Turkey, with its rich historical heritage and unique geography, hosts an increasing number of international sports events annually. The running culture is expanding through marathons, half-marathons, and trail runs spread across the country. For athletes coming from abroad to join this excitement, a key step is to obtain an updated turkey marathon calendar to effectively plan their participation. At Eventigo, we gather all necessary information under one roof to help international runners easily navigate Turkey’s dynamic running scene.

In this guide, you will find the major running events organized across Turkey throughout the year, their types, and important details foreign participants need to know. From running in the historic peninsula to climbing the Taurus Mountains, review the full marathon and running calendar in Turkey before embarking on your next running adventure.

Running Culture and Interest in Marathons in Turkey

In recent years, Turkey has become a focal point attracting both local and international runners. Routes range from iconic city streets to ancient ruins, and from the Aegean coast to the magical valleys of Cappadocia, offering runners not only a physical challenge but a cultural experience. These events bring together thousands of runners across various levels, creating a vibrant community.

This growing interest has also elevated the quality of organization, placing Turkey’s races prominently on the international sports calendar. Locations such as Istanbul, Izmir, Antalya, and Cappadocia are now recognized worldwide as prime running destinations.

Turkey Marathon and Running Calendar 2026

Running events in Turkey are spread throughout the year. To assist with your planning, we have compiled some key races and periods for 2026 below. Please note dates may be subject to organizer changes, so confirm on official websites before registering.

January - March Period

The early months usually start with races held in the mild Mediterranean climate. This period offers an ideal kick-off for runners wrapping up winter training.

• Runatolia (Antalya): Held in March, this event features marathon, half-marathon, and 10K categories catering to runners of all levels. Run along Antalya’s scenic coastline with Runatolia, one of the season’s most popular opening races. Explore other endurance events in Antalya via our Turkey ultra marathon calendar.

April - June Period

Spring is the busiest running season in Turkey due to favorable weather conditions, hosting many major events.

• Istanbul Half Marathon: Taking place in April across the Historic Peninsula, this race is known for one of the fastest courses worldwide. For details, visit the Istanbul Marathon official site. You can also check other half marathons on Eventigo’s Turkey half marathon calendar.
• MaratonIzmir: Organized in April, it is recognized as one of Turkey’s fastest marathon courses. It’s an excellent option for those who want to run in Izmir, the pearl of the Aegean. More info is available on the MaratonIzmir official page. Find other races via our Turkey running events calendar.

July - September Period

Summer months, due to heat, generally feature more trail runs and ultra marathons rather than road races. Cooler plateaus and forests offer alternative routes during this time.

• Cappadocia Ultra-Trail®: One of Turkey’s most renowned ultra marathons, held in the breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia. With various difficulty levels, it suits both beginners and experienced ultra runners. Details are available on the official website. For more regional events, see our latest Turkey trail running events.

October - December Period

Autumn marks the peak marathon season in Turkey as temperatures become ideal again, hosting the country’s largest road races.

• Istanbul Marathon: The only intercontinental marathon running from Asia to Europe, it attracts tens of thousands of runners every November. For event details, visit the Istanbul Marathon official page. To explore other races, check the full marathon calendar in Turkey.

Events by Running Type

Turkey’s events cater to runners with different goals and skill levels, offering categories such as marathon, half marathon, and ultra trail. Understanding these types helps select the right race for you.

• Marathon (42.195 km): Known as the pinnacle of endurance sports, marathons usually take place on city streets with asphalt surfaces. Istanbul Marathon and MaratonIzmir are Turkey’s major examples.
• Half Marathon (21.1 km): Half the distance of a marathon, requiring both speed and endurance. Considered a stepping stone to full marathons, half marathons are very popular. Istanbul Half Marathon is a well-known event. Preparation advice is available on our half marathon events calendar.
• Ultra Trail: Typically longer than 42 km, these races take place over natural terrain such as mountains, forests, and valleys. Events like Cappadocia Ultra-Trail® offer challenging and scenic experiences.

Registration and Participation Information for Foreign Runners

Participating in a Turkish running event from abroad is straightforward when proper steps are followed. At Eventigo, we aim to simplify this process for international athletes. Key steps in registration and participation are outlined below.

The registration process is illustrated step-by-step in the flowchart below.

1. Event Selection: Use this calendar to choose a race that suits your goals and schedule.

2. Official Site Verification: Visit the event’s official website to confirm registration deadlines, fees, and specific requirements (e.g., health certificates).

3. Registration Process: Registrations are usually online. Platforms like Eventigo allow managing different event registrations centrally. A valid Passport or ID may be required.

4. Logistics Planning: After registering, arrange travel and accommodation. Organizing transportation and lodging in advance is crucial.

5. Race Kit Pickup: A few days before the race, you will collect your bib and kit at the designated expo area. The organizer provides details about this process.

For all race rules and updates, the official authority is the Turkish Athletics Federation (TAF).

Disclaimer and Official Sources

The turkey marathon calendar and event information provided in this article are intended to guide international runners. Turkey offers an extensive range of races for all levels year-round, and at Eventigo, we facilitate access to these events. The details shared serve as a reliable starting point for your planning.

Please note that Eventigo is a facilitator platform and not an event organizer. Event dates, courses, and participation conditions may change by organizers. Therefore, it is essential to verify the most current information on the official websites before registering for any event. Visit our updated Turkey running calendar to discover all events and plan your next run.

This content is for general informational purposes only. Eventigo is not the organizer of the sports events mentioned, but a digital platform facilitating registration and participation. All event dates, content, conditions, and organizational details are the responsibility of the respective organizers and may change. Participants are advised to verify all information on official websites before registering. Participation requirements, visas, travel, health, and insurance responsibilities lie solely with the participant. It is recommended to consult a medical professional before taking part in any sports event.