Generali Köln Marathon

The Generali Köln Marathon takes place on October 4, 2026, and offers runners a fast, flat course through Cologne's neighbourhoods starting in Deutz and finishing at the iconic Dom cathedral. The trail surface and minimal elevation gain of 137 metres make this a good opportunity for pursuing a personal best, especially since the route stays below 64 metres above sea level throughout. You'll pass through Rodenkirchen, Lindenthal, Ehrenfeld, and Nippes with 11 well-stocked aid stations along the way, so fuelling shouldn't be a concern. This is Germany's fourth-ranked marathon, which means solid organisation and a decent crowd to carry you through the later stages. Registration costs 130 euros, and given the course's reputation for speed and the urban setting, this is worth considering if you're targeting a time goal.