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TOURS MARATHON 2023. Edition 09. Tours (37). Sunday 24 September 2023.
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© Yves MAINGUY

The 2026 Tours Marathon A legendary route through the heart of the Loire Valley

Take part in the 2026 Tours Marathon for an exceptional race in the heart of a World Heritage Site. Push yourself to the limit on a brand-new route heading towards Rochecorbon, the Vouvray vineyards and the Château de Jallanges, before following the banks of the Loire back towards the city of Tours.

When is the 2025 Tours Marathon taking place?

Make a note of the date in your diaries: see you on Sunday 27 September 2026 for this year’s event! The race will start from Quai Paul Bert in Tours. Runners will set off at 7.30 am to enjoy a unique experience along the banks of the Loire.

Discover a redesigned route, offering athletes a fresh setting and accommodating 20,000 participants across all events (marathon, 10km, 20km). Spectators will be able to cheer on the runners all along the route!

Official website

Must-see attractions in Tours

The spectacular finish at Place Anatole France

Feel the excitement reach a whole new level in the final metres! Place Anatole France is transformed into a veritable open-air theatre, where the cheers of the supporters create an electrifying atmosphere. Massage stations await you in the recovery area, whilst volunteers welcome you with generous refreshments: organic bananas, sultanas and energy drinks.

Enjoy an unforgettable experience in this specially designed finish area, where live bands provide the soundtrack to your final efforts. A free left-luggage facility is available from 6.30 am to 2.30 pm for you to store your personal belongings, allowing you to savour these moments of victory to the full.

A running route through the heart of the city’s heritage

Marvel at Tours’ rich architectural heritage with every stride! The route reveals the hidden treasures of Old Tours, with its half-timbered façades and well-preserved medieval alleyways. Admire the majestic Saint-Gatien Cathedral, which stands proudly along your route.

The Grand Théâtre welcomes you into its neoclassical setting, whilst 18th-century mansions line your route to the Jardin des Prébendes d’Oé. Savour these unique moments where your sporting endeavour blends with 2,000 years of history, in a setting listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Step through the gates of the Plumereau district, the beating heart of historic Tours, where the old houses tell the story of the silk merchants and craftsmen of yesteryear. A unique running experience, amidst tuffeau stone and secret passages.

Post-marathon Extend the experience

We can only suggest that you extend your stay by a few days!

Running in September: ideal conditions

Breathe in the invigorating air of September mornings in Touraine! The average temperature of 18°C at the start offers optimal running conditions, whilst the morning cool gradually gives way to gentle warmth. The century-old plane trees lining the banks of the Loire provide natural shade from the sun along many sections of the route.

The golden light of this time of year enhances the tuffeau stone façades, creating a unique atmosphere for your run. Showers are rare at this time of year, with an average of just three days of rain throughout the month. The gentle breeze from the ‘royal river’ is a pleasant companion to your stride, without ever hindering your performance.

A perfectly balanced climate that makes the September marathon an ideal time to achieve your best performances in Touraine.