The 39th Wizz Air Venice Marathon returns on Sunday, October 26, 2025, offering 8,000 runners the extraordinary opportunity to race through one of the world's most iconic island destinations. Starting at the magnificent Villa Pisani in Stra on the mainland and finishing at Riva Sette Martiri on Venice's historic island waterfront, this Bronze Label World Athletics event combines athletic challenge with unparalleled cultural immersion. The 42.195-kilometer course winds along the Riviera del Brenta, crosses the legendary Ponte della Libertà bridge over the Venetian Lagoon, and culminates with an unforgettable final stretch through Venice's island heart, including a specially constructed pontoon bridge over the Grand Canal and passage through Piazza San Marco.
This unique marathon transforms the challenge of 26.2 miles into a moving celebration of Venetian island heritage, where runners experience architecture, art, and waterways that have captivated travelers for centuries.
The Birth of a Legendary Island Race
The Venice Marathon was first held on May 18, 1986, with 713 pioneering athletes embarking on an unprecedented sporting event in the history of the island city. Created by Piero Rosa Salva's visionary idea, the inaugural edition attracted over 2,000 registered runners from various nations, immediately establishing itself as one of the season's most important events.
The original course began at Stra on the banks of the Brenta River and concluded at Campo Santi Apostoli in Venice's working-class Cannaregio district, one of the island's most picturesque neighborhoods. Large crowds of spectators welcomed this unusual spectacle of runners moving through a city where not only cars were banned, but jogging had been outlawed until recent days. The organizers overcame static bureaucracy and numerous natural challenges unique to Venice's island geography for this incredible debut.
Italian runners swept the inaugural podium, with young Salvatore Bettiol winning the men's race in 2:18:44, while Paola Moro claimed the women's competition in 2:38:10. The next editions quickly became essential appointments in the international running calendar, with the event moving to its traditional October date and expanding to include multiple race distances.
Throughout its 39-year history, the Venice Marathon has weathered unique challenges inherent to an island city built on water. In 2011, organizers included Piazza San Marco in the course for the first time, enhancing the spectacular finale. High tides in 2012 and 2018 forced route modifications, with the 2018 edition requiring runners to navigate ankle-deep water through some sections. These dramatic moments only added to the marathon's legendary status as one of the world's most distinctive races.
Today, the Venice Marathon holds World Athletics Bronze Label status and continues exercising true fascination for runners worldwide, with registration requests consistently exceeding the 8,000-entry cap set by organizers to protect the island's delicate infrastructure.
The Magnificent 42K Course: Mainland to Island
The full marathon starts at 9:45 AM at Villa Pisani in Stra, approximately 25 kilometers west of Venice. Known as the Queen of Venetian Villas, Villa Pisani exceptionally opens the gates of its magnificent park to welcome marathon runners before the start, providing an elegant beginning to this journey.
The first section along the Riviera del Brenta develops through landscapes rich in history, art, and culture, characterized by ancient Venetian villas overlooking the river. These 18th-century mansions create a spectacular backdrop as runners settle into their pace through the flat, fast terrain.
The course proceeds through central Marghera and Mestre, passing the new M9 Museum of the 20th Century, a colorful contemporary complex offering technological and interactive knowledge. Here runners experience modern Venice before entering San Giuliano Park, the second-largest park in Europe, where the course snakes over 2 kilometers through green spaces.
Crossing to the Island: Ponte della Libertà
The most dramatic transition comes as runners approach the Ponte della Libertà (Liberty Bridge), a flat, straight bridge stretching almost 4 kilometers across the Venetian Lagoon. Designed by engineer Eugenio Miozzi and opened in 1933, this architectural marvel serves as the only vehicular access connecting Venice's historic island center to the mainland.
Running across the Ponte della Libertà provides an extraordinary experience as the island city's silhouette gradually emerges across the shimmering lagoon waters. The 3.85-kilometer bridge offers panoramic views in all directions, with the Adriatic Sea to the south and the lagoon's numerous small islands visible in the distance. This section epitomizes the unique character of the Venice Marathon, where runners literally transition from mainland Italy to the floating island city.
