Hradec Králové Half Marathon 2026

Slip into your running shoes and let yourselves be swept away by the atmosphere of one of the most architecturally beautiful cities in the Czech Republic! Hradec Králové, thanks to its unique urban layout, is called the “salon of the republic”. The local half marathon is a classic, fast 21.097 km distance, but the organizers remember everyone – as part of the running festival you can also choose a shorter kids’ marathon, relays, or a 10K 🏃. The course is flat, scenic, and well secured, and its route takes you both through the historic, cobblestoned heart of the city and through green parks and riverside boulevards at the confluence of the Elbe and the Orlice 🌊.

Once you cross the finish line on the Grand Square (Velké náměstí), pick up your medal, and high-five the fans, Hradec Králové will invite you to a fantastic afternoon of relaxation:

For a walk: Stroll through the historic center and climb the Renaissance White Tower (Bílá věž), from where there’s a brilliant panorama of the whole city, and in good weather even of the Giant Mountains 🔭.

For the family: Visit the gigantic local Obří Aquarium (Obří akvárium), where you can walk through a glass tunnel and feel like you’re at the bottom of a tropical river surrounded by exotic fish 🐠.

For a trip: In just 25 minutes you can get to the monumental Baroque Kuks complex – a former spa with an impressive hospital and the famous sculptures by Matthias Braun depicting the Virtues and Vices 🏰.

After burning energy over the half-marathon distance, it’s time for Czech classics at their best. Order svíčková na smetaně (beef in a velvety cream-and-vegetable sauce with cranberries) and a hearty portion of fluffy dumplings, and to drink choose a local beer from the Medvěd craft brewery 🍺