Paris Marathon & What to Do While Staying for the Event

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28 January 2026

Festive Paris: Christmas Lights, Local Treats & Cosy Cafés

Each April, over 60,000 runners from around the world descend on Paris for one of Europe's most spectacular marathons. The Marathon de Paris weaves through the capital's most iconic streets, passing the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and along the Seine's tree-lined quays. For participants and supporters alike, the race weekend offers a chance to experience Paris at its spring finest, when café terraces reopen, parks bloom with colour, and the city's energy reaches its annual peak. For those staying at Fraser Suites Harmonie, the race route and the city's finest attractions lie within easy reach.

The Marathon de Paris Experience

The Paris Marathon stands apart thanks to its stunning route and enthusiastic crowds lining every kilometre. From the Champs-Élysées start to the Arc de Triomphe finish, the course delivers a visual celebration of everything that makes Paris magnetic.

The Route and Key Landmarks

The marathon route takes runners on a grand tour of Paris, beginning with a descent down the Champs-Élysées before looping through the Place de la Concorde. The course continues along the Seine, passing the Musée d'Orsay and approaching the Eiffel Tower around the 15-kilometre mark, where the sight of the iron lattice tower provides a powerful boost.

From there, runners head east through the Marais, past Place de la Bastille, and into the Bois de Vincennes, where tree-covered paths offer welcome shade and a brief respite from urban energy. The return journey traces the Seine once more, passing Notre-Dame and the Louvre before the final stretch leads back to the Arc de Triomphe. Every turn reveals another postcard view, making the Paris Marathon as much a sightseeing tour as an athletic challenge.

Race Day Atmosphere

On race morning, the city transforms. Runners gather on the Champs-Élysées near the Arc de Triomphe for the start, with different waves departing based on projected finish times. Metro stations fill with runners, cafés buzz with nervous energy, and volunteers hand out water and encouragement.

The crowds along the route are famously spirited, with Parisians turning out to cheer, play music, and offer refreshments. Children high-five participants, bands perform at key intersections, and the atmosphere builds as runners approach the finish. After crossing the finish line, runners receive their medals in the shadow of the Arc de Triomphe, a moment that feels both deeply personal and unmistakably Parisian.

Preparing for Marathon Weekend

A successful marathon experience begins well before race day. From collecting your bib to planning your pre-race meals, a little preparation ensures you can focus on the run itself while still enjoying everything Paris has to offer.

When Does the Paris Marathon Take Place?

The Marathon de Paris typically takes place in early to mid-April each year, usually on a Sunday morning. The timing coincides with spring in Paris, when temperatures are mild and the city's parks are in bloom. The race generally starts around 8:00-9:00 AM depending on your wave, allowing runners to complete the course before afternoon heat becomes a factor. Early April offers ideal running conditions, with average temperatures ranging from 8-15°C (46-59°F), though weather can vary from year to year.

The Marathon Expo

The Marathon de Paris Expo takes place at the Parc des Expositions at Porte de Versailles in the days before the race. This is where runners collect race bibs, timing chips, and merchandise. The expo is a celebration of running culture, with sportswear brands showcasing gear, nutrition companies offering samples, and travel companies promoting future races. It is worth setting aside a few hours to explore and soak in the pre-race excitement.

Fuelling and Recovery

In the days before the race, many runners favour carb-loading spots like Italian trattorias in the Latin Quarter or bakeries for fresh baguettes and pastries. Post-race, the city offers everything from hearty bistro fare to lighter options for recovery. Many restaurants near Fraser Suites Harmonie cater to international tastes, while cafés serve fresh juices, smoothies, and herbal teas alongside espresso.

What To Do in Paris Before and After the Race

Marathon weekend is an ideal time to explore Paris beyond the race route. Whether you have a few hours or a few days, the city rewards curiosity with experiences that range from world-famous museums to quiet neighbourhood walks.

Iconic Paris Attractions

No visit to Paris feels complete without experiencing its headline attractions. The Eiffel Tower is best enjoyed early morning or evening when crowds thin. The Louvre requires several hours to explore, though even a brief visit to the sculpture galleries or Egyptian antiquities offers a glimpse of its treasures. Notre-Dame, currently under restoration, remains an awe-inspiring sight from the outside. For runners seeking gentle activity between training or after the race, a walk along the Seine offers flat, scenic paths. Those with more time might consider a longer itinerary that covers the city's breadth.

Hidden Gems and Local Favourites

Beyond the marquee sites, Paris reveals its character in quieter corners. The Musée Rodin combines sculpture gardens with intimate galleries, offering a contemplative contrast to the Louvre. Canal Saint-Martin, with its tree-lined towpaths and iron footbridges, is a favourite for afternoon strolls. The Marais district rewards exploration on foot, with boutique shops, falafel stands, and historic squares. The Musée d'Orsay houses the world's finest Impressionist collection in a former railway station.

A quiet street with restaurants in the bohemian Marais district of Paris

Parks and Green Spaces for Runners

Paris may be a bustling metropolis, but it also offers abundant green spaces perfect for pre-race shakeout runs, post-race recovery walks, or simply escaping the urban pace for an hour or two.

Luxembourg Gardens

The Jardin du Luxembourg ranks among Paris's most beloved parks, with manicured lawns, tree-lined gravel paths, and the Luxembourg Palace as backdrop. Runners appreciate the well-maintained paths and flat terrain, ideal for easy runs or cooldowns. The gardens are home to the Medici Fountain, a serene spot to stretch or sit after a long run.

