Why Amsterdam Is an Ideal Destination for a Stag Do

Praised as the 'Venice of the North', few cities rival Amsterdam’s iconic status for stag dos. Drawing over 10 million visitors annually in 2023, it’s a hotspot for groups of friends like you looking for a wild weekend before the groom bids farewell to his single days.

Some might argue Amsterdam was created with bachelor parties in mind, and with its famous Red-Light District, relaxed coffee shops, and vibrant nightlife districts like the Leidseplein, it’s hard to disagree. Fancy the sound of that? Here’s a glimpse of what Amsterdam has in store.

Best Amsterdam Stag Do Ideas

Sports Activities in Amsterdam

Bubble Football

Buckle up inside your inflatable bubble, and let's play ball. Forget the football you grew up with; the rules may be the same, but you’ll need to dodge your rivals or find yourself rolling around the field. Get together for a one-hour match with all the necessary equipment included and a referee to make sure everyone's playing within the rules.

Karting

Hit the gas; it's time to take on the track. Race head-to-head in your stag-do Grand Prix in Amsterdam, tearing up the track on high-spec karts for 30 minutes. With three races each on a modern course, it’s a battle of speed, skill, and bragging rights. And don’t worry; even if you cross the finish line last, a prize will await you!

Dutch Highland Games

Ready to embrace your inner Braveheart? Come together for the Dutch Highland Games outdoors in the rural parts of the Netherlands. Compete in a series of epic challenges, from the sheer grit of tug-of-war to the precision of axe throwing. It’s an actual trial of friendship, teamwork, and skill. Will you rise to the occasion?

Archery Battle

When you think of archery, you probably picture taking turns aiming at a target. But with Pissup, we’re cranking things up a notch. Picture this: you and your mates in one arena, armed with bows, and the goal? Aim at each other! Before you start panicking, these arrows come with soft tips, so it’s all about fun without injuries.

Amsterdam Chill Activities

Beer Bike

Amsterdam is renowned for its cycling culture, but why settle for a standard bike when you can pedal your rotating bar instead? Combine sightseeing with socializing on our beer bike tour. Cycle through the heart of the Dutch capital, taking in the sights and creating memories with your friends while your personal guide leads the way.

Hummer Limo

Need a ride? Our Hummer limo is just one call away, ready to take your bachelor party to the next level. Give the groom a taste of the luxury he can expect on his wedding day with a ride in our high-end vehicle. Your chauffeur will ensure you arrive in ultimate style wherever you want, with a bottle of champagne provided for the journey.

Bar Treasure Hunt

The prize awaits you somewhere in Amsterdam; you must find it before time. Join our bar treasure hunt and visit three unique bars, solving codes and puzzles that will lead you to your final destination, where your reward could be waiting. Put your mental grit to the test for the ultimate trophy.

Barbecue in a Park

Amsterdam gets pretty cold in the winter, but once summer comes along, the sun shines, making it perfect for a barbecue in a park. Get the most out of the beautiful weather with a good fry-up made by your chef. Savour your favourite bites like chicken wings, burgers, sausages, and sate while soaking up the sunshine as your best-loved tunes play in the background on a speaker.

Ajax Amsterdam Football Game

Ajax is the face of Dutch football, and now we're allowing you to watch them play in a professional game in the Johan Cruyff Arena. Feel the buzz in the air as the fanbase cheers on their team and watches a high-intensity Eredivisie match. Before your group heads back home, you'll also get to tour the stadium to learn all about the club's history and experience what it's like to play for one of the biggest teams in the Netherlands.

Escape Game

Come together as a team and plan your break-out in our Amsterdam escape room. Choose from various scenarios and put your mental strength to the test against the clock as you work to find your way out of the confined space. Throughout the one-hour experience, the game master will observe and drop in subtle clues to help you escape; listen carefully or get stuck there forever.

Unusual Activities in Amsterdam

Redlight District Photoshoot

The Redlight District might just be Amsterdam's best-known district, but a photo shoot is probably the first thing that comes to mind. Link up with one of our professional photographers for an hour filled with silly shots and funky poses in hilarious costumes. Walking around, you'll uncover the area's history and discover some fascinating facts about Amsterdam's wild side.

Coffee Shop Guide

Amsterdam's coffee shop scene is a huge part of the city. Come with Pissup as we'll take you on an adventure, stopping by some of the coolest Smoke shops on a four-hour guided tour. Face off in fun competitions, sip on some finely brewed coffee, and dive into a unique side of the Dutch capital.

