The Grachtenrace is Amsterdam’s toughest and most spectacular rowing event: around 100 traditional sloops race a gruelling 22-kilometre course through the canals and across the IJ. The 2026 edition takes place on a Saturday in October. Exact date to be confirmed.

Rowing through the heart of the city

Where the canals are normally the domain of tour boats, one Saturday each autumn they belong to rowing crews from across the Netherlands. The heavy wooden sloops – some crewed by eight or more rowers – battle through the narrow waterways, under low bridges and across the choppy IJ. Crowds gather on the bridges of the canal district to cheer the crews through the tightest corners.

Best viewing spots

• The low bridges of the Prinsengracht and Brouwersgracht, where steering skill decides races
• The IJ crossing: watch the sloops take on open water near Central Station
• Finish area: festive atmosphere with music and food

Practical information

• When: a Saturday in October 2026 – see grachtenrace.nl
• Where: throughout the canal ring and the IJ
• Costs: free to watch
• Note: regular canal traffic is limited during the race – plan your canal cruise for the morning or the day after