The Berlin Half Marathon returns on Sunday, 29 March for its 45th edition, celebrating more than four decades of fast times and iconic cityscapes.
However, Berlin Half Marathon 2026 registration closed on 22 May 2025, with results announced on 2 June 2025; a sad fact for runners researching a springtime challenge. But does closed really mean closed?
If you're determined to run in this event's epic 45th anniversary year, don't hang up your running shoes just yet. There are still a couple of ways to secure a bib. But first, here's why the Berlin Half Marathon is such a sought-after race and why it continues to attract runners from all over the world.
Why is the Berlin Half Marathon So Popular?
Prestige and History
First held in 1981 during the Cold War, it began life as two separate races in East and West Berlin, before uniting after the fall of the Wall. That legacy adds historic weight to every edition. Now in its 45th year and organised by the same team behind the BMW Berlin Marathon, it carries world-class prestige and decades of tradition.
Flat, Fast and Scenic
With its wide, flat boulevard-style streets and mild spring weather, Berlin couldn't be a more ideal city to run through / Unsplash / Adam Vradenburg
The route is famously flat and smooth, making it perfect for PBs and first-timers alike. It also takes runners past unmissable Berlin landmarks. The Brandenburg Gate, Victory Column and Museum Island make for a symbolic journey through Berlin's past and present.
Perfect Timing
Held in late March, the race brings mild spring weather and sits neatly in the running calendar between spring training cycles and marathon taper periods. Many runners use it as a key tune-up for autumn majors such as Berlin, Chicago, or New York.
Limited Lottery Spots and Global Demand
The event operates a ballot system rather than first-come-first-served registration, keeping it fair but fiercely competitive. Tens of thousands apply each year, with around 35,000–36,000 total places available across all entry types. This means general entry spots disappear fast once the lottery closes.
Elite Reputation
Top-tier athletes from around the world compete each spring, drawn by its lightning-fast course and impeccable organisation. The race regularly produces some of Europe’s quickest half-marathon times and offers live coverage, major sponsorships and a festival-like citywide buzz that rivals full marathon majors.
Berlin Half Marathon 2026: Can You Still Enter?
For runners, the Berlin Half Marathon doubles as a moving history lesson. From the Brandenburg Gate to the shadow of the Reichstag, every stride passes a story / Unsplash / Florian Kurrasch
The short answer is that direct registration is impossible. The longer answer involves creativity, commitment and potentially deeper pockets.
If you're willing to go all in on the latter, there are still two ways you can enter the 2026 Berlin Half Marathon.
Two Ways You Can Still Enter the Berlin Half Marathon 2026
Charity Entry
Running for one of the race's official partner charities, such as WWF Deutschland or Achilles International Germany, offers guaranteed entry.
This commitment involves raising a minimum sum for your chosen charity. These amounts vary by foundation, but expect substantial requirements; find out more on the charity page.
Tour Operator Entry
Sports travel companies sell packages that include race entry, accommodation and flights bundled together.
These packages cost significantly more than individual lottery entries, and limited spots mean these places can sell out.
Quality varies between operators, so if you go down this route, research thoroughly and verify what's included in the package. You can find participating tour operators here.
How to Prepare for Berlin Half Marathon 2027 Registration
Paying premium prices isn't for everyone. So, planning ahead to bag a spot for 2027 offers better value and more time to get excited.
The ballot for Berlin Half Marathon 2027 is expected to open in spring 2026. This leaves plenty of time to prepare; here are some ways you can maximise your chances of getting a bib for 2027.
- Set multiple reminders across different platforms so you don't miss the registration window. Scheduling phone alerts, email notifications and calendar reminders are all good ways to stay alert.
- Follow and sign up for all of the official Berlin Half Marathon communications you can, including the newsletter and social media accounts. Official channels announce registration dates first.
- Enter as soon as applications open. The lottery isn't first-come, first-served, but late entrants risk missing the deadline. Running and runcations are more popular than ever, and this race is on bucket lists the world over.
Practical Tips for International Runners
Packing and preparing for a run abroad is all part of the fun / Unsplash / Hendrik Morkel
If you manage to get a place in the Berlin Half Marathon, the below tips will help you make the most of your runcation.
The Early Bird Catches the Deals
Booking accommodation early unlocks the best prices and locations. Berlin hotels fill quickly during major events. And if you book flexible options, you can always cancel free of charge if you don't end up securing race entry.
Build Your Training Schedule Into Your Trip
Half-marathon training typically takes around three months, or maybe a little longer for beginners. Time your training and taper week around your travel dates and bookmark some good running spots around your accommodation.
Run First, Fun Later
Schedule your race for the first part of your trip. Afterwards, you can dive into Berlin's legendary food scene and nightlife without worrying about early nights, fine-tuning your diet, or hunting down your race pack.
Avoid New Variables on Race Day
Stick with the tried-and-tested fuel, kit and shoes you used during training. Experimenting with a new gel, t-shirt, or even running shoes on race day could backfire spectacularly.
Research Your Route and Meal Options
Do a little online research before race day so you're confident in your route to the start line. Bookmark well-rated restaurants near your accommodation for some nutritious pre- and post-race fuelling.
Pack an eSIM Before You Lace Up
Having a reliable Germany eSIM on run day means staying connected to your fitness tracker, Strava and map apps. And of course, seeing that all-important time come in as soon as it's published.
Stay Connected at the Berlin Half Marathon
No SIM card hunting, no waiting for free Wi-Fi; eSIMS are the modern way to stay connected abroad.
An eSIM for Germany keeps international runners connected throughout their Berlin runcations. Navigate unfamiliar streets, coordinate with fellow runners and upload race photos at the start line without hunting for free Wi-Fi.
Head to the Airalo store to check out the best eSIMs for Germany and choose a data plan that's right for your trip.
FAQs - Berlin Half Marathon 2026: Can You Still Register?
Is registration still open for the Berlin Half Marathon 2026?
No, registration for the Berlin Half Marathon 2026 lottery closed on 22 May 2025. The chosen entrants were notified on 2 June 2025. Direct entry is no longer possible, but you could still secure a place via charity entries or tour operators.
How can I still enter the Berlin Half Marathon 2026?
If you missed the ballot, there are two options. Firstly, you can run for one of the organiser's partner charities by making a fundraising commitment. Or you could book a package through an official sports travel company that includes your Berlin Half Marathon 2026 entry.
When will Berlin Half Marathon 2027 registration open?
The lottery for the 2027 race is expected to open in spring 2026, around ten months before race day. To avoid missing out, set calendar reminders and follow the official Berlin Half Marathon channels for updates.
Why is the Berlin Half Marathon so popular?
Berlin Half Marathon's flat, fast course is ideal for PBs, and the race's timing sits perfectly between spring training cycles and marathon taper periods. Many runners use it as a key tune-up for autumn majors such as Berlin, Chicago, or New York.
Do I need an eSIM for Germany when travelling to the Berlin Half Marathon?
Opting for a German eSIM can make the experience of running in Berlin smooth, easy and as affordable as possible. Offering fast and smooth installation, eSIMs keep you connected to your fitness trackers and apps, and remove the need to worry about shock roaming fees.