At sunrise and sunset, the bridge becomes particularly enchanting as the sky paints hues of orange and pink across the water, though marathon runners experience this passage in late morning light as they approach the historic center. The gentle breeze off the lagoon and the sight of boats navigating the canals below create sensory experiences impossible to replicate in any other marathon.
The Spectacular Island Finale
After crossing the bridge, the race proceeds through Venice's renewed harbor area before reaching the historic island center for the final, most unforgettable kilometers. Runners follow the Canale della Giudecca along the Zattere, a 2-kilometer embankment where athletes run close to the water with spectacular views across to the island of Giudecca.
The course passes the Church of Saint Mary of the Rosary, the Venice Academy of Fine Arts, and the Church of the Holy Spirit before reaching Punta della Dogana. Here awaits one of the marathon's most extraordinary moments: crossing the Grand Canal on a 170-meter pontoon bridge built specifically for the race and dismantled the night after.
Subject to high tide conditions, runners then pass through Piazza San Marco itself, running beside the Campanile bell tower and the Doge's Palace, Venice's most iconic island landmarks. The final 3 kilometers present 14 bridges covered with wooden ramps to allow hand-bikers and wheelchairs to participate, though these bridges can be challenging for tired legs.
The course transitions from asphalt to large rectangular stone slabs characteristic of Venice's island pathways for this concluding section. The finish line at Riva Sette Martiri sits on the picturesque waterfront of St. Mark's Basin, facing the island of San Giorgio Maggiore across the water, providing a triumphant conclusion to this journey through island beauty.
The entire course is flat and fast except for three short uphill sections of approximately 100 meters each, making it suitable for runners seeking personal records alongside those prioritizing the scenic experience.
Half Marathon and 10K Options
Beyond the full marathon, the Venice Marathon weekend offers additional race distances that showcase the island's spectacular scenery. The half marathon (21.1K) starts from Piazza Ferretto in Mestre at 9:30 AM, proceeding through the renewed central area including the M9 museum complex.
The half marathon course joins the traditional Venice Marathon route along the Salso Canal, through San Giuliano Park's green avenues, across the Ponte della Libertà bridge, and into Venice's island heart. Runners experience the extraordinary water-flush route appreciated worldwide for its uniqueness, finishing at Riva Sette Martiri alongside the full marathon finishers.
The 10K race provides the most accessible option for experiencing Venice Marathon magic, open to athletes aged 10 and older, including Nordic walkers and fit walkers. Three waves start from San Giuliano Park in Mestre between 8:25 AM and 8:40 AM.
The 10K follows the last 10.7 kilometers of the full marathon course, beginning on solid ground in the park before continuing across the 4-kilometer Ponte della Libertà bridge to reach Venice and its new harbor area. Like the longer distances, 10K runners experience the breathtaking island finale, running alongside the Giudecca Canal, crossing the Grand Canal on the pontoon bridge, and finishing at Riva Sette Martiri with views of St. Mark's Basin and San Giorgio island.
Registration and Pricing
Registration for the 2025 Venice Marathon operates on tiered pricing that rewards early commitment. For the full 42K marathon, fees are €80 from November 4, 2024, to March 31, 2025; €90 from April 1 to June 30, 2025; €105 from July 1 to August 31, 2025; and €120 from September 1, 2025, until the race cap is reached.
The half marathon offers more accessible pricing at €44 (November 4, 2024-March 31, 2025), €50 (April 1-June 30, 2025), €55 (July 1-August 31, 2025), and €60 (from September 1, 2025). The 10K distance provides the most budget-friendly option at €32, €35, €39, and €44 for the respective registration periods.
Registration fees include race bib and timing chip, medical assistance throughout the course, refreshment and sponging stations, commemorative finisher medal, technical bag with gadgets, personal clothes transportation from start to finish, and pre-race and post-race shuttle transportation. All distances are capped to preserve the island experience and prevent overcrowding on Venice's narrow pathways and bridges.
