Lisbon has become a leading destination for stag weekends, offering a blend of sunny weather, vibrant culture, and lively nightlife. The city provides a diverse range of activities that cater to different tastes, making it an excellent choice for a memorable celebration. This guide will walk you through some of the best options for activities, accommodation, and dining to help you plan the perfect trip.
Stag Do Activities in Lisbon
Lisbon provides a variety of activities to keep your group entertained. For those seeking some friendly competition, go-karting tracks on the city’s outskirts offer an exhilarating experience. You can book sessions that include practice laps and a final race, allowing everyone to get a taste of speed. It is a reliable way to add some high-energy fun to your weekend itinerary.
If you prefer to be on the water, a boat tour along the Tagus River is a fantastic option. Many companies offer private charters that come with a skipper, drinks, and music. These tours provide stunning views of the city’s landmarks, including the Belém Tower and the 25 de Abril Bridge. It’s a more relaxed way to spend an afternoon, soaking up the sun and enjoying the scenery with your friends.
As evening approaches, Lisbon’s nightlife comes alive. The Bairro Alto district is the city’s main hub for bars and pubs, with narrow streets filled with dozens of small venues. You can easily hop from one bar to another, sampling local drinks. For those who want to continue the night, the Cais do Sodré area, particularly the famous Pink Street, has several larger clubs that stay open until the early hours.
Where to Stay in Lisbon
Finding the right accommodation is important for any group trip. Lisbon has a wide selection of options to fit different budgets and preferences. Many groups opt for self-catering apartments, which can be found across the city on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com. Apartments offer more space and flexibility, with kitchen facilities that can help keep costs down. Areas like Bairro Alto or Cais do Sodré are ideal if you want to be close to the nightlife, while Chiado offers a slightly more central and upmarket feel.
Alternatively, hotels can provide convenience and additional amenities. There are numerous hotels that are accustomed to hosting groups, offering multiple-occupancy rooms or adjoining suites. Staying in a hotel means you have services like daily cleaning and a reception desk for assistance. For a balance of comfort and location, consider hotels in the Baixa or Avenida da Liberdade areas.
Best Food and Drink Spots
A trip to Lisbon would not be complete without experiencing its food and drink scene. For a true taste of Portugal, make sure your group tries some local dishes. Time Out Market Lisboa is an excellent starting point, offering a huge variety of food stalls from some of the city’s top chefs under one roof. It’s a great place for a group with varied tastes, as everyone can choose something different.
You should also seek out a traditional Portuguese “tasca” for an authentic meal. These small, family-run restaurants serve classic dishes like grilled sardines and bacalhau (salt cod). For a quick and iconic snack, don’t miss the pastel de nata, a delicious custard tart that can be found in bakeries all over the city.
Your Ideal Stag Destination
Lisbon successfully combines exciting activities, a wide range of accommodation, and a fantastic food scene, establishing it as a prime location for a stag weekend. The city’s welcoming atmosphere and affordability add to its appeal. By planning ahead, you can put together an itinerary that offers a great mix of fun, culture, and relaxation for a trip that everyone will remember.