Paris Half Marathon

An iconic race in the heart of the City of Light

Every spring, Paris welcomes tens of thousands of runners to take on one of Europe’s most iconic half marathons. Covering 21.0975 kilometers, it’s a challenge to tackle but also a unique opportunity to explore the city from a new perspective. Here, the effort blends with the magic of the traversed locations, from lively Seine quays to vibrant streets and refreshing green spaces.

Right from the first few meters, the atmosphere is electric. Starting near Pont de Sully instantly immerses runners in Parisian energy. The route then heads towards the east of the city, passing notable sites like the Jardin des Plantes, the vicinity of the François-Mitterrand Library, and the wide avenues of the Bois de Vincennes, a true green lung of the course. After this nature interlude, the return to the center is along the quays, offering breathtaking views of the Seine before a triumphant finish at Place de la Bastille, where a large crowd cheers each runner in an electrifying ambiance.

But the Paris Half is not just an immersion into the capital; it’s also a fast and rolling race, perfect for setting a personal best. With little elevation change and long straight sections, this course is favorable for high performances while providing ideal racing conditions. Many runners use it as a benchmark race before a spring marathon, particularly the one in Paris.

More than just a race, this half marathon has become a genuine tradition for running aficionados. It marks one of the year’s first significant running events, where everyone from elites to casual runners comes to write their own chapter on Parisian asphalt. A finish line carved in memory and kilometers that resonate long after the race.