Hen Do Destinations

Albufeira has everything a fabulous beach holiday should have: sparkling blue seas, golden sands and stunning landscapes to explore on foot. Once a quiet little fishing village, it has become one of the top destinations for holidays or wild weekend breaks, with plenty of nightlife on the infamous ‘Strip’, buzzing beachside bistros serving traditional Portuguese cuisine, plus sunshine and scenery galore.

Amsterdam is a city famed for its canals, red light district and super ‘smoky’ coffee shops, but, it’s also a place full of history and culture, making it one of the top destinations in Europe for weekend breaks.

The people are friendly and always have something to say. Friday night on Temple Bar is unforgettable. Even the city’s walking tours manage to throw party into the mix. And anyone who’s spent a wild night (or a wild weekend) in Ireland’s capital will tell you: Dublin is one of those cities that sneaks up on you, steals your heart and refuses to give it back – ever.

When it comes to a great hen weekend, Liverpool ticks all of the boxes – big name shops and bars, and smaller independent alternatives, plus plenty of things to see and do. You don’t have to dig too deep to realise there’s a real buzz about the place. You'll be spoilt for choice in many of the nightlife hotspots with clubs to satisfy every taste.

England’s northernmost city boasts brilliant bars, exciting eateries and welcoming locals – no wonder it’s regularly voted one of the best places in the country for a night out. There’s more to the Toon than brown ale and here’s what to expect…

Bath is a stunning city famous for its Ancient Roman baths, magnificent Georgian buildings and historical landmarks. But as well as its cultural importance, Bath remains a thoroughly modern city boasting high-end shops, cafes, bars, clubs and restaurants. The city offers an excellent range of hen do ideas, including the Thermae Bath Spa, which is a must for hen groups staying in Bath or nearby.

Famous for its bloody history and the incredible feat of engineering that was the Titanic (ahem), this revived, hedonistic party city is no sinking ship! A hen weekend in Belfast is certain to be a heady mix of incredible culture and incredible nightlife, to be sure. At the centre of the biggest urban regeneration project in Europe, the shipyards have given way to a great waterfront scene, packed with live music bars and nightclubs. For a great hen do, this is a surefire winner!

England’s second city is first class for a weekend away in the heart of England. No wonder hens are flocking here. The sheer size of Birmingham often takes outsiders by surprise but this makes it perfect for a weekend of adventure and once you find your feet there are plenty of sparkling hidden gems to be discovered.

Blackpool was originally a seaside destination that only the rich could afford to visit, but these days it’s better known as the unofficial capital for wild weekends, with its famous Pleasure Beach, beachfront prom, pier and plethora of drinking holes attracting crowds from far and wide.

The southern coastal town of Bournemouth prides itself on its friendly locals and seven miles of sandy beaches. Stroll along the promenade or through the award-winning gardens, tuck into fresh fish’n’chips, soak up some rays on the sand and then when evening rolls around the vibrant nightlife offers an array of clubs, bars and pubs to dance the night away.

Brighton is a city where almost anything goes. The area is divided into the narrow, cobbled North and South Laines that begin at the city centre and finish on the beach. Known for its open-minded attitudes and cafe culture, Brighton is the UK’s answer to San Francisco and boasts a bustling atmosphere by the sea.

There is much more to this beautiful city than scholars and reference books. Expect charming cobbled streets, boutique shopping, quaint tea rooms, vibrant cocktail bars, photo opportunities galore and even city-dwelling cows. Top marks!

Packed full of famous landmarks dating back to Roman, Medieval and Tudor periods, Chester can proudly claim to be on of the UK’s most attractive and historical cities. The River Dee runs directly through the heart of this beautiful city, which also boasts a range of unique architectural styles housing shops, bars, restaurants and hotels complementing its rich history.

Glasgow’s a player when it comes art, design, culture and history but it doesn’t sell itself on quaint alone. The city’s a master of reinvention, proud of its past but forward thinking – and it takes drinking, dining and dancing seriously.