Football Darts

You've got three shots at hitting the board to come out victorious. It's like kicking a ball into the net only instead of the net; you've got to aim at a life-sized dartboard. On the sidelines, an instructor will keep score, and the champion will be crowned with the most points at the end.

Burlesque Workshop

Master one of the craziest musical performances with a professional instructor who will have you moving like Marilyn Monroe in no time.

Adrenaline Activities

Bungee Jump

Surprise your stag with an unforgettable bungee jump during his big weekend in Amsterdam! Standing 50 meters above the ground, this adrenaline-pumping activity is overseen by a highly experienced safety team, ensuring every participant takes the leap securely while having the time of their lives.

Quad Biking

Get your adrenaline fix with a 45-minute quad bike ride, an exhilarating off-road adventure at full throttle. Gather yourselves into groups of two and take to the course for an off-road race riding on one of these mighty machines. All gear and training are provided, and no license is needed; just bring your A-game and be prepared for a heart-pumping journey.

Paintball

Go head-to-head in a variety of different game types, like team deathmatch and capture the flag, and inflict pain on the enemy with a weapon that cuts deep (not literally). It will be two teams on an open battlefield fighting for victory.

Cruise Activities

Cruise with Drinks

Cruise through the canals of Amsterdam for a lovely evening with drinks and sightseeing. Take a back seat as your captain leads the way through the city's enchanting waterways, taking you to some of the coolest locations with some stops at fun bars on your travels. Onboard will also be a sound system, so one of you can take up the spot as a DJ for the boat ride.

Party Boat

Take your celebrations to the canals on our thrilling party boat. Relish an unlimited drinks package as you dive into the wilder side of Amsterdam during your stag do. Mingle with fellow partygoers and dance the night away on a fully equipped boat, just like the clubs you'll be hitting later. Afterward, you'll have complimentary access to one of the city's hottest discos; entry is on us!

Nightlife Evening Activities for Your Stag Party in Amsterdam

Must-visit bars in Amsterdam

Get your evenings off in Amsterdam to a fun start with a visit to some of these incredible bars around the city.

• Throw on your jackets, hats, and gloves and hit the Ice Bar for drinks at -10°C. The entire bar is made from ice.
• Sing your hearts out at the Japanese-themed karaoke bar, the Duke of Tokyo. Reserve your private booth and get behind the microphone for a vocal session.
• Have an unforgettable night at Durty Nelly's Irish Pub. It's an excellent spot to watch the football during the day. The atmosphere comes alive as night falls, with guests from the hostel next door filling the seats.
• Settle in for some flavourful cocktails at the Flying Dutchmen Cocktails.

  Best Amsterdam Districts for Nightlife.

The Redlight District

Known officially as 'De Wallen,' Amsterdam's Redlight District may be associated with its erotic happenings. Still, it's also a brilliant place for nightlife as there are tones of buzzing bars like Bananen Bar and event venues such as Moulin Rouge.

Leidseplein

Popular among all party people, the party is always in full swing around Leidseplein. Let your hair down on the dance floor at the Paradiso, relax and unwind in big-name coffee shops like Bulldog, or hit up the two-story Jimmy Woo for a VIP experience.

Rembrandtplein

Rembrandtplein may be a small square in the heart of Amsterdam, but it offers an electrifying nightlife scene. Venues like Escape and L'air are where most stag dos end their evenings, while the Old Bell is the place to go to get the party started.

Jordaan

If you want to hit up some of Amsterdam's homely 'brown cafes,' Jordaan is the place to go. These are old-style establishments with minimum lighting where people used to smoke inside, but the rules have changed, removing this aspect. One you don't want to miss is Café de Tuin; there's always a good atmosphere with brilliant music.

Westerpark

Lesser-visited by tourists than others, Westerpark is the base for many cultural events and festivals in Amsterdam. On top of that, there's also a wide variety of bars for all tastes and styles, including Compartir Wine Bar and Smelt.

Best Clubs to Enjoy Your Stag Party in Amsterdam

All stag party routes in Amsterdam lead to a club in the evening. Which are the best? Let us show you our top picks.

• Escape hosts some of the biggest DJs on different nights of the week and has long been regarded as one of the city's biggest and best clubs.
• Chicago Social Club is a two-floor venue in Leidsesquare that plays the best house and techno music and stays open until between 4 am and 5 am daily.
• Small, sweaty, lit up with neon lights and playing a nice variety of tunes, you're always guaranteed a good time in Smokey Club.

What Should You Visit During Your Stag Weekend in Amsterdam

Van Gough Museum

Unearth the great work of the famous Dutch painter Vincent Van Gough at the wonderful Van Gough Museum. See more than 200 of his amazing paintings in this fabulous exhibition as you tour the complex. Tickets are priced at around €22 (£18.33) per person, and you can stay as long as you want once you're inside.

