Best Stag Do in Amsterdam: Top Activities & Ideas for an Epic Weekend

Posted on 03.10.2024

Looking to plan the best stag do in Amsterdam? This guide will help you explore top activities, lively nightlife, and unique experiences that make Amsterdam the ultimate destination for your stag weekend.


Key Points

  • Amsterdam is an ideal stag do destination, blending wild nightlife with rich culture and easy access.

  • Must-try activities include beer bike tours, the Heineken Experience, and adrenaline-pumping options like paintball and quad biking.

  • Accommodation is varied, with both central hotels and unique hostels catering to different budgets and preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay.


Why Choose Amsterdam for Your Stag Do?

A lively scene in Amsterdam showcasing the vibrant atmosphere suitable for a stag do.

The Dutch Capital is a very popular destination for an epic Amsterdam stag party, offering a unique blend of wild nightlife, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences. The city’s liberal atmosphere and vibrant party scene make it a top choice for stag groups looking for a good time. From the infamous Red Light District to the bustling pubs and clubs, Amsterdam boasts an illustrious nightlife that ensures your stag party will be one to remember.

During the day, the Dutch capital offers plenty of activities to keep your group entertained. Explore significant attractions like the Anne Frank House and the beautiful canals, or dive into thrilling stag activities like paintball and quad biking. The combination of safety and excitement ensures that Amsterdam stag party is always a good idea :)

With its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious Dutch beer, Amsterdam offers a unique atmosphere that caters to all tastes. Whether you’re a history buff, a party animal, or an adrenaline junkie, this city has something for everyone. So why not visit Amsterdam and experience all it has to offer?


Easy Access and Travel

One of the best things about planning an Amsterdam stag weekend is its accessibility. Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport is conveniently located just five miles from the city center, making it easy to reach your destination without any hassle. With major airlines like KLM, Ryanair, Flybe, EasyJet, and Vueling operating at Schiphol, you have plenty of options to find a flight that suits your schedule and budget.

Getting from the airport to central Amsterdam is a breeze, with a taxi ride to Centraal Station typically taking between 15 to 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can opt for an Uber or use the efficient public transportation system.

Once you’re in the city, the main train station provides easy access to various parts of Amsterdam, ensuring you can explore all the stag activities in Amsterdam with ease. And let’s not forget the laid-back locals, who are always ready to help you navigate the city and make your stay enjoyable.


Rich Dutch Culture

Amsterdam’s rich cultural heritage is another reason why it’s a fantastic choice for a stag do. The city is home to iconic sites like Anne Frank’s House, a poignant memorial to the Jewish wartime diarist and a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The Jordaan neighborhood, with its galleries and upscale restaurants, offers a glimpse into Dutch culture and cuisine, making it a great spot to explore during the day.

For those looking for something a bit more eclectic, Amsterdam boasts unique attractions like the Sex Museum, which provides an intriguing look into the city’s social history. Culinary destinations like Chinatown offer a variety of delicious Dutch and international cuisines, ensuring your taste buds are as entertained as the rest of you.

With its blend of historical sites, cultural attractions, and vibrant nightlife, the Netherlands capital guarantees a memorable experience for any stag group.


Must-Try Stag Activities in Amsterdam

A fun depiction of various stag activities available in Amsterdam.

Amsterdam is renowned for its combination of stunning canals, vibrant nightlife, and a variety of activities suitable for all interests. Whether you’re looking to explore the city on a beer bike, delve into the history of Heineken, or engage in some friendly competition with bubble football, there’s no shortage of stag activities in Amsterdam.

Here are some of the must-try experiences for an epic stag weekend.


Beer Bike Tours

One of the most popular Amsterdam Stag Ideas is the beer bike tour, which includes beer bikes for an unforgettable experience. Pedaling around the city while enjoying 20 liters of delicious Dutch beer is an experience like no other. These tours typically last around 75 minutes and can accommodate up to 16 participants, making them perfect for stag groups. With a sober driver to guide you, you can focus on having fun and taking in the sights. Pedaling around the city while enjoying 20 liters of delicious Dutch beer is an experience like no other. This tour is a fantastic way to bond with your friends while seeing the best of Amsterdam.

Imagine cruising past Amsterdam’s famous canals, historic buildings, and lively streets, all while sipping on unlimited drinks beer bike with your mates. This activity combines sightseeing with partying, ensuring your stag weekend is memorable and full of laughs. So hop on a beer bike, grab a drink, and enjoy the ride!


Heineken Experience

For beer lovers, the Heineken Experience is an absolute must during your Amsterdam stag weekend. Located close to Leidseplein, this self-guided tour takes you through the history and brewing process of one of the world’s most famous beers. You’ll learn everything about beer-making, from the ingredients to the final product, and even get to see the old brewery equipment up close.

