Looking to combine your Tuscan vacation with an unforgettable running experience? Mark your calendar for December 20, 2026, when the 27th edition of the Pisa Marathon takes runners through one of Italy’s most iconic cities. On the same morning, runners can also choose the Pisa Half Marathon, and the day before there’s a more relaxed event called the Christmas Run—perfect if you want the atmosphere without the pressure of racing.
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When is the next edition of the Pisa Marathon happening?
The 27th edition of the Pisa Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, December 20, 2026, with the start at 9:00 AM. The half marathon happens at the same time and day, and the Christmas Run is on Saturday, December 19, 2026 at 3:00 PM.
For those spending their Christmas holidays in Florence, it might be worth making a short trip to Pisa. Ideally, booking a hotel in Pisa would be best to ensure a stress-free run
Christmas Run: a smaller, friendlier race with limited spots
The Christmas Run is designed for runners (and families) who want to feel the energy of marathon weekend in a more casual way. In 2026 it moves to Saturday afternoon (December 19 at 3:00 PM), which makes it an easy add-on even if you’re traveling that weekend.
It’s limited to 500 participants and stays non-competitive—no podiums, no rankings—though your personal time is recorded. You still get the “real event” vibe with official kit pickup, a special gadget (instead of a classic technical race tee), and a finisher medal if you cross the line wearing your bib.
On the same date, the Pisa Half Marathon will also take place.
What is the route of the Pisa Marathon?
The Pisa Marathon is known for being flat and quick, a strong choice if you’re chasing a personal best. The start is set near Piazza Daniele Manin, just steps from the Piazza del Duomo area.
The route tells a very “Pisa” story: it begins in the city, opens into the green of San Rossore Natural Park, reaches the sea air, and then returns alongside the Arno River. The finish brings you back to the city’s most iconic backdrop—right by the Leaning Tower..
The half marathon (often nicknamed “Pisanina”) shares the same start and the same big atmosphere. It follows the marathon course until kilometer 13, then turns back, returning through San Rossore and along the Arno before finishing under the Leaning Tower as well.
How should I dress for the Pisa Marathon?
This is a December road race in Italy, so cold weather is part of the deal. If you want a temperature reality check close to race week, the source recommends checking meteo.it.
For clothing, think thermal layers that keep you warm without weighing you down. If you need something quickly, Decathlon is a common option in Italy for winter running basics.
Personally, for winter runs like this I’d plan on thermal tights, a sports top, a base layer tee, a thermal long sleeve, and a light windbreaker—then adjust based on the forecast.
Registration: where to sign up, and what we know about deadlines
Registration for Pisa Marathon 2026 is already open and is handled online through Endu: You can register here.
A final registration deadline hasn’t been published yet, but it’s expected to close days or weeks before the event.
Official schedule for Pisa Marathon weekend 2026
Here’s the weekend program as provided in the source (local time in Pisa).
Friday, December 18, 2026
12:00 PM – Expo and organizer’s office opens (bib pickup, chips, race kit, info area, side events and talks)
8:00 PM – Expo closes
Saturday, December 19, 2026
10:00 AM – Expo and organizer’s office opens (bib pickup and services)
3:00 PM – Christmas Run start
10:00 PM – Expo closes
Sunday, December 20, 2026
7:00 AM – Bag drop opens (Via Duomo area)
8:00 AM – Start corrals open
8:30 AM – Bag drop closes
8:45 AM – Corrals close
9:00 AM – Marathon + Half Marathon start
11:30 AM – Half Marathon awards, then Marathon awards
12:15 PM – Half Marathon time limit (3 hours 15 minutes)
3:30 PM – Marathon time limit (6 hours 30 minutes) and event close
Entry fees for Pisa Marathon 2026
Prices depend on when you register (and sometimes on participant caps). The source lists the same pricing ladder for both the marathon and half marathon.
