Few cities in the world can turn a marathon into a moving work of art — but Venice can. Every October, runners from across the globe gather to take part in the Venice Marathon, one of Italy’s most scenic and unforgettable races. It’s not just about speed or endurance; it’s about running through centuries of history, across land and water, over bridges and canals, and into the heart of the most extraordinary city ever built on water. 🌊✨
📅 When & Where: Venice Marathon 2025
The next edition of the Venice Marathon will take place on Sunday, October 26, 2025. The full marathon covers the traditional distance of 42.195 km (26.2 miles) and welcomes both elite athletes and passionate amateurs from more than 80 countries.
There are also shorter races — the VM10K (10 km) and the VM21K (half marathon) — perfect for visitors and casual runners who want to experience the magic of Venice without the full challenge.
For official registration, route maps, and logistics, visit the official Venice Marathon website.
🌉 The Route — From Villa Pisani to St. Mark’s Lagoon
The marathon begins in the mainland town of Stra, in front of the magnificent Villa Pisani — one of the grandest villas on the Riviera del Brenta. From there, runners follow a route steeped in beauty and heritage:
- 🏛 Riviera del Brenta: The first part winds past 18th-century villas and quiet canals, shaded by poplars and willows.
- 🌿 Mestre & San Giuliano Park: The green lung of the mainland, where cheering crowds and local volunteers create an electric atmosphere.
- 🌉 Ponte della Libertà: The iconic 4 km bridge connecting Venice to the mainland. As you cross, the lagoon opens before you — silver, infinite, and full of promise.
- 🏠 Historic Venice: The final stretch weaves through 14 small bridges, past landmarks like the Zattere, Punta della Dogana, and the Church of Santa Maria della Salute.
- 🎉 Finish Line: The race concludes dramatically along the Riva dei Sette Martiri, facing the basin of St. Mark’s and the Doge’s Palace — one of the most iconic finish lines in the world.
For a detailed map of the course, visit the official marathon route page.
💨 What Makes the Venice Marathon So Unique
Venice offers a marathon like no other: a mix of history, architecture, and pure emotion. The city itself becomes the stage — ancient villas, bridges, canals, and crowds cheering on from balconies and boats. The air smells of sea salt and espresso; bells ring from distant churches. You don’t just run through Venice — you live it.
Despite its romantic setting, the race is IAAF-certified and flat and fast for most of its course. The bridges and ramps in the final kilometers offer a technical challenge but also one of the most photogenic finishes in marathon history.
Each runner crosses a specially built floating bridge over the Grand Canal — a sight as surreal as it is exhilarating.
🏃 Who Can Join the Venice Marathon
Everyone. The event welcomes seasoned runners, first-timers, and even those who prefer to walk or jog the shorter versions. There’s a sense of global camaraderie — runners from all continents converge in Venice to share one goal: finishing in front of the lagoon.
- 🏅 Competitive 42K: For registered athletes with medical clearance or federation licenses.
- 🏃 VM21K & VM10K: Non-competitive categories open to anyone, perfect for visitors and families.
- 👟 Charity Programs: Many participants run for causes through the Venice Marathon Charity Program, raising funds for local and international projects.
To register, check the official registration page.
🌦 What to Expect in October
Venice in late October is atmospheric — soft light, cool mornings, and a touch of autumn mist that makes the city look painted. Temperatures typically range between 8°C and 18°C (46°F–65°F), ideal for long-distance running.
Runners should be prepared for possible rain or even acqua alta (high tide) — though the organizers are experts at adapting the course safely. The reflections of palaces and bridges in puddles after a light drizzle often create some of the race’s most stunning photos.
🎽 Practical Tips & Logistics
- 📍 Bib Pick-up: Held at the ExpoSport Venicemarathon Village inside San Giuliano Park, Mestre (Friday–Saturday before the race).
- 🚌 Transportation: Free shuttles run from Venice and Mestre to the start line in Stra early on race morning.
- 🎒 Bag Drop: Secure services are provided; your belongings are transported to the finish line area in Venice.
