The EDP Lisbon Marathon is a world-renowned road race celebrated for its stunning coastal route and flat terrain, stretching from the seaside town of Carcavelos to the historic heart of Lisbon.
Course Highlights
The EDP Lisbon Marathon offers one of the most scenic courses in the world, featuring a 100% ocean- and riverside route. The race begins in Carcavelos, right in front of the modern NOVA School of Business and Economics campus on the Estrada N6-7. Runners travel west along the Atlantic coast through Oeiras before turning back towards Lisbon. The course is exceptionally flat and fast, passing iconic Portuguese landmarks such as the Belém Tower, the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, and the Jerónimos Monastery. The journey culminates at the historic Praça do Comércio, a grand waterfront square surrounded by majestic architecture, providing a spectacular finish for the 42.195km journey.
Why Runners Love It
As a founding member of the European Marathon Classics, the Lisbon Marathon is celebrated for its breathtaking scenery and high-speed course. It attracts over 15,000 participants from across the globe who are drawn to the unique experience of running with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and historic Portuguese architecture on the other. The atmosphere is vibrant, fueled by enthusiastic local crowds and the prestige of an IAAF-sanctioned event. Runners love the race for its mild Mediterranean climate and the unforgettable finish at the iconic Praça do Comércio, making it a true bucket-list destination for athletes of all levels.
Race Details
- Location: Lisbon, Portugal
- Distances: Marathon, Half Marathon, 8K
- Next Race Date: 2026-10-10
- Start Time: 08:00
Race Weekend Tips
Plan to arrive early in the week to pick up your bib and technical shirt at the Sport Expo, located at the FIL (Lisbon International Fair) in the Parque das Nações area. On race morning, take advantage of the free public transport for runners by catching the CP train from Cais do Sodré station to Carcavelos; the journey takes about 30 minutes. Consider staying in the central Baixa or Chiado districts for easy access to the finish line. Be prepared for coastal winds and mild October temperatures.
History & Charity
First established in 1986, the Lisbon Marathon has a rich history that reflects the city’s growth as a premier sporting hub. For many years, the race was held in December, but it moved to October in 2013 when it joined the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series. Today, it is organized by the Maratona Clube de Portugal and is a founding member of the European Marathon Classics. The event continues to thrive as an IAAF Gold Label race, supporting regional sports development and attracting the world’s elite marathoners to the shores of the Tagus River.




