The Venicemarathon 2024 took place on October 27, capturing the hearts of runners and spectators alike as the city's timeless beauty served as the backdrop for this thrilling competition.
This year's marathon was an unforgettable spectacle, weaving together ancient architecture, modern athleticism, and the unique charm of Venice’s canals and villas.
For those who experienced the race—either by running it or cheering from the sidelines—Venicemarathon 2024 delivered an experience like no other.
When did the Venice Marathon 2024 take place?
The 2024 Venice Marathon was held on Sunday, October 27, an ideal day for runners who enjoyed the added benefit of an extra hour of sleep as daylight saving time ended.
The event took off with the 42-kilometer race starting at 9:40 a.m., while the shorter 10-kilometer race started earlier at 8:30 a.m.
The marathon organizers ensured runners had ample time to reach the finish line, with a maximum allowed time of six hours, after which regular city traffic resumed.
How long does the Venice Marathon last?
The full marathon of 42 kilometers is a test of endurance, with a six-hour completion time set for runners, allowing ample opportunity for even the most leisurely participants to cross the finish line.
The half marathon and 10K options provide additional opportunities for runners to take part at various skill levels, each carefully timed and planned to avoid congestion in Venice’s narrow streets.
Along the route, every 5 kilometers featured refreshment stations, ensuring participants could hydrate and re-energize in the warm Venetian air.
What route does the Venicemarathon 2024 follow?
One of the most captivating aspects of the Venicemarathon is its route, which leads runners through both the historical and scenic marvels of Venice and its surrounding areas.
The race begins in the expansive San Giuliano Park, a lush green expanse on the mainland, allowing runners to pace themselves before reaching the challenging urban stretch.
From here, participants headed toward the iconic city landmarks, taking them along the Giudecca Canal and across the Canal Grande via a specially-constructed floating bridge, leading them to the breathtaking Punta della Dogana. This year’s course also passed through the tranquil Riviera del Brenta, home to numerous 18th-century Venetian villas and remarkable Renaissance architecture.
As runners advanced, the race path meandered through quintessential Venetian canals, crossed over bridges, and allowed athletes to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Venice’s narrow streets and grand piazzas. The journey ended with the much-anticipated finish line in Piazza San Marco, surrounded by a cheering crowd and the historic Doge’s Palace.
Where to watch the Venice Marathon 2024?
Spectators could enjoy the marathon in several iconic Venetian spots, including along the Grand Canal and near San Marco, where large crowds gathered to cheer on participants.
Major viewing points, especially near the floating bridge at Punta della Dogana, were particularly popular as the unique floating structure allowed runners to cross the Grand Canal directly. Other ideal spots included Piazza San Marco and San Giuliano Park, providing vantage points for viewing and supporting the marathon runners.
For those unable to attend in person, RAI Sport and Raiplay provided live coverage starting at 9:30 a.m., allowing a broader audience to experience the marathon from the comfort of home, celebrating alongside the runners virtually.
Venicemarathon 2024 results: A race to remember
The 2024 Venicemarathon saw a competitive field with an exciting lineup of top performers. Leading the men’s division was Abebe Tilahun from Ethiopia, who completed the marathon in a remarkable 2:09:08, securing first place and showing incredible endurance.
The second-place winner, İlham Tanui Özbilen from Turkey, finished close behind with a time of 2:09:31, while Kenya’s Kipsambu Kimakal claimed third place, clocking in at 2:09:58. Each athlete showcased strength and dedication, highlighting Venice’s appeal as a globally recognized marathon destination.
Ranking Venicemarathon 2024 leaderboard
This year’s leaderboard reflected both the international draw of the marathon and the high level of athleticism it attracts, with close finish times marking an exciting competition among the world’s best.
