The EDP Porto Marathon is a premier European road race that takes runners along a stunningly flat and fast course spanning the Atlantic coast and the Douro riverbanks. It connects the historic cities of Porto, Matosinhos, and Vila Nova de Gaia, offering a unique blend of coastal scenery and UNESCO World Heritage architecture.
Course Highlights
The EDP Porto Marathon offers a breathtakingly scenic route that showcases the best of northern Portugal’s coastal and riverside landscapes. The race begins at the Sea Life Porto, located next to the historic Castelo do Queijo (Cheese Castle) and the vast Parque da Cidade. Runners immediately head north toward the fishing town of Matosinhos, crossing the Ponte Móvel de Leça drawbridge before turning south for an extended stretch along the Atlantic coastline. One of the most iconic moments occurs as runners approach the historic center of Porto, crossing the Dom Luís I Bridge into Vila Nova de Gaia. This double-deck iron bridge, inspired by the work of Gustave Eiffel, provides panoramic views of the Douro River and the colorful Ribeira district. The course then loops back through the Quinta da China gardens and follows the riverbank to a grand finish at the Queimódromo.
Race Details
The 22nd edition of the Porto Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, November 8, 2026. The main marathon event starts at 08:00, alongside the EDP 10K and the Mimosa/APO 6K fun run, ensuring a distance for every level of athlete. The marathon course is renowned for being exceptionally flat and fast, with a maximum duration of six hours, making it an ideal choice for runners aiming to set a personal best. Participants can expect a cool and comfortable climate typical of Porto in November, with temperatures usually ranging between 14°C and 18°C. The event is well-supported with hydration and nutrition stations every 5 kilometers, featuring water, isotonic drinks, and food. Runners are also supported by experienced pacemakers for target finish times ranging from 3:00 to 4:45 hours.
Why Runners Love It
Runners from around the globe are drawn to the Porto Marathon for its unique blend of athletic challenge and cultural discovery. The race is celebrated for its “warm atmosphere,” fueled by the enthusiastic support of local crowds and the scenic beauty of the Atlantic and Douro landscapes. Beyond the race itself, participants enjoy the opportunity to explore Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage city famous for its historic architecture, vibrant street life, and world-class Port wine cellars. The event’s organization is highly regarded, from the comprehensive Expo at the Alfândega Congress Centre to the festive finish line celebrations featuring beer, local food, and a commemorative medal. Its status as a World Athletics Label Road Race ensures a high-quality competitive field and professional standards that make every participant feel like an elite athlete.
Ready to experience one of Europe’s most picturesque marathons? Secure your spot on the starting line and register today at the official website: EDP Porto Marathon Official Registration.
At a Glance
- Location: Porto, Porto District — Portugal
- Next Date: 2026-11-08
- Distances: [‘Marathon’, ’10K’, ‘6K’]
- Start Time: 08:00
Register & Learn More
Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: https://www.maratonadoporto.com/en/




