On November 8-9, 2025, Athens will be buzzing with excitement as it hosts three major races. The city's streets will be filled with athletes and running enthusiasts for this major sporting event, which has become a global institution.
The races of Athens Marathon
On Sunday, November 9:
- the classic 42-kilometer marathon run and
- the 10 kilometer road race (6.25 miles) will take place, while
On Saturday, November 8:
- the 5-kilometer race will take place.
CLASSIC MARATHON
Starting point: Marathon, Attica
Finish: Panathinaic Stadium, Athens, Attica
RACES of 5 & 10 KM
Starting point: Vasilissis Amalias Avenue, Athens, Attica
Finish: Panathinaic Stadium, Athens, Attica
Spectators are welcome to watch the runners from any place on each race for free.
Marathon Race history
Among all the Olympic sport events, the Marathon Race stands out as it was born by a true historic and heroic event. It was accomplished by Pheidippides an Ancient Greek soldier from Athens, who was the messanger send to the city of Athens to announce – with his last words – the victory of the Greeks against the Persians during the Marathon Battle in 490 BC. His run inspired the modern marathon.
Scene of the Battle of Marathon (John Steeple Davis - The story of the greatest nations, from the dawn of history to the twentieth century - published in 1900).
The 42,195m Marathon Race became one of the most competitive events during the revival of the Olympic Games in 1896. A Greek athlete named Spyros Louis, running what has ever since been referred to as the Original Marathon Course from the ancient city of Marathon to the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, won the gold medal of the first modern Olympic Games and became a legend of Greek and International Athletics.
Spyros Louis in 1896.
Grigoris Lambrakis marching alone in the banned Marathon – Athens Peace Rally on Sunday 21 April 1963, one month before his assassination.
Since 1982, the Athens Marathon has been dedicated to Gregoris Lambrakis, the athlete, scientist and Member of Parliament, who was murdered in the 60’s and, after his death, became a symbol of Human Rights.
The Marathon Race has always had a prominent place in the hearts and minds of sports enthusiasts, as it represents the highest effort where the human body, soul and mind are tested to their limits as the runner presses himself/herself to reach the finish line.
Marathonexpo: The meeting point of the sports world
The Biggest Sports Event in Greece
The MARATHON EXPO is the largest sports exhibition in Greece and one of the leading events of its kind in Europe. Every year, it welcomes thousands of visitors and hundreds of exhibitors, creating a dynamic crossroads of innovation, athletic culture, and experience.
The exhibition takes place as part of the Athens Marathon and is an integral part of this unique global event. At the MARATHON EXPO, athletes, companies, and the public come together to exchange ideas, test products, and discover the latest developments in sports, nutrition, equipment, health, and wellness.
The MARATHON EXPO is not just an exhibition.
- It is a global celebration of sports and well-being.
- It is the meeting point for those who believe in the power of movement, progress, and collective effort. You are invited to experience the pulse of sports and the energy of the Athens Marathon.
Exhibition Venue Indoor Stadium of Palaio Faliro
The Exhibition Center is located in one of the most central and accessible areas of Athens, adjacent to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, Plateia Nerou, the Palaio Faliro sports facilities, Flisvos Marina, and the Kallithea Marina—landmarks that have made the area one of the busiest and most vibrant hubs in the city.
The venue offers free parking and is easily accessible by both car and public transportation.
✔ How to organize your holidays in Athens
Ferry to the islands: Book your ferry to to Santorini, Mykonos and other islands.
Hotels: Discover our selection with the best hotels and accommodation in Athens.
Tours and Activities: Explore the city with some amazing tours and activities.
Car rentals: Discover the the surroundings on your own by booking your car.