Leeds is rightly one of the top destinations in the country for hen parties. With boutique shops and hotels, fine dining and a nightlife that sparkles, Leeds should be at the top of your list for a wild weekend up North.

When it comes to a great hen weekend, Liverpool ticks all of the boxes – big name shops and bars, and smaller independent alternatives, plus plenty of things to see and do. You don’t have to dig too deep to realise there’s a real buzz about the place. You'll be spoilt for choice in many of the nightlife hotspots with clubs to satisfy every taste.

A city awash with bustling bars and cosmopolitan clubs, the buzz of Manchester is contagious. This vibrant destination has drinking and dining venues spread across a dozen districts, meaning there really is something for everyone in this diverse city. For a stylish mix of contemporary city cool, with a good helping of northern charm and a dash of glitz and glamour, Manchester is the ideal place for an unforgettable hen weekend.

England’s northernmost city boasts brilliant bars, exciting eateries and welcoming locals – no wonder it’s regularly voted one of the best places in the country for a night out. There’s more to the Toon than brown ale and here’s what to expect…

Nestled between St Ives to the south and Padstow to the north, the Cornish town of Newquay is the UK’s premier surfing destination. But it’s not just about donning a wetsuit and heading out into the big blue, as Newquay is also home to some of the country’s best beaches and some fine bars.

Norwich is a bustling regional capital which contains many of the trappings of a far larger city, whilst retaining all the charm and friendliness of a tight-knit community. Considering its small size, Norwich packs a real punch, cramming in a diverse range of attractions which make it perfect for any hen do.

One of England’s most historical cities is also incredibly diverse in the entertainment stakes, with a massive student population that keeps it feeling fresh. Oxford is brimming with culture, nightlife and an intriguing blend of old-meets-new.

Portsmouth’s one of the liveliest cities on the south coast of England. It might sell itself on ferries and naval history, but what most people who love the city buy is its brilliant attitude. From the kiss-me-quick seaside tradition of Southsea with its iconic pier, ice-cream cones and shingle beach to the modern city centre or the charm of Old Portsmouth, pick a place, give it a minute and something’s happening.

Less than 40 miles from London, Reading is a large town with a city feel that offers everything you could want for a weekend away with the girls. From the historic Reading Abbey to The Oracle shopping centre, a diverse range of restaurants and a large university population, Reading is much more than just a festival location.

Best known for its busy port, there’s so much else to do in Southampton that escaping on the open seas will be the last thing on your mind. With its sights, sounds and smells of the sea, plus ferry links to the Isle of Wight and France, it’s a popular holiday spot and ideal for those who want to unwind, eat, drink and be merry.

Wales is the new Ireland. While Cardiff may currently be winning in the coolness stakes, Swansea is catching up quick. Swansea is built in a smashing location, with a long promenade sweeping around Swansea Bay. The nightlife is concentrated around Wind Street, with a myriad of bars to suit all tastes, from the cheap-and-cheerful to the poncey-as-all-hell. Alternatively try the Mumble Mile, a pub crawl including 11 different haunts.

If you're in Wales, throw yourself, literally, into the outdoor pursuits. Coasteering, climbing, abseiling and gorge scrambling are all superb fun alternatives to the standard stag do karting and clay shooting.

Picturesque yet party-hard, one of England’s most iconic cities has fast become the port of call for a good old fashioned knees-up.

Visitors seeking cities on the banks of the Danube often completely miss Bratislava. Their loss we say. It might be a small city and not given too much trumpet-blowing in the style of Vienna and Budapest, but for sheer friendliness, party stamina and overall good looks it pretty much ticks every box. And nowhere has a talent quite like Bratislava for making every cent of your budget work for a living.

Brno is a beautiful and historic city known for its charming and friendly atmosphere. Its young population ensure a lively and vibrant club and music scene that caters to a variety of styles from trendy discos and raves to jazz and live music venues.

