Istanbul Marathon 2026: Running from Asia to Europe

On Sunday, 1 November 2026, the Türkiye İş Bankası 48th Istanbul Marathon will bring runners across the Bosphorus, starting in Asia and continuing into Europe. For participants, it is a chance to experience Istanbul from a different perspective: crossing the 15 July Martyrs Bridge on foot before running through the city.

The event is listed by World Athletics as a Gold Label road race. For the international community, the occasion is also an opportunity to support friends, discover Istanbul's running scene and share the atmosphere along the route.

The Marathon and 15.5K Race

The full marathon starts at 09:00 on the Asian side, crosses into Europe and finishes in Sultanahmet. Its route takes runners past Dolmabahçe, across Galata Bridge and along the historic peninsula's waterfront before returning through Gülhane Park towards the finish. The final approach climbs into the historic centre, adding an uphill test before the finish in Sultanahmet.

The accompanying 15.5K race also crosses the Bosphorus but finishes in Yenikapı. Its published starts are 09:19, 09:38 and 10:05. Registered runners should follow their assigned start instructions.

Entries for both distances are full. The marathon's general classification award ceremony is scheduled for 12:30 in Sultanahmet.

An International Elite Field

Early-October race previews announced Ethiopia's defending women's champion Bizuager Aderra, Kenya's Judith Korir, the 2022 World Championships marathon silver medallist, and Ethiopia's 2024 men's winner Dejene Debela among the expected contenders. Their announced participation adds an elite sporting contest to a day that also brings together recreational runners and supporters. Elite fields can change before race day.

The Public Run

The free Halk Koşusu, or Public Run, offers a shorter bridge-crossing experience. The municipality describes a 6.5 km route ending in the Dolmabahçe area, near Beşiktaş Tüpraş Stadium. The published programme currently lists its start at 12:14.

Registration is full. Participants must be at least 14 on race day and have a valid race bib. Registered participants should collect their bib from their selected sports facility by 17:00 on 28 October, during its opening hours. Entry to the start area is through Altunizade, with final admission at 12:00.

Before You Go

• Race kits (42K and 15.5K): Dr. Mimar Kadir Topbaş Gösteri ve Sanat Merkezi, 29–31 October. Collection hours are 10:00–19:00 on 29 and 30 October, and 10:00–18:00 on 31 October. These arrangements are separate from Public Run bib collection.

• Transport: The organiser lists free municipal metro and bus travel until 17:00, and ferries until 15:00, on 1 November for registered runners showing their bib. Marmaray is excluded.

• Road closures: Extensive road closures are planned, including the 15 July Martyrs Bridge and Eurasia Tunnel. Check the official transport and start-area instructions before travelling.

Run for a Cause

Registered runners can support participating charities through Adım Adım's İyilik Peşinde Koş platform. The announced fundraising period runs from 19 October to 16 November 2026, allowing supporters to contribute beyond race day. Donations through the platform go directly to the relevant charities' official bank accounts.

Explore Adım Adım charity campaigns

Join the Atmosphere

If you missed registration, you can still support runners from accessible spectator areas. Respect barriers, keep the course clear and give friends and strangers some encouragement.

Whether you are chasing a finish time or cheering someone towards theirs, marathon day offers a memorable way to experience Istanbul together.

Official information and race-day updates: Official Istanbul Marathon information

Information checked on 22 October 2026. Start times, access arrangements and transport details may change; consult the organiser before attending.