The Hamburg Marathon is Germany's premier spring marathon, offering a fast course through one of Europe's most vibrant port cities. With its flat profile and excellent organization, Hamburg attracts runners seeking personal bests in a festive atmosphere.
The Course
The course loops through Hamburg's diverse neighborhoods, from the historic Speicherstadt warehouse district to the modern HafenCity development. The terrain is consistently flat with smooth surfaces throughout.
Hamburg Highlights
The course showcases the city:
- Karolinenviertel (Start) - Trendy neighborhood
- St. Pauli - Famous entertainment district
- Elbphilharmonie - Stunning concert hall
- HafenCity - Modern waterfront
- Speicherstadt - UNESCO World Heritage warehouses
- Alster Lakes - Inner city lakes
- Finish near Messehallen - Exhibition center
Fast and Friendly
Hamburg combines speed with atmosphere. The flat course suits fast running, while the engaged German crowds create a supportive environment throughout.
Why Hamburg?
Hamburg offers an excellent alternative to Berlin for runners seeking a fast German marathon. The April timing provides cool temperatures, and the course delivers consistently fast times.
The city is a fantastic destination - great food, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful waterfront areas to explore.
Getting In
Hamburg uses open registration:
- Registration opens approximately 8 months before race day
- No lottery or qualification required
- Popular among German and international runners
- Multiple distances available
Race Day Tips
- April weather can vary - Prepare for anything from cool to mild
- The Elbphilharmonie section is inspiring - Take it in
- Crowd support is strong - German fans are enthusiastic
- Flat course rewards consistent pacing - Don't go out too hard
- Post-race Fischbrötchen - Hamburg's fish sandwiches are excellent