Town/City
Belgrade Marathon
An annual spring race through Serbia's capital, crossing the Sava and Danube rivers, and one of the larger running events in the Balkans.
Founder, from Ruma, Serbia
The Belgrade Marathon is Serbia's biggest running event and one of the longest-running city marathons in the Balkans, first held in 1988. Each spring it brings thousands of runners onto the streets of the capital, on a course that crosses the Sava and passes many of the city's landmarks.
Alongside the full marathon there's a half marathon and a shorter fun run, so it works for serious runners and first-timers alike. The course is mostly flat, spring temperatures are usually ideal for running, and crowds along the route give it a festival feel in the city centre.
The race is typically held in April or May, so check the official site for this year's date and registration deadlines. Stay in the centre and add a day to explore Kalemegdan, the fortress where the Sava meets the Danube, or the riverside bike paths for an easy shake-out ride. Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport is about 20 minutes from the city. With extra days, head east to the Iron Gates in Đerdap National Park.
When it's held
Typically late April each year, with registration opening several months in advance.
Getting there
Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport serves the city directly, with the race route running through the central city.
Plan your visit
What it costs, how long to allow, and where to base yourself.
Race entry fee; low by European standards
Race weekend
Belgrade city centre
Belgrade, 20 min
Where to stay for the Belgrade Marathon: near Republic Square
Stay in central Belgrade, as close to Republic Square as you can, because the marathon starts and finishes there. Courtyard by Marriott is 50 m from the line for runners who want a stress-free race morning, while Hidden Gem Hostel keeps costs down 500 m away. Prices drop a few streets back, and the whole centre is walkable. Add a day for an easy shake-out on the riverside bike paths.
Courtyard by Marriott Belgrade City Center
Hotel
Price Range:
Upscale
Upscale hotel with a restaurant 50 m from Republic Square, where the marathon starts and finishes. Walk to the line on race morning.
50 m from Republic Square
Hotel Centar No.1
Hotel
Price Range:
Mid-range
Compact hotel with a 24-hour front desk, 100 m from Republic Square. Roll out of bed and onto the start line.
100 m from Republic Square
Hidden Gem Hostel
Hostel
Price Range:
Budget
Central hostel with a shared kitchen and terrace, 500 m from Republic Square. Cook your own pre-race pasta.
500 m from Republic Square
Who it's for
Best for: Runners who want a big-city race without big-city prices. The course is mostly flat, spring temperatures suit running, and the crowds along the route give it a festival feel.
Skip it if: You are chasing a world-class field or a certified course for qualifying times. This is a regional race with a good atmosphere rather than a major.
Nearby places
Easy to combine on the same trip.
Belgrade Marathon questions
When should I register?
Registration usually opens several months ahead of the late-April race, so plan early if you want a spot.
What does the route cover?
The course crosses both the Sava and Danube rivers, passing through much of central Belgrade.
Where should I stay for the Belgrade Marathon?
Belgrade city centre is the most convenient base for race weekend.
How much does the Belgrade Marathon cost to enter?
Entry fees are low compared with western European city marathons, and rise closer to race day. Check the official race site for current pricing and deadlines.
When is the race held?
Typically April or May. Registration usually opens several months ahead, so check the official site for this year's date and deadlines before booking travel.
Is the Belgrade Marathon worth entering?
Yes for a spring city race. First held in 1988, it is one of the longest-running marathons in the Balkans, with a mostly flat course through the centre and thousands of runners.
Is the course flat?
Mostly, which makes it a reasonable course for a personal best. It crosses the Sava and passes many of the city's landmarks.
Are there shorter distances?
Yes. Alongside the full marathon there is a half marathon and a shorter fun run, so it works for serious runners and first-timers alike.
Ready to run Belgrade?
Check race dates and register for the annual spring marathon through Serbia's capital.
