Barcelona Marathon 2026

The Barcelona Marathon is one of the most iconic sporting events in the city and one of the top long-distance races in Europe. Every year, thousands of runners from around the globe gather in Barcelona to tackle its 42.195 kilometers, enjoying a route that blends history, culture, and modernity.

Date and Route

The next edition of the Barcelona Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, March 15, 2026.

The marathon will start in the very heart of Barcelona, on Passeig de Gràcia, next to Plaça de Catalunya. From this iconic axis of the Eixample district, runners will tackle the opening kilometers along a wide, flat and straight avenue, surrounded by outstanding Modernist architecture.

The route continues along Carrer d’Aragó and Carrer de València, long and runner-friendly stretches that allow for a steady pace. From kilometer 11 onwards, the race follows Carrer de Mallorca, leading to one of the most iconic highlights of the course: the Sagrada Família, which appears around kilometer 14.

After returning to the starting area, the course heads toward the waterfront via major urban arteries such as Avinguda del Paral·lel, passing through characterful neighborhoods like Sant Antoni and Poble-sec. The seaside section offers views of Port Vell and the Mediterranean, before skirting Parc de la Ciutadella and approaching the demanding kilometer 30, while still maintaining a largely flat profile.

In the final stages, the route runs through the Fòrum area and along Avinguda Diagonal toward Torre Glòries, before returning to the city center through modern districts such as Diagonal Mar and Carrer de Llull. The final straight finishes on Ronda de Sant Pere, passing beneath the Arc de Triomf, providing a spectacular conclusion to a fast and truly urban marathon.

Atmosphere and Participation

The Barcelona Marathon is more than just a race; it’s a true citywide celebration. Over 20,000 runners participated in the previous edition, with similar numbers expected for 2026. Throughout the route, athletes are cheered on by thousands of spectators and accompanied by live music and entertainment groups that create an unparalleled atmosphere.

Additionally, the organizers provide numerous refreshment points and physiotherapy services at the finish line to ensure participants’ well-being.

The Perfect Stay: Hotel Alma Barcelona

For runners and their companions, choosing the right accommodation is key to ensuring a comfortable stay and optimal preparation before the race. Hotel Alma Barcelona emerges as an unbeatable choice thanks to its location and services designed for relaxation and recovery.

Strategic Location

Located in the heart of Barcelona, in the Eixample district, Hotel Alma is within walking distance of key marathon landmarks such as Casa Batlló and Sagrada Família. Its proximity to the starting line and various sections of the route allows runners to minimize pre-race stress and enjoy seamless logistics.

Facilities for Rest and Recovery

Hotel Alma Barcelona is renowned for its tranquil and sophisticated ambiance, making it ideal for relaxation. Its rooms are designed to provide maximum comfort, featuring high-quality beds and soundproofing for a restful sleep.

The hotel also boasts a spa with a sauna and heated pool, perfect for muscle relaxation before and after the race. Personalized massage services and treatments are available to cater to runners’ specific needs.

Nutrition Tailored for Athletes

Nutrition plays a crucial role in marathon preparation. The Alma Restaurant offers a menu tailored to athletes’ needs, with options rich in high-quality carbohydrates and proteins. Additionally, the hotel can arrange early breakfasts on race day, ensuring runners start the event fully energized.

Additional Services

Hotel Alma Barcelona provides additional services that enhance the experience for marathon participants, such as late check-out options for post-race recovery and a concierge service to assist with transportation and other logistical needs.

Exploring Barcelona After the Marathon

Participating in the Barcelona Marathon is also an excellent opportunity to explore the city. From Hotel Alma Barcelona, guests can easily access major tourist attractions like the Gothic Quarter, Las Ramblas, and Passeig de Gràcia.

The hotel staff can provide personalized recommendations and organize guided tours, ensuring guests make the most of their stay in Barcelona.