Why is Berlin Marathon the world record course?

Berlin's exceptionally flat course (only 30 feet elevation change), wide roads, consistent climate, and excellent pacing have made it the site of numerous world records. The course is specifically designed for fast times.

When is the Berlin Marathon held?

The BMW Berlin Marathon is held in late September, typically the last Sunday. September weather in Berlin is usually ideal for marathon running - cool mornings, low humidity.

How do I qualify for Berlin Marathon?

Entry methods include lottery (very competitive), time-qualified entry (sub-3:15 for men, sub-3:30 for women), charity entries, travel packages, or membership in German running clubs. Apply early as it fills quickly.

What's the best pacing strategy for Berlin?

The flat course allows for even pacing throughout. Many elite athletes use Berlin for record attempts with precise even splits. Consider using a pace group or pacer if attempting a personal best.

What world records have been set in Berlin?

Multiple world records have been set in Berlin, most recently Eliud Kipchoge's 2:01:39 (2018) and Tigst Assefa's 2:11:53 (2023 women's record). The course's reputation attracts elite fields annually.

BMW Berlin Marathon

The Berlin Marathon is famous as the world's fastest marathon course, where numerous world records have been set. Starting and finishing at the iconic Brandenburg Gate, this perfectly flat course offers ideal conditions for achieving personal bests.

Berlin, Germany · September · 42.195 km (26.2 mi)

easy

Elevation profile

42.8 km course

GAIN+17 m

LOSS−16 m

Plan your splits

42.195 km · 26.2 mi · Berlin, Germany

Goal finish time

Even-pace target

9:09

min/mi

Even-pace

4:00:00

Grade-adjusted

4:00:02

+0:02

Grade-adjusted splits

Strava Adjusted Pace · per mile

#	Grade	Pace	Split	Cumulative
1	+0.0%	9:09/mi	9:09	9:09
2	+0.1%	9:09/mi	9:09	18:18
3	0.0%	9:09/mi	9:09	27:28
4	+0.1%	9:09/mi	9:09	36:37
5	-0.1%	9:09/mi	9:09	45:46
6	+0.2%	9:09/mi	9:09	54:55
7	-0.1%	9:09/mi	9:09	1:04:05
8	-0.1%	9:09/mi	9:09	1:13:14
9	-0.0%	9:09/mi	9:09	1:22:23
10	+0.1%	9:09/mi	9:09	1:31:32
11	+0.0%	9:09/mi	9:09	1:40:41
12	-0.1%	9:09/mi	9:09	1:49:51
13	-0.0%	9:09/mi	9:09	1:59:00
14	+0.1%	9:09/mi	9:09	2:08:09
15	+0.2%	9:09/mi	9:09	2:17:18
16	+0.2%	9:09/mi	9:09	2:26:28
17	+0.2%	9:09/mi	9:09	2:35:37
18	+0.3%	9:09/mi	9:09	2:44:46
19	-0.2%	9:09/mi	9:09	2:53:55
20	-0.3%	9:09/mi	9:09	3:03:04
21	-0.4%	9:09/mi	9:09	3:12:14
22	-0.0%	9:09/mi	9:09	3:21:23
23	-0.0%	9:09/mi	9:09	3:30:32
24	+0.0%	9:09/mi	9:09	3:39:41
25	-0.0%	9:09/mi	9:09	3:48:51
26	-0.0%	9:09/mi	9:09	3:58:00
27	0.0%	9:09/mi	2:00	4:00:00

Splits factor the course elevation. Steep climbs widen the pace, descents tighten it — total time on the right matches the grade-adjusted finish above.

Course highlights

The world record course

Berlin is the marathon course where world records are set. Pancake flat, perfectly paved, ideal late-September weather, expert pacers, and a finish line right at the Brandenburg Gate. If a PR is the objective, this is the course that gives you the fewest excuses.

Start and finish at Brandenburg Gate - Berlin's most iconic landmark
Pass through Tiergarten, Berlin's largest and most beautiful park
World record course - multiple records broken here
Tour of Berlin's most famous boulevards and squares
Potsdamer Platz with modern architecture
Charlottenburg district with historical significance
Incredible crowd support throughout - over 1 million spectators

Race-day tips

Follow a pacer, stay patient

This is THE course for a personal record - take advantage of the flat terrain
September weather is usually ideal - cool and dry
Start conservatively - the flat course makes it tempting to go out too fast
Pacers are excellent and reliable - consider following one
Hydration every 5km - German organization is world-class
Wind can be a factor - be prepared for headwinds on exposed sections

Difficulty

World record course - the flattest of all World Marathon Majors

Famously flat — net flat course (~17m gain)
World record course
Ideal for PRs

FAQ

Berlin Marathon FAQs

Why is Berlin Marathon the world record course?: Berlin's exceptionally flat course (only 30 feet elevation change), wide roads, consistent climate, and excellent pacing have made it the site of numerous world records. The course is specifically designed for fast times.
When is the Berlin Marathon held?: The BMW Berlin Marathon is held in late September, typically the last Sunday. September weather in Berlin is usually ideal for marathon running - cool mornings, low humidity.
How do I qualify for Berlin Marathon?: Entry methods include lottery (very competitive), time-qualified entry (sub-3:15 for men, sub-3:30 for women), charity entries, travel packages, or membership in German running clubs. Apply early as it fills quickly.
What's the best pacing strategy for Berlin?: The flat course allows for even pacing throughout. Many elite athletes use Berlin for record attempts with precise even splits. Consider using a pace group or pacer if attempting a personal best.
What world records have been set in Berlin?: Multiple world records have been set in Berlin, most recently Eliud Kipchoge's 2:01:39 (2018) and Tigst Assefa's 2:11:53 (2023 women's record). The course's reputation attracts elite fields annually.