Generali Cologne Marathon
Location: Cologne
Date: 4 October, 2026
Distance:
There are many reasons why you would run the Generali Cologne Marathon. Authentic, unique party atmosphere along the course; 500,000 frenetic supporters; emotional finish at the city’s landmark, the Cologne Cathedral; 100% enthusiasm; yummy refreshments; and a fast course.
All runners receive a high quality, reusable backpack as a kit bag together with their bib number as well as a legendary Koelsch beer glass.
The Generali Cologne Marathon ranks 4th in German Marathons and 2nd in Half Marathons.
Fast facts about the Generali Cologne Marathon:
- Authentic, carnival-like, unique party atmosphere on and along the course with several hundreds of thousands of cheering spectators
- Emotional finish at the city's landmark, Cologne Cathedral
- Unique refreshments in the post-finish area ("The only refreshment area that needs its own menu for presenting all delicious snacks and drinks!")
- Digital spearhead: enhanced pro-active involvement of participants' generated content and engagement by large-scale integration of social media, 8 hours internet live stream and own tracking and social app.
Fast facts about the city of Cologne:
- 100% Cologne way of life, mostly different from the rest of Germany
- UNESCO world cultural heritage site Cologne Cathedral
- 33 local Koelsch beer brands
- Rhenanian culture and carnival
- Rhine River, promenade and old town
- Copious nightlife
- Germany’s most frequented shopping mile
- Discover more about the city of Cologne here
If you would prefer to search on hotels located closer to the start/finish area, click on the Event Website button to find these details. You can then type the address information into the location field of the map below, to find accommodation closer to the start finish. The location field is the top red bar on the map below.
