Marathon Sunday: 1 November 2026
The Istanbul Marathon takes place on Sunday 1 November 2026. It is the only marathon in the world that crosses two continents: runners start on the Asian side, run across the Bosphorus bridge and finish in the historic peninsula around Sultanahmet.
It is one of the best days to see the city celebrate — and one of the trickiest days to arrive by plane, because the race route is closed to traffic for several hours in the morning.
What Closes, and When
- The Bosphorus bridge used by the runners is closed to vehicles from early morning until the last runners have crossed.
- Roads along the course on the European side and in the Old City close in stages and reopen gradually after the runners pass.
- Public transport keeps running, but trams and buses near the course can be diverted.
The official timetable is published on maraton.istanbul. Check it the day before you travel — we check it for every booking on that day.
Landing at Istanbul Airport (IST)
Istanbul Airport is on the European side, so most routes to Taksim, Şişli, Beşiktaş and Levent stay open on race morning. If your hotel is in Sultanahmet or near the finish, expect a longer drive and, until the course reopens, a drop-off at the nearest open street.
Routes and fixed prices: Istanbul Airport → Taksim · Istanbul Airport → Sultanahmet.
Landing at Sabiha Gökçen (SAW)
Sabiha Gökçen is on the Asian side. Hotels in Kadıköy, Üsküdar and Ataşehir are usually reached without trouble. Crossing to the European side is slower than usual while the bridge is closed — allow extra time, especially before midday.
Routes and fixed prices: Sabiha Gökçen → Kadıköy · Sabiha Gökçen → Taksim.
Our Advice for Race Day
- Send us your flight number and hotel name; we plan the open route for your exact arrival time.
- If you can choose, an afternoon arrival avoids most closures.
- Your price stays fixed even if the detour takes longer. Flight tracking and waiting time are included.
- Running yourself? Book a ride to the start area the evening before and a pick-up after the finish.
Book Your Race-Day Transfer
Fixed price, meet-and-greet at arrivals, Mercedes Vito VIP vans for up to 7 people. Book in 1 minute or see all fixed fares.