Why Lisbon Is an Ideal Destination for a Stag Do

Are you getting ready to plan a stag party? The Portuguese capital, Lisbon, is always a fantastic choice. This city of endless hills, charming trams, and vibrant neighbourhoods like Bairro Alto, where soulful Fado music mingles with disco beats until the sun rises over the Atlantic, offers something unique.

Lisbon isn't like other stag-do destinations in mainland Europe; it's a refreshing alternative where you can break from the ordinary at a fraction of the cost compared to pricier capitals. From affordable bars in Cais do Sodré to great-value restaurants and cafés in Alfama, the deals you'll find here are hard to find elsewhere in this continent.

Brace yourself for an epic stag trip in Lisbon!

Best Lisbon Stag Activities

Boat & Water Activities in Lisbon

Private Catamaran Boat Tour

Picture an evening cruising by the famous 25 de Abril Bridge on our luxurious catamaran boat. Treat yourselves to a two-hour ride on the Tagus, seeing the sights and soaking up the views of the city of Lisbon from afar. Yes, there will be plenty of time to swim, lads!

Party Boat

Take your celebrations to the water on our ultra-fun party boat. Enjoy four hours of non-stop clubbing on a vessel with a live DJ, a welcome drink for everyone, and a chance to meet others like yourselves. On top of that, you'll also get complimentary access to the nearby after-party! It's going to be an unforgettable day and night.

One day at Arrábida Natural Park

The adventure awaits you at Arrábida Natural Park. Get ready for an exciting day of hiking, climbing, abseiling, and kayaking with a certified instructor who knows the terrain better than anyone else. All the gear, guides, and insurance are included in the package. You don't want to miss this.

Paddle Boarding Lessons

Try paddle boarding with some lessons with one of our guides. Learn the ropes, tackle some waves, and show off your skills on the River Tagus. No experience is required; you just need a strong will to learn and a good sense of humour so you don't mind everyone laughing at you whenever you fall in.

Surfing Lessons

Lisbon is famous for its surfing spots. Discover how to ride the waves confidently and grasp new techniques to always stay on your board without wiping out.

Sports Activities in Lisbon

Bike Tour

Hop on a two-wheeler and ride around Lisbon with your friends to glimpse all the main sights, from the Belém Tower to the Jerónimos Monastery. Don't forget to bring plenty of water with you.

Karting

Put those Super Mario Kart skills to the test in real life with our one-hour karting experience. Prepare to compete with the boys as you race each other on a challenging 20-lap course.

Bubble Football

Think you're good at football? Wait until you try our bubble football match, where you'll step inside an inflatable suit and play the game like never before. It might sound easy, but it’s not; prepare to bounce, tumble, and roll off each other.

Scoring even once will be a lucky achievement. It will be a game of teams of four playing with no goalie, and since you'll be exhausted, you can have substitutes waiting on the sideline to switch in.

Paintball

Test your aim in our one-hour paintball game in Lisbon. Blast at your opponents and dive into various exciting scenarios, like those from your favourite Call of Duty days, from capture the flag to team deathmatch.

Unusual Activities for a stag in Lisbon

Tuk Tuk Tour

Ride around the Portuguese capital on one of these funky three-wheeled auto rickshaws to see the main sights and local markets and learn about the city's history while your driver zooms you through the charming hilly streets.

Beer Bike

Hop on our fully-equipped beer bike with lights and music (you can even play your tunes) supervised by our guide, who will navigate it for safety purposes.

Push yourself to the limit as you pedal through the streets of Lisbon, working up a sweat, but you’ll have plenty of energy juice to keep you going!

Benfica Stadium Tour

The Benfica Stadium Tour is the perfect activity for sports enthusiasts tying the knot. Discover the rich history of one of Portugal’s greatest sporting giants at the on-site museum, explore the dressing rooms where players gear up for matches, and walk down the tunnel to experience what it’s like to feel like a footballing star.

Fishing Trip

Set sail on a 4-hour fishing adventure with an experienced captain who’ll guide you through the process and help you reel in your first catch of the day. While there are no guarantees, you’ll have the best chance of landing something worth cooking up with a captain this skilled.