Runners can register online through the official Venicemarathon website at venicemarathon.it. For competitive runners seeking FIDAL/IAAF ranking inclusion and prize eligibility, membership in a foreign sports federation affiliated with World Athletics is required, along with appropriate documentation. Tourist-sporting participants need only register online and sign the liability waiver.
Optional insurance coverage through ERGO protects registration fees in case of illness, accident, or other unforeseen circumstances preventing participation, with refunds covering all services except the policy cost. This provides peace of mind for international travelers booking flights and accommodations months in advance.
Race Week Activities and Expo
The Venice Marathon transforms into a week-long celebration of running, wellness, and island culture. San Giuliano Park, the second-largest park in Europe, becomes the heart of pre-race activities, hosting the Venicemarathon Expo Village.
The Expo opens Friday, October 24, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM at San Giuliano Park in Mestre, Porta Blu (Blue Entrance). All runners must collect their race bibs at the Expo, which continues Saturday, October 25, from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The Expo features running industry exhibitors, nutrition and training advice, pasta parties, and opportunities to connect with runners from around the world.
Saturday afternoon features the Family Run, a 4K fun race attracting thousands of school children and youngsters from the Venetian province. Additional Family Runs take place in nearby towns during the weeks leading to the marathon, building community excitement for the main event.
The Venicemarathon Charity Program emphasizes solidarity, with Alex Zanardi, the Paralympic gold medalist and former auto racing star, serving as the main promotional figure. This program allows runners to raise funds for various causes while pursuing their athletic goals on the island course.
October Weather and What to Pack
Venice in October offers ideal marathon conditions, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 9°C (64°F to 48°F). Early October tends to be warmer than late October, though the October 26 race date typically provides pleasantly mild weather perfect for distance running.
Runners should prepare for variable conditions, as October marks the transition to autumn in the Venetian Lagoon. While daytime temperatures remain comfortable, evenings cool significantly, particularly on the exposed island where breezes off the Adriatic and lagoon can create chill.
For race day, lightweight technical running gear suited to temperatures in the mid-teens Celsius works well. Consider bringing arm sleeves or a light jacket for the pre-race wait at Villa Pisani, which can be discarded in the personal clothes bag transported to the finish. The flat course and moderate temperatures allow most runners to focus on pacing without weather extremes affecting performance.
For the days surrounding the marathon, pack layers including cardigans, light sweaters, and jackets for evening exploration of the island city. Rain remains a possibility in October, with 8-9 rainy days typical for the month, so a compact raincoat or umbrella proves useful. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring Venice's pedestrian island, where every journey involves navigating countless bridges, stone pathways, and uneven surfaces.
Light clothing including sun dresses, shorts, and t-shirts remains appropriate for warm October days, while long pants and closed-toe shoes provide comfort for cooler conditions. The key is versatile layering that adapts to changing conditions throughout your island visit.
Accommodations and Getting Around
Venice offers diverse accommodation options from budget hostels to luxury island hotels, though booking well in advance for marathon weekend is essential. Many runners choose to stay in Mestre on the mainland, where hotels offer better value and easy access to both the Expo at San Giuliano Park and shuttle buses to the Stra starting line.
Staying on Venice's historic island provides unmatched atmosphere and allows runners to soak in the unique ambiance of the car-free island city. However, navigating with luggage through narrow streets and over bridges requires consideration. The vaporetto water bus system connects various island neighborhoods efficiently, though services can be crowded during marathon weekend.
Official marathon packages through Venicemarathon's partner agencies include accommodation, race entry, and transportation, simplifying logistics for international visitors. These packages typically offer stays in Mestre with guaranteed shuttle service to the start and from the finish.
On race morning, official shuttle buses transport runners from designated pickup points in Venice and Mestre to the start at Villa Pisani in Stra. After finishing at Riva Sette Martiri on the island, runners can either walk to their Venice accommodations or take the return shuttle service to Mestre. The finish location on the island's eastern waterfront provides easy access to central Venice attractions.
