Swiss City Marathon 2025

• Scenic Route: Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Lucerne and iconic landmarks.
• Vibrant Atmosphere: Experience live music and enthusiastic spectators throughout the course.
• Inclusive Options: Choose from full marathon, half marathon, and 10KM runs, with special categories for people with disabilities and students.
• Convenient Logistics: Start and finish at the Swiss Museum of Transport; free public transport with SwissRunners ticket.
• Comprehensive Services: Includes finisher medals, event T-shirts, pacers, and medical assistance.

Held in the picturesque city of Lucerne, the Swiss City Marathon offers runners a scenic one-lap course that winds through the city’s rich tapestry of cultural and historical landmarks. Starting and finishing at the Swiss Museum of Transport, the route leads runners past notable sites such as the Hofkirche, the Chapel Bridge, and alongside the serene shores of Lake Lucerne, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Central Swiss Alps and the Horw Peninsula. Participants will also experience unique sections including a pass through FC Luzern's modern football stadium and the Lucerne Culture and Convention Center. Distinguished for its stunning alpine and lakeside sceneries, this marathon provides an unforgettable mix of urban elegance and natural beauty. The event draws more than 10,000 enthusiasts across various race distances (marathon, half-marathon, and 10km), making it a vibrant affair teeming with enthusiasm and camaraderie. With comprehensive support and amenities, the Swiss City Marathon stands out as a cherished event in Switzerland's athletic calendar, ideal for those who seek a mix of performance challenge and aesthetic pleasure.

Expect temperatures between 44-57°F (7-14°C) in late October for the Swiss City Marathon in Lucerne. Runners may encounter high humidity and a 36% chance of rain, so layering and waterproof gear are advisable. With limited sunshine and potential for wet conditions, be prepared for a cool and adaptable race day.

The Swiss City Marathon in Lucerne presents a captivating journey through both urban and natural splendor. The course, while mostly flat, features a challenging uphill section around the 10 km mark, with a total elevation gain of 390 meters across two half-marathon loops. Starting and finishing at the Swiss Museum of Transport, runners weave past luxury hotels, the historic Hofkirche, and cross the iconic Chapel Bridge, with its views of the Water Tower and the lake.

The route also offers a striking contrast between the modern Culture and Congress Centre Lucerne and the city's medieval streets. A scenic stretch along Lake Lucerne and the Horw Peninsula showcases breathtaking vistas of the Central Swiss Alps. Unique to this marathon, participants run through the FC Lucerne Football Stadium, adding an exciting urban twist.

Runners are treated to stunning views of the old town and lively support from over 30 music ensembles and cheering spectators. However, the course's elevation changes and two-lap structure pose a mental and physical challenge. From 2025, the marathon will shift to a single-lap format, enhancing the experience by eliminating repeated sections. This marathon is a perfect blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and athletic challenge.

Visiting Lucerne for the Swiss City Marathon presents an ideal opportunity to combine athletic endeavor with cultural discovery. Nestled in the heart of Switzerland, Lucerne captivates with its charming Old Town, where cobblestone streets and medieval architecture transport you back in time. Don't miss the iconic Chapel Bridge, a covered wooden bridge offering picturesque views of the Reuss River, or the historic Musegg Wall and its towers, which provide panoramic vistas of the city.

Beyond its historical allure, Lucerne boasts cultural richness with attractions like the Rosengart Collection, featuring works by Picasso and Klee, and the KKL Lucerne, a renowned concert hall with breathtaking acoustics. If your visit coincides with the Fasnacht Festival, you'll be swept up in the vibrant parades and lively celebrations that showcase Lucerne's festive spirit.

For a taste of adventure, take a cruise on Lake Lucerne or ride the gondola to Mount Pilatus for stunning Alpine views. Culinary enthusiasts can indulge in Swiss delights like fondue and explore the city's diverse dining scene. With excellent public transport and a Visitor Card offering free rides and discounts, navigating Lucerne is a breeze. By blending the excitement of the marathon with these enriching experiences, your trip to Lucerne will be truly unforgettable.