Marathon (42.195 km) and Half Marathon (21.097 km)
| Registration Period | Price |
|---|---|
| Until Feb 24 or 300 registrations | €49 |
| Feb 25 – Jun 3 or 1,000 registrations | €59 |
| Jun 4 – Nov 30 or 1,700 registrations | €69 |
| Dec 1 – Dec 14 or 2,200 registrations | €79 |
Christmas Run
| Registration Period | Price |
|---|---|
| Until Feb 24 or 50 registrations | €10 |
| Feb 25 – Jun 3 or 500 max capacity | €15 |
| Jun 4 – Nov 30 or 500 max capacity | €15 |
| Dec 1 – Dec 14 or 500 max capacity | €20 |
FAQ: Pisa Marathon 2026 (Marathon, Half Marathon, Christmas Run)
When can I pick up my bib and race kit?
Bib pickup is available on Friday, December 18, 2026 (12:00 PM–8:00 PM) and Saturday, December 19, 2026 (10:00 AM–10:00 PM), at the Expo/Organizer’s Office.
Can I pick up my bib on race day (Sunday)?
No. The event does not offer bib or kit pickup on Sunday, December 20, 2026.
What do I need to bring to pick up my bib?
Bring your Confirmation Letter (printed or digital) and a valid ID. You also need to make sure your registration status is “regular” (the source mentions “two green OK stamps”).
When will the Confirmation Letter be available?
According to the organizers, it will be available about one week before the race on the official registration portal. You’ll typically access it via the “check registration” area by entering your personal details.
Can someone else pick up my bib for me?
Yes. You’ll need to complete the authorization form (often included in the Confirmation Letter). The person picking it up must show their own ID plus a copy of your ID. Without these documents, bib pickup won’t be allowed.
Where is the bag drop, and what time does it close?
Bag drop is set up in Piazza del Duomo, close to the start/finish area. You must use the official bag provided by the organization with your bib-number sticker attached. Bag drop closes at 8:30 AM.
How do the start corrals and waves work?
At the start, you’ll be divided into corrals associated with start waves. Each corral has a color (red, orange, blue, green, pink) that matches the color of your bib.
Paralympic race: 8:45 AM (corral entry from 8:15 AM)
First wave – 9:00 AM (entry from 8:30 AM):
Red Corral: Marathon under 3h00 / Half Marathon under 1h25
Orange Corral: Marathon 3h00–3h45 / Half Marathon 1h25–1h44
Blue Corral: Marathon 3h45–4h15 / Half Marathon 1h45–2h10
Green Corral: Marathon beyond 4h30 / Half Marathon beyond 2h10
Second wave – 9:15 AM (entry at 8:30 AM):
Pink Corral: Christmas Run
What is the time limit for the races?
The schedule lists a 3 hours 15 minutes limit for the half marathon and a 6 hours 30 minutes limit for the marathon.
How does timing work?
Timing is managed via a chip already attached to your bib. Don’t remove it until you finish. Results are based on your “real time” (from when you cross the start line to when you finish). Only elite classifications may use “gun time” (official time from the start signal), per the source.
Where are the toilets?
Portable toilets are located near the start area (the source points to the Via Cammeo parking area). Use only the designated facilities—public urination can result in fines.
What should I do if I feel unwell during the race?
Ask race staff for help immediately. Medical aid points are distributed along the course, and assistance is available at the finish.
Will I get a finisher medal?
Yes. Finishers within the time limit receive the official finisher medal for their race (Marathon, Half Marathon/Pisanina, or Christmas Run).
I lost something during the event—what now?
Go to the assistance/help desk at the event village (Expo/Village area) or contact the organizers after the event using the official contact details.
How can I access the official race photos?
All official event photos are available online at this link. You can search and download your personal images by entering your bib number or using the facial recognition feature.
I’m not receiving emails from the organizers—what should I do?
Check your spam/junk folder first. If the issue continues, contact the organization using the official contact channels listed on the event website.
For more details, visit the official website.
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