The Anne Frank House

Although it's a horrifying story, everyone who comes to Amsterdam should visit the Anne Frank House. Learn about the life and tales of the German Jewish lady Anne Frank, who hid from the Nazis when they invaded the Netherlands in 1942. For a fee of €16 (£13.33), you'll get full access to this eye-opening museum, which shares the powerful account of Anne Frank herself.

Vondelpark

Vondelpark is a hideaway for locals who want to escape Amsterdam's hustle and bustle. It contains around 120 acres of beautiful, peaceful trails, ponds, flower beds, trees, and statues. This peaceful outdoor space is free for all visitors to enter.

Ride the Swing on the A’DAM Tower

Head up to the observation deck on the A’DAM Tower for a swing out over Amsterdam. Hang from 100 meters on the highest swing in Europe and soak up a lovely view of the Dutch capital. Feel your heart pumping, and let your spirit roar as you soar. With access to the observation deck, tickets for the A'DAM Tower swing cost €24 (£20).

Our Tips for the Perfect Stag Weekend in Amsterdam

Small Budgets

Working with a small budget but want to give your stag a weekend to remember? These are our most affordable activities that won't break the bank:

Treasure Hunt Football darts Karaoke Laser Tag

Large Groups

Large groups require more planning for the organiser. However, with these activities, we've tailored specifically for stag parties of all sizes, they eliminate the need for any extra arrangements:

Paintball Laser Game Bubble Football Beer Bike Dutch Highland games

Large Budgets

Go all out and treat your stag to a luxury weekend with these high-priced activities:

VIP Club entry Bungee jump Private Cruise

Advice for Getting Around Amsterdam

Currency

The local currency in Amsterdam is the Euro. Debit/credit card is the main form of payment accepted, but you can still pay for some things with cash. You'll often be able to pay in cash for places like pubs and restaurants, but certain hotels only allow you to pay with a card.

In Amsterdam, ATMs are called 'geldautomaten' if you want to ask somebody if there's one nearby. It is a good idea to be happy to know that most ATMs in Amsterdam don't charge a withdrawal fee, but your local bank back home may take a small amount from your account if you take out money abroad.

Language

Dutch is the national language spoken throughout the Netherlands, but nearly 95% of people speak English. That means you can get around, but knowing some basic Dutch phases will be much appreciated by the local community and can be a great wait to spark a conversation.

You might be wondering if speaking Dutch is necessary to book our activities. Rest assured, it’s not! We work with both English and Dutch-speaking guides in Amsterdam. Beforehand, let us know your native language, and we’ll match you with a guide who speaks it, allowing you to get the most out of your experience.

Stay Safe

Your safety should always come first when visiting a new city. While Amsterdam is generally safe for tourists, it does have a bad side to it. Luckily, most visitors come here and have a nice time without any hassle, but there's always a risk.

Before you visit Amsterdam for a stag do, follow these local safety tips:

• Don't drink alcohol in public. In most public areas around Amsterdam, you're not allowed to consume any alcohol out in the open. If you're caught, you may be given a fine.
• If you're walking around the Redlight District, refrain from taking pictures with your devices as it's banned.
• Keep an eye out for any strangers who approach you and try to put their hands on you. Usually, they're trying to distract you so you can be pickpocketed.
• Be careful when walking near the canals. There have been many reports of people falling in and injuring themselves. While it might seem cool to try getting up as close to the ledge as possible, all it takes is one wrong move, and you slip in.
• Drink spiking can occur in Amsterdam. Never leave your drinks unattended, or you risk getting spiked.
• There have been reports of fake police officers operating around Amsterdam. If someone from the police force requests payment from you, they're not real.
• Stay clear of all bike lanes. Listen out for the bells from afar and move out of the way when signaled.

Public Transport

Amsterdam has an efficient public transportation system, which includes buses, metros, ferries, and trams.

• Amsterdam has more than 200 buses operating around the clock, covering all corners of the city, including the centre and suburbs. The standard daytime buses run between 6 am and 12:30 am, and between the break periods, there are 12-night bus lines that remain open.
• The metro in Amsterdam is one of the most popular modes of public transport. It's made up of five lines. Like the buses, they operate between 6 am and 12:30 am, with one metro running around every ten minutes.
• Ferries are readily available to take you where you want to go in Amsterdam. The main ferry that takes passengers across the River IJ costs nothing.
• Lastly is Amsterdam's whopping tram network, which covers around 200 km of rail. There are about 500 stops all over the city except in the north and southeast.

