27th VVO Oberelbe Marathon Dresden 2026

One of Germany's Most Beautiful Marathons

The VVO Oberelbe Marathon is among the most spectacular marathons in Europe in terms of scenery. Its USP: a flat 42.195-kilometer run along the Elbe — from Königstein in Saxon Switzerland via Pirna to Dresden — which ranks among the most geographically attractive marathon routes worldwide. The 27th edition takes place on Sunday, April 26, 2026, with around 9,000 participants from all over the world. The organizer is VVO Verkehrsverbund Oberelbe in cooperation with Oberelbe-Marathon e. V.

Start in Saxon Switzerland

The marathon starts in the shadow of the medieval Königstein Fortress — one of Europe's largest mountain fortresses, perched on a table mountain above the Elbe. The first kilometers lead through the bizarre sandstone landscape of Saxon Switzerland with views of Lilienstein, Pfaffenstein, and the table mountains. Near Pirna, the course leaves the actual Switzerland region and then follows the wide, calm Elbe towards Dresden — past Pillnitz Castle, the Blue Wonder (Loschwitz Elbe Bridge), the Elbe Palaces (Albrechtsberg, Eckberg, Lingnerschloss), and finally into the historic city center with Brühl's Terrace, the Frauenkirche, and the Semperoper as a backdrop.

Six Distances for All Generations

The Oberelbe Marathon is not just a competition, but a family running event. Six distances allow participation for all age groups and fitness levels:

• Marathon 42.195 km — from Königstein to Dresden
• Half Marathon 21.098 km — from Pirna to Dresden
• 10 km — from Heidenau to Dresden
• 5 km — Dresden City Run
• Mini Marathon 2.7 km — for children aged 8 and up
• 1/100 Marathon 422 m — for the youngest from 4 years old

Accompaniment by Paddle Steamer

A special feature of the Oberelbe Marathon: Relatives and fans can accompany the runners by paddle steamer — one of the historic paddle steamers of the Saxon Steamship Company travels parallel to the course from Königstein to Dresden, with brunch and a view of the events on the bank. An unusual and relaxed way to experience a marathon.

Finish in Heinz-Steyer-Stadion

The finish in the Heinz-Steyer-Stadion is more than just a finish line: the traditional stadium in Dresden's Friedrichstadt — built in 1919, now home to SC Dresden-Striesen and recently extensively modernized — offers a real competitive atmosphere with grandstands, a scoreboard, and finish line fanfare. Families and fans await the arriving runners there with applause and refreshment stations.