Everything You Need to Know About the Dublin Marathon 2026
Your complete guide for The Irish Life Dublin Marathon
The Irish Life Dublin Marathon 2026 takes place on Sunday, 25th October 2026 – Welcoming over 22,000 runners to the streets of Dublin for Ireland’s largest running event. Whether you’re participating in the race or supporting friends and family on the day, The Mercantile Hotel Dublin offers a comfortable and central base in the heart of the city.
Located just minutes from Temple Bar, Grafton Street and Trinity College – Our boutique hotel provides easy access to key city locations while allowing you to experience Dublin’s famous atmosphere throughout marathon weekend.
Key Event Details
- Date: Sunday, 25th October 2026
- Start Line: Fitzwilliam Street Upper / Leeson Street Lower, Dublin 2
- Finish Line: Mount Street Upper, Dublin 2
- Official Start Time: 8:45 a.m.
- Distance: 42.2km (26.2 miles)
Start Waves & Timings
The Dublin Marathon has four wave starts, based on projected finish times:
· Wave 1: 8:45 a.m.
· Wave 2: 9:05 a.m.
· Wave 3: 9:25 a.m.
· Wave 4: 9:45 a.m.
Each runner’s bib includes their wave and colour, so be sure to enter the correct zone on the morning.
Getting There from The Mercantile Hotel
Staying at The Mercantile Hotel on Dame Street, puts you right in the heart of Dublin – The perfect location for the marathon weekend.
How to get to the start line
- The official start area on Leeson Street Lower is approximately a 20-minute walk from the hotel.
- The Luas Green Line provides access to St. Stephens Green, which is within walking distance of the start area.
- Short taxi journeys are also available – Although walking is often the most reliable option on the morning due to traffic restrictions.
Our central location allows runners and supporters to reach the start area with minimal stress on race morning!
To the Expo (for Bib Collection)
All runners must collect their race number and pack in person at the Official Marathon Expo.
The Expo is held at the National Show Centre, Located near Dublin Airport.
Expo Opening hours:
o Friday, 23rd Oct: 12:00 – 7:00 pm.
o Saturday, 24th Oct: 09:00 – 6:00 pm.
Travel time from the hotel: 30 – 40 minutes by taxi or bus, depending on the traffic.
Don’t forget to bring photo ID and your registration confirmation email when collecting your race pack.
Bag Drop & Event Rules
· The official clear plastic bag (given at the Expo) must be used for baggage.
· Bag drop: Merrion Square South (close to the finish area).
· No valuables, organisers are not responsible for loss or damage.
· Race bibs must be visible on your front at all times.
· You must run under your own name, no bib swapping allowed.
· If you drop out, move to the side and inform a marshal or sweep vehicle.
How Flat Is the Dublin Marathon Course?
The Dublin Marathon is a mostly flat and fast course, making it ideal for first-timers and runners chasing personal bests.
· Elevation gain: ~208 metres total
· Gentle rolling hills through Phoenix Park
· A long, steady climb at mile 21, followed by the famous “Heartbreak Hill”, the toughest part of the course.
· Once you crest the hill, it’s downhill and flat all the way to Mount Street!
Tip: Train for that late-race hill, it’s short but energy-sapping if you’re unprepared.
Pre-race advice: In the two days before the marathon, keep your body warm and relaxed. Light stretching, gentle mobility work, and staying comfortably layered will help keep your muscles loose and your energy strong for race day.
Aid Stations Along the Course
There are seven main aid station types along the route, stocked with hydration, energy gels, and first aid support.
Water Stations: Mile 2, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 16, 19, 21, 24
Lucozade Sport Drink Stations: Mile 9, 13, 19, 22
High5 Gel Stations: Mile 16, 21
Toilet Stations: Mile 2, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 16, 19, 21, 24
First Aid Stations: Mile 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 16, 19, 21, 23, 24
Course Timing & Cut-Off
The marathon course is open for seven hours, beginning once the last wave crosses the start line.
After this time, participants will be asked to move to the footpath to allow the roads to reopen. Don’t worry, you can still finish, but you’ll be sharing space with pedestrians and traffic from that point onward.
Tracking Family & Friends
Yes, you can absolutely track your favourite runners! A live tracker will be available on the official Dublin Marathon App, which provides real-time updates and split times.
The link will also be shared on the event’s social media channels and website closer to race day.
Spectator Tips & Viewing Spots
Cheering helps more than you think! Here are the best places to catch the action:
1. Phoenix Park (Miles 5 – 9) Wide open, scenic, and quieter for early support.
2. Christchurch & Dame Street (Miles 2–3) Perfect for an early morning cheer close to the hotel.
3. Chapelizod & Inchicore (Miles 10–13) Less crowded mid-race section, great visibility.
4. Merrion Square / Mount Street (Finish) The ultimate atmosphere; emotional and electric.
Spectator Advice:
- Use public transport, as many roads will be closed.
Bring warm clothes, signs, and snacks.
Download the official app to follow the runner’s progress.
Meet your runner after the finish near Merrion Square or head back to The Mercantile for a celebratory pint!
The Dublin Marathon captures the best of the city’s energy and spirit. Whether you’re running your first marathon or your fifteenth, you’ll feel the warmth of Dublin’s people every step of the way.
At The Mercantile Hotel, we’re here to make your weekend effortless, from comfortable rooms and hearty breakfasts to the perfect location for soaking up all the race-day excitement.
Here’s to new personal bests, loud cheers, and that unbeatable Dublin energy.
Good luck, runners, we’ll see you at the finish line!
Frequently Asked Questions
The Irish Life Dublin Marathon takes place on Sunday, 25th October 2026, with wave starts beginning from 8:45 a.m.
Yes. Friends and family can track runners live on marathon day using the official Dublin Marathon App, which provides real‑time tracking and split times. A live tracking link will also be shared closer to race day via the event’s official website and social media channels.
No, a qualifying time is not required to enter the Dublin Marathon. The only exception is for AAI‑registered runners applying through the Good For Age entry category, which typically opens in May.
Yes. The Dublin Marathon welcomes runners, joggers, and walkers. All participants should be aware of the seven‑hour course time limit. Walkers are encouraged to start in Wave 4 (9:45 a.m.) to allow sufficient time on course.
The marathon start area is located on Leeson Street Lower, close to St Stephen’s Green in Dublin city centre.