- 1st Place: Abebe Tilahun (Ethiopia) – 2:09:08
- 2nd Place: İlham Tanui Özbilen (Turkey) – 2:09:31
- 3rd Place: Kipsambu Kimakal (Kenya) – 2:09:58
Venicemarathon 2024 date and time
October 27 was the chosen date for the 38th edition of the Venicemarathon, a Sunday blessed with clear weather conditions that helped runners navigate the various challenges of the course.
Starting with the first gun at 8:30 a.m. for the 10K, followed by the 42K at 9:40 a.m., the event was well-timed, allowing runners to enjoy the daylight as they ran through one of the world’s most extraordinary marathon routes.
Venice Marathon 2024: A journey through scenic highlights
The 2024 Venicemarathon also included a half marathon distance, catering to athletes seeking a shorter but still challenging experience.
This 21-kilometer race showcased Venice’s picturesque waterfront, particularly along the Giudecca Canal, combining the historical beauty of Venice with a fast-paced competitive spirit.
The half marathon was a perfect option for runners eager to experience Venice’s scenic course without committing to the full marathon distance, providing the thrill of marathon day with a lighter load.
Venicemarathon 2024 course: A historic route with modern twists
The Venice Marathon is famous for its extraordinary course, which has remained one of the most scenic in Europe. It winds through various architectural and natural wonders, from the stately villas along the Riviera del Brenta to the modern green pathways of San Giuliano Park.
The race offered runners the chance to witness the renewed central areas of Venice, featuring not only ancient landmarks but also modern pathways built to accommodate runners while preserving the city’s historic fabric.
Throughout the course, local police and volunteers ensured smooth organization, directing runners and managing spectators to create a safe environment. The unique floating bridge across the Grand Canal was a marvel of race engineering, providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience for runners to cross Venice’s famed waterways.
Results of the Venice Marathon 2024: Records, stories, and victories
The Venicemarathon 2024 results celebrated the achievements of both competitive and recreational runners, each completing the race as part of a personal journey and milestone. Ethiopian runner Abebe Tilahun led the men’s race with an exceptional time of 2:09:08, closely followed by other elite athletes, while numerous other runners recorded personal bests, further highlighting the marathon’s appeal to both top athletes and enthusiastic amateurs.
Whether competing for a podium finish or running in the 10K for charity, every participant contributed to the vibrant atmosphere and energy of this year's marathon. The wide range of participants, from elite international competitors to local Venetian runners, helped make the 38th edition a truly global event.
The magic of the Venice marathon 2024 experience
The 2024 Venicemarathon was a spectacular journey through both Venice’s timeless elegance and the vibrant energy of competitive sport. The event attracted thousands of marathon runners who navigated the half marathon and full marathon routes, embracing the city's extraordinary route that includes landmarks like the Grand Canal, San Giuliano Park, and Piazza San Marco.
Participants tackled the historic marathon course, one of the world’s most fascinating marathons, enjoying the unique experience of running through Venice’s canals and passing by numerous Venetian villas built in the eighteenth century. The marathon route, dotted with green avenues and picturesque waterfront views, offered a refreshing yet challenging experience under a bright autumn sun.
For many runners, this marathon stood out due to Venice’s historic city atmosphere, where the race route closely mirrors the paths of Venetian nobles from centuries past. While some found the lack of water stations a small discomfort, others lauded the seamless race organization, which allowed runners to focus on the race while taking in the architectural beauties of Venice.
Wizz Air Venicemarathon
The Wizz Air Venicemarathon offered not only pre-race services like starting corrals and logistics but also post-race services in San Giuliano Park, allowing participants to recharge after the event.
With the finish line located in the iconic Piazza San Marco, surrounded by the Doge’s Palace and the vast Mark's Basin, the Venicemarathon provided a triumphant end to an exhilarating race.
This year, the Venicemarathon cemented its status as a premier destination for athletes seeking sporting goals in a unique context, combining the challenge of a marathon with the allure of a city famed for its eternal beauty and historic significance.
For runners and spectators alike, Venice Marathon 2024 was a race not just against the clock, but a journey through the soul of Venice itself.