Taxi

For some people, taking a taxi is the easiest way to get around rather than waiting for a bus or train to come along. It's easy to hail a cab driving past or find one at any rank scattered around the city. Ridesharing apps like Bolt and Uber have become huge alternatives to traditional taxis in Amsterdam.

Our Guide to Organising Epic Stag Do in Amsterdam FAQ

What Are the Best Times of Year to Organise a Stag Do in Amsterdam?

If you're focused on the weather alone, it's better to hold off booking your trip until the summer months (June to August), as the conditions will be more favourable. It's common for temperatures to be above 23°C through this season.

Summer isn't the only season with opportunities for stag dos in Amsterdam. Here are some other options:

• Amsterdam gets cold during the winter season (December, January, and February). The temperatures can sometimes drop below 0°C.
• If you want to catch a glimpse of Amsterdam's tulips, it's best to come in spring (March, April and May).
• The months of September, October and November provide an excellent opportunity for a lad's getaway, whether it's over the Halloween period or just after summer when the crowds have died down.

  What Activities Do You Recommend in Amsterdam if It Rains During the Stag Do?

There's always a possibility of some rainfall on your stag do in Amsterdam, so it's best to be prepared in advance rather than being stuck with nothing to do if a shower rolls in unexpectedly.

• How about diving into the challenge of our escape room activity? Put your brainpower to the test as you work together to solve your way to freedom from a nerve-wracking scenario.
• Amsterdam has a bunch of amazing museums like the Rijksmuseum and the NEMO Science Museum.
• See one of the many breweries; you don't want to miss the Heineken Experience.

Is Amsterdam Safe for a Stag Do?

It's unusual for stag parties to face any safety issues when visiting Amsterdam, although anyone can find themselves in a sticky situation if they're not careful. By sticking together in a large group, avoiding dodgy areas like Bijlmermeer and Slotervaart, and being on the lookout for sketchy characters, you'll have a perfectly safe time in Amsterdam.

What Are the Best Places to Stay In Amsterdam?

Although Amsterdam is a large city, we recommend two main areas for our stag parties to stay. Amsterdam Centraal is ideal for those seeking a convenient location near the central train station, with easy access to bars, restaurants, and popular sights.

For anyone who wants to be closer to the nightlife, Leidseplein and the Red Light District are two of the top neighbourhoods to consider.

What Are the Districts to Avoid in Amsterdam?

The vast majority of districts in Amsterdam's city centre are safe, but there are a handful we advise you to avoid, like Bijlmermeer, Oude Kerk, and Bloenmarkt.

What Is the Best Option to Travel to Amsterdam

• Flights are the best option. There are plenty of flights from all the biggest cities in the UK, including London, Liverpool, Manchester and Newcastle. You can pick up some fantastic return fares for around £50-£60, and the average flight times are only slightly over an hour.
• When you reach the airport, jump on either of the Intercity or Sprinter trains (£5 approximatively). The journey only takes around 20 minutes, and the trains depart on average every 10 minutes. If you'd prefer to take the bus, buy tickets (€6.50 (£5.41)) for the Express 397 bus and you'll reach the centre in about 30 minutes.

What Budget per Person Should Be Planned for a Stag Do in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam isn't cheap, so you should pay slightly more than other European capitals. While everyone's budget will look somewhat different, between £120 and £300, including transportation, should do the trick.

We have a lot of affordable activities priced between $£8 and £25 per person that will bring down the price for everyone, like Bubble Football and Laser Tag. If you have a bigger budget, we also have many options on the higher end of the scale, like Quad Bike Riding and an Ajax football match.

What Are the Rules for the Coffee Shops?

The coffee shops are one of the main reasons stag parties choose Amsterdam for their last weekend of freedom. However, there are some strict rules that visitors should be aware of.

Currently, visitors can consume in coffee shops around the city if they have an ID to prove they are over 18. You can be requested to show identification anytime, so keep a copy.

The limit for individuals purchasing cannabis is five grams per day. The coffee shops are only permitted to sell cannabis; you won't find any other substances being sold there, like alcohol or the infamous 'magic mushrooms.' Additionally, smoking cigarettes in there is not allowed.

Be mindful when visiting the coffee shops what you are buying. Cannabis is a mind-altering substance that can affect people in different ways; this means you shouldn't take on any tasks that require concentration, whether it's driving or walking home in the dark. Additionally, avoid buying anything from street dealers, as their products may be illegal.

You can find more details about the rules for visiting coffee shops on the Dutch tourist office website.