Course & Elevation

The Lyon Marathon features a scenic route through the historic heart of France's third-largest city, starting and finishing at the Parc de la Tête d'Or. Runners traverse the Renaissance old town, cross the Fourvière Basilica views, and loop through elegant neighborhoods along the Rhône and Saône rivers. The course is moderately rolling with gentle climbs through the city's varied topography.

Surface: road Profile: Rolling

Weather

Temperature 15°C

Humidity 68%

Rain Chance 35%

Cool autumn weather with mild temperatures ideal for marathon running. Occasional rain possible but generally favorable conditions with low to moderate humidity.

The Race

Lyon

Race Lore

Born in the Running Boom

1984 Origin

The Lyon Marathon was founded in 1984, during the golden age of mass-participation running. Now 42 years old, it has established itself as a beloved fixture in Lyon, growing from its early editions into a race with genuine character and loyal following.

A Course Built for Speed

2015 Record

The course record of 02:09:31, set by Belay Deba in 2015, speaks to what the Lyon Marathon offers elite athletes: a fast, honest course where serious times are achievable. The record has drawn increasingly competitive fields year after year.

Running Through a Postcard

Course

The Lyon Marathon route is one of those courses where runners forget their pace and reach for their phones. The scenery through Lyon and its surroundings has earned this race a reputation as one of the most photogenic in Europe.

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Course Record

02:09:31

Belay Deba (2015)

Registration

Registration Opens March

Registration Closes September

Entry Cost €65-€95

Official Website →

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Fun Facts

▸ Lyon Marathon has been a staple autumn event since 1984, making it one of France's most established urban marathons.
▸ The race finishes at Parc de la Tête d'Or, one of Europe's largest urban parks, which serves as a magnificent celebration venue for finishers.
▸ Lyon sits at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, and the course beautifully showcases both waterways and the city's UNESCO World Heritage Renaissance architecture.
▸ The event typically attracts 15-20% international participation, drawing runners from across Europe and beyond to experience this elegant French city marathon.

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