Zurich Marathon

Registration is open to all runners and uses a tiered pricing model, meaning earlier entry costs less. Slots sell out, so registering as soon as the window opens gives you the best price and guarantees your place. There is a limited waiting list and no bib transfers.

Yes, the Zurich Marathon is a certified Boston qualifier. The course has moderate elevation gain spread across both halves, so a qualifying time is achievable with the right preparation and pacing.

The time limit is 5 hours and 30 minutes.

The marathon typically sees around 6,000 finishers. All distances combined across the event account for roughly 23,000 total slots, so the marathon itself is a manageable size without the congestion of the very largest city marathons.

The Zurich Marathon is an out-and-back course running along Lake Zurich and through the city center. There is real elevation gain across the route, just under 500 feet total, distributed across both halves. It is not a flat course, but it is runnable fast with disciplined pacing.

April race-day temperatures in Zurich typically range from the mid-40s at the start to around 60°F by late morning. A light throwaway layer at the start is a good idea, but conditions are generally favorable for racing rather than just surviving.

Zurich airport is about 12 km north of the city center and a direct train takes roughly 12 minutes to the center. Staying near Lake Zurich or the Quaibrücke start area puts you close to the action and within easy reach of public transport.