Exploring Venice Beyond the Race
The marathon weekend offers perfect justification for extended exploration of Venice and the surrounding Venetian Lagoon islands. The island city's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, reveals new wonders around every corner, from grand palazzos along the Grand Canal to hidden neighborhood squares where locals gather.
St. Mark's Basilica and Square represent Venice's spiritual and civic heart, with Byzantine architecture and golden mosaics creating an atmosphere of timeless grandeur. The adjacent Doge's Palace showcases centuries of Venetian political history through magnificent halls decorated by Renaissance masters. The Rialto Bridge and market area offer glimpses of daily island life alongside tourist attractions.
Venture beyond the main island to discover Murano, famous for centuries of glass-making tradition, and Burano, where brightly painted houses create one of Italy's most photogenic island settings. These lagoon islands accessible by vaporetto provide peaceful contrasts to central Venice's busier thoroughfares.
The Riviera del Brenta, which runners experience during the first section of the marathon, deserves dedicated exploration by bicycle or boat to fully appreciate the Venetian villas that line this historic waterway connecting Venice to Padua. Villa Pisani itself offers tours of its magnificent baroque interiors and extensive gardens.
Training and Preparation Tips
The Venice Marathon's flat profile makes it suitable for runners targeting personal records alongside those prioritizing the scenic experience over speed. The course's only significant challenges come from three short uphill sections of approximately 100 meters each and the 14 bridges in the final 3 kilometers.
The bridges, while covered with wooden ramps for accessibility, can stress tired legs late in the race. Training should include hill repeats to prepare for these short climbs and build strength for the final island section. The stone slab surface in the last kilometers also differs from typical asphalt, potentially causing slight adjustments to stride.
Be aware of tram rails in some Mestre-Venice sections that require careful foot placement. The pontoon bridge crossing the Grand Canal may sway slightly with runner traffic, requiring focus and balance. These unique elements add character to the course while demanding adaptable running technique.
Proper pacing proves crucial for finishing strong through Venice's island finale, where the spectacular surroundings and crowd energy can inspire runners to push through late-race fatigue. The flat initial sections along the Riviera del Brenta allow establishing rhythm before the more demanding island conclusion.
Altitude is not a factor, as the entire course remains at sea level along the lagoon and island waterways. Humidity from the surrounding water can affect perceived temperature, particularly on warmer October days.
The Venice Marathon Experience
What distinguishes the Venice Marathon from other major international races is the profound connection between athletic challenge and cultural immersion. Every kilometer offers visual rewards, from Renaissance villas to baroque churches, from lagoon panoramas to intimate island neighborhoods rarely seen by typical tourists.
The local crowds supporting runners throughout Venice's island center create extraordinary energy, with Venetians treating the marathon as a beloved annual tradition. Spectators line the Giudecca waterfront, pack the bridge crossing the Grand Canal, and fill Piazza San Marco, creating a festival atmosphere that carries runners toward the finish.
The logistical complexity of hosting a marathon through a car-free island city built on water makes this event organizationally remarkable. Temporary infrastructure including the Grand Canal pontoon bridge, wooden bridge ramps, refreshment stations in historic squares, and finish line facilities on the island waterfront requires meticulous planning.
Running through Piazza San Marco, past the Doge's Palace, and along island waterways where gondolas glide creates surreal moments where athletic endeavor blends with artistic masterpieces. The final approach to Riva Sette Martiri, with St. Mark's Basin spreading before you and San Giorgio island rising across the water, provides a finish line view unmatched in world marathon running.
Claim Your Place in Venice Marathon History
The 39th Venice Marathon on October 26, 2025, awaits with 8,000 starting positions connecting mainland to island through one of running's most spectacular courses. Whether targeting the full 42K marathon, the half marathon, or the accessible 10K distance, this event promises athletic challenge wrapped in incomparable beauty.
