26 March 2025 | Sports and leisure
The Ultimate Guide to the Schneider Electric Paris Marathon 2025
The Schneider Electric Paris Marathon 2025 is set to take place on Sunday, April 13, 2025. As one of the most prestigious and scenic marathons in the world, it attracts thousands of runners from across the globe, offering an unforgettable experience through the heart of the French capital. Whether you are an elite competitor, a passionate amateur, or a first-time marathoner, this guide covers everything you need to know about the race, from course highlights to training tips and what to expect on race day.
Average Marathon Finish Times
The average completion time varies based on experience level:
Elite Runners: 2 hours 5 minutes – 2 hours 15 minutes
Competitive Amateurs: 2 hours 45 minutes – 3 hours 30 minutes
Average Runners: 3 hours 45 minutes – 4 hours 30 minutes
Recreational Runners: 4 hours 30 minutes – 5 hours 30 minutes
Walkers/Slower Runners: Up to 6 hours 40 minutes (maximum time limit)
Past results indicate the average finish time for men is around 4 hours 7 minutes, while for women it is approximately 4 hours 28 minutes.
Marathon Registration Details
Solo Entry Fees: €130
Duo Entry Fees: €240
Registration Process: Interested participants can register through the official Paris Marathon website.
Marathon Course Highlights
The 42.195 km (26.2 miles) course takes runners past some of the most iconic landmarks in Paris:
Start Line: Avenue des Champs-Élysées
Landmarks Along the Marathon Route:
Here’s what a runner would see while passing each of these iconic locations during the Schneider Electric Paris Marathon 2025:
1. Place de la Concorde
As runners leave the Champs-Élysées, they pass Place de la Concorde, one of Paris’s most famous squares. They’ll see:
• The Luxor Obelisk, an ancient Egyptian monument standing at the center.
• The fountains of the square, which often sparkle in the morning light.
• A breathtaking view down towards the Seine River and the Eiffel Tower in the distance.
2. Opéra Garnier
Running through Rue de Rivoli, participants will catch a glimpse of the magnificent Palais Garnier, a grand 19th-century opera house.
• Its ornate golden statues on the roof stand out.
• The Neo-Baroque façade with its intricate sculptures and grand columns.
• The energy of the city as spectators cheer along the boulevard.
3. Louvre Museum
One of the most anticipated landmarks along the route! Runners will pass near the Louvre and see:
• The Louvre Pyramid, a striking glass structure contrasting with the classical museum buildings.
• The historic Palace of the Louvre, once a royal residence.
• Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, a smaller triumphal arch built by Napoleon.
4. Notre-Dame Cathedral
Crossing the Île de la Cité, runners will enjoy a close view of the Notre-Dame Cathedral.
• The impressive Gothic façade, with its iconic towers.
• The Seine River, adding a picturesque element to the surroundings.
• Despite ongoing renovations, the cathedral remains one of the most awe-inspiring sights.
5. Musée d’Orsay
As runners continue along the Seine, they pass the Musée d’Orsay, a museum housed in a former railway station.
• The grand clock on the building’s façade is an iconic feature.
• The beautiful Beaux-Arts architecture, unique among Paris’s museums.
• Art lovers may recognize it as home to famous Impressionist masterpieces.
6. Eiffel Tower
One of the most exciting moments in the marathon! Runners approach the Eiffel Tower, one of the most famous landmarks in the world.
• Its iron structure towers towering above, creates an unforgettable photo opportunity.
• The view from the Seine showcases the tower in its full glory.
• Spectators often gather here to cheer runners on, adding to the energy.
7. Grand Palais
As runners head towards the western part of Paris, they pass the Grand Palais, famously known for its massive glass dome.
• Its Art Nouveau architecture is stunning, with intricate metal and glasswork.
• The Petit Palais, its sister building, sits nearby with an equally elegant façade.
• The area is full of history, with wide boulevards and grand buildings.
8. Hippodrome d’Auteuil
Entering Bois de Boulogne, runners pass the Hippodrome d’Auteuil, a historic horse racing track.
• A vast green space with neatly maintained fields.
• Occasionally, horses may be visible training in the distance.
• A more peaceful section of the race, giving runners a mental break.