The most beautifully preserved city in Poland, it is no surprise that Krakow is the country’s biggest tourist draw. But what is a surprise, is party Krakow. With the highest density of bars and clubs anywhere in the world and a huge student population. Factor in the weather – hot and sunny in summer, magical and snowy in winter. Now try to come up with a good excuse for not going.

Riga has the best nightlife in the Baltics and is becoming the one of the most popular destinations for hen weekends in all of Eastern Europe. Whether you want a day of high adrenaline activities and a blistering night on the town or prefer to take it easy and relax in one of Riga's trendy bars, the options are endless.

Sofia. Sofia. Sofia. So. Fee. Aaaaaaaah. Sound rather like a fit Spanish bird from a soft-core Film 4? Well...yeah...but....no...but stay with us.....hot Italian screen sirens and many a fine Spanish model-turned-actress aside, Sofia is the name of the newest kid on the European Block and she's ready and waiting for your call. Bulgaria's bustling capital is such a brand-spankingly, thirst-inducingly, pant-tighteningly new stag destination that even the Bulgarians didn't know about it until we pointed it out to them. If mainstream destinations jam-packed with guide-book wielding ‘bucket ‘n spade' families on package deals don't float your boat then a stag weekend in Sofia is your money shot.

The second largest city in Croatia, Split definitely has a lot going on. As well as sprawling idyllic coastlines providing the perfect backdrop against which to sunbathe off a hangover, the town centre itself is largely made up of the imposing historical metropolis. Built by Roman Emperor Diocletian that Split once housed over 2,000 people and now is made up of over 200 incredible ruins. Right so there’s some history thrown at you. Now, if you’re not a historical buff never fear, there are plenty of bars, nightclubs, pavement cafes and open air markets to satisfy a variety of tastes.

Tallinn’s a beautiful Eastern European city: capital of Estonia, looks across the Baltic to Helsinki and couldn’t be less affected by its ‘former Soviet’ status if it tried. Nothing here is dull, grey or oppressed. The Old Town is one of the loveliest in Europe, but the city has also perfected effortless cool – and they know how to party on the cobbled streets.

Nestled among some pretty stylish neighbours, Wroclaw still stands out for its beautiful architecture and friendly atmosphere. Bars stay open until the last drinkers head home, and foodies are creating an increasing buzz around restaurants. As you might expect from Poland, brewing is practically a national pastime and bars are well stocked with both local brews and international favourites. If you’re looking for a destination with a love for tasty affordable beer away from the throngs of tourists in other parts of Poland, then Wroclaw will surely surprise.

Albufeira has everything a fabulous beach holiday should have: sparkling blue seas, golden sands and stunning landscapes to explore on foot. Once a quiet little fishing village, it has become one of the top destinations for holidays or wild weekend breaks, with plenty of nightlife on the infamous ‘Strip’, buzzing beachside bistros serving traditional Portuguese cuisine, plus sunshine and scenery galore.

Amsterdam is a city famed for its canals, red light district and super ‘smoky’ coffee shops, but, it’s also a place full of history and culture, making it one of the top destinations in Europe for weekend breaks.

Barcelona is the capital of the Catalan region and a cultural hotspot, with nightlife to match. Marrying the best of modern urban life with stunning sights and a beautiful sun-soaked coastline, you get the best of both worlds, whether you want a city break or a beach getaway.

Famous for its bloody history and the incredible feat of engineering that was the Titanic (ahem), this revived, hedonistic party city is no sinking ship! A hen weekend in Belfast is certain to be a heady mix of incredible culture and incredible nightlife, to be sure. At the centre of the biggest urban regeneration project in Europe, the shipyards have given way to a great waterfront scene, packed with live music bars and nightclubs. For a great hen do, this is a surefire winner!

