Padova Water Marathon 2026: Racing through the City’s Historic Canals

On Sunday, May 3, 2026, the Padova Water Marathon returns for its seventh edition. This year, the event has seen unprecedented enthusiasm, with a 50% increase in registrations compared to last year. The competition has now gained a truly international character: approximately 20% of participants come from abroad, with athletes arriving from the Czech Republic, Poland, Germany, Slovenia, and even the Americas.

Weekend Program at Canottieri Padova

The event takes place over two days at the Canottieri Padova headquarters (via Polveriera, 3/g):

• Saturday, May 2: From 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, the venue will be dedicated to canoe trials and participant accreditation. A social aperitivo begins at 6:30 PM, followed by a live concert by Linda at 7:30 PM.

• Sunday, May 3: The heart of the competition. It kicks off at 9:00 AM with the competitive race, followed at 10:00 AM by the amateur start. At 10:15 AM, it will be the turn of the Venetian rowing relay, featuring local rowing clubs alternating along the course to showcase the city’s historic traditions.

Routes and the Debut of the Bike Tour

The competition unfolds along a 20-kilometer river ring encircling Padua. The competitive route includes two technical portages (where athletes must carry their boats over land): one at the Specola and one at the Voltabarozzo locks. For the amateur category (open to canoes, kayaks, SUPs, and surfskis), portages are set at the Sant’Agostino bridge and Voltabarozzo.

Among the major highlights of 2026 is the debut of the Padova Water Marathon Bike Tour, in collaboration with “La via dei Berici.” This is a guided cycling tour along the riverbanks that allows the public to follow the race from a unique perspective, turning the crowd into a “traveling fanbase.” The tour also includes a guided visit to the San Massimo Bastion at Golena San Massimo to explore the 16th-century fortifications and the strategic role of water in Padua’s defense.

Casa al Carmine

Staying at Casa al Carmine is the ideal solution for those participating in the event or wishing to follow it without the stress of a car. Our property is located in Piazza Mazzini, just 700 meters from the Padua railway station. For those arriving by car, we offer a very convenient private parking available upon reservation. This allows you to safely store your vehicle and equipment while enjoying the race weekend in the heart of the city.

Check availability for the Padova Water Marathon weekend: BOOK YOUR STAY AT CASA AL CARMINE HERE!

Useful Information for the Visit

• Competitive Races: Starting at 9:00 AM.

• Amateur Races: Starting at 10:00 AM.

• Bike Tour: Starting at 10:05 AM.

• Official Website: padovawatermarathon.it