
Weather
Temperature 16°C
Humidity 65%
Rain Chance 35%
Spring weather in Istanbul brings mild temperatures and occasional showers. The Bosphorus breeze provides cooling relief during the run, though humidity from the waterway can increase effort perception.
The Race
Istanbul
Race Lore
The Course Record
2018The fastest time ever recorded at the Istanbul Half Marathon is 01:02:47, set by Amos Kiprotich in 2018. Every year, new contenders line up hoping to challenge that mark on the streets of Istanbul.
Running Through a Postcard
The Istanbul Half Marathon route is one of those courses where runners forget their pace and reach for their phones. The scenery through Istanbul and its surroundings has earned this race a reputation as one of the most photogenic in Europe.
🏅 Create Your Istanbul Half Marathon Diploma
Finished this race? Get a free certificate with celebrity comparisons & race day weather
Course Record
01:02:47
Amos Kiprotich (2018)
Registration
Registration Opens January
Registration Closes March
Entry Cost ₺800-₺1200
Register Now
Official Website →
Fun Facts
- ▸ Istanbul Half Marathon is part of the larger Istanbul Marathon festival, one of Europe's oldest marathons established in 2004
- ▸ The race crosses the historic Bosphorus bridges, separating Europe from Asia, making it one of the few races spanning two continents
- ▸ With participants from nearly 100 countries, it's one of the most internationally diverse half-marathons in the Mediterranean region
- ▸ The course follows the same route as the full Istanbul Marathon but ends midway, offering participants spectacular views of the Golden Horn and historic sultanates
Compare With Similar Races
Are you the race organizer?
Free · Get featured on our homepage · Edit your race details
Get alerts for Istanbul Half Marathon
Registration openings, date changes, sell-out warnings.