Stockholm Marathon

Location: Stockholm
Country: Sweden
Website: https://www.stockholmmarathon.se/eng/
2025 Marathon Date: 31/05/2025
2026 Marathon Date: 30/05/2026
Winning Time 2025: 02:11:34
% Sub-3s: 2–5%
# Sub-3s: 500–999
Total Runners: 10k–20k

The Stockholm Marathon is a flagship Scandinavian race, attracting thousands of participants each year to Sweden’s capital. Held in late May, the event offers a tour of one of Europe’s most distinctive cityscapes—an archipelago of islands connected by bridges, parks and grand boulevards.

The course follows a two-lap format, beginning and ending near the historic Stockholm Olympic Stadium. Runners pass through central landmarks including Södermalm, Kungsholmen and the Royal Palace district. The route includes several undulating segments and bridge crossings, which add a tactical dimension to what is otherwise a largely runnable course. Surfaces are smooth throughout, though the sheer variety of terrain—urban roads, long straights and tighter turns—requires sustained focus.

Weather in late May can be a decisive factor. While Stockholm is generally cooler than southern Europe, temperatures have occasionally crept above ideal marathon levels, particularly during the second lap. The race starts in the afternoon, which increases the chance of mid-race warmth—a challenge for those targeting sub-3 performances.

Crowd support is enthusiastic, especially in the city centre and near residential areas. The event enjoys strong civic support, and local spectators often stay out for hours to cheer runners through both laps. Organisation is excellent, with frequent hydration points and clear signage throughout the route.

For sub-3 runners, the Stockholm Marathon is not a pure speed course. The afternoon start, potential heat, and accumulated gradients can all add minutes if not properly managed. However, the quality of competition and electric atmosphere offer strong motivation, and the finishing stretch into the Olympic Stadium is one of the most iconic in Europe.

Overall, it’s a prestigious and well-run event that rewards strength and experience as much as speed. Those chasing a time will need discipline and awareness - but those looking for a memorable international race will find plenty to recommend it.