Register now at venicemarathon.it to secure early-bird pricing and guarantee your bib number before the race cap is reached. International demand consistently exceeds available spots, making early registration essential for this Bronze Label World Athletics event.
Imagine the moment you transition from mainland to island on the Ponte della Libertà, with Venice's silhouette emerging across the shimmering Venetian Lagoon. Picture yourself crossing the Grand Canal on the specially built pontoon bridge, running through Piazza San Marco as dawn light illuminates the Campanile's golden angel, and approaching the waterfront finish with the entire Adriatic horizon spreading before you.
This is not merely a marathon but a journey through living history, where every stride carries you deeper into the island city's timeless beauty. The combination of flat, fast terrain and spectacular surroundings creates potential for both personal records and unforgettable memories.
Book your accommodations now for October 25-27, 2025, whether choosing mainland Mestre's convenience or Venice island's atmospheric charm. Mark your calendar for bib pickup at the Expo Village on October 24-25, where pre-race excitement builds among runners from around the world.
Join thousands of athletes who will experience the magic of running through Italy's most enchanting island city. Cross bridges that arch over canals, pass palazzos that have stood for centuries, and finish on a waterfront that epitomizes Venetian splendor. The Venice Marathon transforms athletic achievement into cultural pilgrimage, where the journey matters as much as the destination.
Don't let this opportunity pass to be part of Venice Marathon history on October 26, 2025. Register today, begin your training, and prepare for a running experience that transcends sport to become art in motion through one of humanity's greatest island cities.
Verified Information at a Glance
Event Name: 39th Wizz Air Venice Marathon (Venicemarathon 2025)
Category: International Marathon / Road Race / World Athletics Bronze Label
Date: Sunday, October 26, 2025
Start Times:
- Full Marathon (42K): 9:45 AM
- Half Marathon (21K): 9:30 AM
- 10K Race: 8:25 AM (competitive), 8:30 AM and 8:40 AM (fun run waves)
Start Locations:
- Full Marathon: Villa Pisani, Stra (VE), approximately 25 km west of Venice
- Half Marathon: Piazza Ferretto, Mestre
- 10K: San Giuliano Park, Mestre
Finish Location: Riva Sette Martiri, Venice (all distances)
Distance: 42.195 km (26.224 miles) for marathon; 21.1 km for half marathon; 10.7 km for 10K
Course Certification: Measured and certified by AIMS/World Athletics
Participant Cap: 8,000 runners for full marathon
Registration Fees (Full Marathon 42K):
- €80 (November 4, 2024-March 31, 2025)
- €90 (April 1-June 30, 2025)
- €105 (July 1-August 31, 2025)
- €120 (From September 1, 2025)
Half Marathon Fees:
- €44, €50, €55, €60 (same date ranges)
10K Fees:
- €32, €35, €39, €44 (same date ranges)
Bib Pickup: October 24-25, 2025, 9:00 AM-8:00 PM at Expo Sport Venice Marathon Village, San Giuliano Park, Mestre, Porta Blu
Course Highlights:
- Villa Pisani start
- Riviera del Brenta with Venetian villas
- M9 Museum complex in Mestre
- San Giuliano Park
- Ponte della Libertà bridge (3.85 km across Venetian Lagoon)
- Giudecca Canal waterfront
- Pontoon bridge crossing Grand Canal
- Piazza San Marco (weather permitting)
- Doge's Palace
- 14 bridges in final 3 km
Registration Includes:
- Race bib and timing chip
- Finisher medal
- Medical assistance and refreshment stations
- Personal clothes transportation
- Pre-race and post-race shuttle transportation
- Technical bag with gadgets
Official Website: www.venicemarathon.it[3]
Historical Note: First held May 18, 1986, with 713 athletes; 2025 marks the 39th edition
Weather: Average temperatures 9-18°C (48-64°F) in late October
Course Profile: Flat and fast with three short uphill sections (~100m each) and 14 bridges in final 3 km
Verified Sources: Official Venicemarathon website, World Athletics, race rulebooks, and authorized registration partners confirm all details