- 🚿 Post-race Facilities: Changing tents, refreshments, medals, and recovery areas await all participants on the Riva dei Sette Martiri.
- 🎁 Expo & Sponsors: The Marathon Village also hosts local artisans, Venetian product tastings, and sportswear exhibits.
Details are updated on venicemarathon.it.
🍝 The Joy After the Run — Food, Wine & Venetian Atmosphere
Finishing the Venice Marathon deserves a Venetian celebration. After all, this is the city of good taste — literally. 🥂
Once you’ve crossed the finish line, take a few hours to rest, and then treat yourself to a culinary victory tour:
- 🍷 Join our Venice Cicchetti & Wine Tour — taste local seafood, wine, and legendary sarde in saor.
- 🍇 Explore the Prosecco Hills the next day — bubbles and rolling vineyards are the perfect recovery.
- 🛶 Or relax with a Private Boat Tour through Venice’s hidden canals at sunset.
Each of these experiences connects the spirit of the marathon — motion, discovery, and emotion — with Venice’s timeless art of living.
🏨 Where to Stay for the Venice Marathon
For runners and their families, convenience and calm are key. Staying near Piazzale Roma or the Santa Lucia train station offers easy access to transport before dawn. But for a truly memorable Venetian stay, consider these neighborhoods:
- 💎 Dorsoduro: Elegant, quiet, and close to the Zattere — perfect for post-race relaxation by the water.
- 🕊 Cannaregio: Authentic, full of local life and excellent dining, including wine bars featured on our food tours.
- 🌹 Castello: Close to the finish line and the Arsenale — ideal for easy logistics and scenic walks.
Book early — hotels fill up months in advance for marathon weekend. Many offer special early breakfasts and late checkouts for runners.
🎯 Tips from Locals & Experts
- ✅ Arrive at least two days early to pick up your bib and acclimate to Venice’s rhythm (and bridges!).
- 🥾 Bring light walking shoes — the city requires walking everywhere, even before race day.
- 💧 Hydrate more than you think; Venice’s humidity can surprise you.
- 🎥 Carry a small GoPro or phone for race footage — running past St. Mark’s Basin deserves to be remembered.
- 🍝 Reserve your post-race dinner ahead — popular spots like Antiche Carampane and Al Covo fill fast on marathon day.
🏅 Why the Venice Marathon Is More Than a Race
Running in Venice means becoming part of a living artwork. Every step connects you to centuries of history: Roman traders, Renaissance merchants, gondoliers, and now — you.
The course reminds runners of what Venice has always stood for: endurance, balance, and beauty. It’s a place that survives by adapting — just like a marathoner pushing through the final kilometers.
In a world full of predictable races, the Venice Marathon is pure magic: a fusion of sport, travel, and culture that leaves you changed forever.
🌅 Extend Your Stay — Explore More with Tour Leader Venice
Why stop after 42 kilometers? Let us show you the Venice most visitors never find:
- 🪶 Venice Off the Beaten Path Tour — discover artisan workshops and hidden courtyards.
- 🏝 Lagoon Discovery Tour — explore Murano, Burano, and Torcello aboard a private boat.
- 🍽 Cicchetti & Wine Tour — the perfect post-race reward.
- 🚤 Venetian Rowing Experience — learn to row like a local, because movement never really stops in Venice.
Each experience celebrates what makes Venice eternal: motion, craft, and grace.
When is the Venice Marathon 2025 and how do I register?
The race will be held on Sunday, October 26, 2025. Registration is open on the official Venice Marathon website. You can choose between the 42K, 21K, and 10K distances, depending on your fitness level.
What makes the Venice Marathon special compared to other marathons?
The route crosses both mainland and lagoon, including the famous Ponte della Libertà and a floating bridge built just for the event. It’s the only marathon in the world that ends beside St. Mark’s Basin, surrounded by Renaissance palaces and church domes — a finish line like no other.
Can spectators and family join in the experience?
Absolutely. Venice is compact and full of beautiful vantage points — from the Zattere promenade to the Arsenale. After cheering you on, your family can join one of our private Venice tours or enjoy a sunset boat tour while you celebrate your run.
