Prague Marathon explained: the course, the closures and how to watch

On race morning the centre of Prague goes very quiet in some places and very loud in others. Streets you crossed the day before are lined with barriers, trams turn back at unexpected points and, somewhere near a bridge, runners stream past a brass band. This is the Prague Marathon, one of the best-known running events in Central Europe.

If you are running, you need a plan. If you are not, you need to know where not to be.

What it is

The Prague Marathon is a road race over the standard 42.195 km. RunCzech, the company behind a series of road races across Czechia, organises it, and it is held on a Sunday in spring, usually in early May. A half marathon is held in Prague as a separate event earlier in the spring, and RunCzech lists both on its site.

The race draws runners from abroad as well as Czechs, and the course runs through the historic centre along the Vltava and across several bridges. Check the official site for the current year's date and course.

The course

The route starts and finishes in the centre and uses the riverbanks and bridges. The organiser adjusts details from time to time, so work from the course map on the official race site, not an old photo. You pass the river, the castle's hill and the Old Town in one morning, which is much of the appeal. The hills are modest but not absent, and the cobbled sections are hard on tired legs. If you are racing, study the map and the elevation profile.

How to enter

Entry is online through the race site. Places are limited and registration opens months ahead. Fees are set by the organiser and change, so we do not quote one. Read the entry conditions, including the rules on transfers, deferrals and refunds.

If you are travelling from abroad, book accommodation early, since hotels in the centre fill around race weekend. Race numbers are normally collected before the start; the official site says where, when and what to bring.

Plan the morning backwards from the start time: when you leave your accommodation, how you reach the start area, where your bag goes. Allow extra time for crowded public transport and check the DPP diversions the day before. Eat a familiar breakfast and try nothing new. Early May weather ranges from cool and damp to warm and sunny, so dress for the start and be ready to shed a layer. Check the organiser's rules on what you may carry. Arrive a day or two early rather than the night before, hold back on the first bridges where the crowd pulls you along, and agree a meeting place with friends for after the finish.

If you are not running

You are still affected. Roads along the course close for hours, trams are diverted and crossing the route on foot is limited to marked points. Check the DPP site for diversions and cross the course before the front of the field arrives. Our guides to Prague's metro, trams and buses and public transport apps will help you find alternatives. If you drive, expect closures and restricted parking near the course.

Where to watch

Spectating is a pleasure, because the course crosses bridges and runs along the river, so there are plenty of places to stand. Pick spots where you can see runners twice and use the metro to move between them. Our guides to Prague's bridges and viewpoints will give you ideas.

Bring a layer, since spring mornings can be cool. Choose a spot away from the busiest crossings if you dislike crowds, and keep your phone secure; see our pickpockets guide. If names are printed on the bibs, cheer by name. It works.

Other running options

The marathon is not the only way to run in Prague. The city has parks and riverside paths; see Prague's parks. Running clubs and informal groups can be found through local sports pages and social media.

For the season as a whole, our Prague in spring guide explains what else is on, and the Prague Spring festival falls in the same part of the year if you want a concert after the finish.

Frequently asked questions

When is the Prague Marathon?

On a Sunday in spring, usually early May. The organiser publishes the date each year on the official site.

How far is the race?

The marathon distance is 42.195 km. There is a separate half marathon earlier in the spring.

How do I register?

Online through the RunCzech race site. Places are limited and entry opens months ahead.

Will the trams run on race day?

Many are diverted around the course. Check the DPP site for diversions.

Is it free to watch?

Yes. You can stand along the course, but crossing points are limited.