The Florence Marathon, one of the most prestigious and internationally recognized sporting events, boasts a history and tradition rooted in decades of success and continuous growth.
Now in its 42st edition, this city race has become a must-attend event for running enthusiasts from all over the world, who come in large numbers to take part in a competition of enormous appeal and fascination.
The next edition of the Florence Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, November 29, 2026, and will maintain the established format of starting and finishing in Piazza del Duomo, just 200 meters from the FH55 Hotel Calzaiuoli, an accommodation facility.
The 42.195-kilometer route will pass through some of the city’s most iconic and evocative locations, allowing participants to fully enjoy the architectural, artistic and scenic beauty of Florence, a true world capital of art and culture.
Organizers are expecting more than 10,000 athletes to take part, a record number that reflects the growing inthttps://www.fhhotelgroup.it/en/the-rome-marathonerest and international reputation of this event, which has become an inevitable landmark in the calendar of top-level sporting events.
In addition to the main race, the program also includes non-competitive races and accompanying activities, such as the Family Run, which will allow everyone to fully experience the Florence Marathon, transforming it into a moment of sharing, gathering and promoting the values of sport and a healthy lifestyle.
In addition, on November 28, 2026, the 3×7 Relay will be held with the charitable purpose of raising funds for the associations involved in the event.
The 2026 edition of the Florence Marathon promises to be an unmissable event for running enthusiasts, who will be able to combine their passion for sport with the opportunity to admire the wonders of a unique city in the world, rich in history, art and traditions.
The History of the Florence Marathon
The first edition of the Florence Marathon was held in 1984 and 850 athletes participated.
Over the years, the marathon has grown to become the second most popular marathon in Italy after Rome, with the 2010 edition reaching more than 10,000 participants from as many as 57 countries.
The last edition was won by Badr Jaafari with a time of 2.09’58”.
The 2026 edition will therefore be a record-breaking one.
The Florence Marathon route
The start and finish are scheduled in the beautiful Piazza Duomo where runners will feel like true protagonists as they traverse the streets crowded with enthusiastic fans.
The route will then take them to the Cascine Park, a green oasis that offers a pleasant break from the frenzy of the race.
The most exciting moment will undoubtedly be the passage over the Ponte Vecchio, near the Uffizi Gallery.
This famous bridge, with its characteristic stores, is one of the most iconic symbols of Florence. Athletes will be able to admire its beauty as they cross it, feeling like an integral part of the city’s thousand-year history.
After running along the Lungarno, runners will head to the Asics Firenze Marathon Stadium. This modern stadium will be the turning point of the race, where athletes can refuel with water and gather the last of their energy to face the final kilometers.
The return to Piazza Duomo will be a moment of great joy and satisfaction for all participants. They will be greeted by a festive atmosphere and a warm crowd cheering them on until the last step.
Running through more than 150 city streets, athletes will be able to appreciate Florence’s Renaissance architecture and feel part of a sports tradition rooted in the past.
Runners will wear T-shirts with graphics that combine mythology and culture, and will be colored purple and gray.
The Florence Marathon has become a major international event, attracting the attention of professional athletes and fans from around the world.
Every year, thousands of people gather along the city streets to support the athletes and enjoy the spectacle.
The atmosphere is electrifying, with bands playing live music along the route and enthusiastic spectators cheering on the participants.
Florence Marathon 2026: the events
The Florence Marathon organization has put together a varied program of side events to enliven the city during the week of the marathon.
It all starts with the Expo Village, scheduled for November 27th and 28th, a veritable exhibition village where leading companies in the sports and running industry will be present.
Conferences, meetings and interviews with famous athletes and personalities from the world of sports will take place in this setting, offering visitors the opportunity to learn more about topics related to running, athletic training and the latest market news.
Another highly anticipated event is the Ginky Family Run, a non-competitive 3K race scheduled for November 28. This race, specially designed for families with children, will start and finish at the Ippodromo del Visarno, a picturesque setting that will be the backdrop for the event. Young and old will be able to enjoy a pleasant walk or run through the green avenues of the circuit, in an atmosphere of fun and sharing.
The Firenze Marathon has reached the highest level of organization, thanks to the tireless work of the city’s institutions, sports associations and all of Florence’s tourist facilities.
Thanks to this commitment, the Florence Marathon has become an unmissable event in the international sporting calendar, capable of attracting thousands of athletes and fans from all over the world.
Hotel deals for the Florence Marathon
The FH55 Hotel Calzaiuoli and the FH55 Grand Hotel Mediterraneo are excellent alternatives for experiencing this fantastic event within walking distance of arrival.
The FH55 Hotel Calzaiuoli is located just 200 meters from the central Piazza Duomo while the FH55 Grand Hotel Mediterraneo, located on the Lungarno, is only a 20-minute walk away.
All interested parties can safely book online at the best available rate.
Are you also ready to experience the excitement of the Florence Marathon?
See you on Sunday, November 29!