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the tasting room, where you can enjoy a couple of freshly brewed beers. It’s a great way to kick off your stag party, giving you a taste of Amsterdam’s brewing heritage while enjoying a few drinks with your friends.

Don’t forget to check out the gift shop at the end of the tour for some Heineken-themed souvenirs!


Bubble Football

If you’re looking for a hilarious and entertaining activity for your stag do, bubble football is a perfect choice. In this game, players wear zorb suits, which allow them to bump into each other while trying to score goals. The result is plenty of laughter and unexpected moments, making it a memorable highlight of any stag weekend.

Sessions typically last for one hour and include the rental of zorbs and pitch hire, ensuring you have everything you need for a fun-filled game.


Blood-Pumping Activities

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Amsterdam offers a range of blood-pumping activities that are sure to get your heart racing. From paintballing and quad biking to go-karting, there are plenty of options to satisfy your need for adventure during your stag weekend.

Here are some of the top choices for thrill-seekers.


Paintballing

Paintballing is a classic stag activity that never fails to deliver high-energy excitement. In Amsterdam, you’ll find a variety of themed fields (also near the city centre) where you can engage in dynamic team battles and strategic gameplay. Before the action begins, participants receive a safety briefing and all necessary equipment, including a camouflage suit and paintball gun, ensuring a safe and fun environment.

The thrill of splattering paint and outsmarting your opponents makes paintballing an unforgettable experience for all participants. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a first-timer, the adrenaline rush and camaraderie of this activity make it a must-try for any stag party.


Quad Biking

For an outdoor challenge that adds to the excitement of your stag weekend, quad biking offers an adrenaline-pumping adventure. Participants navigate challenging courses, providing an outdoor challenge that adds to the excitement.

Suitable for all skill levels, this activity ensures that everyone in the group can join in the fun and experience the thrill of riding a quad bike through various terrains.


Go Karting

Go-karting is another fast-paced, competitive racing activity that’s perfect for stag do parties. Featuring indoor and outdoor tracks, Amsterdam offers thrilling F1-style karting sessions that guarantee an exhilarating experience. The easy-to-learn controls make it accessible to everyone, ensuring that your entire group can join in the fun.

Participants in the go-karting tournament have the chance to win a trophy and champagne, adding a competitive edge to the activity. It’s a fantastic way to bond with your friends and create lasting memories of your stag weekend.


Exploring Amsterdam's Nightlife

An illustration of the famous red light district in Amsterdam, a popular spot for stag parties.

No stag weekend in Amsterdam would be complete without experiencing the city’s legendary nightlife. From bar crawls to the infamous Red Light District, Amsterdam’s nightlife offers something for everyone.

Here are some of the best ways to enjoy the night in this vibrant city.


Bar Crawl Extravaganza

A guided bar crawl is a fantastic way to explore Amsterdam’s nightlife. These tours take you through famous bars and clubs in popular areas, led by a friendly, English-speaking guide. Participants can enjoy drinks, shots, and games throughout the bar crawl, ensuring a night full of fun and laughter.

Packages typically include visits to 2-3 bars or coffee shops, a free shot in each, a peepshow, and entry to a top nightclub. It’s a stress-free way to experience the best of Amsterdam’s nightlife without worrying about where to go next.


The Red Light District

The Red Light District, or De Wallen, is one of Amsterdam’s most famous and unique attractions. Known for its visibility of sex work and array of adult-themed businesses, the Red Light District offers a range of erotic shops and live sex theatres. Casa Rosso, the oldest live sex theatre in Amsterdam, showcases live sex shows with audience participation, making it a must-visit for those looking for a wild night out.

New rules have been implemented to manage the excesses of the Red Light District, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience for visitors. So if you’re looking for a night of intrigue and excitement, the Red Light District Pub Crawl or the Smurf Bar Crawl with unlimited beer is the thing to consider.


Nightclub Entry

Amsterdam’s nightclub scene is not to be missed, with venues like Club Air offering banging trance music, no long queues, and an excellent male-to-female ratio. Located in Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein, these clubs are the epicenter of Amsterdam nightlife.

With five bars and cutting-edge electronic tunes, Club Air is a top choice for a night of dancing and fun.


Unique Amsterdam Experiences

A creative representation of unique experiences in Amsterdam, perfect for a stag do.

Amsterdam is home to a variety of unique cultural experiences that go beyond the typical stag activities. From smashing cars to enjoying drinks in a bar made of ice, these experiences ensure your stag weekend is anything but ordinary.


Car Smash

For an exhilarating and unconventional activity, try the Car Smash experience. This activity allows you to destroy a car using various weapons like a baseball bat, sledgehammer, or golf club. Participants wear protective goggles and overalls for safety, and the activity can last anywhere from 1 to 90 minutes, depending on your preference.


