The Amsterdam Marathon 2026 is almost here. On Sunday, 18 October, runners and supporters will fill the city for race weekend. If you are visiting Amsterdam, your final preparations should be simple: know how to reach the event, decide where to stay, and plan somewhere welcoming to eat afterwards.

Whether you are running 42.2 kilometres or cheering from the sidelines, this practical guide will help you organise your weekend. Plus, if you still need accommodation, Cityden Aparthotels offers flexible places to stay in Amsterdam and Amstelveen.

Amsterdam Marathon 2026: What You Need to Know

The marathon takes place on Sunday, 18 October 2026. The Olympic Stadium is a central event location, while the wider course passes through Amsterdam.

However, different races and participants may have different arrival instructions. Therefore, check your confirmation email and the official marathon website before travelling. Make sure you know your designated entrance, starting time, and meeting point.

Most importantly, leave extra time. Thousands of runners and spectators will be moving around the city, so ordinary journey times may not apply.

How to Get to the Amsterdam Marathon 2026

Public Transport: The Recommended Option

The organisers recommend travelling by public transport. Amsterdam Zuid station is the main arrival point, with signs directing visitors towards the Olympic Stadium and Sporthallen Zuid.

However, services will change on race day. In particular, Amstelveenseweg metro station will close between 13:00 and 18:00 on Sunday. Trams and buses may also follow adjusted routes.

Therefore, check the GVB app, 9292, or the NS journey planner before leaving. If possible, save your route and backup options on your phone.

By Bike: A Flexible Alternative

Cycling can be practical if you are already staying nearby. The organisers provide bicycle parking near the Na-Druk-Geluk-Brug, on the IJsbaanpad side.

Nevertheless, race barriers and busy streets can affect your route. Follow local signs and avoid crossing closed sections of the course.

By Car: Plan for Road Closures

Driving directly to the Olympic Stadium is not advisable. Parking at the stadium and Sporthallen Zuid will not be available on race day.

Instead, organisers suggest alternatives including the Schinkel business area and RAI Parking. From RAI, you can continue by public transport.

Remember that traffic restrictions may increase driving times considerably. Consequently, public transport is usually the easier choice.

Travel Times from Each Cityden Aparthotel

Still looking for a place to stay? Cityden has three aparthotel locations. Below are broad estimates for travelling to the Olympic Stadium under normal conditions.

Cityden BoLo District

Located in Amsterdam-West, Cityden BoLo District gives you a comfortable, practical, welcoming base for your marathon weekend.

• By car: 15–25 minutes
• By public transport: 30–40 minutes
• By bike: 20–25 minutes

If you choose public transport, check connections carefully before setting off. Alternatively, cycling may suit you if your preferred route remains accessible.

Cityden Zuidas

Cityden Zuidas offers serviced apartments and a convenient base for exploring the south of Amsterdam.

• By car: 15–20 minutes
• By public transport: 25–35 minutes
• By bike: 15–19 minutes

Before travelling, check the latest public transport information. In addition, remember that the quickest route on an ordinary day may not work during the marathon.

Cityden Stadshart

Cityden Stadshart is based in Amstelveen and offers another option for visitors attending the event.

• By car: 13-15 minutes
• By public transport: 35–45 minutes
• By bike: 17-22 minutes

Because this journey starts outside central Amsterdam, allow extra time for connections and possible diversions.

Important: These figures are planning estimates, not verified race-day travel times. Public transport estimates include walking, while car estimates exclude parking. Always use a live journey planner on 18 October.

Need Last-Minute Accommodation in Amsterdam?

Perhaps you have decided to extend your visit. Alternatively, you might be joining a friend or family member at the last minute. Either way, finding somewhere comfortable to stay can make the weekend easier.

Cityden Aparthotels offers serviced apartments with kitchen facilities and room to relax. As a result, you can organise meals around your own schedule, prepare your belongings and enjoy privacy after a busy day.

For runners, a familiar breakfast and a straightforward morning routine can be especially helpful. Meanwhile, supporters may appreciate having space to unwind between activities.

However, marathon weekend is busy, and availability can change quickly. Therefore, check Cityden’s website directly for current options. If one location is fully booked, consider another and compare the journey times above.

Refuel After the Race at Lucia’s Restaurant & Bar

After the finish line, you have earned a chance to sit down and enjoy a good meal. Fortunately, Lucia’s Restaurant & Bar is part of the Cityden experience.

You can find Lucia’s at Cityden BoLo District, Zuidas and Stadshart. Each restaurant offers an international menu and a relaxed setting for meeting friends, family or fellow runners.

For example, gather your supporters, share your favourite moments and enjoy something satisfying after the race. If you are staying at Cityden, having a restaurant on site also means less travelling when your legs are tired.

Remember to rehydrate and follow your usual post-race recovery routine. Then, take your time over your meal. You have earned it.

Check the restaurant’s opening hours and reserve a table if needed.

Amsterdam Marathon 2026: Frequently Asked Questions

When is the marathon?

The main marathon takes place on Sunday, 18 October 2026.

Which station should I use?

Amsterdam Zuid is the recommended public transport arrival point.

Can I park at the Olympic Stadium?

No. Race-day parking at the stadium is unavailable.

Can I still book Cityden?

Check live availability directly on the Cityden website. Rooms are not guaranteed.

Where can I eat afterwards?

Lucia’s Restaurant & Bar has locations at all three Cityden aparthotels.

Make Your Marathon Weekend Easier

Plan your transport, check event updates, and leave plenty of time. Afterwards, relax with a meal at Lucia’s.

Still need somewhere to stay? Explore Cityden Aparthotels and choose the location that works for your plans.

Find your own (s)pace.