Cultural Activities in Lisbon

Portuguese Food Tour

Portuguese cuisine is sometimes overshadowed by that of neighbouring Spain, not getting nearly the recognition it deserves. Savour some of the most delicious delicacies from Portugal, from the hearty francesinha to crispy, briny pastéis de nata.

Our local expert will take you on an unforgettable culinary journey, guiding you to some of the capital’s most cherished eateries, mainly known to locals, to sample tasty specialities you've never heard of.

Fado Show

Fado is almost like the soul of Portugal; this traditional Portuguese music originated in Lisbon, and what better way to experience it than by attending a Fado show in the city’s bohemian district of Bairro Alto?

Learn about the essence of Portuguese culture with an exciting two-hour live performance featuring highly skilled dancers who will move to rhythms that will connect with your heart on an emotional level.

Nightlife Evening Activities for Your Stag Party in Lisbon

By day, Lisbon is an adorable, calm urban hub with so much character, but it takes an unexpected turn for the best after dark. Let's show you some incredible nightlife evening activities waiting for you in the City of Light.

Best Districts for Nightlife in Lisbon

Bairro Alto

Often dubbed the city's Bohemian quarter, Bairro Alto is where all the action is in Lisbon, with buzzing karaoke bars, electric clubs, and street parties all through the night. If you want to go wild and let your hair down for the evening, this is the place to do it!

Cais do Sodré

Right down by the Tagus lies Cais do Sodré, a vibrant area that's a lot of fun no matter what time it is. You've undoubtedly heard of 'Pink Street,' well, it's located right here in Cais do Sodré, along with dozens of fantastic bars like Pensão Amor, The Couch Sports Bar, Palheta, and many more.

Príncipe Real

Príncipe Real will dazzle you with its upmarket cocktail bars and trendy nightlife venues for those who prefer the finer things in life. Many of the city's beautiful rooftop terraces, like Café Príncipe Real and the V Rooftop Bar, are set here.

Alcantara

The club scene is at the centre of Alcantara, a fashionable district set by the 25th of April Bridge. Whether you're after live DJ sets in LX Factory or pool parties in K Urban Beach, Alcantara never fails to disappoint for a night out.

Santos-o-Velho

Santos-o-Velho is hugely popular among Lisbon's younger generation; it's where the college kids like to go to parties but don't let that discourage you, as some of the city's best venues are set here.

Grab some delicious mixed drink creations at Matiz Pombalina Cocktail Bar, savour fine wines in Insaciável, and catch a live performance in So What.

Best Clubs to Enjoy Your Stag Party in Lisbon

Lux Frágil

Spanning three floors with stunning views of the Tagus, Lux Frágil is the place to be from Thursday to Sunday. Ask any Lisboetas where the best nightlife is, and Lux Frágil will be at the top of their list.

With top-tier DJs, incredible drinks, and an unbeatable atmosphere, it’s a spot that’ll have you wanting to stick around for the entire night.

Ministerium Club

Get your electronic music fix at Ministerium Club in Praça do Comércio. This trendy venue always has an exceptional lineup of live international performers each month, spinning groovy deep techno beats late all night.

K Urban Beach Club

Immerse yourself in the buzzing atmosphere at K Urban Beach Club, a unique blend of club and bar set right on the Tagus River. With open-air spaces and multiple floors, there’s no party like the one at K Urban Beach Club. You might even take a refreshing dip in the pool before the night ends.

Must-visit stag bars in Lisbon

A Capela

A Capela is a secret bar hidden away in the heart of the district; it's what all good bars should be like: dimmed lights, sweat dripping off the walls, and a solid lineup of DJs playing the best of dance music every night.

Pensão Amo

What was once a brothel has now become the star of the show in Cais do Sodré's bar scene. Besides serving up some of the tastiest drinks in the area, there's also all kinds of entertainment in Pensão Amor throughout the week, including funky cabaret shows and informative adult workshops.

Foxtrot

Foxtrot is a cool speakeasy in Príncipe Real that has been open for over 40 years. The vibe here is unmatched, with an outdoor terrace, tasty cocktails, and various funky decor, like the quirky artwork spanning the walls.