Icebar Amsterdam

Icebar Amsterdam offers a unique drinking experience in a bar made entirely of ice. Guests can enjoy drinks in ice glasses surrounded by intricately designed ice sculptures, creating a chilling but memorable atmosphere. It’s a fantastic place to take a break from the usual stag activities and enjoy something truly unique.

The Icebar is located close to many other popular nightlife spots, making it easy to include in your night’s plans. With temperatures dropping to -10°C, you’ll be provided with warm coats and gloves to keep you comfortable as you sip on your drinks. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!


Escape Rooms

Escape rooms in Amsterdam offer an immersive experience where participants must solve puzzles to escape themed rooms. Popular in dutch culture, these rooms are filled with riddles, clues, and lock combinations that require teamwork and quick thinking to solve.

With a typical time limit of one hour, these stag friendly bars and places provide a thrilling and challenging activity that fosters camaraderie and adds a unique twist to your stag weekend.


Top Accommodation Options for Stag Groups

Finding the right accommodation is crucial for a successful stag weekend. Amsterdam offers a variety of options that cater to different budgets and preferences, ensuring your group has a comfortable and convenient base for all the activities.

Whether you prefer a centrally located hotel or a unique hostel, there are plenty of choices to suit your needs.


Central Amsterdam Hotels

Centrally located hotels in Amsterdam offer easy access to the city’s main attractions and nightlife, making them ideal for stag groups. Hotel De Paris, for example, is located near the vibrant Leidseplein, putting you right in the heart of the action. XO Hotels City Centre, only a five-minute stroll from Dam Square, places you in a prime area for exploring the city’s famous sights and nightlife.

Staying in central Amsterdam means you’re never far from the best bars, clubs, and activities. With excellent public transport links and numerous dining options nearby, these hotels provide the perfect base for an unforgettable stag weekend.


Unique Hostels

For a more budget-friendly and quirky option, consider staying in one of Amsterdam’s unique hostels. Stayokay Zeeburg offers both private and dormitory-style rooms, with some featuring private bathrooms. A & O Hostel provides a mix of private and shared accommodations, all equipped with ensuite bathrooms, ensuring comfort and convenience for your group.

These hostels are perfect for larger stag groups looking for a fun and sociable place to stay.


Reasons to Visit Amsterdam Beyond the Stag Do

A picturesque view of Amsterdam's iconic canals, ideal for visitors beyond the stag do.

While Amsterdam is an excellent destination for stag weekends, its appeal goes far beyond just partying. The city’s vibrant culture, iconic canals, and famous sights make it a fantastic destination for any trip.

Whether you’re uncovering the city's historical treasures, enjoying mouth-watering Dutch dishes, or just soaking in the vibrant ambiance, Amsterdam has something for everyone to enjoy.


Iconic Canals and Boat Tours

Amsterdam’s extensive canal system is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see for any visitor. With 165 canals stretching over more than 100 kilometers, interlaced with 90 islands and 1,500 bridges, the city’s waterways offer a unique and picturesque way to explore.

Going on a canal cruise provides a wonderful opportunity to soak in Amsterdam's picturesque views while sipping on drinks, ensuring a soothing and memorable outing.


Famous Sights

Amsterdam is home to many famous sights, including the Amsterdam Museum, which celebrates the city’s past, present, and future. Located at Kalverstraat 92, the museum holds a collection of around 100,000 objects, showcasing Amsterdam’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Other must-see attractions include the Van Gogh Museum and the Royal Palace, each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s artistic and royal history.


Frequently Asked Questions


What makes Amsterdam a great destination for a stag do?

Amsterdam is a fantastic choice for a stag do thanks to its lively nightlife and liberal vibe, with plenty of activities to suit everyone's taste. You'll create unforgettable memories with friends there!


How easy is it to travel to Amsterdam for a stag weekend?

Traveling to Amsterdam for a stag weekend is super easy, thanks to Schiphol Airport being just five miles from the city. Plus, with great public transport options, you won't have to stress about getting around!


What are some must-try activities for a stag do in Amsterdam?

You’ve got to check out beer bike tours and the Heineken Experience for a classic dutch city vibe, but don’t miss out on bubble football and go-karting for some added fun!


What is the nightlife like in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, featuring everything from lively bars and clubs to quirky spots with unlimited drinks like the Red Light District and Icebar. You'll definitely find plenty of options for an unforgettable night out!


Where should we stay in Amsterdam for a stag weekend?

For stag dos, staying at central hotels like Hotel De Paris or XO Hotels City Centre is a great choice since you're close to nightlife and attractions. If you're on a budget and have a larger group size, unique hostels like Stayokay Zeeburg or A & O Hostel can work well too.