9. Place de la Bastille
Returning towards central Paris, runners pass Place de la Bastille, a site of major historical significance.
• The July Column (Colonne de Juillet), a tall monument commemorating the 1830 revolution.
• Cobblestone streets, adding a bit of a challenge to the footing.
• A vibrant crowd of spectators assemble in this lively district.
10. Bois de Vincennes
The route takes runners through the Bois de Vincennes, Paris’s largest public park.
• A much quieter and green space, a contrast to the urban streets.
• Lakes, tree-lined paths and open fields, providing a peaceful atmosphere.
• With fewer spectators, makes it a mental test for runners as they near the halfway point.
11. Bois de Boulogne
Near the end of the race, runners enter Bois de Boulogne, another expansive park.
• A serene atmosphere, but often challenging as fatigue sets in.
• Long, tree-lined avenues where runners focus on pushing through to the final stretch.
• Occasional glimpses of Lac Inférieur, one of the park’s famous lakes.
Final Stretch to Avenue Foch
Exiting Bois de Boulogne, runners make their way toward Avenue Foch, which leads to the finish line.
• The Arc de Triomphe comes into view in the distance.
• Cheering crowds line the streets, making for an exhilarating finish.
• Crossing the line here is an unforgettable moment for every participant!
This scenic journey through Paris makes the Schneider Electric Paris Marathon one of the most visually stunning races in the world!
Additional Marathon Events
Paris Run For All: A 4 km inclusive race held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 9:00 AM.
Charity Participation
Participants can run in support of charities like Against Breast Cancer and Cancer Research UK. Charity places often require a registration fee and a fundraising commitment.
What It’s Like to Compete in the Paris Marathon 2025
1. Pre-Race Experience
Registration and Expo:
Runners collect their bibs at the Paris Running Expo at Parc des Expositions, Porte de Versailles.
The expo features training advice, gear stalls and marathon-related exhibitors.
Race Morning:
Participants arrive early at Champs-Élysées, where starting waves (corrals) are assigned based on estimated finish times.
The atmosphere is electric, with music, cheering and warm-up routines.
2. The Race Breakdown
0 - 5 km: The Start (Champs-Élysées to Place de la Concorde)
Begins on Champs-Élysées, providing a slight downhill start.
Huge crowds cheer runners on.
5 - 20 km: Through the Heart of Paris
Scenic landmarks include Louvre Museum, Place de la Bastille and the Seine River.
The atmosphere is lively with enthusiastic spectators.
20 -30 km: The Bois de Vincennes Challenge
This quieter section in a green park area is a test of mental strength.
The halfway point (21.1 km) marks a crucial checkpoint for pacing.
30 - 35 km: The Wall
The toughest section as runners begin feeling fatigued.
Energy stations with gels, bananas and hydration help runners push through.
35 - 42.195 km: The Final Stretch (Bois de Boulogne to the Finish Line)
Entering Bois de Boulogne, the final challenge awaits.
The last kilometer along Avenue Foch is an emotional experience, with roaring spectators leading to the finish line celebration.
3. Post-Race Experience
At the finish line, runners receive:
Finisher’s medal
Race shirt
Water, snacks and recovery support
Many celebrate in nearby cafés or bars, while others focus on post-race recovery techniques like stretching and refueling.
4. Key Challenges for Runners
Weather: April conditions can be unpredictable.
Cobblestones: Some sections, particularly around Bastille, have uneven cobbled streets.
Fatigue and Cramping: Proper pacing, hydration and nutrition are crucial.
Crowded Start: With over 50,000 runners, the first few kilometers can be congested.
5. What Makes It Special?
Scenic Route: Running past world-famous landmarks.
Passionate Crowds: Parisian spectators provide constant motivation.
Well-Organized Race: Aid stations, logistics and course management are top-notch.
Prestige: One of the world’s most celebrated marathons.
Running the Paris Marathon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It demands months of training, careful race-day execution and mental resilience. However, the reward—crossing the finish line in one of the world’s most beautiful cities—is beyond words. Whether you’re aiming for a personal best or simply hoping to complete the race, the Schneider Electric Paris Marathon 2025 is an event you won't want to miss!
Amelie ran the Paris Marathon 2025.
I took part in the Marathon...