The Stockholm Marathon offers a unique Scandinavian marathon experience, weaving through the islands and waterways of Sweden's beautiful capital. With its challenging course, iconic Olympic Stadium finish, and late spring timing, Stockholm stands apart from other European marathons.
The Course
Built on 14 islands connected by 57 bridges, Stockholm provides a naturally scenic but challenging marathon course. The route crosses multiple islands, meaning regular bridge crossings that add to the cumulative elevation gain.
Island Hopping
The course takes runners across Stockholm's famous waterways:
- Stadion area (Start) - Near the Olympic Stadium
- Östermalm (miles 1-3) - Elegant Stockholm neighborhood
- Djurgården (miles 5-8) - Royal parkland island
- Södermalm (miles 10-15) - Trendy southern island
- Gamla Stan (miles 16-17) - Medieval old town
- Kungsholmen (miles 18-22) - Island with city hall
- Vasastan (miles 23-25) - Central Stockholm
- Olympic Stadium (Finish) - 1912 Olympic venue
Course Character
Unlike flat Scandinavian cities, Stockholm's island geography creates a rolling profile. The constant bridge crossings and varied terrain make this more challenging than many European city marathons. It's not a course for personal bests, but it's beautiful and memorable.
Why Stockholm?
Stockholm offers something different from the usual European marathon circuit. The course is genuinely scenic - water views are constant, and the mix of historic and modern architecture provides endless interest. The June timing means incredibly long days and pleasant temperatures.
The Olympic Stadium finish is one of marathon running's most iconic moments. Running into the 1912 stadium, built for the Olympic Games where marathon running first gained international attention, connects you to the sport's history.
Unique Features
Several things set Stockholm apart:
- Saturday afternoon start - Unlike typical Sunday morning marathons
- June timing - One of the latest major spring marathons
- Extended daylight - Nearly 19 hours of daylight at race time
- Two-loop course - You'll see familiar territory twice
Getting In
Stockholm uses open registration:
- Registration opens approximately 6-8 months before race day
- No lottery or qualification required
- Popular among Nordic runners, so early registration recommended
- The race has a cap of approximately 20,000 runners
Race Day Tips
- Respect the hills - Stockholm is more challenging than it appears on paper
- Bridge crossings add up - The constant up and down takes a toll
- The second loop is harder - Mental toughness required
- Gamla Stan is spectacular - But the cobblestones require attention
- The stadium finish is emotional - Save something for that final lap