Reykjavik Marathon 2025

Known in Icelandic as Reykjavíkurmaraþon Íslandsbank, Reykjavik Marathon is held annually on the Saturday following August 18th, coinciding with the Menningarnótt (Culture Night) celebration. This festive occasion brings thousands of people to Reykjavik, eager to experience music concerts, festivals, exhibits, and other cultural events. Reykjavik Marathon brings something new to the mix, with an opportunity to send summer off with a new accomplishment.

Marathon Events

Reykjavik Marathon isn't just about the traditional 26.2-mile (42.2 km) distance; it offers additional options for runners at any level. The 42k marathon is the most challenging, drawing in over a thousand seasoned runners each year. The half-marathon, with a distance of 13 miles (21 km), begins at the same time as the main marathon but follows a slightly different route. Then there’s the 10K race, a 6.2-mile (10 km) fan-favorite, drawing in participants from all skill levels. The Fun Run offers shorter distances of 2 miles (3 km) and 1 mile (1.7 km), making it perfect for anyone who wants to join the fun without committing.

42K Marathon Program & Route

The 26-mile (42 km) event is only recommended to experienced athletes, aware of the challenges and required endurance. The time limit for the full marathon is 6 hours and 30 minutes. The course is relatively flat and mainly lies along the streets of Reykjavik, except for several sections along the seaside and river banks.

The track begins at Sóleyjargata near Hljómskálagarðurinn Park and continues through a residential district. Then, the runners will reach the coast of the North Atlantic ocean with scenic vistas of mountains on the horizon. The route then winds down to Elliðaárdal valley, a natural spot in the middle of the city. The finish line is located at an intersection of Lækjargata and Skólabrú streets. The course is equipped with toilet stops, refreshment stations, and even music performances.

Half-Marathon Program & Route

Individuals over 15 years old can participate in the half-marathon. The event normally attracts approximately 3,000 participants and has the same time limit as the marathon: 6 hours and 30 minutes. The route mirrors much of the marathon course, starting at Sóleyjargata near Hljómskálagarðurinn Park and running along the scenic coastline. The race ends at the Lækjargata-Skólabrú junction. However, unlike the marathoners, who continue through residential neighborhoods near Höfði House, half-marathoners head straight to the finish line.

10K Run Route

A great option for those who started running not that long ago, 10K run winds through the residential area of Reykjavik, along the seaside, and circles back to the finish line. With a relatively flat course, the route begins and ends at the same stops as the rest of the races, at Sóleyjargata and Lækjargata-Skólabrú, respectively. Participation is not recommended to anyone younger than 12 years old.

Fun Run Route & Program

The Fun Run is an ideal way to take in the scenic views of Reykjavik while staying active. This event offers two routes: a 2-mile (3 km) option and a shorter 1-mile (1.7 km) course. Both courses mainly lie along the Hljómskálagarðurinn Park and its stunning pond. The starting line is located at Sóleyjargata near Menntaskólinn við Reykjavík school and ends at Lækjargata. Participants are welcome to join with strollers but will be asked to start at the back of the group.

Race Schedule

Both marathon and half-marathon kick off simultaneously at 8:40 am. The 10K race is usually scheduled at 9:40 am, while the Fun Run begins later at noon. The time limit for the races is 6 hours and 30 minutes. Participants who didn't reach the finish line by the end of that time won't receive a registered time.

Registration Cost & Fees

Since the last edition took place fairy recently, registration fees are currently listed at an early bird rate and will increase as the date approaches. Early Bird registration is now open for various races. The 42.2K marathon is meant for people 18 and older and costs 17,200 Icelandic króna. For the Half Marathon, adults 18 and up pay 10,550 Icelandic króna, while youth aged 15-17 can join for 7,800 Icelandic króna. The 10K race costs 7,650 Icelandic króna for adults and 5,600 Icelandic króna for youth aged 12-17. If you're interested in the Fun Run, it costs 3,400 Icelandic króna for adults and 2,250 Icelandic króna for individuals 17 and younger.