On October 11 and 12, 2025, Sofia will once again welcome thousands of runners for the 42nd edition of the Wizz Air Sofia Marathon. The event includes four different race distances – 5 km, 10 km, 21 km, and 42 km – each with its own route and atmosphere. Whether you’re running 5 or 42 kilometers, every step takes you past some of the capital’s most iconic landmarks.

The start and finish line for all distances is located at Battenberg Square, in front of the National Art Gallery (formerly the royal palace), right in the heart of Sofia.

The Wizz Air Sofia Marathon course is certified by WA – World Athletics. It is flat, with only minor inclines at bridge crossings in both directions. The surface is mainly asphalt, with a small section on cobblestones. The elevation gain is around 25 meters for the half marathon course (21 km) and about 50 meters for the full marathon (42 km).

5 km – FIB Mass Run

Date: October 11 (Saturday)
Start: 10:00
Start and finish: Battenberg Square

Landmarks along the course:
– Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
– Saint Sophia Church
– Central Market Hall
– Sofia Synagogue
– Lion’s Bridge
– Vasil Levski Monument
– Sofia University
– National Library
– Saint Nedelya Church

10 km – Garmin Run

Date: October 12 (Sunday)
Start time: 9:10 AM
Start and finish: Battenberg Square

Landmarks along the course:
– Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
– Saint Sophia Church
– Central Market Hall
– Sofia Synagogue
– Lion’s Bridge
– Vasil Levski Monument
– Sofia University
– National Library
– Saint Nedelya Church
– Presidency and Council of Ministers
– Vitosha Boulevard

21.098 km – Half Marathon

Date: October 12 (Sunday)
Start time: 9:30 AM
Start and finish: Battenberg Square

Landmarks along the course:
– Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
– Sofia University
– National Library
– Vasil Levski Monument
– Presidency
– Council of Ministers
– Archaeological Museum
– Bulgarian National Bank
– Vitosha Boulevard
– West Park

42.195 km – Full Marathon

Date: October 12 (Sunday)
Start time: 9:30 AM
Start and finish: Battenberg Square
Route: Two laps of the 21.098 km course

Landmarks: All locations listed in the half marathon route, covered twice. This allows for a deeper experience and extra motivation with each lap.

Refreshment Stations
Refreshment points will be located every 5 km, offering water and supplies. After finishing, runners will be directed to the final refreshment zone where food, fruit, warm drinks, and water will be available. Portable toilets will be placed at the start/finish area and at all refreshment stations.

Medical Assistance
Medical teams will be stationed at several points along the course. If you need assistance during the run, please go to the nearest medical point. Qualified medical support will also be available at the finish zone if needed.

Wizz Air Sofia Marathon is more than just a sporting event – it’s a way to explore Sofia on the move. Each route is a kind of sightseeing tour, completed at a running pace and shared with thousands of fellow runners.

Photo: Krisok Photography