What Should You Visit During Your Stag Weekend in Lisbon

There's so much to see and do in Lisbon that it can be overwhelming to cram everything in. Just so you don't miss out on all the highlights, these are our must-visits while you're in the city:

• Belém: Set on the banks of the Tejos Estuary, Belém is a cultural quarter where you can spot the UNESCO Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery and learn all about the city's maritime history.
• Commerce Square (Praça do Comércio): One of Lisbon's largest squares; come here and see some incredible attractions such as the Triumphal Arch of Rua Augusta and the Equestrian statue of Joseph I.
• Rossio Square: Another popular square in Lisbon, it is overloaded with lovely bars, restaurants, and shops and has a nice vibe throughout the day. - Alfama District: Admire the terracotta-roofed buildings of one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the entire city.
• São Jorge Castle: Perched on top of the São Jorge hill, São Jorge Castle is a historic masterpiece that dates back to the fifth century.

  Our Tips for the Perfect Stag Weekend in Lisbon

Small Budgets

Just because you're working with a small budget doesn't mean you can't have a fantastic stag weekend. Here's our list of affordable activities:

• Bubble Football
• Night Club entrance
• Bar Crawl
• Beach Sports

  Large Groups

  Arranging a stag party for a large group is challenging; there's so much to consider that it might become overwhelming. Luckily, we have a select few activities ideally suited for big parties.

• Karting
• Football
• Benfica Stadium Tour
• Boat party
• Paintball

Large Budgets

For groups that want to splash the cash, these are our activity recommendations if you have a large budget to spend:

• Cabaret dinner
• VIP Night Club
• Private catamaran ride
• Wine tasting by boat

Advice to Get Around Lisbon

Take on Lisbon like a pro with our advice for finding your way through the city.

Currency

The currency used in Lisbon is the euro. Debit/credit card use is widely accepted in corner stores, bars, and restaurants. However, remember that many establishments prefer cash payment, so try to keep some euros stashed away just in case someone won't take your card.

If you want to withdraw from an ATM, try to locate a Multibanco ATM, as they don't charge any fees.

One thing you'll notice with ATMs in Lisbon is they'll ask you if you want to withdraw money in your home currency. Don't accept this, as they'll often charge conversion fees.

Language

In Lisbon, people speak Portuguese; it's the national language. However, most locals have a strong level of English, so day-to-day life here as a foreigner is very easy.

All of our tour leaders speak English fluently; you can rest assured that the activities will be conducted in your native tongue without the need for a translator.

Stay Safe

Safety is essential whenever you head away on holiday, but when it's with a group of your mates, and there's alcohol involved, there's an added risk.

Follow some of these expert tips to ensure your group gets back home in one piece:

• Keep an eye on your belongings, particularly on the metro and Tram 28, where many pickpocketing incidents have occurred.

• Say no to drugs regardless of who offers them to you. In areas like Baixa, shady men usually approach groups of men, offering them illegal substances. If it happens to you, politely refuse and walk away.

• When booking accommodation through Airbnb, thoroughly research your chosen place before paying anything. There have been reports of suspicious break-ins when tourists stay at the place they booked through the site; some have suggested it was a set-up.

• In the popular nightlife areas like Bairro Alto, watch yourself when walking home in the dark. It can be pretty rough late at night, with tons of drunk people and bad actors hoping to take advantage of people when they're vulnerable.

  Public Transport

  Lisbon's public transport system is one of the best in Europe. You can purchase a 1 to 3-day travel pass at Humberto Delgado Airport, which covers you for unlimited journeys on all modes of transportation. You can see the 2024 prices below:

• 1-day pass (bus, tram, metro, and funiculars) - Around €10 (£8.32)

• 1-day pass (including the ferry to Cachilas and bus, tram, metro, and funiculars) - Around €13 (£10.81)

• 2-day pass (bus, tram, metro, and funiculars) - Around €17.50 (£14.55)

• 3-day pass(bus, tram, metro, and funiculars) - Around €25 (£20.79)

The metro system in Lisbon is connected by four lines covering the entire city. It runs between 6:30 am and 1:00 am every day, with departures roughly every six to twelve minutes.

Lisbon also has a comprehensive bus network comprising more than 140 routes. Unlike the metro, many of the city's buses run at different times, but generally, most start at 6 am and continue until 9 pm.