A quarter of a century after The Wall came down and Berlin is a truly buzzing hotspot, overflowing with cool clubs and cultural highs. Berlin is a thriving, vibrant, cosmopolitan international capital. It’s a city with an open-minded attitude, reflected in its bohemian atmosphere and decadent nightlife.

The people are friendly and always have something to say. Friday night on Temple Bar is unforgettable. Even the city’s walking tours manage to throw party into the mix. And anyone who’s spent a wild night (or a wild weekend) in Ireland’s capital will tell you: Dublin is one of those cities that sneaks up on you, steals your heart and refuses to give it back – ever.

Your Hamburg Stag Do In a Nutshell

• Thirst-quenching German lagers by the stein-ful from it's many beer halls, brewery tours and 24hr nightlife.
• Book some wake boarding and jet skiing on Neuländer See surrounded by jaw-dropping Gothic architecture,.
• Enjoy fresh seafood and curry-wurst and don't forget this is the birth place of the 'Hamburger!'

Only six European cities attract more tourists than Lisbon - and two million folks a year can’t be wrong! Lisbonites know how to throw a party, with many of the best clubs and bars staying open until the early hours of the morning playing the latest in fresh new music every day of the week. Talented DJ’s keep the music pumping, while creative bartenders craft delicious drinks to your tastes. Add to the mix some stunning architecture and the burgeoning food scene and it’s no wonder Lisbon is gaining traction as a top hen do destination. See it for yourself.

The bustling Bavarian city of Munich is one of Germany’s cultural gems – and also one of the most desirable destinations to live on the planet. And when it comes to having a good time, well...Munich doesn’t have one of the most famous beer festivals in the world because it can’t throw a party.

Barcelona is the capital of the Catalan region and a cultural hotspot, with nightlife to match. Marrying the best of modern urban life with stunning sights and a beautiful sun-soaked coastline, you get the best of both worlds, whether you want a city break or a beach getaway.

There’s no getting away from holiday in Lloret de Mar, it’s what it does best. Bits of the town itself are pretty and still quite quaint, with narrow little streets and traditional buildings. But the main look is ‘everyone-back-to-ours’ apartment blocks, all-you-can-eat buffets and bars, bars and more bars. And then there are the beaches. Big and beautiful, small and secluded, somewhere in between, Lloret de Mar’s sand and sea is well kept, very clean and definitely the big ticket round these parts.

Madrid doesn’t mind a bit if Barcelona commandeers Spain’s party-city reputation and it’s happy to let you think all it has is art and culture. Because while the tourists are trouping round the big-ticket sights, the locals are having a ball in the barrios. Spain’s capital might not wear its wild old time on its sleeve but it doesn’t mind a bit if you want to come play. Just be prepared for lots of late nights, loud music and Madrileños en-masse looking effortlessly wonderful.

Marbella is a magnet for wealth and glamour – and not the understated kind. It’s a town for show-offs. You definitely don’t dress to please yourself here. Everything, everywhere is all about being seen in the right places at the right time by the right people. But if you like a bit of glitz, fantastic clubs and bars, very pretty people-watching and you’re more at home in a designer kaftan than cut-offs, Marbella is the smartest place to party on the Costa del Sol.

Albufeira has everything a fabulous beach holiday should have: sparkling blue seas, golden sands and stunning landscapes to explore on foot. Once a quiet little fishing village, it has become one of the top destinations for holidays or wild weekend breaks, with plenty of nightlife on the infamous ‘Strip’, buzzing beachside bistros serving traditional Portuguese cuisine, plus sunshine and scenery galore.

Barcelona is the capital of the Catalan region and a cultural hotspot, with nightlife to match. Marrying the best of modern urban life with stunning sights and a beautiful sun-soaked coastline, you get the best of both worlds, whether you want a city break or a beach getaway.

The southern coastal town of Bournemouth prides itself on its friendly locals and seven miles of sandy beaches. Stroll along the promenade or through the award-winning gardens, tuck into fresh fish’n’chips, soak up some rays on the sand and then when evening rolls around the vibrant nightlife offers an array of clubs, bars and pubs to dance the night away.

