5 Bachelor (or Bachelorette) Party Destinations in Europe

At Groom+Style, we support every lifestyle choice, from the top-knot to the sack and crack wax, and we understand that not every groom, or bride-to-be, sees getting hammered at the local bar as the most fitting way of entering married life.

If you’re about to tie the knot, and you’re looking for somewhere a little bit off the beaten track to go with your friends, we’ve got you covered. We’ve researched a handful of the best alternative bachelor party destinations for you to take a look at, for when you want to truly make this a trip to remember.

Note: these destinations work just as well for a Buck’s and Hen’s weekend.

1. Reykjavik, Iceland

We’re pushing the limits of what might technically be considered Europe here, but we’re pretty sure we’re safe.

Snow, mountains, geysers, glaciers and whale watching. A trip to Iceland’s capital is about as close as you can get to the rugged days of Old Norse.

Located in the island’s South-West corner, Reykjavik is becoming popular year-round with those looking for something completely different. And when we say completely different, we mean it. Take a trip up north, and you will feel as though you’ve stepped onto another planet.

What to do in Reykjavik

Reykjavik isn’t really the place to go for wild, booze-fuelled benders, but if you’re looking for an experience to remember, for sure! Main attractions include:

– The Blue Lagoon – an outdoor sauna, heated by geothermal (volcanic) springs

– Gullfoss – One of the country’s most famous waterfalls

– Whale watching – Get up-close and personal with gigantic whales and other sea monsters

– Hire a car and drive – Enjoy one of the most surreal road trips of your life

Relative Cost of Going to Iceland

While the supermarkets are reasonable, food and drink from restaurants and bars can be a little bit more expensive than you might be used to. Accommodation is very reasonably priced, and the locals are incredibly friendly.

2. Copenhagen, Denmark

Not quite Amsterdam and not fully Scandinavian, Copenhagen has a character all its own, which will get you going the minute you step out into its wild and bustling streets. This huge, complex city – Denmark’s capital – can be a little overwhelming at first, so it’s best to make some kind of plan before heading out. Pick some spots and load them into Google Maps so you don’t get lost.

Like most of the Nordic and Scandinavian countries, beer in Copenhagen is a touch pricey, but what you pay for in Krone, the city makes up for in ridiculously fun nightlife.

Take a trip to Copenhagen and spend the whole weekend exploring, and we guarantee you’ll see maybe 5% of this awesome city.

What to do in Copenhagen

We’ve included Copenhagen on this list because it strikes the ideal balance between culture and crazy.

– Spend the day time checking out the restaurants and old buildings

– Try your best to visit as many bars as possible at night

Relative Cost of Going to Denmark

Food and drink can be a bit pricey, but the experience is an unforgettable one. Accommodation is reasonable if you choose something through AirBnB.

3. Warsaw, Poland

Poland’s capital city has some of the most legit nightlife in Europe, and drinks are outrageously cheap. Exciting and modern, with some serious Eastern European character, Warsaw is where you go when you want go big.

What to do in Warsaw

A lot of Warsaw was destroyed during World War II, so it’s a very modern-looking city. There are places to visit during the day, like the Palace of Culture and Science, but where Warsaw really shines is with its nightlife. We’ve included it on our list because while the masses will be flocking to Krakow, you’ll be partying like a boss in Warsaw.

Relative Cost of Going to Poland

Once you’re there, Warsaw is by far the cheapest place on our list. Drinks cost next to nothing, and if your plan is to party hard, you’ll be very welcome here.

4. Zurich, Switzerland

If you thought that all Switzerland had to offer was banks and cuckoo clocks, think again. Enter a chocolate-induced coma during the day, after wandering the streets of one of Europe’s most mind-bogglingly beautiful cities.

At night, take on some seriously sophisticated bars, and drink to your soon-to-be-married success.

What to do in Zurich

Zurich is going to suit the person with serious style. If you like a drink, but you’re not afraid of a bit of culture, this is the city for you. If you really want to splash out, hire a boat and take it out on one of the area’s awesome lakes.

– For a real creative kick, try visiting one of Zurich’s art bars and follow in the footsteps of some the world’s most famous artists

– Check out some of the area’s best restaurants

Relative Cost of Going to Switzerland

There’s no way around this, Zurich is pretty pricey, but if you’re looking for something that no one will forget, this could be it. Drinks are expensive, but for the scenery you’ll be enjoying them in, it’s totally worth it.

5. Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal’s capital city is incredible all year round, and with tons of places to eat amazing food on the cheap, and Super Bock served in jugs, you’ll come back fatter, but happier than you’d ever imagined possible.

Lisbon is at its peak in mid-to-late Summer, when you’ll find locals and visitors strolling the city’s streets in search of grilled chicken, fresh seafood and beer. If all of that relaxing gets to be too much, you can expend some energy in the city centre’s clubs and bars. We’re serious, Lisbon really does have it all.

What do to in Lisbon

If you and your friends are big on food, drink and relaxing, hit up Lisbon. If the mood takes you, the nightlife is there, and you will not be disappointed.

Take in the atmosphere with the squad and a few pitchers of beer, outside one of dozens of bars and independent restaurants.

Relative Cost of Going to Portugal

Accommodation is fairly cheap, and food and drink is also reasonably priced, for what’s usually very good quality. Dive into any street-side restaurant for some local seafood, or try the famous piri piri chicken.

Gifts for the Bachelor or Bachelorette

If you are wanting to ensure the bachelor or bachelorette, has an amazing time during their weekend away, then the following gifts would go down a treat.

1. Recommended for the flight or during the recovery phase of the weekend:

2. It is your responsibility to ensure the bachelor or bride-toi-be does not catch a cold before the wedding:

3. Someone will have to carry around supplies while you are seeing the sites – this trendy backpack is just the thing:

4. Pretend you are getting healthy before the wedding with this fitness tracker:

5. These trendy sunglasses will ensure the Groom or Bride-to-Be can enjoy the local sights:

Conclusion

Those are our alternative bachelor party destinations. What about you? Show us where you went (or where you’re planning to go) and we’ll share the best ones on our social media pages!