The 15 Best Hen Do Destinations in Europe

Have you been tasked with planning the ultimate send off? Or perhaps it’s your hen do and you’re looking for inspiration? Either way, we’ve compiled our list of the best hen do destinations in Europe to help you out.

Because, let's call a spade a spade, planning a hen do is no mean feat. Sure, it might just be a ‘little get together’ or a weekend away with the girls, but throw in budgets, accommodation, activities and personal tastes, and pulling something together that works for everybody is a tiresome task – and that’s after it’s taken you a month to nail down the date.

So whether you want a chic UK staycation, or you’re tempted to take your antics overseas and want hen weekend abroad suggestions, we’ve got a European hen do destination to suit every kind of bride tribe. Happy booking!

• Best Party Hen Do Destinations
• Best Beach Hen Do Destinations
• Best Hen Do Destinations for Culture
• Best Spa Hen Do Destinations
• Best Hen Do Destinations for Activities

Best Party Hen Do Destinations in Europe

All in for a rowdy and rambunctious night (or two?). Get booking immediately…

1. Dublin

Fun, lively and brimming with good old Irish hospitality, the capital of the Emerald Isle offers traditional Irish pubs, music and – of course – a hell of a lot of Guinness. If you fancy a fuss-free knees up that’s super easy to get to from the UK, make Dublin your pick.

• When to go: September – when the weather’s still warm but the summer crowds have long gone.
• What to do: Follow the cobbles to the southern banks of the River Liffey and Temple Bar – a traditional Irish boozer that attracts tourists from all over for its drinks, top-tapping live music and party atmosphere. Prefer more of an Indie vibe? Check out live music venue Whelan’s on Wexford Street which has played host to the likes of Bloc Party, Arctic Monkeys and others.

2. Marbella

Famed as something of a playground for millionaires and celebs, this palm-fringed Spanish city is brimming with chic beach clubs and glamorous resorts – and is the best hen do destination to head if you want to party like the rich and famous.

• When to go: May and June; perfect for beating the peak summer rush, plus the weather is still lovely and warm.
• What to do: The exclusive Ocean Club in the Puerto Banús marina district, with its huge saltwater pool centrepiece and abundance of day beds, is the OG for poolside cocktails and high-energy daytime dancing, but you’ll also find a wealth of chic hotels, bars and clubs along the popular Golden Mile strip. Need some respite from all that partying? Head into the Old Town with its beautiful whitewashed buildings and quirky narrow streets to explore, eat and shop.

3. Liverpool

With incredible shopping districts, buzzing nightlife and a thriving music scene, it should come as no surprise that Liverpool is up there as one of the best hotspots in the UK – and in Europe – for a lively and vibrant hen do to remember.

• When to go: It goes without saying that the summer months are probably best if you want to spend your days enjoying outdoor activities (or sinking rosé in a beer garden), but really, this lively city is made to be enjoyed year round.
• What to do: From bottomless brunches to afternoon tea, there is so much to see and do on a Liverpool hen do. We love Tonight Josephine for cocktails and Bread Street Kitchen for excellent group dining – and you could even charter a boat down the River Mersey with your very own DJ and a bottle of bubbly. Now we’re talking…

Best Beach Hen Do Destinations in Europe

When all you need is sun, sea, sand, and good company…and maybe a cocktail or two!

4. Hvar

This Croatian island is a clear A-list favourite, and it’s easy to see why. The stunning beaches, secluded bays, bustling harbour and dreamy turquoise waters are the backdrop to some of Europe’s prettiest and most lively hotels, bars and restaurants – perfect for classy nearlyweds who want to balance out any night-time debauchery with swimming, snorkelling, beach yoga, hikes and seriously good food.

• When to go: July and August.
• What to do: Spend your days wandering around the quaint cobbled streets of Hvar Town or kicking back on the beach with your posse. We’d also suggest hiring a skippered boat for some picture-perfect sailing. When it comes to group dining, Val Marina comes highly recommended for its truffle fries and the freshest catch of the day money can buy.

5. Valencia

Considering Barcelona for your hen do but after a cheaper and less touristy alternative? With its laidback nightlife, golden beaches and picturesque Old Town, the sunshine city of Valencia has tons to offer hens looking to combine sun, sand and sea with a spot of culture for the weekend. While you’re there, you could even get your twirl-twirl-stomp on with a flamenco lesson or two. Olé!

