Running a marathon in Northern Europe means cool weather, clean cities, and smooth logistics.
Whether you choose Stockholm, Copenhagen, Oslo, or Helsinki, most race weekends feel relaxed, well-organised, and easy to navigate by public transport.
Northern Europe is also easy for travel, most runners arrive via main airports and transfer into the city centre in under 30 minutes. Many race weekends feel relaxed because course areas, bib pickup locations and public transport are usually close together. Even first-timers find it simple to settle in and explore a bit before race day.
This guide gives a quick overview of the main marathons in the region and where runners typically like to stay for an easy race morning.
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Top Marathons in Scandinavia
1. Stockholm Marathon – Sweden
Next edition: 30 May 2026
A scenic loop through the city and around the water, finishing in the Olympic Stadium. Conditions are usually mild and crowds are lively along the route.
Most runners like that the start/finish area is easy to reach by metro, so there’s no stress on race morning. The city feels compact, so you don’t lose time moving between hotels, restaurants and sights. Even if you stay a bit outside the centre, public transport is simple.
Where to stay
Most runners stay in Östermalm or Norrmalm.
You’ll be close to metro lines and within easy reach of the start, finish, and expo.
Good cafés and restaurants make pre-race meals simple.
Suggested picks
- Scandic Park – calm area near Östermalm, easy metro access
- Hotel Diplomat – classic waterfront stay, walkable central base
Full guide: Where to Stay for Stockholm Marathon
2. Copenhagen Marathon – Denmark
Next edition: 10 May 2026
Known for its flat course and friendly atmosphere, Copenhagen is a great place to aim for a PB.
The course passes through plenty of lively neighbourhoods, so supporters can catch runners multiple times without much planning. The whole weekend feels relaxed, cafés fill up with runners, but never in a chaotic way. You can walk or bike basically anywhere.
Where to stay
Indre By (City Centre) and Vesterbro are most convenient.
Both areas are central, great for walking to most sights, and well linked to race areas.
Vesterbro gives you more cafés and a slightly more relaxed vibe.
Suggested picks
- Hotel Kong Arthur – cosy, relaxed, close to lakes + metro
- Scandic Copenhagen – simple, central, easy start-day logistics
Full guide: Where to Stay for Copenhagen Marathon
3. Oslo Marathon – Norway
Next edition: 12 September 2026
A beautiful run along the Oslofjord and through the city. Oslo is quieter than Copenhagen or Stockholm, which makes it easy to wind down before the race.
Many runners take a short stroll along the harbour the day before; it’s scenic and flat. Getting to the start area is straightforward, even from outside the centre.
Where to stay
Runners usually pick Sentrum or Bjørvika, both close to the waterfront and train connections.
Easy to walk around, and simple to navigate on race morning.
Suggested picks
- Thon Hotel Opera – modern, by central station, easy transfers
- Clarion Hotel The Hub – busy but convenient, quick tram links
Full guide: Where to Stay for Oslo Marathon
4. Helsinki Marathon – Finland
Next edition: 22 August 2026
A coastal course that mixes quiet neighbourhoods with seaside paths. Helsinki feels calm and spacious, ideal if you don’t like crowded race weekends.
Most hotels near the centre connect easily to the start by tram, so logistics are simple. You’re close to the waterfront, which is great for a relaxed shake-out run.
Where to stay
Most runners book around Kamppi or the City Centre.
Both are within easy reach of metro and tram routes and close to restaurants.
Suggested picks
- Hotel Kämp – elegant, near Esplanadi + transport
- Radisson Blu Seaside – quiet waterfront stay, roomy + practical
Full guide: Where to Stay for Helsinki Marathon
Quick Overview
| Marathon | Best Areas to Stay | Vibe | Transport to Start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stockholm | Östermalm • Norrmalm | Calm + central | Easy via metro / short ride |
| Copenhagen | Indre By • Vesterbro | Lively + central | Walkable / metro nearby |
| Oslo | Sentrum • Bjørvika | Waterfront + modern | Walkable / tram |
| Helsinki | Kamppi • City Centre | Compact + quiet | Walkable / tram/metro |
Runner Tips
- Pack layers – Even early-summer races can start cool. You’ll want a light jacket or long-sleeve for the start line.
- Book early if you want to stay central – Hotels in popular neighborhoods go fast once registration opens. Staying just outside the centre is usually fine, transport is reliable.
- Expect a bit of wind – Coastal cities like Copenhagen, Helsinki and Oslo can get breezy. It’s nothing extreme, just don’t be surprised if you feel it on open stretches.
- Public transport is easy – Metro and tram networks are excellent. Just double-check Sunday/early-morning schedules the day before.
- English is everywhere – Signage, transport, cafés, no need to stress about language.
- Food is simple – Plenty of Italian/Asian spots around town for carbs. You don’t need to plan far ahead, just avoid trying something brand-new the night before.
- Long days in spring/summer – Races in May/June have lots of daylight, so getting around feels easier and more relaxed.
Why Choose Northern Europe for a Marathon?
- Cooler temperatures
- Clean, organised cities
- No complicated transport
- Good English everywhere
- Safe + easy to navigate
- Family-friendly atmosphere
Many runners pick this region for a “low-stress” race weekend.
It’s easy to arrive, settle in, run, and explore a bit afterwards.
FAQ — Northern Europe Marathons
Is Northern Europe good for first-time marathon runners?
Yes. Cities like Copenhagen and Stockholm are well-organised, easy to navigate, and usually have mild race-day temperatures, great for first-timers.
What’s the best month to run a marathon in Scandinavia?
Most races take place between May and September. Spring and early summer are popular because temperatures are cool and daylight is long.
Do I need to speak the local language?
No. English is widely spoken across Sweden, Denmark, Norway, and Finland. You’ll have no problem at hotels, transport, or the expo.
Is public transport reliable on race weekend?
Yes. All four cities have clean, efficient metro/tram systems. Many runners rely on public transport to reach the start.
Are hotels expensive during marathon weekend?
Prices can be higher, especially in central areas. Book early for the best rates. Staying slightly outside the centre is often cheaper and still convenient.
Useful Links
(official marathon sites)
• Stockholm Marathon
• Copenhagen Marathon
• Oslo Marathon
• Helsinki Marathon
Public transport
• Sweden: SL
• Denmark: DOT / Metro
• Norway: Ruter
• Finland: HSL
Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links.
If you book through them, we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.
We only recommend places we think work well for marathon weekend.
