The Zurich Donostia San Sebastián Marathon 2026 — also known as the San Sebastián Marathon or “Bella Easo” — has kicked off with unprecedented demand. The 47th edition will take place on 22 November 2026 and, within just 24 hours of general entries opening on 29 January, 2,000 bibs had already been sold. Together with the more than 10,500 runners who lined up in 2025, this demonstrates that it is one of the most popular and fastest races on the Spanish calendar. This article covers everything you need to know about registration, the history and course, recent results and how to train and enjoy your trip to the Basque capital.
A rush for entries in 2026
Excitement for running in San Sebastián is sky-high. The organisers opened an exclusive early-bird window on 22 January 2026 for runners from the previous edition and, a week later on 29 January, launched general registration. Within the first 24 hours some 2,000 bibs for the 42 km race had been snapped up, showing how appealing this urban marathon is to runners from Spain and abroad. In 2025 all slots sold out for both the marathon and the 10 km race held on the same day. San Sebastián offers not only a fast course but also a full experience for athletes and supporters.
If you want to secure your bib, pay attention to the registration schedule and pricing:
- 22 January 2026: registration opens for 2025 participants.
- 29 January 2026: general entry opens for anyone interested.
- Price tiers: according to Runnea there are three bands between €79 and €89; the sooner you register, the cheaper it is. Residents of Gipuzkoa enjoy a special discount until 31 May.
- Two distances: marathon (42 km) and 10 km, both bookable via the official event site.
Because bibs sell out quickly, the organisers recommend registering early and planning your travel and accommodation in advance. The official site also offers training plans, lodging options and an online system for managing your entry.
History and course: a marathon full of charm
The San Sebastián Marathon was born on 15 October 1978, making it the second oldest marathon in Spain after Madrid. Since then it has grown in participation and prestige. The current course, redesigned in 2022, is more central, touristy and faster than ever. It is completely urban and at sea level with an almost flat profile and few turns, making it ideal for chasing personal bests.
The start line is on Calle Hernani, next to the town hall and Alderdi Eder gardens, and the race passes through the Centro, Antiguo, Amara and Gros districts. Runners take in landmarks such as the Paseo de La Concha, the Victoria Eugenia theatre, Anoeta stadium, the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, the Kursaal congress centre and Plaza Gipuzkoa. The course consists of two laps of roughly 21 km and ends with a straight section of over a kilometre, completely flat, lined with cheering spectators. The late-autumn weather in the Basque Country is usually cool and can be wet, so be prepared for changing conditions.
Historical data underline the speed of the course: the men’s record stands at 2:09:34 by Timothy Cherigat (Kenya) set in 2002, and the women’s record at 2:23:09 by Rebbeca Tanui (Kenya) set in 2022. These times give an idea of the potential of a flat, sea-level route.
Highlights from the 2025 edition
The 2025 edition, held on 23 November, saw 5,115 finishers, including 824 women and 4,291 men. Britain’s Thomas Holliday won the men’s race in 2:22:33, followed by Finland’s Aki Nummela (2:23:50) and Spain’s Simón Río González (2:24:21). The women’s title went to local runner Maite Arraiza Aramendia in 2:44:55, with Britain’s Louise Flynn (2:48:37) and Spain’s Alejandra Sánchez Massa (2:49:37) completing the podium. The median finishing time was around 3 hours 39 minutes, reflecting both the speed of the course and the level of recreational runners.
Knowing these benchmarks helps set realistic goals. Whether you aim to break three hours or simply to finish your first marathon, these references will help you plan your pace and expectations. The full results are available on MarathonView.
Training tips for a flat, fast marathon
Preparing for the Zurich Donostia San Sebastián Marathon requires a mix of endurance, speed and strategy. Here are some key tips:
- Plan well in advance. A programme of at least 16 weeks allows you to build mileage gradually and avoid injury. Include long runs, steady-pace sessions and interval or tempo runs.
- Train on flat terrain. Get used to holding a steady pace by running on routes similar to the marathon. Longer intervals (1 km to 5 km) at goal pace help you internalise the effort.
- Don’t neglect strength work. Two sessions a week focusing on leg and core strength improve running economy and reduce injury risk.
- Simulate race conditions. November in northern Spain can be cool and damp; do some long runs in light rain or wind to adapt. Good technical clothing and shoes are essential.
- Practise hydration and fuelling. During long runs rehearse taking gels, bars or sports drinks to find what works best and avoid surprises on race day.
- Rest and listen to your body. Reduce mileage if niggles appear and respect recovery weeks. Quality sleep and balanced nutrition are as important as kilometres.
- Use tracking tools. Apps like SnapRace let you plan sessions, log pace and share progress with other runners. You can also sync workouts from your GPS watch for detailed analyses.
If you need more specific guidance, check our guide on the Seville Marathon 2026 where we offer training recommendations that also apply to San Sebastián.
How to enjoy the San Sebastián experience
Running in San Sebastián is about more than covering 42 km. The city blends sea, mountains and world-class cuisine. To make the most of your trip:
- Explore the old town. After the race, wander the narrow streets of the historic centre and refuel with pintxos in the Parte Vieja. Don’t miss Plaza de la Constitución or the Church of San Vicente.
- Relax at La Concha. The famous bay offers a promenade ideal for stretching your legs or, if the weather allows, a refreshing dip.
- Visit the Kursaal and the Peine del Viento. Two of the city’s most iconic works of architecture. The former hosts the film festival; the latter is a sculpture by Eduardo Chillida at the end of Ondarreta beach.
- Experience the runner’s expo. Held in the congress centre, it features sports brands, talks and the chance to meet other runners and organisers.
- Make time for tourism. San Sebastián lies close to cities like Bilbao or Pamplona and charming coastal villages. Extend your trip to explore the Basque Country.
Registration and practical resources
To finalise your participation follow these steps:
- Go to the official site and choose your distance (42 km or 10 km).
- Fill in the registration form with your personal details and select your T-shirt size.
- Pay by credit or debit card. You’ll receive a confirmation email with your bib number.
- Check what documents you need to collect your bib at the expo (usually ID/passport and proof of entry).
- Plan your travel and accommodation. The organisers offer deals with hotels and discounts on transport.
- Download the official marathon app for schedules, services and live tracking.
For more race insights, read our report on the Seville Half Marathon 2026 and browse other race guides on our blog. Training for half-marathons and 10 km events will help you arrive in November with confidence.
Ready for the Bella Easo?
The Zurich Donostia San Sebastián Marathon 2026 promises to be an unforgettable experience: a fast course through a city that embraces runners, a festive atmosphere and a gastronomy that invites celebration. With entries flying, now is the time to secure your bib and start training. Prepare your plan, enjoy the journey and, when you cross the finish line by La Concha bay, celebrate every stride. See you in San Sebastián!