ROME MARATHON
MARCH 11 - 15, 2027
Interested or have questions? Complete the contact form at the bottom of the page or email team@activeodysseys.com
TRAIN. TRAVEL. TRIUMPH.
Overview
Few destinations capture the imagination quite like Rome. The Eternal City seamlessly blends ancient history, breathtaking architecture, vibrant culture, and exceptional food into an experience that consistently exceeds expectations. Whether you're coming for the marathon, the sightseeing, or both, Rome delivers an unforgettable experience - and some of the finest carb-loading opportunities on the planet…
HOTEL
The 4-star Hotel Ponte Sisto is one of Rome’s most highly-regarded hotels. Nestled in the heart of historic Rome, a short shakeout walk from the marathon start / finish area, and mere steps from iconic neighborhoods and landmarks such as Piazza Navona, Campo de’ Fiori, and Trastevere, it offers the perfect balance of convenience, comfort, and authentic Roman charm. Its buffet breakfasts supply the ideal fuel for both sightseeing adventures and for race day. And you’ll look back oh so fondly on those morning coffees on the rooftop terrace overlooking the city skyline…
TOUR DIRECTOR
From the moment you arrive until the day you depart, a dedicated Rome-based Tour Director will be there to ensure that you get the very most from your experience. Our Tour Directors are among the best in the industry, combining deep local knowledge with a genuine passion for helping guests achieve both their travel and running goals. Whether recommending the perfect trattoria, sharing fascinating local stories, or providing race-week support, they bring Rome to life in a way that only a local can. Their expertise, enthusiasm, and care will have a truly indelible impact on your trip.
MARATHON
Starting and finishing in the shadow of the iconic Colosseum, the Rome Marathon offers one of the most spectacular courses in the world. The predominantly flat 26.2-mile journey winds through the heart of the Eternal City, passing legendary landmarks such as St. Peter’s Basilica, the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, and the Circus Maximus. Every mile feels like running through an open-air museum, where centuries of history provide a breathtaking backdrop to your race. WARNING - your neck may be almost as tired as your legs after looking up at the incredible sights along the way.
Itinerary
Thursday March 11 - Arrive in Rome by your own means (be sure to book an overnight flight departing on March 10 if coming from the U.S.) and transfer to the beautiful 4-star Hotel Ponte Sisto (help with how to get there will be provided). Meet the Active Odysseys team and the rest of the runners and companions. Start exploring the wonders of this unrivalled historic city on a leisurely orientation walk with our Rome-based Tour Director, who will be with our group for the duration of the trip. Tonight, we will meet for a welcome reception and an overview of the upcoming adventures.
Friday, March 12 - Opt to join a morning shake-out run. After breakfast, a local guide will take us on a guided tour of Ancient Rome that includes a visit to the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, sharing local insights into the history and culture of the city that go far beyond the guide books. We will build in time to treat our tastebuds to some local culinary delights before heading over together to the marathon expo to collect our race bibs. Return to the hotel from the expo at your leisure and then use the rest of the day to fall in love even more with the Roman way of life.
Saturday, March 13 - Enjoy breakfast at your leisure or opt to enter the 5K organized by the marathon (starts at 9:00). Then we will have a free day to explore the wonders of the Eternal City. Our Tour Director will also provide unrivaled local knowledge and suggestions to ensure that you can see, eat (and maybe buy) the very best that Rome has to offer at the best price. Or, if you prefer, you can choose to stick with the group for the day visiting some local highlights. Tonight, the itinerary includes a 3-course dinner in an authentic local restaurant. Then get some sleep…
Sunday, March 14 - Race Day! The start area is a shakeout walk away. Non-running companions will be given the best advice on where to shake their cowbells. After triumphing in your race, the Active Odysseys team will help you get back safely to the hotel. Swap stories with the rest of the group in a post-race celebration at the hotel before enjoying your last (so well-deserved) Italian dinner (our Tour Director can give you some amazing suggestions and make reservations).
Monday, March 15 - You did it! Wear your medal with pride as you make your own way to the airport or on to more adventures in Europe.
What’s included:
Guaranteed race entry (if applicable).
Four nights' accommodation at the 4-star Hotel Ponte Sisto in Rome.
Daily breakfast at the hotel.
All hotel taxes.
Support of full-time Rome-based Tour Director and the on-site Active Odysseys staff, including founder Chris Montgomery.
Travel app for itinerary details, reminders, and updates.
Welcome reception drinks and apps on arrival day.
Entrance and private guided sightseeing tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
72-hour Rome metro pass.
Escort to the race start line and from the finish line.
3-course pre-race dinner on Saturday evening in a local restaurant.
Post-race celebration drinks and apps.
Private coaching consultation with RRCA-certified coach Chris Montgomery (runner-guests only).
8 optional bi-weekly, virtual group-coaching sessions in the lead up to the race (runner-guests only).
what’s not included:
Anything not mentioned above, but specifically:
Flights - guests are responsible for arranging their own flights.
Travel Insurance - guests are strongly encouraged to take out their own international travel insurance.
Travel Documentation - guests are responsible for ensuring they possess a valid passport and any additional documentation needed for the trip.
Transport between Rome airport (FCO) and Hotel Ponte Sisto. Please request this additional service (for arrival and / or departure) if needed.
Tour Director gratuities - while tips are at your own discretion and are not mandatory, they are an industry-standard component of a Tour Director’s income in Europe, much like for workers in the service industry in the U.S. A customary tip for a “job well done” by our Tour Director for the 4 days we are with them would be $60 per person. They will be worth every cent!
Any extra hotel nights or services not listed above - please let us know if you want any help extending your stay.
PRICING
Twin / Double Room: $1749 per person (without marathon registration) / $1879 (including marathon registration).
Single Room: $2099 (without marathon registration) / $2229 (including marathon registration).
Event Information
Race Date: Sunday, March 14, 2027.
Marathon Start Time: 8:30am
Weather: Average temperature at end of race: 55°F / 13°. Average temperature at start of race: 48°F / 9°C
Eligibility: Must be over 20 on race day
Time Limit: 6h30
These folks seemed to have a pretty spectacular time…