Brighton is a city where almost anything goes. The area is divided into the narrow, cobbled North and South Laines that begin at the city centre and finish on the beach. Known for its open-minded attitudes and cafe culture, Brighton is the UK’s answer to San Francisco and boasts a bustling atmosphere by the sea.

Hvar is undoubtedly the bustling hub of the Croatia islands. This charming town boasts sites of natural beauty alongside a great bar and club scene. Hvar island was voted one of the top ten most beautiful islands in the world and is almost always accompanied by scorching summers - perfect for stag do in the sunshine! Whether you’re after adrenaline fuelled watersports, relaxing days baking on the beach, history and charm, or just a great beach-side club or two...Hvar has a lot to offer.

Only six European cities attract more tourists than Lisbon - and two million folks a year can’t be wrong! Lisbonites know how to throw a party, with many of the best clubs and bars staying open until the early hours of the morning playing the latest in fresh new music every day of the week. Talented DJ’s keep the music pumping, while creative bartenders craft delicious drinks to your tastes. Add to the mix some stunning architecture and the burgeoning food scene and it’s no wonder Lisbon is gaining traction as a top hen do destination. See it for yourself.

There’s no getting away from holiday in Lloret de Mar, it’s what it does best. Bits of the town itself are pretty and still quite quaint, with narrow little streets and traditional buildings. But the main look is ‘everyone-back-to-ours’ apartment blocks, all-you-can-eat buffets and bars, bars and more bars. And then there are the beaches. Big and beautiful, small and secluded, somewhere in between, Lloret de Mar’s sand and sea is well kept, very clean and definitely the big ticket round these parts.

Marbella is a magnet for wealth and glamour – and not the understated kind. It’s a town for show-offs. You definitely don’t dress to please yourself here. Everything, everywhere is all about being seen in the right places at the right time by the right people. But if you like a bit of glitz, fantastic clubs and bars, very pretty people-watching and you’re more at home in a designer kaftan than cut-offs, Marbella is the smartest place to party on the Costa del Sol.

Nestled between St Ives to the south and Padstow to the north, the Cornish town of Newquay is the UK’s premier surfing destination. But it’s not just about donning a wetsuit and heading out into the big blue, as Newquay is also home to some of the country’s best beaches and some fine bars.

The second largest city in Croatia, Split definitely has a lot going on. As well as sprawling idyllic coastlines providing the perfect backdrop against which to sunbathe off a hangover, the town centre itself is largely made up of the imposing historical metropolis. Built by Roman Emperor Diocletian that Split once housed over 2,000 people and now is made up of over 200 incredible ruins. Right so there’s some history thrown at you. Now, if you’re not a historical buff never fear, there are plenty of bars, nightclubs, pavement cafes and open air markets to satisfy a variety of tastes.

Amsterdam is a city famed for its canals, red light district and super ‘smoky’ coffee shops, but, it’s also a place full of history and culture, making it one of the top destinations in Europe for weekend breaks.

Barcelona is the capital of the Catalan region and a cultural hotspot, with nightlife to match. Marrying the best of modern urban life with stunning sights and a beautiful sun-soaked coastline, you get the best of both worlds, whether you want a city break or a beach getaway.

A quarter of a century after The Wall came down and Berlin is a truly buzzing hotspot, overflowing with cool clubs and cultural highs. Berlin is a thriving, vibrant, cosmopolitan international capital. It’s a city with an open-minded attitude, reflected in its bohemian atmosphere and decadent nightlife.

Visitors seeking cities on the banks of the Danube often completely miss Bratislava. Their loss we say. It might be a small city and not given too much trumpet-blowing in the style of Vienna and Budapest, but for sheer friendliness, party stamina and overall good looks it pretty much ticks every box. And nowhere has a talent quite like Bratislava for making every cent of your budget work for a living.