Want to ride on the funiculars? The three main ones, Glória, Bica, and Lavra, run between 7 am and 9 pm, but the schedule changes on the weekends and public holidays.

Taxi

Taxis are widely available across Lisbon and relatively easy to hail everywhere in the centre.

An often cheaper alternative to taxis in Lisbon is ride-sharing applications like Bolt and Uber. Download either of the apps on your phone, punch in where you want to go, and you'll be paired with a driver in your area.

Our Guide to Organizing Epic Stag Do in Lisbon FAQ

What Are the Best Times of Year to Organize a Stag Do in Lisbon?

Whatever the time of year, Lisbon is a superb place to visit. The temperatures are generally reasonable, with some extremes in summer and winter.

Throughout the summer months, especially July and August, it's standard to see highs of over 28°C, making partying more enjoyable and allowing you to enjoy the best of our outdoor experiences like a trip to Arrábida Natural Park or some surfing lessons.

However, in winter, it's a whole other ball game. Sometimes temperatures drop below 8°C, so don't forget your jacket.

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

It's better to be prepared with a backup plan in case there's a shower in Lisbon. Our escape room experience is the perfect way to keep you and the lads entertained and dry simultaneously. Choose between our three thrilling game types, and free yourselves from danger before time runs out.

If the rain hasn't gone, how about settling in for a delightful evening with a 3-course cabaret dinner and drinks? Watch an exotic show in a glamorous environment.

Is Lisbon Safe for a Stag Do?

Yes, Lisbon is safe for a stag do, but you should always be cautious, especially at night around Bairo Alto, where all the main street parties occur.

Sometimes, opportunists hang around to exploit vulnerable tourists who don't know the area. You'll be fine if you walk home together and are always aware of your surroundings.

What Are the Best Places to Stay In Lisbon?

Since Lisbon is such a large city, there's something here for everyone regarding accommodation. Many party animals like to stay in Bairro Alto, Cais do Sodré, and near the LX Factory. However, if you're after something more on the quieter side, South Bank is a better choice.

What Are the Districts to Avoid in Lisbon?

Like anywhere, Lisbon has its fair share of areas that should be avoided after dark. Some of these include:

• Cova do Moura: Set in the suburbs of Lisbon, Cova do Moura is a district known for its high crime rates, but it has a fascinating history that's well worth learning about. However, it's recommended that tourists only visit if they have a local guide with them.
• Intendente and Martim Moniz: This area has recently received a new lease of life, but it attracts some dodgy characters after dark. If you must walk through there late at night, always keep your guard up and never go alone.
• Anjos: While Anjos has many expats living there, in and around the metro stations can be sketchy sometimes, so keep an eye on your belongings.

  How to Get To Lisbon City Centre From the Airport

  Those who arrive at Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon have four options for getting them to the city centre:

Bus (Carris):

• The city centre has many bus options, but the 744, 783, and Aerobus are the most popular options.
• The journey duration varies, but expect it to take at least 30 to 40 minutes based on the traffic conditions.

Metro:

• You can take the red line (Linha Vermelha) from the airport to Saldanha station, which will take you to the city centre, or you can stay longer to reach your hotel in another area.

Taxis:

• For those who want a smooth pick-up with no hassle, taxis are readily available from Lisbon Airport. The ride to the centre only takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
• Expect to pay around €20 (£16.70) for the taxi ride into the centre.

VTC (Uber, Bolt, etc.):

• A cheaper alternative to taxis is ride-sharing apps like Bolt and Uber. Like a cab ride, the journey will take between 15 and 20 minutes.
• Prices vary on availability; the fee range is around €15 (£12.52).

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

  Stag budgets vary greatly, as each person spends money in different ways. We always recommend between €100 (£83.49) and €500 (£417.43) for our clients coming to Lisbon, but it varies based on how many days you'll spend here.

The longer you stay, the more you're going to spend. If you've paid for your activities and accommodation in advance, your only expenses will be food, drink, and transport.

We've already mentioned the transport prices above; you can get multi-day passes for all forms of transport for a set fee. Food and drinks are affordable, but if you're going to be drinking all day and night, it will add up, so be sure to factor that into your budgeting.