Best Abroad Hen Do Destinations for Every Type of Bride 2024
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On the hunt for the best hen-do destinations in Europe for a whole weekend of fun? We've got you covered.
If you've been at the receiving end of a bridesmaid proposal and are now joining one of your closest pals at the altar, there's no task more important than planning the hen do of a lifetime.
Be warned, organising the ultimate hen do isn't always all it's cracked up to be. From differing opinions on activities to budgeting dramas and non-commital friends (we've all got them), planning a girls' weekend away is no easy feat - but we promise it'll be worth it!
To make your life just that little bit easier, we've compiled a list of the best and most popular hen party destinations in Europe, depending on your group of friends and what type of trip you're looking for. From partying all night (and day) in Ibiza to delicious food and wine in Italy, or lounging on a stunning white sand beach in Greece - we've got it all right here.
If a weekend away in Europe is proving too much to plan (conflicting schedules, family commitments and life, in general, happen - let's be real), we've also picked out our favourite UK hen-do destinations to kickstart your party planning.
So, whether you're the maid of honour, a bridesmaid or the organised friend of the group, we salute you!
Happy party planning!
The 9 best hen do destinations: Europe
- Best for party animals: Ibiza
- Best for foodies: Bologna, Italy
- Best for wine lovers: Tuscany, Italy
- Best for adventure & outdoor enthusiasts: Switzerland
- Best for beach babes: Greece
- Best for spa, wellness & relaxation retreats: Portugal
- Best for cultural immersion: Prague, Czech Republic
- Best for budget travellers: Budapest, Hungary
- Best for luxury experiences: Paris, France
Best for party animals: Ibiza
Ibiza is known and loved for being the ultimate party destination, so if your bride is hoping for a wild night out (or two) to commemorate her upcoming wedding day, you might be onto a winner. Whether you spend your days at beach clubs or boat parties, soaking up the sun - nothing screams girls' weekend away like Ibiza. Better yet, you'll find an array of gorgeous beaches, bars and restaurants when you need a break from the bustling nightlife.
Our favourite Ibiza hen do destination: BLUE HILL HOUSE Ibiza - Sant Josep de sa Talaia, Spain
Best for foodies: Bologna, Italy
Best cooking classes in Bologna
If you're bringing together all your favourite foodie friends for the hen do of a lifetime, we only have one destination in mind. Bologna, Italy, also known as “La Grassa” (the fat city), hasn't found itself with this nickname for no reason. For those who can't get enough of traditional and hearty foods, including fresh pasta, cheese and wine (of course) - you're in luck! From alfresco dinner parties to boozy cooking classes, Bologna, Italy has our heart for a European hen do destination done right.
Our favourite Bologna hen do destination: Taste Bologna for cooking classes, wine tasting and city tours!
Best for wine enthusiasts: Tuscany, Italy
Continuing on the subject of delicious food and even better wine, we're sticking with Italy for our next hen do destination idea. And what better place than Tuscany for the best of the best vino? Picture this: picturesque vineyards, infinite sunshine and a delicious supply of high-quality wine alongside all your besties. If this sounds like something your group will love, then Tuscany is the perfect hen do destination for you.
Our favourite Tuscany hen do destination: Villa il Pozzo - Wine & Oil tasting
Best for adventure & outdoor enthusiasts: Switzerland
Best outdoor activities in Switzerland
Just because you're heading off abroad on a hen do doesn't mean you have to plunge straight into the hustle and bustle of city life. The city isn't for everyone, and that's okay! If your bride/ bestie is an outdoorsy kind of girl, it's worth planning the hen around her passions and interests. Why bottomless brunch in the capital when you can explore once-in-a-lifetime mountain cliff walks, ski the snowy slopes and river rafting? And, yes, we know these kinds of activities aren't for everyone. But if your friendship group mutually bonds over a love of the great outdoors, we couldn't think of anything better than hiring a cosy log cabin for a weekend of exhilarating fun.
Our favourite Swiss hen do destination: Chalet Chalet Aventure, Riddes, Pennine Alps.
Best for beach babes: Greece
In the lead-up to the wedding, sometimes a bit of relaxation is all you need. While we're big fans of wild hen dos, the stress of wedding planning might mean that the bride-to-be may prefer to use her hen weekend away to unwind before one of the biggest days of her life. And, honestly - we get it! Greece has plenty where that came from - especially the beaches in Crete, Rhodes and Mykonos - you can't beat them! So, grab your best pals, book a gorgeous beachside resort and get the cocktails rolling in.
Our favourite hen do destination in Greece: Naiades Boutique Hotel - Adults Only, Crete.
Best for spa, wellness & relaxation retreats: Portugal
If your bride-to-be is more about recharging than raving, Portugal offers the perfect setting for a tranquil hen do. Imagine lounging by the pool at a luxurious spa retreat, indulging in rejuvenating massages, and enjoying the serene surroundings of the Algarve or Madeira. The beautiful landscapes and calming vibes make Portugal an idyllic spot to unwind and pamper yourself with your closest friends. Book a chic wellness retreat, sip on fresh juice by the pool, and let the stress of wedding planning melt away.
Our favourite hen do destination in Portugal: Six Senses Douro Valley, Lamengo.
Best for cultural immersion: Prague, Czech Republic
The best things to do in Prague
If your bride-to-be loves history, culture, and a great pint, Prague is the ultimate destination. This city blends stunning architecture with a vibrant arts scene and rich history. Wander through the charming cobblestone streets of the Old Town, marvel at the grandeur of Prague Castle, and soak in the views from the iconic Charles Bridge. And don't miss out on Prague’s legendary beer culture, of course! Book a tour of traditional Czech breweries, sample a variety of local brews, and relax in the city’s famous beer gardens. With impressive museums, galleries, and cultural landmarks paired with delicious beer, Prague promises to be the perfect mix of culturally immersive and fun!
Our favourite hen do destination in Prague: Beer and Wine Spa - Lázně Pramen, Prague.
Best for budget travellers: Budapest, Hungary
Affordable places to stay in Budapest
Budget is often a contentious subject when planning a hen do, as everyone has different budgets and definitions of where the bounds of "too much" begin and end. So, if you're planning a hen do on a budget but still want an unforgettable experience, Budapest is the place to be. This city offers an incredible mix of history, nightlife, and relaxation without breaking the bank. You can explore the stunning Buda Castle, unwind in the famous thermal baths, and enjoy affordable yet delicious food and drinks. It’s a perfect destination for making the most out of your hen weekend without breaking the bank.
Our favourite hen do destination in Budapest: SPARTY - Széchenyi Bath Party.
Best for luxury experiences: Paris, France
The best luxury experiences in Paris
Dreaming of organising a hen do filled with elegance and sophistication for your leading lady? Look no further than Paris. The City of Lights is synonymous with luxury, offering high-end experiences. Think sipping champagne while cruising down the Seine, dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, and shopping at the world’s most famous fashion houses. Stroll through the chic streets of Le Marais, enjoy high tea at a grand hotel, or treat yourselves to a glamorous evening at the Moulin Rouge.
Our favourite hen do destination in Paris: The Moulin Rouge Paris, Monmarte.
Choosing the best European hen do destination for your bride & beyond...
Although you might have your bride-to-be's dream hen do destination in mind, the planning doesn't stop there. To ensure you don't miss a thing, don't forget to check out our ultimate hen do planning checklist, think about any hen party theme ideas, and put together an incredible hen do playlist, sure to have everyone on their feet the entire weekend!
And, don't forget, if an abroad hen party destination doesn't work for you, you can have just as much fun in the UK with our favourite hen party destinations closer to home.