• When to go: June to August if you’re craving a warm-weather hen do with plenty of beach action.
• What to do: You’ll find plenty of luxe beach clubs to kick back in with your hen squad. Book some beds at Marina Beach Club for incredible food, cocktails and live DJ sets, or Boa Beach for cool breakfast bowls and coffee in boho-inspired surrounds. Then, when you feel like stretching your legs, make the most of Valencia’s excellent shopping scene by exploring the Old Town, or book the chance to snorkel and swim in the city’s natural thermal springs.

6. Lanzarote

With its golden- and white-sand shores, Tiffany-blue sea, volcanic landscapes and magical marine life, Lanzarote offers hens the full paradise package on a surprisingly modest budget, making it one of the best hen party places in Europe in our humble opinion. 

• When to go: June to September is best for beach babes, though you’ll find sunshine throughout the year.
• What to do: Pitch up on one of the bustling beaches or kick back by the pool in your hotel or villa before heading out to make the most of the lively nightlife. If you fancy a wander, the purpose-built marina resort of Puerto Calero is good for yacht-spotting and high-end shopping. Scuba divers will also be in heaven here, with stunning shore and boat dives, and Europe’s first underwater sculpture park. It’s a great place to learn to dive, too, if that's your thing.

Best Culture Hen Do Destinations in Europe

Because immersing yourself in local culture is still very much hot on the hen circuit!

7. Edinburgh

The vibrant, beautiful and cosmopolitan city of Edinburgh has tons to offer and is particularly perfect for nearlyweds wanting to combine vibrant nightlife with some daytime sightseeing. Don’t miss your chance to capture some selfies with the iconic fortress that is Edinburgh Castle as your backdrop – this historical site stands on top of The Royal Mile on an extinct volcano, nonetheless.

• When to go: August is especially buzzing thanks to the renowned Edinburgh Fringe Festival – but note that hotels and accommodation are likely to cost more around this time. The winter months will be when you get great value for money – just remember to wrap up if you’re used to a more southern climate!
• What to do: Whisky tastings at Johnnie Walker Princes Street, gin experiences on your very own boat along the canal, afternoon tea in The Signet Library, silent disco tours – there is so much to see and do that you’ll need more than a couple of days here. You’ll also find plenty of rooftop bars with picture-perfect views – check out SKYbar Edinburgh, the Johnnie Walker rooftop or The Lookout on Carlton Hill.

8. Barcelona

This Spanish city is packed with some of the world’s most famous cultural sights and is a real hotspot for arty types with an interest in architecture. Wander down the bustling Ramblas before heading to the gothic quarter to explore Pablo Picasso’s old stomping ground and finally visiting Gaudi’s La Sagrada Familia temple – a must-see.

• When to go: April to July for the festivals, or skip the crowds entirely and make the most of the last of the sunshine in the early autumn months of September and October.
• What to do: From cocktail classes and paddle-boarding, shopping to exploring the city by bike, there’s so much to see and do in this vibrant city. We highly recommend tucking into tapas, paella and excellent wine at Bar Cañete or local favourite Terraza Martínez. And if you’re looking for the perfect party pad for your hen do holiday, the W Barcelona nails the brief with its huge daybeds, weekend pool parties, scenic brunches and panoramic rooftop bar.  

9. Vilnius

With a rich political and cultural history and bewitchingly pretty architecture, the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius is a fascinating destination and couldn’t be more suited as a hen do location in Europe. This compact city is more than walkable for those who love exploring, learning and taking in the sights.  

• When to go: April to September is when the weather will be warmer and the city really comes alive – but autumn is equally beautiful.
• What to do: Be sure to check out Užupis, Pylimo Street and Olimpiečių Street for the coolest street art around. You might also want to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vilnius Old Town – one of the largest surviving Medieval towns in Europe.

Best Spa Hen Do Destinations in Europe

Want a trip that leaves you feeling better than when you arrived? You might want to check out one of these hen party destinations in Europe…

Budapest

Quite literally known as ‘the city of spas’, where better to head for the ultimate zen do than Budapest? However, if you’re the kind of nearlywed who prefers her wellness served with a side of indulgence, this city offers plenty of opportunities to party too.

