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Course guide & time predictor

Paris Marathon

Paris, France

The Champs-Élysées, the Seine, and 50,000 runners through the City of Light

Elevation gain

750 ft

Course difficulty

1.0% slower than Berlin

Race month

April

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About the race

The Paris Marathon is the largest marathon in Europe, with over 50,000 finishers running through some of the world's most recognizable streets. The course starts on the Champs-Élysées, passes through the Bois de Vincennes, runs along the Seine, and finishes in the Bois de Boulogne near the 16th arrondissement. It is a bucket-list destination race that also produces legitimately competitive times.

Course profile

The course is point-to-point with approximately 750 feet of elevation gain. The notable climbs occur in the Bois de Vincennes (miles 5–9) and again in the Bois de Boulogne (miles 22–25). The middle section along the Seine is mostly flat. The two park sections bookend an otherwise scenic and manageable course. Overall difficulty is comparable to London — harder than Chicago or Berlin, but not punishing. Runners who manage effort through the parks will find a flat, fast middle section to make up time.

Race-day conditions

April in Paris is variable: typically 45–60°F at the start, but spring warmth can push conditions warmer by afternoon. Rain is possible. The course includes sections along the Seine where wind can be a factor. In most years, conditions are favorable for racing; in occasional warm springs, temperatures can climb above 65°F by the finish.

Using the predictor

Paris runs about 1.0% slower than Berlin — roughly 2 minutes on a 3:30 finish. This puts it in the same tier as London and Tokyo. The two park sections add time that flat-course pacing strategies don't account for. Use this tool to set a realistic goal, and plan your effort for the Bois de Vincennes section early rather than reacting to it.

Common questions

How do I enter the Paris Marathon?

The Paris Marathon uses a lottery system, with registration typically opening in the fall for the following April race. International runners can also enter through official travel agency partners. The race is extremely popular — over 250,000 applications for 50,000 spots in recent years. Charity entries and club places are alternative paths. Check the Paris Marathon official website for current lottery dates.

How does the Paris Marathon compare in difficulty to the London Marathon?

Paris and London are very similar in difficulty — both rated around 1.0–1.1% slower than Berlin in this tool. Paris has slightly more elevation gain (750 feet vs. 330 feet for London) but its hills are concentrated in the two park sections rather than spread throughout, making the middle portion of the course faster. London's Tower Bridge is a more famous landmark mid-race; Paris counters with the Champs-Élysées start and Seine riverside miles.

Is the Paris Marathon a good destination race for a first-time international marathon?

Yes — Paris is one of the best destination marathon experiences in the world. The organization is excellent, the course is spectacular, the city is fully engaged with the race, and the difficulty is manageable without being a trap (unlike NYC or Big Sur). For runners who want a memorable experience that also produces an honest time, Paris is an outstanding choice.

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