The 2026 Prague Marathon: All the Details

The Prague Marathon is one of the most beautiful marathons in the world, making it a destination-race for so many. Over 10,000 people have registered!

We have all of the details you need to know about the Prague Marathon. From start times and meeting places, to packet pick-up, aid stations, and more.

There are also other events surrounding the Marathon, like a children's race, a family run, and more. We'll share a bit of information about those events, too.

Don't forget: If you're heading abroad, make sure you have the right travel insurance policy.

Start date and time

The Prague Marathon will take place on Sunday, May 3rd, 2026.

The race starts at 8:00 am.

Unlike many other marathons and races, the Prague Marathon does not have waves (staggered start times). Instead, runners line up at the start depending on their expected finish times. Those who are likely to finish faster are up at the front, slower down towards the back.

Your bib will have a "Group" on it (A, B, C, etc.). Follow the signs and line up in your lettered section.

The "gun" goes off at 8:00 am sharp, so make sure you're there to line up beforehand. In 2025, the lineup opened 30 minutes before the official start time.

Packet pick-up and preparation

You can pick up your bib at the Marathon Expo, located at Výstaviště Holešovice, Křižíkovy pavilions (B and C. The main entrance is at C). To give you an idea of where you'll need to go, it is located in northern Prague.

You will have to pick up your bib during the Expo's open hours on either Friday, the 1st, or Saturday, the 2nd.

Make sure you bring ID with you, as you will need it in order to collect your bib. It's also recommended that you know what your start number is, so make sure you create a Runner's ID profile on the Marathon's official website.

You'll get assigned a race number a week or two before the Marathon, and it will be sent to you via email. Remember, this isn't your official bib. This is just your assigned number.

If you're not going to be able to pick up your bib during the Expo hours, you can authorize someone else to pick it up for you, but you will need to do that in advance, through your Runner's ID profile.

The Prague Marathon recommends that all runners get a physical or health check-up before running the race.

The Prague Marathon Expo

The expo will also have dozens of different booths from partners, sponsors, and other athletic brands. Some of the exhibitors include Adidas, Decathlon, Garmin, Polarized, and more.

Race t-shirts and other Prague Marathon merch will also be available (for purchase) at the expo.

Prague Marathon race day details

On race day, you'll need to line up before the start time. The race starts and finishes in the Old Town Square. The course is completely closed to traffic, meaning runners/pedestrians only!

Make sure that your bib is visible and on your chest before the race starts. You'll be provided with safety pins when you pick up your bib. Your bib will have a chip in it that allows them to track your time, so it's important that you don't lose it.

Early May in Prague can be quite cool, especially before you get running. Make sure you're regularly checking the weather forecast. It can be helpful to wear a coat or an extra layer of clothes before you start running.

Prague has a wonderful program where you can bring an old coat, sweater, or t-shirt you don't need anymore. You can wear it at the start line to stay warm, then take it off and leave it there. Everything left at the start line will be donated to those in need.

That said, there is also a designated storage area for personal belongings at the "Technical Area". You can find it at Václavské náměstí, Můstek. The max size for bags is 25×45×70 cm, so make sure you don't bring any larger luggage as they won't be able to accommodate you.

You can run with headphones if you'd like, but there will actually be bands and live concerts throughout the route, so it's up to you!

Services

The Prague Marathon has a storage area, showers, changing rooms, bathrooms, first-aid support, post-race massages, and an information help desk located in the general race area.

Pacers

Free pacers are available at the Prague Marathon! You'll be able to find them in your coordinating groups (the letter on your bib).

Aid stations

There are quite a few aid stations on the route. Once the 2026 map is live, you'll be able to see exactly where the aid stations are if you'd like to strategically prepare ahead of time.

Bathrooms

There will be designated bathrooms available throughout the course, including at:

• The Technical Area.
• The Start and Finish lines.
• At each aid station.

Additional events

In addition to the Sunday Marathon, the Prague "Marathon Weekend" also offers a few coinciding events for other runners and family members.

On Saturday, there is a Breakfast Run. It is 4.2 km "shake out run" that is free for all Marathon participants, and it includes breakfast and coffee.

Saturday afternoon, there will be a "family mile", where anyone and everyone is encouraged to come and walk, jog, or run a mile. Keep in mind that you must register in advance, and there is a registration fee.

Also on Saturday afternoon is the kids' run, called the Bambini Run. There's a 100m, 150m, and a 200m.

Prague Marathon FAQs

When is the 2026 Prague Marathon?

What is the start time for the Prague Marathon?

Does the Prague Marathon have a staggered start?

Is there a time limit to completing the race?

How big is the Prague Marathon?

Does the Prague Marathon offer storage for your personal items?

How do I get my bib?

Additional resources

Need a visa to go to the Czech Republic? Learn more in our Czech Schengen visa guide.

Heading overseas? Make sure you have the right travel insurance.

Spending a few days in Prague? Check out The Best Things to Do in Prague!

Sources

The official Prague Marathon website: https://www.runczech.com/en/events/prague-international-marathon-2026

Prague Marathon Expo details: https://www.runczech.com/en/events/orlen-prague-marathon-2025/marathon-expo-2025