Athens Marathon 2026: Major Road Closures Across Attica

by · Greek City Times

Athens is preparing for major traffic disruptions this weekend as the 43rd Athens Authentic Marathon brings tens of thousands of runners onto roads across the Attica region.

Authorities have introduced extensive traffic restrictions, including road closures and parking bans in central Athens and along the historic marathon route between Marathon and the Greek capital.

A record 85,000 participants have registered for this year’s events, including approximately 25,000 runners taking part in the main marathon.

Read more: Thessaloniki Announces Traffic Restrictions For 28 October Parade

Saturday’s programme includes the 5km race and Universities Night Run, scheduled between 5pm and 9.10pm. Both events will start on Vasilissis Amalias Avenue and finish at the Panathenaic Stadium (Kallimarmaro).

Children’s races and events for Special Olympics participants and athletes with disabilities will take place earlier, between 4pm and 4.55pm.

Several major roads in central Athens, including Vasilissis Konstantinou Avenue, Ardittou Avenue and Vasilissis Olgas Avenue, will face temporary closures. Stopping and parking restrictions will also remain in place until Sunday evening.

The main marathon will take place on Sunday, with runners setting off from Marathon at 8.30am before following the historic route into Athens. The event is scheduled to continue until 6.15pm. A separate 10km race will also be held in the capital.

Sunday’s traffic restrictions will extend along Marathon Avenue, Mesogeion Avenue and several major roads in central Athens, potentially causing significant delays for motorists.

Drivers are being urged to plan their journeys in advance, avoid affected roads where possible and follow alternative routes advised by police.

Authorities have also established a dedicated information line to provide updates on traffic conditions and recommended alternative routes.

Motorists can contact the traffic information centre on:

  • 210 870 8237
  • 210 870 8238
  • 210 870 8239

The Athens Authentic Marathon is one of Greece’s biggest annual sporting events, bringing together elite competitors, amateur runners and participants from around the world to follow the historic route associated with the Battle of Marathon.

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