Best Amsterdam Stag Activities: Top Things to Do for Your Stag Weekend
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Planning a stag do in Amsterdam? You're in for a seriously good time. From cruising the famous canals to exploring the city's buzzing nightlife, Amsterdam is packed with stag activities you won't find anywhere else. Whether you're after a laid-back weekend of beers and boat rides or something a little more wild, the European city has got you covered.
To help you plan the ultimate trip, we’ve rounded up the best Amsterdam stag activities - including unique local experiences, group-friendly tours, and once-in-a-lifetime adventures that’ll keep the whole crew talking long after the wedding. So if you’re looking for stag do ideas that go beyond the usual pub crawl (although we’ve got those too), keep scrolling for everything you need to book the perfect Amsterdam stag weekend.
Why Amsterdam is Perfect for Your Stag Do
Amsterdam is one of the best stag destinations in Europe - and it’s easy to see why. Just a short flight or Eurostar from the UK, the city is compact, easy to get around, and packed with things to do that go beyond the obvious stag activity.
The city’s famous nightlife is reason enough to visit, from late-night bars and clubs to beer-tasting experiences and live music venues. But what makes Amsterdam stand out is the mix of daytime activities you won’t find elsewhere - think canal cruises, craft breweries, live sports bars, and even urban beaches in the summer.
Another win? It’s walkable and bike-friendly, so there’s no need to worry about complicated travel plans. Plus, with plenty of affordable flights and group-friendly places to stay - from hotels to apartments - Amsterdam makes organising a stag weekend abroad surprisingly straightforward. Whether you’re after a low-key celebration or a full weekend of events, Amsterdam offers the right balance of atmosphere, entertainment, and ease.
Top 10 Best Amsterdam Stag Do Activities
1. Canal Cruise with a Twist
Rather than just a regular boat ride, opt for a private boat or canal cruise with onboard entertainment, drinks, or even a BBQ. What's not to love about sailing through Amsterdam's historic canals with friends, offering picturesque views of the city’s charming bridges and narrow houses?
2. Heineken Experience Tour
No stag do in Amsterdam is complete without exploring the world-famous Heineken brewery. Take a guided tour, learn about the brewing process, and enjoy a cold pint (or three) at the end of the tour. It's a classic Amsterdam experience for beer lovers.
3. Bike Tours Through the City
Amsterdam is known as the "City of Bikes," so it’s only fitting to hop on two wheels for a guided tour. Whether you’re pedalling through the famous Jordaan district, along the canals, or past iconic landmarks like Vondelpark, this activity lets you see the best of the city at a leisurely pace while keeping it active. Because wholesome, daytime fun needs to be scheduled, too!
4. Red Light District Walking Tour
If you’re curious to explore Amsterdam’s most famous neighbourhood but want to skip the stag do clichés, a guided walking tour is the way to do it. These tours offer a more thoughtful look at the Red Light District’s history, from its roots in Amsterdam’s liberal culture to how it operates today - a great option for groups wanting to see the area more insightfully before the evening crowds hit.
5. Amsterdam Pub Crawl
Amsterdam’s nightlife is legendary, and the best way to guarantee experiencing it to the fullest is with a guided pub crawl. From intimate cocktail bars to iconic Dutch taverns, the city's mix of venues offers something for every group. It’s the perfect way to soak up Amsterdam’s distinct vibe, with likely one too many beers, all while uncovering hidden gems known only to locals.
6. Amsterdam Food Tour
Sample local delicacies like Dutch pancakes, bitterballen (a traditional snack), and herring while wandering through the city. Many food tours in Amsterdam take you to hidden gems, from traditional cafes to modern eateries, giving your group a taste of local cuisine, and hopefully curing those brutal hangovers in the morning.
7. Private Beer Tasting at Local Breweries
Amsterdam is home to a thriving craft beer scene. Why not gather your mates for a private tasting session at one of the city's top microbreweries? You'll get to taste a range of unique local brews and learn the history behind Amsterdam's beer culture. The perfect stag do activity if you're asking us!
8. Party on a Canal Boat
If your stag group loves a party, why not hire a party boat? Complete with music, lights, and plenty of space to dance, it’s one of the most unique ways to party on the water while cruising through the city’s beautiful canals.
9. Visit to the A'DAM Lookout
For incredible views, head to the A'DAM Lookout observation deck. Not only will you be treated to 360-degree views of Amsterdam, but you can also ride the “Over the Edge” swing, which swings you out over the edge of the tower – ideal for those who love a thrill.
10. Visit to the Anne Frank House or Rijksmuseum
For a more cultural experience, you can choose between a visit to the Anne Frank House to reflect on a significant part of history or the Rijksmuseum to admire some of the world’s most famous works of art, including pieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer. While, yes we know, stag dos are usually all about the bars - there's nothing wrong with making time for cultural experiences for a well-rounded trip. After all, you're in Amsterdam!
