Rome Marathon (Acea Run Rome The Marathon): route, registration and date

Updated on October 8, 2026

The Rome Marathon, officially Acea Run Rome The Marathon, is the city's most spectacular road race: 42.195 km among ancient monuments, starting on the Via dei Fori Imperiali at the foot of the Colosseum and finishing near the Circo Massimo. The 2026 edition was run on 22 March; according to race listings, the 32nd edition is announced for Sunday 14 March 2027. Dates, the exact route and fees are set by the organisers every year: check the official website before booking flights and a hotel.

Highlights

The start at the Imperial Forums

The race starts on the Via dei Fori Imperiali, the avenue that runs alongside the Roman Forum and leads to the Colosseum. Runners start in successive waves according to the level declared at registration.

The finish at the Circo Massimo

The Circo Massimo, the ancient Roman chariot-racing stadium, is the setting for the finish. The atmosphere is that of a street party, with spectators packed behind the barriers.

A course through the historic centre

The loop passes landmarks such as the Colosseum, Piazza Venezia, Castel Sant'Angelo and St Peter's Basilica, Piazza Navona and Piazza di Spagna, depending on the edition. Much of the surface is cobbled (sampietrini), so wear suitable shoes.

Shorter options

Alongside the marathon, the organisers offer a 5 km fun run open to everyone and a team relay: a good way to run in the same setting without training for 42 km.

Practical info

Tips

Register only on the official race website: fees go up in stages, so it is cheaper to sign up early. Italy generally requires a valid sports medical certificate for official races; the details for foreign runners are on the website. Bib collection and the runners' expo take place on the days before, at a venue announced in advance: plan to arrive the day before at the latest. Book accommodation very early, as the event attracts thousands of runners: the Termini and Esquilino area or the Colosseum area are convenient for the start. March can be chilly in the morning and mild in the afternoon: wear disposable layers for the wait before the start. Do not count on driving or taking buses through the centre on race day: streets are closed for several hours and some bus lines are diverted; on foot and by metro is simpler. Cut-off times and refreshment points are published by the organisers. Information checked in October 2026; verify all dates and conditions on the official website.

How to get there

Start on Via dei Fori Imperiali, 00184 Rome. Metro line B to Colosseo, or metro A/B to Termini and then a 20-minute walk. On race day the area is closed to traffic and some bus lines are diverted; arrive on foot or by metro. The finish at the Circo Massimo is served by metro line B, Circo Massimo station.