Bois de Boulogne and Bois de Vincennes

For longer training runs, Paris's two great urban forests provide extensive trail networks. The Bois de Boulogne offers lakes, rose gardens, and miles of shaded paths. The Bois de Vincennes, which marathon runners pass through during the race, features a medieval château, tropical garden, and wide spaces perfect for interval training or gentle loops. Both parks are easily accessible by metro.

Exploring Parisian Culture and Cuisine

Paris's appeal extends well beyond its physical landmarks. The city's café culture, culinary traditions, and neighbourhood rhythms offer experiences that linger long after the marathon medal is packed away.

Café Culture and Parisian Rituals

Sitting at a café terrace with an espresso and croissant is a Parisian ritual. Cafés serve as observation posts for reading, people-watching, or simply existing without hurry. In the days before the race, these moments of stillness help balance nervous energy. After the marathon, a leisurely bistro lunch feels like a well-earned reward.

Suggested image: https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/parisian-morning-delights-street-cafe-breakfast-scene-on-a-sunny-day-in-saint-gm1975776233-558716444

Avenue des Champs-Elysees with Christmas lighting leading up to the Arc de Triomphe

Markets and Neighbourhood Life

Paris's outdoor markets provide a window into daily life. The Marché Bastille, one of the largest, operates Thursday and Sunday mornings, with stalls selling fresh produce, cheese, bread, and flowers. Wandering through the market and sampling local cheeses connects visitors to the city's rhythms. Smaller markets in the Marais or near Rue Mouffetard offer similar experiences on a more intimate scale.

Day Trips from Paris

If marathon weekend extends into a longer stay, Paris's excellent transport links make exploration easy. Versailles, with its opulent palace and formal gardens, lies 30 minutes away by RER train. The medieval town of Provins, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers half-timbered houses and ancient ramparts. The Château de Fontainebleau combines royal history with forests ideal for gentle hikes.

Staying at Fraser Suites Harmonie

Set in the vibrant La Défense district, Fraser Suites Harmonie combines modern design with the space and comfort that longer stays demand. Each suite features a fully equipped kitchen, separate living areas, and contemporary furnishings. After a day spent running or sightseeing, guests return to a calm retreat where preparing meals or unwinding feels effortless.

The residence offers excellent transport links to central Paris, with metro and RER connections placing the Champs-Élysées, Louvre, and marathon start line within easy reach. La Défense itself is worth exploring, with striking modern architecture and shopping centres providing everything from race supplies to post-marathon celebrations.

Discover current accommodation options to enhance your Paris Marathon experience.

Where to Stay in Paris to Attend Concerts and Events

Looking for the best place to stay in Paris to attend concerts and events? La Défense is a modern business district that offers more affordable accommodation options and easy access to Paris central and nearby areas which host some of the city’s best events, concerts, and festivals.

Fraser Suites Harmonie is an ideal option when it comes to hotels. Our beautifully appointed serviced apartments are designed for comfort and boast integrated living, dining, kitchenette, and bedroom areas. You’ll also find an ensuite bathroom equipped with luxurious amenities. While staying at our hotel, you can take advantage of facilities such as a lobby lounge, laundry suite, pet amenities, breakfast room, garden and terrace, business corner, and 24-hour gym. Make Fraser Suites Harmonie your first choice when attending events, concerts, and festivals in Paris.

FAQs About the Paris Marathon and Visiting Paris

When does the Paris Marathon take place?

The Marathon de Paris typically takes place in early April each year. The exact date varies, so checking the official race website for the current year's schedule is recommended.

How do I register for the Paris Marathon?

Registration opens several months before the race and typically fills quickly. Runners can register through the official Marathon de Paris website, with options for individual entries and charity places.

Can anyone run the Paris Marathon?

The Paris Marathon welcomes runners of all abilities, though participants must be at least 18 years old on race day. While there is no qualifying time required, runners should be adequately prepared for the 42.2-kilometre distance. The course has a time limit of approximately 6 hours, and pacers are available for various finish times. First-time marathoners often choose Paris for its flat, scenic route and incredible atmosphere.

Where is the marathon expo located?

The expo is held at the Parc des Expositions at Porte de Versailles in the days leading up to the race. It is accessible by metro, and attending is mandatory to collect your race bib.

What are the best areas to watch the marathon?

Key viewing spots include the Champs-Élysées at the start, the area around the Eiffel Tower at 15 kilometres, and the final stretch near the Arc de Triomphe. The Marais offers a more intimate atmosphere with narrow streets and enthusiastic crowds.

How far is Fraser Suites Harmonie from the marathon route?

Fraser Suites Harmonie is located in La Défense, with excellent metro and RER links to the race start and multiple points along the route. The journey to the Champs-Élysées takes around 20 minutes by public transport.

Is the Paris Marathon flat?

Yes, the Paris Marathon is considered one of the flattest major city marathons in the world, with minimal elevation change throughout the course. This makes it an excellent choice for runners seeking a fast time or attempting their first marathon. The route's flat profile, combined with wide boulevards and smooth surfaces, allows for consistent pacing from start to finish.

Paris Marathon & What to Do While Staying for the Event

Festive Paris: Christmas Lights, Local Treats & Cosy Cafés