How to Plan Your Amsterdam Stag Do: Tips & Recommendations
Before you start booking bars and activities, here are a few essential tips to make sure your Amsterdam stag do runs smoothly:
1. Book Accommodation Early
Amsterdam is a major tourist hotspot, and good stag-friendly hotels and apartments get snapped up fast - especially on weekends. Look for places in Centrum, De Pijp, or Jordaan for easy access to bars, restaurants, and activities. If you’re a big group, consider private apartments or hotels with twin rooms to keep costs down.
2. Make Dinner Reservations
Unlike some other stag destinations, Amsterdam’s best restaurants and food spots get busy, so it’s worth booking in advance - especially if you’re a large group. Think beyond pub grub, as you'll find so many delicious cuisines, promising to keep you fuelled for the night ahead.
3. Get Around Like a Local
You won’t need taxis if you plan it right. Walking, cycling, and trams are the easiest ways to get around the city. Renting bikes can be a fun group activity in itself, but avoid cycling after a few beers (yes, they do fine tourists for that!).
4. Book Big Activities in Advance
Popular stag activities - like canal boat parties or beer bike tours - sell out quickly, especially in peak season (spring and summer). If you’ve got something specific in mind, lock it in early.
5. Be Aware of Local Laws and Etiquette
Amsterdam is famously laid-back, but there are limits. Respect the locals (and avoid making too much noise in residential areas), don’t drink alcohol in the street (it’s banned in most areas), and keep things respectful in the Red Light District, where stag groups are sometimes turned away if too rowdy.
6. Travel Light and Smart
Most flights from the UK are short, so hand luggage only can save you time and money. And if you’re planning on heading straight to a bar from the airport - plenty are close to Centraal Station so you can dive right into the fun.
Where to Stay for Your Amsterdam Stag Do: Best Hotels and Accommodation Options
Choosing the right place to stay can make or break your Amsterdam stag weekend. You’ll want to find somewhere central, comfortable, and group-friendly, with easy access to nightlife and activities. Here are the best areas and hotel options to suit different budgets and vibes:
Best Areas to Stay for a Stag Do in Amsterdam
- Centrum: Right in the heart of the city, close to Dam Square, Red Light District, and main nightlife spots. Perfect if you want to walk (or stumble) back to your hotel after a night out.
- De Pijp: A cool, laid-back neighbourhood known for bars, restaurants, and the famous Albert Cuyp Market - great if you want a mix of daytime chill and night-time action.
- Jordaan: More stylish and quieter, but still walking distance to the centre, with plenty of great bars and cafes for pre-drinks. Ideal for groups wanting something a bit more upmarket.
Top Hotels in Amsterdam for Stag Groups
1. The Bulldog Hotel (Budget-Friendly & Stag Ready)
One of Amsterdam’s most famous hostels - the world's first 5-star hostel at that - right in the Red Light District. Private dorm-style rooms for groups, an on-site bar, and a rooftop terrace. Ideal if you’re looking for a budget-friendly base in the middle of the action.
2. Hotel Not Hotel (For Something Quirky & Unique)
A cool, design-led hotel in West Amsterdam, close to bars and tram lines. Rooms are tucked behind bookshelves and in creative spaces - perfect for smaller stag groups who want something unique and Instagrammable.
3. The Hoxton, Amsterdam (Stylish & Central)
For those who like the best of both worlds, head to The Hoxton if you’re after a more polished stay, after a full day of stag festivities. Expect stylish rooms, a buzzing bar, and close to nightlife, but without it right on your doorstep.
4. YOTEL Amsterdam (Modern & Affordable)
Sleek, modern rooms at reasonable rates - ideal for groups looking for comfort without blowing the budget. Close to Amsterdam North, with easy ferry access to the centre.
5. Bunk Hotel Amsterdam (Cool, Affordable & Social)
Set inside a converted church, Bunk Hotel mixes boutique design with hostel prices - think private rooms and pods, a buzzing bar, and live music events. Located near Amsterdam North, it’s great for groups who want affordable rooms without sacrificing style, and easy ferry connections take you straight into the centre.
Top Tip: Consider Stag-Friendly Apartments Instead
For big stag groups, renting an apartment or aparthotel can be a smart move instead. Look for places on platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb - but check house rules to ensure stag dos are allowed (many aren't, so always confirm before booking).
Plan Your Groom's Dream Stag Do with the Perfect Activities & Destination
Amsterdam offers the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences for a stag that promises to be as lively as it is memorable. Whether cruising the canals, bar hopping (as you should), or soaking up the city’s rich history, you’ll find plenty to keep the group entertained all weekend. For more inspiration, check out our guide to the best stag do locations in the world, explore unique stag do ideas in London, or discover the perfect stag do outfits to ensure you look the part.