• When to go: Avoid the crowds of peak season and visit in either spring (March to May) or autumn (September to October) when the weather is still mild enough for outdoor activities.
• What to do: Széchenyi Thermal Bath boasts a whopping 21 natural hot spring pools alongside its sauna, massage and facial treatment offerings. Follow it up with a river cruise down the Danube and take in the sights over lunch and a drink or two.

11. Ibiza

A more obvious choice for hedonistic hens, perhaps, but did you know the White Isle is also a great place to unwind? With stylish hotels aplenty, many of which have the most incredible ocean views, you can let your hair down in more ways than one on your hen do with wellness retreats, daily yoga, spa treatments, incredible food and so much more.

Or, if you’re looking for something even more chilled and intimate, head to fellow Balearic Island Formentera, just south of Ibiza, known for its super relaxed vibe.

• When to go: May, June and September – just outside of peak season – is perfect for those who want to do more exploring than sunbathing.
• What to do: Recharge your batteries with paddle-boarding, hikes and spa treatments courtesy of 38 Degrees North at one of Ibiza’s most luxurious properties, at or stay close to the action at O Beach or Ibiza Rocks for daytime dancing and incredible cocktails at one of their legendary pool parties.

12. The Cotswolds

If a laidback spa hen in the pretty English countryside sounds like your idea of heaven, few locations better fit the bill than the Cotswolds. The soothing rolling countryside surroundings are also perfectly placed for restorative walks with your gang, relaxed pub lunches, wine tastings at nearby vineyards and more.

• When to go: Magical at any time of year.
• What to do: #Wellness may be an Instagram buzzword but there are numerous spa hotels in the Cotswolds making it a real mission, including The Lakes by Yoo, Soho Farmhouse, Thyme – also a beautiful wedding venue with a Scandi-chic setting – Barnsley House and Calcot Hotel & Spa. Or why not book yourself into a country pad equipped with everything you need for a weekend cosied up inside, including a pool, hot tub and table tennis?

Best Active Hen Do Destinations in Europe

From adrenalin-rush experiences to laidback fun, these hen night destinations offer cool and unusual activities for every hen party style.

13. Montenegro

The rugged and largely untouched landscape of Montenegro make this southeast European gem a fantastic choice for nature-loving hens. The picturesque Adriatic coastline and lakes further in offer plenty of water-based activities, and views of the dramatic mountains and surrounding wildlife are simply breath-taking.

• When to go: The best time to visit very much depends on what you want to do – May to October is perfect for swimming and sunbathing, while those planning a more active hen would be better visiting in spring or autumn.  
• What to do: It’s impossible to feel restless here. Hike, kayak and bike your way through the rough terrain before enjoying a snooze on the beach and sampling some of the delicious (and surprisingly cheap!) local cuisine. 

14. Tignes

If you’re a keen skier or snowboarder, why not enjoy a hen on the slopes in the French Alps? An action-packed hen-do pick, Tignes boasts a range of slopes for beginners and advanced skiers alike – so no hen gets left behind. The resort is also open for longer periods of the year compared to many others, so there’s plenty of flexibility with dates. You’ll find more than enough apres-ski to keep party loving hens happy, too.

• When to go: Skiing conditions are best from December to April. Not actually that bothered about the skiing? In the summer, this region offers hiking trails, golf, bike hire and more – and you can still ski on the Grande Motte glacier if you want to.
• What to do: After a day on the slopes, explore the lively villages of Val Claret and Tignes Le Lac where you can eat, drink and shop to your heart’s content. Be sure to book a hen-friendly hotel with a spa, too, for some serious R&R.

15. Tenerife

Torn between a chilled hen and a thrilling weekend of activity? With its gorgeous sandy beaches, stunning weather and vibrant nightlife, you’d be forgiven for thinking that Tenerife is mostly about sunbathing and rosé-fuelled lunches by the pool. And while it can be that, it also offers so much more for an active hen do under the sun.

• When to go: May to September for the best weather.
• What to do: With three sprawling pools and frequent entertainment, things get pretty lively at the Hard Rock Hotel, Tenerife. But when you’re not kicking back and sipping cocktails, check out the hotel’s programme of activities, which include beach yoga, Latin dancing, tennis and more. Then there’s Siam Park – Tenerife’s huge, award-winning water park – perfect for cooling down with a fun-filled day on the flumes.

Got the travel bug? Why not start the search for your dream honeymoon destination!