The Grachtenfestival (Canal Festival) fills Amsterdam with classical music every August. The 29th edition runs from 7 to 16 August 2026, with more than 250 concerts at 95+ locations – on pontoons in the canals, in historic canal houses, hidden courtyards, rooftops and aboard boats.

Classical music in unique places

The Grachtenfestival brings young top talent and famous ensembles to places you normally never get to see from the inside: the private salons of monumental canal houses, shipyards, gardens and even floating stages. Many neighbourhood concerts are free, while special locations sell tickets that go quickly.

Highlight: the Prinsengrachtconcert

The festival traditionally culminates in the free Prinsengrachtconcert: a full classical concert performed on a pontoon in the Prinsengracht in front of the Pulitzer Hotel. Thousands watch from the quaysides, bridges and boats – arguably the most Amsterdam concert experience there is, broadcast live on national television.

Tips for visitors

• Browse the programme early on the official website – intimate locations sell out fast
• Combine free neighbourhood concerts with a walk through the canal district
• Watching a canal concert from the water is unbeatable: rent a boat or join a canal cruise in the early evening
• August is high season – book your hotel in time

Practical information

• Dates: 7-16 August 2026
• Locations: 95+ venues across Amsterdam, many on or along the water
• Costs: many concerts free; ticketed concerts from around €15