The people are friendly and always have something to say. Friday night on Temple Bar is unforgettable. Even the city’s walking tours manage to throw party into the mix. And anyone who’s spent a wild night (or a wild weekend) in Ireland’s capital will tell you: Dublin is one of those cities that sneaks up on you, steals your heart and refuses to give it back – ever.

The most beautifully preserved city in Poland, it is no surprise that Krakow is the country’s biggest tourist draw. But what is a surprise, is party Krakow. With the highest density of bars and clubs anywhere in the world and a huge student population. Factor in the weather – hot and sunny in summer, magical and snowy in winter. Now try to come up with a good excuse for not going.

Madrid doesn’t mind a bit if Barcelona commandeers Spain’s party-city reputation and it’s happy to let you think all it has is art and culture. Because while the tourists are trouping round the big-ticket sights, the locals are having a ball in the barrios. Spain’s capital might not wear its wild old time on its sleeve but it doesn’t mind a bit if you want to come play. Just be prepared for lots of late nights, loud music and Madrileños en-masse looking effortlessly wonderful.

Riga has the best nightlife in the Baltics and is becoming the one of the most popular destinations for hen weekends in all of Eastern Europe. Whether you want a day of high adrenaline activities and a blistering night on the town or prefer to take it easy and relax in one of Riga's trendy bars, the options are endless.

Sofia. Sofia. Sofia. So. Fee. Aaaaaaaah. Sound rather like a fit Spanish bird from a soft-core Film 4? Well...yeah...but....no...but stay with us.....hot Italian screen sirens and many a fine Spanish model-turned-actress aside, Sofia is the name of the newest kid on the European Block and she's ready and waiting for your call. Bulgaria's bustling capital is such a brand-spankingly, thirst-inducingly, pant-tighteningly new stag destination that even the Bulgarians didn't know about it until we pointed it out to them. If mainstream destinations jam-packed with guide-book wielding ‘bucket ‘n spade' families on package deals don't float your boat then a stag weekend in Sofia is your money shot.

Tallinn’s a beautiful Eastern European city: capital of Estonia, looks across the Baltic to Helsinki and couldn’t be less affected by its ‘former Soviet’ status if it tried. Nothing here is dull, grey or oppressed. The Old Town is one of the loveliest in Europe, but the city has also perfected effortless cool – and they know how to party on the cobbled streets.

England’s second city is first class for a weekend away in the heart of England. No wonder hens are flocking here. The sheer size of Birmingham often takes outsiders by surprise but this makes it perfect for a weekend of adventure and once you find your feet there are plenty of sparkling hidden gems to be discovered.

Blackpool was originally a seaside destination that only the rich could afford to visit, but these days it’s better known as the unofficial capital for wild weekends, with its famous Pleasure Beach, beachfront prom, pier and plethora of drinking holes attracting crowds from far and wide.

Visitors seeking cities on the banks of the Danube often completely miss Bratislava. Their loss we say. It might be a small city and not given too much trumpet-blowing in the style of Vienna and Budapest, but for sheer friendliness, party stamina and overall good looks it pretty much ticks every box. And nowhere has a talent quite like Bratislava for making every cent of your budget work for a living.

Brno is a beautiful and historic city known for its charming and friendly atmosphere. Its young population ensure a lively and vibrant club and music scene that caters to a variety of styles from trendy discos and raves to jazz and live music venues.

Glasgow’s a player when it comes art, design, culture and history but it doesn’t sell itself on quaint alone. The city’s a master of reinvention, proud of its past but forward thinking – and it takes drinking, dining and dancing seriously.

The most beautifully preserved city in Poland, it is no surprise that Krakow is the country’s biggest tourist draw. But what is a surprise, is party Krakow. With the highest density of bars and clubs anywhere in the world and a huge student population. Factor in the weather – hot and sunny in summer, magical and snowy in winter. Now try to come up with a good excuse for not going.

