Lisbon – a good stag destination?

Published by

on


Lisbon offers some of the best food and drink in Europe combined with affordability. Warm weather and great beaches give those looking for a great stag destination the chance to do tonnes of activities. Having been to Lisbon for a stag party I can attest to this being one of the best stag destinations in Europe. Lets take a look and answer the question Lisbon – a good stag destination?


How do I get to Lisbon?

To reach Lisbon from London travelers can take a direct flight from London airports such as Heathrow, Gatwick, or Stansted to Lisbon Portela Airport, with flights typically taking around 2 to 3 hours. Flights are usually much cheaper in the off season as Lisbon is extremely popular in the summer months.


Best time of year to go to Lisbon on a stag party?

We advise travel to Lisbon during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) months when the weather is mild, and crowds are fewer. The crowds in summer can be totally mad, bars and cafes are rammed. So if you can avoid the summer then do.


Rooftop Bars and latenight drinking holes aplenty

Lisbon’s bar scene offers an wide array of watering holes to suit every mood and occasion. From historic taverns adorned with azulejo tiles to trendy cocktail lounges, the city’s drinking establishments exude charm and character.

In the historic Alfama district, narrow streets lead to wine bars where customers can taste local vintages to a backdrop of fado music. Meanwhile, the bohemian area of Bairro Alto comes alive after dark, with its alleys teeming with lively bars and late-night revelers. For those seeking panoramic views, Lisbon’s rooftop bars offer the perfect vantage point to admire the cityscape.


Some high energy activities for a stag do in Lisbon.

Hit the ground running for your stag party in Lisbon and get yourself tickets as they are likely to sell out.

  1. Lisbon Pub Crawl: Dive into Lisbon’s nightlife scene with a pub crawl through the city’s streets. This adventure takes you to some of Lisbon’s hottest bars and clubs, where you can mingle with fellow travelers. Included in the experience are variety of drinks and soaking up the energetic atmosphere. From historic taverns in Alfama to trendy bars in Bairro Alto, the pub crawl offers a taste of (Get your advanced tickets here)
  2. Fado Performance: Discover Portugal’s soulful musical tradition with a live fado performance in Lisbon’s atmospheric taverns. The haunting melodies and heartfelt lyrics evoke a deep sense of saudade (nostalgia), providing a window into the country’s cultural heritage. We have written a longer piece about Fado if you are interested. (Get your advanced tickets here)
  3. Boat Party with DJ and Open Bar: Join a thrilling boat party on the Tagus River, where you can dance to the beats of a DJ, and enjoy stunning views of Lisbon’s skyline as the sun sets. This lively experience combines the excitement of a nightclub with the scenic beauty of Lisbon’s waterfront, offering an unforgettable evening of fun and entertainment. (Get your advanced tickets here)

Some more low key activities (other than drinking) in Lisbon

Please don’t be thinking that the city is just a drinking hole as this couldn’t be further from the truth. Lisbon has some spectacular cultural sites to take in. These are the three we recommend you take in if you are only here for a weekend.

  1. Belém Tower (Torre de Belém): This iconic 16th-century tower stands on the banks of the Tagus River, symbolizing Portugal’s Age of Discovery. Visitors can explore its intricate Manueline architecture, ascend to its terrace for panoramic views, and soak in its rich historical significance. Tickets can be bought here.
  2. Jeronimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning monastery is a masterpiece of Portuguese Gothic architecture. Built in the 16th century, it houses the tomb of Vasco da Gama and features cloisters adorned with carvings. Tickets can be bought here.
  3. Sintra: A short journey from Lisbon, Sintra is a fairytale town nestled amid lush hills and forests. Its enchanting palaces, including the colorful Pena Palace and the romantic Quinta da Regaleira, transport visitors to another era. Explore the narrow streets lined with pastel-colored houses to wandering through the mystical gardens of Monserrate, Sintra. We have written a longer piece about visiting Sintra here. Tickets can be bought here.

Where to stay in Lisbon?

There are a range of accommodations including luxurious hotels boasting panoramic views of the city’s iconic landmarks. Also those seeking a more budget bed and breakfasts that offer a glimpse into local life.

Popular with stags are stylish hostels provide affordable options for budget-conscious travelers. Additionally, vacation rentals such as apartments allow visitors to live like locals exploring Lisbon at their own pace.

We have written a longer piece about where to stay in Lisbon which can be found here.


What are the best beaches in Lisbon for a stag party?

One of the most special things about having a stag party in Lisbon is that beaches are within touching distance on the city. These are some of the closest beaches to Lisbon city centre you can try.

