The 40th Telekom Vivicittá: Budapest’s Biggest Running Festival Yet
This weekend, Budapest will transform into a vibrant hub of energy and athleticism as the 40th Telekom Vivicittá Spring Running Festival takes over the city. With a record-breaking 31,530 participants from 106 countries, this year’s event promises to be the largest and most diverse in its history. For foreign tourists visiting Budapest, the festival offers an exciting opportunity to witness the city come alive with the spirit of community, health, and celebration.
A Celebration of Running and Community
The Telekom Vivicittá is far more than just a running event—it’s a celebration of urban life and togetherness. The name Vivicittá, meaning “Long live the city!” in Italian, reflects the event’s origins as a movement to encourage people to appreciate their cities while promoting an active lifestyle. Since its introduction to Hungary in 1986, the festival has grown into one of Europe’s most anticipated springtime sports events.
This year’s edition is particularly special as it marks the 40th anniversary of the festival. Over two days, runners will take on 13 different distances, ranging from leisurely city walks to a challenging half marathon. Whether running solo, in pairs, or as part of a trio, participants will traverse some of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks, including the Hungarian Parliament, Chain Bridge, and Buda Castle.
A Record-Breaking Year
The 2025 Telekom Vivicittá has already made history with its unprecedented turnout. Among the 31,530 registered participants are 3,300 international runners—a 40% increase from last year—representing countries from nearly half the globe. This surge in global participation underscores Budapest’s growing reputation as a premier destination for running enthusiasts.
For the first time in the event’s history, women outnumber men among the participants, with 51% female representation. This milestone highlights the inclusive and empowering nature of the festival, which welcomes runners of all ages and abilities.
Adding to the excitement is a new race category: the Szoboszlai Run. Named after Hungarian football star Dominik Szoboszlai, this exclusive 10.5-kilometer race features just 300 participants wearing custom jerseys. Proceeds from this race will support SUHANJ!, an organization dedicated to inclusive fitness opportunities.
The Route: A Scenic Tour Through Budapest
One of the most appealing aspects of the Telekom Vivicittá is its breathtaking route. Starting and finishing on Margaret Island—a lush green oasis in the heart of Budapest—the course takes runners along both banks of the Danube River. Participants will cross historic bridges and pass by UNESCO World Heritage Sites while enjoying views of Budapest’s stunning architecture.
Best deals of Budapest
The half marathon is particularly popular, offering runners a chance to experience Budapest’s beauty up close while testing their endurance on one of Europe’s most scenic courses. For those seeking shorter challenges, options like the 7-kilometer Midicittá or family-friendly relay races ensure there’s something for everyone.
More Than Just a Race
The Telekom Vivicittá is as much about community as it is about running. The festival creates a lively atmosphere with music bands and DJs stationed along the route to keep spirits high. Families can explore interactive exhibits and enjoy activities at Margaret Island’s event village while cheering on their loved ones.
This year also introduces a unique digital feature: every participant will receive a personalized “champion cover story” on Hungary’s National Sports Online platform. This shareable memento adds a modern twist to celebrating personal achievements.
Practical Tips for Visitors
If you’re visiting Budapest this weekend, expect some road closures and traffic diversions near Margaret Island and other parts of central Budapest. Public transportation is recommended for getting around during the event. For the most up to date travel information, check the BudapestGO app.
Even if you’re not participating in a race, joining as a spectator offers an incredible way to soak up the festive atmosphere and explore Budapest from a fresh perspective.
Final Thoughts
The 40th Telekom Vivicittá Spring Running Festival is set to be an unforgettable weekend for both participants and spectators alike. It’s a celebration of health, community, and urban beauty that perfectly captures Budapest’s vibrant spirit. Whether you’re running across its historic bridges or cheering from the sidelines, this event offers an inspiring way to experience one of Europe’s most captivating cities.
So lace up your sneakers or grab your camera—Budapest is ready to welcome you to its biggest running festival yet!