Amsterdam's Stag Do Crown Slips as Cheaper European Cities Rise
For decades, Amsterdam reigned supreme as the undisputed capital of the stag do, a final bastion of pre-wedding revelry. However, new research indicates a dramatic shift in British party-goers' preferences, with the Dutch capital experiencing a staggering decline in popularity.
The Data: A 77% Plunge in Interest
Analysis of search trends by party organisers Sofia Stag Do reveals a seismic change. Searches for stag do information in Amsterdam have plummeted by a remarkable 77% since 2023. This collapse in interest has seen the city tumble from its top-ranking position in 2023 to a mere sixth place in the 2026 rankings, compiled from two years of search data.
Prague Holds the Top Spot, But Competition Heats Up
Unsurprisingly, Prague now occupies the number one slot. The Czech capital's enduring appeal lies in its potent mix of vibrant nightlife, famously affordable pints often found for under £2, and its picturesque Old Town. Despite a slight dip in search interest, this combination has secured its premier position.
The real story, however, is the rapid ascent of the runner-up. Riga, the capital of Latvia, has seen a steady and significant increase in interest, emerging as a powerful contender that may not have been the first choice for stag planners just a few years ago.
Why Riga is the New Stag Do Hotspot
Several compelling factors are driving Riga's newfound popularity with British stag parties. Accessibility is a key advantage. Flights from the UK take just over two hours, with budget carrier Ryanair offering one-way fares from as little as £14.99. Services operate from multiple UK airports including East Midlands, Edinburgh, Leeds Bradford, London-Stansted, and Manchester into Riga International Airport.
The city's compact, walkable layout is another major draw. Groups can easily embark on bar crawls through the historic heart of Old Riga—a district of cobbled streets, town squares, and stunning architecture—without relying on expensive taxi journeys. The nightlife is concentrated and diverse, ranging from stylish cocktail lounges to themed bars offering attractive drink deals.
Notable venues include the intriguing Secret Event, an underground bar set in a former monastery, and the vibrant Tiki Bar Riga for colourful cocktails. For those in fancy dress, Clayton McNamaras Drinking Emporium offers a superhero-themed experience complete with retro memorabilia and character-named shots.
Nightlife and Cost Comparisons
Riga's party scene extends late into the night, with many bars operating until the early hours and clubs like Poseidon's Club (open until 5am on weekends for EDM fans), Teritorija, and Bacio Riga catering to dance music enthusiasts until dawn.
While Riga's pint prices, typically £3-4 in the old town, are slightly higher than Prague's legendary bargains, the overall cost of a stag weekend can be more competitive. Accommodation in Riga tends to be cheaper, and the savings on transport due to the city's walkability mean the total trip expense often undercuts a comparable break in Prague.
This perfect storm of affordable travel, a concentrated and lively nightlife district, and lower overall costs is positioning Riga as a serious and increasingly popular alternative for stag parties seeking value and experience beyond the traditional hubs.
