Is Paris Half Marathon Flat?

By Alice Nichols

If you are planning to run the Paris Half Marathon, you might be wondering whether the course is flat or not. The answer to this question is not straightforward, as the course has some elevation changes that could make it challenging for some runners.

The Route

The Paris Half Marathon route takes runners through some of the most iconic landmarks in the city, including Notre-Dame Cathedral, Place de la Bastille, and the Eiffel Tower. The race starts near the Bois de Vincennes park and finishes at Parc Floral de Paris.

The Elevation Profile

While the route does have some flat sections, it also has a few hills that can make it challenging for runners. The elevation profile of the course shows that there are several steep inclines and declines throughout the race.

First 5K

The first 5 kilometers of the race are mostly flat. However, there is a slight uphill section as you approach Bastille, which could slow down your pace.

6-10K

The next 4 kilometers of the race take runners through some hilly sections with steep inclines and declines. This part of the course can be quite challenging for those who are not used to running on hills.

11-15K

The third section of the course is relatively flat compared to the previous kilometers. However, runners will face a few small inclines and declines as they approach Bois de Vincennes park.

Last 6K

The final 6 kilometers of the race include some rolling hills that can make it difficult for tired legs to maintain a steady pace. The last kilometer features a steep uphill section before finishing at Parc Floral de Paris.

Conclusion

In summary, while the Paris Half Marathon is not entirely flat, it is not an extremely hilly course either. The elevation changes throughout the race can make it challenging for some runners, but they also add to the excitement and variety of the course. If you are planning to run the Paris Half Marathon, it is recommended that you include some hill training in your preparation to ensure that you are ready for the challenges of the course.