Is Paris Marathon Hilly?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you considering running the Paris Marathon but wondering if the course is hilly? Well, you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we will explore whether the Paris Marathon is known for its hilly terrain.

Paris Marathon Overview

The Paris Marathon is one of the most prestigious and popular marathons in the world. It takes place annually in April and attracts thousands of runners from all over the globe. The course winds through the beautiful streets of Paris, showcasing iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.

The Course Profile

When it comes to determining whether a marathon is hilly or not, it’s essential to analyze its course profile. The Paris Marathon course can be described as relatively flat overall, with some undulating sections. While it’s not entirely flat like some other marathons, it’s also not overly hilly.

Flat and Fast Sections

  • Champs-Élysées: The race starts on the famous Champs-Élysées avenue, which provides a straight and flat stretch for runners to gain momentum.
  • River Seine: As participants cross over bridges along the River Seine, they can enjoy relatively flat terrain.
  • Bastille: This historic district offers a pleasant running experience with mostly flat sections.

Moderate Hills

While there are no major hills on the Paris Marathon course, there are a few sections that have gentle inclines. These inclines can provide a welcome change of pace for runners and add some variety to the otherwise flat course. Some notable areas with moderate hills include:

  • Bois de Vincennes: The course takes runners through this beautiful park, which features some gentle inclines.
  • Bois de Boulogne: Towards the end of the race, participants will encounter a few small hills in this park.

Training for the Paris Marathon

If you’re planning to run the Paris Marathon, it’s crucial to incorporate hill training into your preparation. While the course is not excessively hilly, training on inclines will help improve your overall strength and endurance. Incorporate hill repeats and long runs with rolling terrain into your training plan to ensure you’re adequately prepared for any inclines you may encounter on race day.

In Summary

The Paris Marathon is generally considered a flat and fast course. While there are no significant hills, there are some moderate inclines throughout the route. These sections add variety but should not pose a significant challenge for well-prepared runners.

If you’re looking for a marathon with stunning scenery and a mix of flat and gentle hills, the Paris Marathon is an excellent choice. Lace up your running shoes and get ready to explore the beautiful streets of the City of Light!