Dublin Marathon 2026

What is the route of the Dublin Marathon 2026

The marathon starts on Leeson Street Lower, in central Dublin, with a staggered wave start: the first wave sets off at 8:45 AM, with the following waves roughly 20 minutes apart based on each runner's expected finish time.

In the opening kilometres the course runs through the Georgian streets of the historic centre before entering Phoenix Park, one of Europe's largest enclosed parks, where runners enjoy several kilometres surrounded by greenery.

After leaving the park, the course heads anti-clockwise towards the city's south side, mixing residential stretches with a lively atmosphere thanks to the large crowds cheering along the entire route — one of this marathon's trademarks.

The final kilometres head back towards the centre to finish the race on Mount Street Upper, close to Merrion Square. The cut-off time to finish the marathon is 7 hours from when the last runner crosses the start line.

Key kilometer points of the Dublin Marathon 2026

• Km 0-6 — Salida en Leeson Street Lower

  Salida escalonada por oleadas cada 20 minutos aproximadamente, según el tiempo previsto de cada corredor.

• Km 6-14 — Calles georgianas y Phoenix Park

  El trazado recorre el centro histórico antes de entrar en el Phoenix Park, uno de los parques cercados más grandes de Europa.

• Km 14-32 — Barrios del sur de la ciudad

  El recorrido gira en sentido antihorario por zonas residenciales con mucho ambiente gracias al público que anima por todo el circuito.

• Km 32-42,195 — Vuelta al centro y meta en Mount Street Upper

  Los últimos kilómetros regresan hacia el centro para completar la prueba cerca de Merrion Square.

Where to stay for the Dublin Marathon 2026

The start is on Leeson Street Lower and the finish on Mount Street Upper, near Merrion Square, so the area between St Stephen's Green and Merrion Square is by far the most practical: both points are a short walk away, and you can drop your things at the hotel before the start.

If this area is full or outside your budget, Temple Bar and the Grafton Street area are the next best option, equally central.

As this is the most in-demand area, it's worth booking well in advance if you want to stay between the start and finish.

Getting there from the airport for the Dublin Marathon 2026

Dublin Airport is the largest European capital airport without a direct rail link to the centre, so the main option is the Airlink Express bus (routes 747/757), reaching O'Connell Street, Connolly Station and Busáras.

The ticket costs €8, buses run every 10-15 minutes between 4:45 am and 11:45 pm, and two large suitcases per passenger are free.

Alternatives include Aircoach (€9, to St Stephen's Green) or local bus 16, cheaper (€2.60 with a Leap card) but taking about an hour.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dublin Marathon 2026

When does the Dublin Marathon 2026 take place?

The marathon runs on Sunday, October 25, 2026, with the first wave starting at 8:45 AM from Leeson Street Lower.

What is the time limit to finish the marathon?

The maximum time is 7 hours from when the last runner crosses the start line; after that, participants must continue on the footpath so the roads can reopen.

Where is the finish line?

The finish is on Mount Street Upper, very close to Merrion Square, in central Dublin.

Where and when do I collect my bib?

Bibs are collected at the marathon Expo, held at the RDS Simmonscourt on the Friday and Saturday before the race; bibs are not handed out on race day.

Is there a baggage drop service?

Yes. The official baggage area is on Merrion Square North; only the official marathon baggage bag is accepted.

How often are the refreshment stations?

The course has 250ml water bottles and sports drink throughout, plus energy gels at miles 16 and 21.

What do I receive after finishing?

Every finisher receives a commemorative medal, a finisher t-shirt and a runner's goody bag.

Can I still register for the 2026 edition?

The 2026 ballot has already closed (it took place in November 2025) and the transfer window has also ended, so entries for this edition are no longer available.

About Dublin Marathon 2026

The Dublin Marathon (Irish Life Dublin Marathon) has been run since 1980 and is one of the best-loved events on the European calendar, known for the atmosphere and warmth of its crowds along the entire course. Every year it brings together tens of thousands of runners from all over the world onto the streets of the Irish capital.

The largely flat course crosses the elegant Georgian streets of the historic centre and Phoenix Park, one of Europe's largest enclosed city parks, before heading into the residential neighbourhoods on the city's south side. It's a very accessible marathon for both first-timers and runners chasing a personal best.

The Dublin Marathon takes place on October 25, 2026, starting on Leeson Street Lower and finishing on Mount Street Upper, right in the city centre. Taking part is an opportunity to run through one of Europe's most characterful capitals.