25 April 2027 · Saxon Switzerland → Dresden
Follow the River.
Sandstone cliffs. The Elbe at your side. A finish line in the heart of Dresden. Run the VVO Oberelbe Marathon and discover why the journey is every bit as memorable as the finish.
A race worth travelling for
From the mountains to the city, one unforgettable route
Welcome to Germany's second-largest scenic running event. The marathon leads from Königstein through the spectacular landscape of Saxon Switzerland, past riverside towns and along the Elbe into Dresden. The half marathon joins the route in Pirna; the 10 km and 5 km races bring you the Dresden section. All roads lead to a finish inside the Heinz Steyer Stadium.
Here, your race weekend can be more than a race: take in the Elbe Valley, wander through Dresden's historic centre and celebrate your finish in one of Germany's most beautiful cities.
Six ways to take part
Your distance. Your Elbe experience.
Marathon · 42.195 k
From Königstein through Saxon Switzerland and along the Elbe to Dresden.
Half Marathon · 21.0975 k
Start in Pirna and follow the river all the way into the stadium.
10 k
From Dresden's Blue Wonder bridge towards the city centre.
5 k
A shorter run beside the Elbe, starting near the Waldschlößchen Bridge.
Mini Marathon · 2.7 k
A race for young runners in Dresden's Sportpark Ostra.
Bambini Run · 400 m
A free race for the youngest runners. Online registration is required.
Run into Dresden
Make the city part of your story
The Elbe beside you. Supporters cheering as you pass Dresden's Blue Wonder bridge. As the city draws closer, the excitement builds with every kilometre — until your final push into the Heinz Steyer Stadium.
Stay a little longer to discover Dresden's historic centre, riverside views and the places that make a race weekend here feel like a city break.
A view from the water
Cheer from a historic paddle steamer
Experience the marathon from the Elbe: a historic paddle steamer follows the runners from Königstein towards Dresden. For friends, family and everyone travelling with a runner, it is an unforgettable way to share in the day.
Entry fees
Secure your place
Prices for registrations from 31 August to 29 November 2026:
Prices change by registration period. Availability and participant limits may apply. Please check the full official fee schedule ↗ before booking.
Plan your weekend
Everything you need before the start
Race pack collection
BallsportARENA Dresden, Weißeritzstraße 4: Friday, 23 April 2027, 15:00–19:00; Saturday, 24 April 2027, 10:00–18:00. Bring your registration confirmation. The runners' expo takes place at the same venue.
Getting there
The distances have different start locations. For eligible races, your bib is also a public transport ticket within the VVO network on race day; the mini marathon and Bambini Run are excluded, as are historic and special services. Check the latest travel information ↗ when planning your journey.
Registration deadline
Regular registration closes on 11 April 2027. Late online registration is available until 24 April, subject to availability and an additional fee. There is no registration at the race starts on race day.
Dresden is waiting
Follow the river. Feel the finish.
Choose your distance and join us on 25 April 2027.
Register for the Oberelbe Marathon ↗
Questions? Email the OEM team ↗
