In this article, we will explain and analyze the Amsterdam Marathon’s route and altitude. The route is flat and fast, making it the seventh-fastest race in the world.

Amsterdam is a dynamic, lively, and cosmopolitan city, the capital of Holland. It is a great business and financial center of Europe, better known as “The Venice of the North,” surrounded by canals, bridges, and architecture dating back to the 17th century.

The Dutch capital is the world’s center of bicycle culture as cycle paths surround a means of transportation and almost all its streets.

Among its curiosities, it has the lowest airport in the world, which is three meters below sea level. Schiphol Airport is the largest in Holland and ranks fifth in Europe for the passenger traffic it handles.

Many museums with collections of authors are exhibited in the Rijksmuseum, Rembrandt House, or Van Gogh.

In this city is the Heineken brewery, which has an interesting museum. The towns of Gouda and Edam are nearby, where you can buy and taste the best Dutch cheeses.

The Red Light District, or De Wallen, is undoubtedly one of the most popular areas of the Dutch capital that never fails to attract the attention of tourists. It is located in the heart of Amsterdam, where the prostitutes who work in this city are displayed in shop windows and display cases, since in Holland, it is well known that prostitution is legalized in places designated for it. Within its nightlife, you can find multiple social centers such as pubs, cafes, bars, and restaurants.

Where to watch the Amsterdam Marathon? Schedules and LiveStream

Is the Amsterdam Marathon course fast?

The Amsterdam Marathon course is generally flat and level, making it a fast route. Within its blocks, the course must be completed within 6 hours.

Many participants run the Amsterdam Marathon because of the special start and finish location, the Olympic Stadium. On race day, runners of different nationalities create a special atmosphere. The Amsterdam Olympic Stadium is unique, as the Olympic Games were held here in 1928.

“Fast times are run every year in Amsterdam. With an average winning time of 2 hours and 4 minutes, Amsterdam ranks seventh among the fastest marathons in the world.”

What is the course like?

The Marathon course runs through the center of Amsterdam, the natural areas on both sides of the Amstel River, the Maritime Museum (Scheepvaartmuseum), the historic canals, the Rijksmuseum, and twice the pleasant Vondelpark.

Every 5 kilometers, there are refreshment stations with sports drinks, water, bananas, and sponges. Gels are not handed out, so make sure you bring your own. Click on the image to enlarge.

The start is at the Olympic Stadium. It is always crowded because it is relatively narrow and people are close together. Don’t worry about your split in the first two kilometers because you have plenty of time to get into the rhythm. It is better to start a little slower than too fast.

At km 4, you run under the Rijksmuseum. It is relatively narrow, so look around and pay attention to the other runners.

The course is about 13 km along the Amstel River and can be windy. Run in a group as much as possible to save energy. Focus on sports nutrition because you generally use more energy when running against the wind.

The half marathon starting point is along the Amstel River but on the other side of the water. You run slowly back to the center of Amsterdam. It is then tempting to speed up but wait at least until km 32 – 35. After all, the marathon is still very long.

At km 36, you pass Artis and go from Mauritskade to the Toronto Bridge. There are still a few vertical meters to climb here and there over bridges and viaducts, so save your energy for the finish. There are always plenty of spectators along this part of the course, so enjoy all the encouragement.

At km 39, you go through the Vondelpark again, and you can almost smell the finish line. Once you leave the Vondelpark, you only have 1.5 kilometres left to the finish line at the Olympic Stadium. The Vondelpark also has a final care point with water and sponges if you need them.

Finally, the finish line will be at the Olympic Stadium. You run another half-lap on the athletics track and then cross the finish line.

Amsterdam Marathon Course Altimetry

The Amsterdam Marathon course is known for being very flat, making it one of the fastest and most popular routes for runners looking to improve their personal best times. There aren’t as many bridges (like on the New York City Marathon route) or hills like the Boston Marathon.

Here are some details about the altimetry:

1. Minimal Elevation: The course has a very low elevation gain, with almost imperceptible differences in altitude throughout. This means that runners don’t have to deal with significant climbs or descents, which is ideal for maintaining a steady pace.
2. Average Elevation: The average altitude of the course remains reasonably constant, hovering around sea level.
3. Key Sectors: Although the altimetry is generally flat, there are some minor variations at specific points on the course, but they are not significant enough to significantly affect runners’ performance. Kilometer 36 is the most challenging point of the race, as you first go through a short but challenging tunnel and then cross the Amstel River on a bridge.

Amsterdam Marathon refreshments

Along the course, you will find isotonic drinks, water, bananas, and sponges.

Download the route in .GPX format, forecast, and time calculator for the Amsterdam Marathon

If you want to download the Amsterdam Marathon route in .GPX format you can visit here: running.COACH Calendar

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