Berlin isn’t just another marathon, it’s the fastest course in the world, the place where world records are broken and everyday runners create lifelong memories. Whether you’re chasing a PR, a Six Star medal, or just soaking up the vibes, here’s everything you need to know to make Berlin 2025 as smooth (and fun!) as possible…
✨ The Expo: A Marathon Before the Marathon
The Berlin Marathon Expo has moved to Messe Berlin, a new venue with plenty of space and even more excitement. Expect long walks (consider it a shakeout 😉), packed halls, and lots of photo ops.
A few things to know:
- You’ll pick up your bib and wristband (no proxies allowed, so bring your ID). That wristband also gives you free public transportation all weekend (Sept 18–22).
- Bag size is restricted, keep it carry-on size (60 × 40 × 25 cm).
- If you want a pre-race massage (15 minutes, €20), you can book one right there.
- And if you’re eyeing the official race jacket? Pre-order if you can. Popular sizes sell out fast!
🚦The Start Line: Logistics & Waves
Race morning = organized chaos, so here’s the breakdown:
- Start: Sunday, Sept 21 on Straße des 17. Juni between the Brandenburg Gate and the “Kleiner Stern”
- You’ll line up in four waves starting from 9:15 a.m. (with later waves at 9:45, 10:10, and 10:40).
- Enter via Platz der Republik. Your bib and wristband are your golden ticket.
- Porta-potties? Let’s just say… arrive early. Lines are long, porta-potties were scarce in years past, and the park becomes “plan B” for many runners.
Once inside, take a deep breath. The energy in the corrals is electric.
💧 Hydration & Fuel Strategy
Berlin has its quirks when it comes to fueling, so plan ahead:
- Water stations every few kilometers, but only on one side of the road → expect bottlenecks.
- Full refreshment zones at 9, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 36 km, with water, fruit, tea, and Maurten Drink Mix 160.
- Maurten Gel 100 available at ~27.5 km.
- You can bring your own bottles (non-glass) or drop personalized bottles at designated tables before the start.
PRO TIP: To avoid unnecessary stress, consider bringing your own hydration. Bottles, vests, and belts are allowed on the course under some size restrictions. Watch out for the hard plastic cups littering the ground, they’re a tripping hazard. There are also refreshment points where you can refill bottles.
🗺️ The Course: Flat, Fast, and Iconic
Berlin is the flattest of the World Marathon Majors, which is why it’s where records fall (Tigist Assefa’s 2:11:53 still gives me chills). But flat doesn’t mean empty. Expect:
- Crowds, elbows, and narrow spots early on. Stay calm, it opens up.
- Plenty of turns, so stick to the blue line to avoid running extra distance.
- The most magical moment: running through the Brandenburg Gate before that final sprint. Smile big because this is the photo you’ll frame forever.
🏅 The Finish Line: Celebrate Big
Once you cross, you’ll get your medal (wear it proudly!), a snack bag with pretzels and pastries, and yes, a free non-alcoholic beer.
Showers, changing areas, and massages are available if you need them, but honestly, my favorite part is lounging on the grassy field by the Reichstag, medal in hand, soaking in the joy.
🏖️ Bonus: Shakeout Runs with a View
Want a scenic shakeout? Berlin has you covered:
- Jog along the Spree River to Charlottenburg Palace.
- Cruise through Tiergarten for tree-lined miles.
- Or keep it simple: short loops near the start/finish area.
💡 Final Thoughts
Berlin can feel overwhelming… a huge expo, thousands of runners, logistics that test your patience. But once you’re on that course, all of it melts away.
Run smart, soak in the sights, and remember: those pre-race jitters mean you care. Harness that energy, pace steady, and let the Brandenburg Gate carry you home.
And don’t forget your Refuse to Give Up Hat 🧢! Not only for the shade, but because those finish-line photos deserve it.
See you out there, Berlin runners. Refuse to Give Up. 💪
—Carleth
