Is the Paris Marathon Hard?

By Anna Duncan

Are you thinking about running the Paris Marathon? You might be wondering if it’s a challenging race. Let’s take a closer look.

Course Overview

The Paris Marathon is a 42.195-kilometer (26.219-mile) race that takes you through the heart of France’s capital city. The course starts on the Champs-Élysées and loops through some of Paris’s most iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Place de la Bastille.

Elevation

The Paris Marathon is not known for being a particularly hilly course. The elevation gain is only around 40 meters, with the highest point being at kilometer 32. However, there are some slight inclines throughout the course and a short but steep climb to get to Château de Vincennes around kilometer 9.

Weather

The weather can be an important factor in any race, and Paris is no exception. The marathon takes place in April when temperatures are typically mild with an average high of 15°C (59°F) and low of 7°C (45°F). However, rain showers are common throughout April, so be prepared for wet conditions.

Large Crowds

One thing that sets the Paris Marathon apart from other races is its massive crowds. Over 55,000 runners from all over the world participate in this event every year, making it one of the largest marathons in Europe.

The spectators also turn out in force to cheer on the runners along every kilometre of the route. This can give you an extra boost of energy when you need it most but can also make navigating through the crowds challenging at times.

Conclusion

While running any marathon requires dedication and training, many runners consider the Paris Marathon to be a relatively easy course. With its gentle inclines, mild weather, and enthusiastic crowds, the Paris Marathon can be an enjoyable and memorable experience for runners of all levels.

So, if you’re looking for a marathon that combines a beautiful course with an incredible atmosphere, the Paris Marathon might just be the race for you!