Leeds is rightly one of the top destinations in the country for hen parties. With boutique shops and hotels, fine dining and a nightlife that sparkles, Leeds should be at the top of your list for a wild weekend up North.

Only six European cities attract more tourists than Lisbon - and two million folks a year can’t be wrong! Lisbonites know how to throw a party, with many of the best clubs and bars staying open until the early hours of the morning playing the latest in fresh new music every day of the week. Talented DJ’s keep the music pumping, while creative bartenders craft delicious drinks to your tastes. Add to the mix some stunning architecture and the burgeoning food scene and it’s no wonder Lisbon is gaining traction as a top hen do destination. See it for yourself.

England’s northernmost city boasts brilliant bars, exciting eateries and welcoming locals – no wonder it’s regularly voted one of the best places in the country for a night out. There’s more to the Toon than brown ale and here’s what to expect…

Norwich is a bustling regional capital which contains many of the trappings of a far larger city, whilst retaining all the charm and friendliness of a tight-knit community. Considering its small size, Norwich packs a real punch, cramming in a diverse range of attractions which make it perfect for any hen do.

Portsmouth’s one of the liveliest cities on the south coast of England. It might sell itself on ferries and naval history, but what most people who love the city buy is its brilliant attitude. From the kiss-me-quick seaside tradition of Southsea with its iconic pier, ice-cream cones and shingle beach to the modern city centre or the charm of Old Portsmouth, pick a place, give it a minute and something’s happening.

Less than 40 miles from London, Reading is a large town with a city feel that offers everything you could want for a weekend away with the girls. From the historic Reading Abbey to The Oracle shopping centre, a diverse range of restaurants and a large university population, Reading is much more than just a festival location.

Riga has the best nightlife in the Baltics and is becoming the one of the most popular destinations for hen weekends in all of Eastern Europe. Whether you want a day of high adrenaline activities and a blistering night on the town or prefer to take it easy and relax in one of Riga's trendy bars, the options are endless.

Sofia. Sofia. Sofia. So. Fee. Aaaaaaaah. Sound rather like a fit Spanish bird from a soft-core Film 4? Well...yeah...but....no...but stay with us.....hot Italian screen sirens and many a fine Spanish model-turned-actress aside, Sofia is the name of the newest kid on the European Block and she's ready and waiting for your call. Bulgaria's bustling capital is such a brand-spankingly, thirst-inducingly, pant-tighteningly new stag destination that even the Bulgarians didn't know about it until we pointed it out to them. If mainstream destinations jam-packed with guide-book wielding ‘bucket ‘n spade' families on package deals don't float your boat then a stag weekend in Sofia is your money shot.

Best known for its busy port, there’s so much else to do in Southampton that escaping on the open seas will be the last thing on your mind. With its sights, sounds and smells of the sea, plus ferry links to the Isle of Wight and France, it’s a popular holiday spot and ideal for those who want to unwind, eat, drink and be merry.

Wales is the new Ireland. While Cardiff may currently be winning in the coolness stakes, Swansea is catching up quick. Swansea is built in a smashing location, with a long promenade sweeping around Swansea Bay. The nightlife is concentrated around Wind Street, with a myriad of bars to suit all tastes, from the cheap-and-cheerful to the poncey-as-all-hell. Alternatively try the Mumble Mile, a pub crawl including 11 different haunts.

If you're in Wales, throw yourself, literally, into the outdoor pursuits. Coasteering, climbing, abseiling and gorge scrambling are all superb fun alternatives to the standard stag do karting and clay shooting.

Amsterdam is a city famed for its canals, red light district and super ‘smoky’ coffee shops, but, it’s also a place full of history and culture, making it one of the top destinations in Europe for weekend breaks.

Bath is a stunning city famous for its Ancient Roman baths, magnificent Georgian buildings and historical landmarks. But as well as its cultural importance, Bath remains a thoroughly modern city boasting high-end shops, cafes, bars, clubs and restaurants. The city offers an excellent range of hen do ideas, including the Thermae Bath Spa, which is a must for hen groups staying in Bath or nearby.

