Running events and triathlons in Istanbul (Turkey): an overview of all runs and triathlon competitions in Istanbul.
Information on all races in Istanbul, including dates, registration, course, schedules and results.
Istanbul Running: Intercontinental Crossing and Historic Finishes
Running in Istanbul provides a world-class experience that is geographically unique: it is the only marathon in the world where the course spans two continents, Asia and Europe. The Istanbul Marathon is the city’s flagship event. It starts on the Asian side and the race highlight occurs almost immediately as runners cross the Bosphorus Bridge (or 15 July Martyrs Bridge), offering spectacular, once-in-a-lifetime views over the strait and the city's historic skyline. While the course features a major climb up and over the bridge, the remainder of the route, once on the European side, is relatively flat as it follows the coastline.
The Heritage Tour and Half Marathon Speed
Once runners reach Europe, the course becomes a magnificent sightseeing tour through history, passing iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Galata Bridge before concluding in the historic Sultanahmet Square near the Hippodrome. This journey through the heart of the former Byzantine and Ottoman empires provides an immense historical reward for the physical effort. The Istanbul Half Marathon, held in the spring, offers a different kind of challenge. This race is known for its extremely flat, no-altitude course along the Golden Horn and the Marmara Sea coast, making it a highly desirable race for runners aiming for a fast personal best (PB) in a visually stunning setting.
Whether you choose the full marathon for the incredible feat of running between continents or the half marathon for its certified speed, Istanbul’s well-organized events and massive crowds provide a vibrant and unforgettable running journey that truly bridges East and West.
To the overview of all events in our race calendar:
Running Races 2026 in Istanbul
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