Košice Peace Marathon 2025

• Oldest European Marathon: Established in 1924, inspired by the Paris Olympics.
• Fast, Flat Course: Designed for speed, ideal for personal bests.
• Internationally Certified: Holds WA and AIMS certifications, hosted prestigious events.
• Cultural Experience: Deeply woven into Košice's heritage, featuring notable landmarks.
• Unique Atmosphere: Streets alive with runners and enthusiastic spectators.

Taking place in the enchanting city of Košice, Slovakia, the Košice Peace Marathon is a cherished event in the world of long-distance running. Heralded as the oldest marathon in Europe and the third oldest globally, it has maintained its annual tradition since 1924. The marathon course unfolds over a flat, fully asphalted, and traffic-free layout through two loops in Košice's historic city center. With a cumulative elevation gain of just 74 meters, the minimal variations in elevation make it an ideal setting for runners aiming to achieve personal bests.

The event features a rich tapestry of history, from witnessing the legendary marathoner Abebe Bikila's victory in 1961 to hosting a diverse array of elite athletes over the years. As an event certified by AIMS and recognized as a Silver Label Road Race by World Athletics, the Košice Peace Marathon enjoys an esteemed international reputation.

Participants can engage in various competitive categories, including the full marathon, half-marathon, and even inline skating and handbike races. The marathon course isn't just about speed and performance; it offers participants a visually stunning journey through Košice's Old Town and vibrant neighborhoods, providing a culturally enriching experience. The race iconic start and finish on Hlavná ulica are central points of gathering, where runners and spectators alike come together to celebrate the spirit of the marathon in one of Slovakia's most beautiful cities. With its combination of history, excellence, and a warm, inviting atmosphere, the Košice Peace Marathon stands out as a must-do marathon for any serious runner looking to combine sport and travel in one unforgettable package.

Expect temperatures ranging from 41-62°F (5-16°C) with a moderate chance of rain. Early mornings can be cooler, typically between 41-50°F (5-10°C). October's weather in Košice offers a mix of clear and cloudy days, providing generally mild conditions for the marathon.

The Košice Peace Marathon offers a unique running experience through the charming historic center of Košice, Slovakia. This flat, fully asphalted course, free from traffic, invites runners to achieve fast times with minimal elevation changes—just a gentle 74-meter cumulative gain throughout the marathon.

The race begins and concludes on Hlavná Street, right in front of the Double Tree by Hilton hotel. As you navigate the two identical laps, you'll be treated to a scenic journey past Košice's rich historical landmarks. Designed for speed, the course features only 21 direction changes and few sharp turns, maintaining the classic marathon distance of 42.195 km since 1924.

Certified by AIMS and holding a Silver Label Road Race status from World Athletics, this marathon is internationally recognized for its quality. While the course's flat nature demands consistent pacing, its two-loop design can challenge runners' mental endurance. The Košice Peace Marathon is perfect for those chasing personal bests and course records in a picturesque setting.

Visiting Košice for the Košice Peace Marathon offers a delightful mix of sports, culture, and history. As Slovakia's second-largest city, Košice is best explored on foot, with its compact layout making it easy to discover its charm. Be sure to book your accommodations early, as the city buzzes with activity during marathon weekend.

Košice's historic heart is centered around Hlavná Street, where you'll find the majestic St. Elisabeth Cathedral, the largest church in Slovakia. Don't miss the Singing Fountain and the State Theatre nearby. For a taste of local craftsmanship, stroll down Hrnčiarska Street, where artisans' shops and cafes invite you to explore. Dive into the region's rich past at the East Slovak Museum, home to the famed Golden Treasure of Košice.

The city comes alive with cultural events like the White Night Festival, coinciding with the marathon, transforming Košice into a magical wonderland of lights and installations. If you're a food lover, extend your stay to experience the Košice Gourmet Fest in June. With its vibrant cultural scene and historic allure, Košice promises a memorable visit for any marathon traveler.