Visitors seeking cities on the banks of the Danube often completely miss Bratislava. Their loss we say. It might be a small city and not given too much trumpet-blowing in the style of Vienna and Budapest, but for sheer friendliness, party stamina and overall good looks it pretty much ticks every box. And nowhere has a talent quite like Bratislava for making every cent of your budget work for a living.

Brno is a beautiful and historic city known for its charming and friendly atmosphere. Its young population ensure a lively and vibrant club and music scene that caters to a variety of styles from trendy discos and raves to jazz and live music venues.

There is much more to this beautiful city than scholars and reference books. Expect charming cobbled streets, boutique shopping, quaint tea rooms, vibrant cocktail bars, photo opportunities galore and even city-dwelling cows. Top marks!

Packed full of famous landmarks dating back to Roman, Medieval and Tudor periods, Chester can proudly claim to be on of the UK’s most attractive and historical cities. The River Dee runs directly through the heart of this beautiful city, which also boasts a range of unique architectural styles housing shops, bars, restaurants and hotels complementing its rich history.

Only six European cities attract more tourists than Lisbon - and two million folks a year can’t be wrong! Lisbonites know how to throw a party, with many of the best clubs and bars staying open until the early hours of the morning playing the latest in fresh new music every day of the week. Talented DJ’s keep the music pumping, while creative bartenders craft delicious drinks to your tastes. Add to the mix some stunning architecture and the burgeoning food scene and it’s no wonder Lisbon is gaining traction as a top hen do destination. See it for yourself.

Madrid doesn’t mind a bit if Barcelona commandeers Spain’s party-city reputation and it’s happy to let you think all it has is art and culture. Because while the tourists are trouping round the big-ticket sights, the locals are having a ball in the barrios. Spain’s capital might not wear its wild old time on its sleeve but it doesn’t mind a bit if you want to come play. Just be prepared for lots of late nights, loud music and Madrileños en-masse looking effortlessly wonderful.

The bustling Bavarian city of Munich is one of Germany’s cultural gems – and also one of the most desirable destinations to live on the planet. And when it comes to having a good time, well...Munich doesn’t have one of the most famous beer festivals in the world because it can’t throw a party.

One of England’s most historical cities is also incredibly diverse in the entertainment stakes, with a massive student population that keeps it feeling fresh. Oxford is brimming with culture, nightlife and an intriguing blend of old-meets-new.

The second largest city in Croatia, Split definitely has a lot going on. As well as sprawling idyllic coastlines providing the perfect backdrop against which to sunbathe off a hangover, the town centre itself is largely made up of the imposing historical metropolis. Built by Roman Emperor Diocletian that Split once housed over 2,000 people and now is made up of over 200 incredible ruins. Right so there’s some history thrown at you. Now, if you’re not a historical buff never fear, there are plenty of bars, nightclubs, pavement cafes and open air markets to satisfy a variety of tastes.

Tallinn’s a beautiful Eastern European city: capital of Estonia, looks across the Baltic to Helsinki and couldn’t be less affected by its ‘former Soviet’ status if it tried. Nothing here is dull, grey or oppressed. The Old Town is one of the loveliest in Europe, but the city has also perfected effortless cool – and they know how to party on the cobbled streets.

Nestled among some pretty stylish neighbours, Wroclaw still stands out for its beautiful architecture and friendly atmosphere. Bars stay open until the last drinkers head home, and foodies are creating an increasing buzz around restaurants. As you might expect from Poland, brewing is practically a national pastime and bars are well stocked with both local brews and international favourites. If you’re looking for a destination with a love for tasty affordable beer away from the throngs of tourists in other parts of Poland, then Wroclaw will surely surprise.

Picturesque yet party-hard, one of England’s most iconic cities has fast become the port of call for a good old fashioned knees-up.