The Definitive Guide to European Stag Do Destinations (2026 Edition)
A proper send off
Why go abroad for a stag do? It usually comes down to three things: Better Weather, Cheaper Beer, and Crazier Activities.
While the UK is great, there are experiences you simply cannot get at home. Whether it's firing AK-47s in Eastern Europe, drinking £1.50 pints in Prague, or waking up to guaranteed sunshine in Spain, heading across the channel turns a weekend away into a legendary holiday.
We have compiled the definitive guide to the best stag destinations in Europe, categorized by what they do best—including a guide on what (and what not) to drink.
Part 1: The "Big Three" (The Classics)
If you want a tried-and-tested destination that guarantees a good time, these are the most popular choices for a reason.
1. Prague, Czech Republic
The King of Stag Dos.
Prague has held the crown for years. It combines stunning architecture with a nightlife scene that is unrivaled.
The Vibe: It offers everything from massive nightclubs like Karlovy Lazne (five stories high!) to grimey rock bars.
The Beer Cost: Excellent value. You can expect to pay around £1.40 - £1.80 for a pint of domestic draught. Look for Pilsner Urquell—the original pilsner—it is a great session beer.
The Activities: This is the home of extreme activities. You can drive tanks, fire assault rifles, or try the freefall simulator.
2. Budapest, Hungary
The Nightlife Capital.
A city of two halves. Buda is for views, Pest is for partying. It is famous for its "Ruin Bars"—massive pubs built into abandoned buildings and courtyards that create a unique atmosphere (Szimpla Kert is the most famous).
The Unique Factor: Thermal Spa Parties (Sparties). Imagine a massive nightclub, but in a geothermal heated pool. It is an experience unique to Budapest.
3. Benidorm, Spain
Sun, Sand & Sangria.
Unashamedly fun. Benidorm doesn't pretend to be a cultural hub; it is a party town built for British tourists. There are an estimated 2,000 bars here.
Why go? It is cheap, cheerful, and on the mainland, meaning no "6-drink limit" rules that apply to some of the islands. You can indulge in sticky vicars, foam parties, and £2 pints in the sun without restriction.
Part 2: The Seasonal Guide (When to Go)
Timing is everything. A beach resort in December is a ghost town, and a city break in August can be sweltering. Here is where to book based on the calendar.
Best for Summer (May - September)
Marbella, Spain: The playground of the rich and famous. It is only fully open in the summer season. If you want luxurious beach clubs, decadent nightclubs, and beautiful people, this is the place.
Hvar, Croatia: The jewel of the Adriatic. It is pricier than other Eastern European spots, but offers palm-filled bays, boat trips, and an exclusive "yacht week" vibe.
Newquay, UK: Yes, we know it's not abroad, but in July and August, Newquay rivals any European surf town for vibes and weather.
Best for Winter (November - February)
Tenerife, Canary Islands: The ultimate winter sun. Because it is off the coast of Africa, it stays hot while the rest of Europe freezes. It’s a duty-free island, making alcohol cheaper than on the mainland.
Riga, Latvia: Embrace the cold! Riga transforms into a winter wonderland. It’s the perfect time to try the Olympic Bobsleigh track or ride Snowmobiles across the frozen landscape.
Hamburg, Germany: German Christmas markets are legendary, and the beer halls are warm and welcoming year-round.
Part 3: Sun, Sea & Sand (Southern Europe)
Albufeira, Portugal
The Algarve Party Hub.
Located on "The Strip," Albufeira offers neon lights, open-air bars, and stunning beaches. It is incredibly friendly and offers activities like surfing and party boat cruises.
Barcelona, Spain
City Meets Beach.
The cosmopolitan choice. You can tour the Nou Camp stadium in the morning, hit the beach in the afternoon, and visit world-class nightclubs in the evening.
Local Tip: Try Moritz beer. It has been brewed in Barcelona since the 19th century and is perfect for a lunchtime pint in the sun.
Benalmadena, Spain
The Costa del Sol Classic.
Located near Malaga, this is a great budget option. It has a huge marina and the Tivoli World theme park. It's less chaotic than Magaluf but still lively enough for a great weekend.
Majorca (Magaluf)
The Wild One.
Famous for a reason. It is high-energy and chaotic. Note: Be aware of local laws regarding alcohol limits in all-inclusive hotels here, but don't let that stop the party.
Part 4: Action & Adrenaline (Eastern Europe)
Krakow, Poland
Poland offers incredible value. The Main Square has one of the highest densities of bars in the world. It is the perfect place for Vodka Tasting (try the Nalewka infused vodkas) and Shooting ranges.
Riga, Latvia
The Adrenaline Capital.
Riga is gritty, cool, and very cheap. It is famous for the "Prison Experience"—where you spend a night in a former Soviet military prison—and the Bobsleigh track.
Bratislava, Slovakia
Known as "Partyslavia." It is located right on the Danube. It is smaller than Prague but packs a punch with wild nightlife.
What to drink: Zlaty Bazant (Golden Pheasant). It is a full-bodied local beer brewed in Hurbanovo and is one of the best lagers in the region.
Sofia, Bulgaria
The Budget King.
One of the cheapest capitals in Europe. In summer, the beer prices are often under £1.50, making it a budget paradise.
Part 5: Hidden Gems & Underrated Spots
Brno, Czech Republic
Prague’s cooler, edgier brother. It has a huge student population and quirky folklore (ask about the "Dragon" hanging in the town hall—it's actually a crocodile). Visit for the "Absinthe Night" bar crawls.
Gdansk, Poland
A stunning port city on the Baltic coast. It has Gothic architecture and a history of brewing "Goldwasser"—a vodka with real gold flakes in it. It’s sophisticated but very affordable.
Hamburg, Germany
The "Sin City" of the North. The Reeperbahn is one of the most famous red-light and party districts in the world. Drink Berliner Kindl here—a traditional bottom-fermented Pilsner that tastes amazing.
Part 6: The Food & Drink Survival Guide
You can't survive on lager alone. Here are the local delicacies you must try (and the ones you should approach with caution).
The "Must Eats"
Currywurst (Germany): A sausage drowned in spicy curry ketchup. The ultimate 3am food in Hamburg.
Bombas (Barcelona): Deep-fried potato and meat balls served with spicy sauce and aioli. Highly addictive tapas.
Trdelnik (Prague): Chimney cake. Grilled dough rolled in sugar and walnuts, often filled with Nutella or ice cream.
The "Danger Zone" (Local Spirits)
Unicum (Hungary): A thick, dark, herbal liqueur. It tastes medicinal and bitter. It is a rite of passage in Budapest, but it is an acquired taste!
Palinka (Hungary): Fruit brandy that burns on the way down. It comes in flavors like plum and apricot. It is very strong (often 50%+).
Becherovka (Czech Republic): A cinnamon/ginger herbal spirit. The first sip is weird; the second sip is delicious. It tastes like Christmas.
Slivovitz (Eastern Europe): Plum brandy found in Prague, Krakow, and Bratislava. Served at room temperature and packs a serious punch.
Ready to Book?
Whether you want the beaches of Benidorm, the shooting ranges of Krakow, or the winter sun of Tenerife, we can build the perfect package for you.