On April 11 and 12, 2026, Rotterdam will once again become the epicentre of the global running scene. The 45th edition of the NN Marathon Rotterdam arrives with significant route changes due to construction works in the city centre and with all race entries sold out months in advance. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to enjoy or prepare for this fast and flat marathon—from the updated course and race schedule to the best training and logistics tips for runners and spectators.
The Rotterdam Marathon is more than just a race; it’s a city-wide festival that takes over the entire weekend. In 2026, the programme is organised as follows:
- Saturday, April 11: the youngest runners kick things off in the morning with the Kids Runs (1 km and 2.5 km). At 4:15 pm, the City Run takes place—a popular 4.2 km race through the city centre, crossing the iconic Erasmus Bridge. That same day also features walking events over 15 km, 10 km and 5 km.
- Sunday, April 12: the main race day begins at 9:15 am with the 10 km event (formerly the quarter marathon), followed at 11:00 am by the marathon and the corporate relay. Only 17,000 bibs are available for the marathon, all allocated via a lottery months in advance.
To secure a bib for the 42.195 km race, the organisation implemented a pre-registration system: runners applied in September 2025 and a lottery determined final entries. Demand far exceeded supply, and places sold out quickly. Today, access is only possible through programmes such as Super Marathon Masters, charity entries or the official resale platform. Entry fees are around €155.
New 2026 course: changes and highlights
The major novelty this year is the updated course. Construction works at Hofplein have forced the finish line to move closer to the World Trade Center on Coolsingel. This also shortens the former quarter marathon distance to 10 km. Among the key changes are the return to De Kuip stadium between kilometres 7 and 11 and the replacement of the Zuiderpark loop with a double pass along Oldegaarde Avenue. The rest of the course retains the characteristics that make it so fast and appealing:
- Start at Erasmus Bridge: the race begins at the base of this iconic structure. It’s the only truly elevated section, so it’s wise to take it easy and conserve energy.
- Kop van Zuid and De Kuip: after crossing the Nieuwe Maas river, runners pass through the modern Kop van Zuid district and the Feyenoord stadium, cheered on by thousands of fans.
- Euromast and city landmarks: the route passes near the Euromast tower and landmarks such as the Cube Houses and Markthal.
- Kralingse Plas Park: the final stretch loops around Kralingse Plas lake, a tree-lined area ideal for maintaining pace before the final straight on Coolsingel.
According to experts, elevation gain is virtually negligible: the course starts and finishes at 8 metres above sea level, with a total ascent of 64 metres and descent of 60 metres. Combined with mild April temperatures (10–14 °C) and crowds of over 900,000 spectators, this explains why three world records have been set here and why the course records of Bashir Abdi (2:03:36) and Tiki Gelana (2:18:58) remain benchmarks.
Logistics and spectator tips
The marathon leads to major road closures in central Rotterdam, so public transport is the smartest option for both participants and spectators. The metro network is efficient and connects key points along the course:
- Getting to the start: to watch the start and Erasmus Bridge crossing, the best option is Wilhelminaplein station. Be aware that Beurs and Blaak stations can become crowded.
- Following the race: for quieter viewing spots (such as Kralingse Plas), take the metro to Oostplein, Gerdesiaweg or Voorschoterlaan. These stops are close to the course and less congested.
- Finish line and return: to meet runners at the finish, head to Rotterdam Centraal station. Allow an extra 30–60 minutes due to large crowds.
Bib collection and the race expo take place at the Postillion WTC Rotterdam from Friday to Sunday. Aid stations are available every 5 km with water, sports drinks and sponges. The time limit for the marathon is 5 hours 30 minutes, and 1 hour 20 minutes for the 10 km.
Training for a flat marathon
A flat and fast course doesn’t mean an easy race. The absence of climbs encourages a steady pace but demands strong muscular endurance and solid mental focus. Key preparation tips include:
- Set a realistic race pace: with minimal elevation changes, pacing is crucial. Include 5–10 km marathon-pace blocks within your long runs.
- Build strength and running economy: even on flat terrain, finishing strong matters. Incorporate strength training (squats, lunges, core work) and running drills.
- Add progressions and speed changes: practise finishing fast with short intervals and progressive runs to develop speed under fatigue.
- Simulate race conditions: train on flat asphalt and practise your nutrition (gels and fluids) during 28–32 km sessions.
- Train your mindset: long, repetitive sections and wind can be challenging. Use visualisation and break the race into manageable segments.
For more precise tracking of your pace and training plans, apps like SnapRace allow you to log your runs, analyse your progress and compete virtually with other runners. Its compatibility with Garmin, Strava and Apple Watch makes it a powerful tool for preparing flat marathons.
A city that breathes running
Beyond the race itself, Rotterdam offers a unique experience for runners and visitors alike. Its blend of modern architecture and maritime heritage is present in every kilometre. Runners cross the Erasmus Bridge at sunrise, pass the striking Markthal and circle the peaceful Kralingse Bos—all while being cheered on by enthusiastic crowds.
If you’re travelling with companions, they can explore the city by bike, visit museums like Boijmans Van Beuningen or take a boat tour of the harbour. And after crossing the finish line, there’s nothing better than celebrating with a stroopwafel or a local beer on Coolsingel while watching the final finishers arrive.
Conclusion
The 2026 Rotterdam Marathon promises to be faster and more exciting than ever. With an even flatter course, a revamped finish line in the heart of the city and an unmatched atmosphere, it’s the perfect opportunity to chase a personal best or simply enjoy a world-class running event. Plan ahead, train smart and get ready for an unforgettable weekend. Are you ready to fly down Coolsingel?