  1. Praia de Carcavelos: Approximately 30 minutes by train from Lisbon city center. Golden sands, excellent for surfing, with facilities such as beach bars and rental equipment available.
  2. Cascais and Estoril: Around 30 minutes by train from Lisbon city center. Picturesque beaches with calm waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing, lined with beachfront cafes and restaurants.
  3. Costa da Caparica: Roughly 20-30 minutes by car or ferry from Lisbon, depending on traffic and transportation method. Extensive coastline with diverse beaches, offers amenities like beach bars, water sports, and scenic coastal walks.

Want a comprehensive guide to beaches in Lisbon? We’ve written one right here.

beach stag lisbon
Soak up the laid back beach vibes.

Is Lisbon and Portugal expensive for a stag party?

You heard Lisbon is cheap right? And you are not wrong, Lisbon offers a relatively affordable experience compared to many other European cities, making it an attractive destination for travelers on a budget. According to Numbeo, the cost of living in Lisbon is around 38% lower than in London, 31% lower than in Paris, and 25% lower than in Amsterdam.

A domestic beer in Lisbon typically costs around €2-3 in a bar, which is notably cheaper than in cities like London (€5-6) and Paris (€7-8). Additionally, hotel prices in Lisbon are generally lower compared to other major European capitals, with mid-range hotel rooms averaging around €70 to €120 per night. All of this means you can gets stuck in a have a great stag without worrying about cost.


Lisbon vs Porto for a Stag Party, which is better?

Choosing between Lisbon and Porto for a stag party depends on preferences. Lisbon offers vibrant nightlife, diverse bars, and clubs, along with beach parties and boat cruises. Its larger size provides more options for activities and accommodations.

Porto, known for its historic charm and picturesque riverside, offers a more intimate setting with cozy wine bars, traditional taverns, and riverfront parties. It’s ideal for those seeking a more laid-back atmosphere with opportunities for wine tasting and exploring historic sites.


Looking for some more stag destination inspiration?

Albufeira – a good stag destination?

Albufeira, located in Portugal’s sunny Algarve region, is a vibrant coastal town known for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and picturesque Old Town. Visitors can enjoy sun-soaked days lounging…

Best stag destinations for 2024

Planning a stag party for your friends and not sure about the destination? We have researched some of the best stag/buck’s and bachelor party locations for an epic party…

Belgrade for a stag/buck’s party?

Belgrade, Serbia’s capital city of 1.5 million people is often touted as a good stag/buck’s destination but rarely visited by stag groups. However the tide is turning and this…

Loading…

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.


Where can I get a sim card?

Need a sim card on landing or about to fly off? Rather than the hassle of finding/getting a physical sim card, an easier method these days is to get an e-sim. Simply select the country or region you are in and get data and calls on your phone. More info can be found here.

Prices are reasonable, usually only $25 for 20GB of data. We now always use this method when travelling as it just saves so much time and bother!


RATING

  • Food & Drink | 9.5/10
  • Value for Money | 9/10
  • Activities | 8/10
  • Nightlife | 8/10

Total | 9/10


Join our subscriber list for new posts with awesome travel tips. Don’t miss them!

Subscribe below to our newsletter for tips, thru hiking, adventures and insights to places unseen.



Best Pastel de Nata workshops in Porto and Lisbon

BEST PASTEL DE NATA WORKSHOPS IN PORTO & LISBON. On my recent visit to Porto, I decided to take a Pastel de Nata workshop. I’ve pondered doing this on every visit to Portugal, but I finally decided to take the plunge! Or should I say…the whisk. If you are planning to visit either Porto or…

Where to enjoy the best Fado in Lisbon

Anyone who has ever walked through Alfama, the old town within Lisbon city, will have come across Fado music. Fado is an important part of Portuguese culture. It is a traditional music genre that expresses melancholy, nostalgia and longing. So integral to Portuguese culture that UNESCO recognizes it as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage…

Where are the best beaches in Lisbon and how to get to them

A visit to Lisbon may not be complete without a brisk dip in the Atlantic Ocean. But where are the best beaches in Lisbon? And how do you get to them? Find out more in our short guide. Does Lisbon have a beach? Lisbon city centre does not have a beach. But, there are a…


Most of our planning is done using other blogs, but you can’t beat a guide book at the bottom of your case. Find yours on here and get the travelling started!




CHECK LATEST FLIGHTS

ACTIVITIES TO CONSIDER

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Please note that some links on our website are partnered with affiliates. Using an affiliate links does not make it more expensive for you to purchase. We receive a small commission whenever you buy something which in turn allows us to keep writing independent travel guides and your support is greatly appreciated.


Discover more from LOTUS EATERS TRAVEL

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading