Athens Authentic Marathon: run the original route

The Athens Authentic Marathon follows the legendary road from the town of Marathon to the heart of the Greek capital. It ends inside the marble Panathenaic Stadium, one of the most emotional finishes in running.

Fun facts

• The route traces the run of the messenger who, according to legend, carried news of the victory at Marathon to Athens.
• The finish is in the Panathenaic Stadium, built entirely of marble and host of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.
• The course is known as challenging, with a long gradual climb through the middle section before the descent into Athens.

What to see

• The Panathenaic Stadium, also called Kallimarmaro.
• The Acropolis and the Parthenon above the city.
• The Tomb of the Athenians at Marathon, near the start.

What to taste

• Souvlaki and gyros wrapped in warm pita.
• Pastitsio, baked pasta with minced meat and béchamel, ideal for carb-loading.
• Loukoumades, small honey doughnuts, as a post-race treat.

What to do

• Collect your bib at the race expo and soak up the atmosphere.
• Join the shorter 5 km or 10 km races held the same weekend.
• Walk the Plaka district and recover with a slow stroll around the Acropolis slopes.

💡 Tip: Metro line 3 and express airport buses connect the airport with Syntagma Square in the centre. Shuttle buses take runners to the start in Marathon early on race morning. Fly in at least a day early and book accommodation early, as hotels near the centre fill up on race weekend.