Turkey hosts thousands of local and international runners annually across its rich historical and scenic routes. The growing running culture is reflected in various events held nationwide including marathons, half-marathons, trail runs, and ultra marathons. This comprehensive guide outlines the Turkey running calendar for 2026, supporting international athletes in planning their race schedules effectively.

At Eventigo, we facilitate access to these events organized by different bodies, simplifying your registration process. Before selecting which race to join in 2026, review the calendar carefully to guide your preparation. To explore more events and plan your calendar, visit current running events in Turkey.

Running Culture in Turkey and 2026 Overview

Running in Turkey goes beyond a sport, offering an opportunity to experience the cultural richness of various cities. From Istanbul’s historic peninsula to the unique landscapes of Cappadocia, the routes provide memorable experiences. The 2026 calendar features exciting races catering to both professional athletes and amateur runners.

Organized under the supervision of the Turkish Athletics Federation (https://www.tf.org.tr/) and supported by local organizers, these events aim to meet international standards.

2026 Turkey Running and Marathon Calendar

The 2026 Turkey running calendar covers events throughout the year, giving runners a broad selection. For convenient planning, the calendar is divided by seasons. For major events such as the Istanbul Marathon, see complete running calendar in Turkey. Please note that race dates are subject to change by organizers.

January - March

The first quarter typically features races in regions with milder Mediterranean climates, ideal for testing winter training results.

• Runatolia Marathon (Antalya): Held in March, offering marathon, half-marathon, and 10K categories, this event is among the season’s popular openers. Official information is available at https://www.runtalya.com/.
• Izmir Marathon (Izmir): Usually organized in early spring, this race attracts runners to the Aegean region’s vibrant coastal city. For more details on Izmir Marathon and other events, visit 2026 running calendar and races. To see updated registration and race dates for marathons nationwide, check Turkey marathon calendar.

April - June

Spring offers some of the most favorable weather conditions for running and hosts Turkey’s most prestigious races.

• Istanbul Half Marathon (Istanbul): Run on the historic peninsula, this is recognized as one of the fastest routes worldwide.
• Bodrum Half Marathon (Muğla): This event combines sport with tourism in a popular resort town, attracting runners looking for a combined experience.

July - September

Summer months, due to high temperatures, highlight races held in cooler highlands or specialized trail courses.

• Cappadocia Ultra Trail (Nevşehir): Located in a unique landscape, this event features routes for trail runners of all levels.
• Ephesus Ultra Marathon (Izmir): Set around the ancient city of Ephesus, this race offers a historic and scenic running experience. For details on Ephesus Ultra and other similar races, see the full ultra and trail running calendar.

October - December

Autumn marks the peak marathon season in Turkey as cooling temperatures attract major city races.

• Istanbul Marathon (Istanbul): The only marathon connecting two continents, it holds international acclaim. More details at https://www.istanbultiraton.org/.
• Runkara International Half Marathon (Ankara): This capital city event draws both local and international competitors. For additional international-level races in Ankara and surroundings, visit Ankara running calendar.

Registration Procedures and Participation Requirements

Registration for running events in Turkey is typically completed online via the official websites of organizers. Participants should fill out the registration form and pay the fee using credit cards or other online methods. Eventigo aims to make this process more accessible and understandable, especially for international runners.

Participation criteria differ by event but often include a minimum age limit of 18 years and, in some cases, a health certificate. Race kits (bib numbers, timing chips, shirts, etc.) are usually distributed a few days prior at designated expo locations. For updates on half-marathon events in Turkey, visit our Turkey half-marathon calendar.

Information for International Participants

International runners aiming to participate in Turkey’s running events may require additional planning for visas, travel, and accommodations. Official tourism information and guides are available at https://www.goturkiye.com/. Before choosing your first marathon, explore marathon calendar in Turkey for first-time runners to find the best fit.

While Eventigo supports your race registration process, travel and accommodation arrangements remain the responsibility of the participant. Proper preparation is essential to avoid difficulties on race day.

Disclaimer and Updates

Information provided in this article about the Turkey running calendar is current as of the publication date, based on official sources. However, race dates, routes, fees, and participation terms may change or the events may be canceled without prior notice by organizers. It is strongly advised to verify details on the official event websites before registering.

Eventigo acts solely as a registration intermediary and is not responsible for organizational changes or cancellations. Consider these possibilities when planning. For updates on the 2025 and future running events calendar, please follow our platform at [https://www.eventigo.tr/turkiye-is-bankasi-istanbul-marathon-2025].

This content is provided for general informational purposes only. Event dates, conditions, and all other details are the responsibility of the respective organizing institutions and may be subject to change. It is strongly advised to check official organizer websites before participation and to consult a qualified healthcare professional if you have any health concerns. Eventigo is not responsible for any organizational changes or event cancellations.