Köln Marathon 2024

The beautiful city of Cologne is planning a cool marathon again for all the people ready to run, or cheer for the runners!

The inaugural Cologne Marathon took place in early October 1997. Since then, it has been held annually at the beginning of October, except for 2004, 2005, and 2014, when it was held in September.

In 2024, this event is set to happen on Sunday, October 6, in the Cologne District, North Rhine-Westphalia.

The race route has been well-known since 2013. Runners will start at Ottoplatz in the Cologne Deutz area, go west, and cross the Rhine. After that, they’ll see the twin towers of the magnificent Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) and continue past a couple of beautiful Romanesque churches. The participants will then run through some of the parks that encircle the city, returning to the city center, where the finish line is situated. Before the end of the race, runners will see the famous Dom Cathedral pop up on their right, and all finishers will end their long journey in front of the famous Cathedrale. The best feeling, right?

What to Expect When Attending Köln Marathon 2024

Expect to feel like you're visiting a festival! The atmosphere will be lively and exciting. An enthusiastic crowd will gather to watch the marathon participants run.

The marathon has a time limit of 6 hours. Runners will receive their medals after running through the beautiful town of Cologne and crossing the finish line.

Keep in mind that there's also an easier choice for runners—a half marathon! Additionaly, there's a relay marathon for those who enjoy teamwork and children's races so that the young ones feel included! How great is that—something for runners of all levels!

The finish line area features a big celebration! Expect music, a whole food plaza with treats, and drinks for refreshment. After the run, athletes often drink the famous Kolsch beer and eat the popular schnitzels. Makes the whole experience even more worthwhile!

Weather

The weather will likely be partly cloudy, with temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) in the morning to 16°C (61°F) in the afternoon. A bit of rain is possible in the early hours, but it is not expected to rain throughout the day.

Tickets

Spectating is free for this event, which gathers 500,000 spectators lining the streets.

The registration deadline for participation is until all spots are full. The planned number of runners is 7,000, and here are the entry prices:

• € 95 (first 999 applicants)
• € 110 (1,000-1,999 applicants)
• € 125 (2,000-7,000 applicants)

Security Protocols

The key measures for securing the safety of participants and spectators are:

• the presence of the police and security
• bag checks at the starting zone and finish area
• the presence of medical support
• certain roads are closed to create a safe running zone for participants
• video surveillance 

How to Get To or From the Event

Navigating the city might be problematic due to road closures and crowds, so going by car isn’t the best option. Cologne has good public transport, including trains, trams, and buses, operated by KVB. 

• Train: Cologne Central Station (Köln Hauptbahnhof) is well connected to the marathon's starting and finishing points.
• Trams and buses: many tram and bus routes will be adjusted to get you to the destination. Check the KVB site to find the best route.

Köln Marathon 2024 Bag Policy

If you're participating in the race, there is a specific area to drop off your bags near the start or finish line, but that's not the case if you're there to watch. Either way, Bounce can help marathon runners and those who'll be part of the crowd with luggage. You can check out our website or the Bounce mobile app. Bounce finds safe and convenient places and partners with local businesses in cities worldwide where you can store your belongings and enjoy your stay with no weight on your hands (or mind!). 

Köln Marathon 2024 Bag Storage

Leave Your Worries With Bounce and Enjoy Your Visit to Cologne

It's simple. Go to our website or use our mobile app to contact a Bounce partner.

A Bounce partner will help you find the perfect location in Cologne. For only €3.00 per day and no cancellation fee, your stuff will be safe, and you can enjoy visiting this German town. Bounce also offers 24/7 support so you can relax!

How to Stow Your Bags at Köln Marathon 2024 With Bounce

Stow your bags with Bounce following these steps:

• Book your storage: find a suitable spot, contact a Bounce partner, and make an online payment
• Go to the location: arrive at your location and drop off everything you want
• Participate in the marathon: either as a runner or a part of the crowd, enjoy this year's Cologne Marathon

How to Make the Most Out of Köln Marathon 2024

• Plan your trip early: Remember that Cologne is a popular destination, especially during the marathon. Expect many visitors, so plan your trip early and book your ticket on time.
• Explore Cologne: Cologne is an extraordinary city. Whether you are there to participate in the marathon or just watch, make sure you spend some time exploring the city's monuments and places.
• Drink water: Stay hydrated, especially if you're running a marathon.
• Have family fun: If you're going with kids, let them have fun by participating in children's races and family-friendly activities.
• Celebrate your accomplishment: After making it to the finish line, take time to try out some typical German treats like a Berliner (a jelly-filled doughnut) or a delicious Rheinischer Sauerbraten (a traditional marinated pot roast)!

With Bounce by your side, taking care of your belongings, you can participate in this awesome marathon and make it to the finish line, or cheer for your favorite runner!