International Marathon Alexander the Great

Location: Thessaloniki
Country: Greece
Website: https://atgm.gr/?lang=en
2025 Marathon Date: 06/04/2025
2026 Marathon Date: 26/04/2026
Winning Time 2025: 02:24:20
% Sub-3s: 5–10%
# Sub-3s: 50–99
Total Runners: 1k–3k

The International Marathon Alexander the Great is held each spring in Thessaloniki, Greece, and follows a point-to-point course steeped in historical symbolism. Starting in the town of Pella, birthplace of Alexander the Great, the route leads runners southeast through small towns and countryside before finishing in Thessaloniki, one of Greece’s most vibrant coastal cities.

The course is mostly flat with a gradual descent, and its rural-to-urban structure means it is less affected by inner-city congestion or frequent turns. This layout supports rhythm and steady pacing, which can be especially helpful for sub-3 runners aiming to lock into consistent splits. However, there are some exposed stretches and limited crowd support in the early miles, particularly on quiet rural roads.

April weather in northern Greece is typically mild, though daytime temperatures can climb as the race progresses. Wind conditions can vary along the open plains, but overall, the event offers a good balance of speed and scenic variety.

The finish in Thessaloniki provides a welcome contrast to the quieter earlier stages, with an energetic atmosphere and good crowd support along the final stretches. The city’s blend of classical heritage and modern infrastructure adds cultural appeal, making the event popular with international participants seeking something different from the more common big-city marathons.

While the International Marathon Alexander the Great does not draw the largest elite field, its combination of logistical ease, mild spring climate and historical route makes it an appealing choice for serious amateurs targeting a strong finish time. With minimal turns and consistent terrain, it offers a focused racing experience for those prepared to manage solo stretches and varied pacing demands.