Planning a stag weekend in Madrid means balancing fun with good logistics. Spain's capital offers world-class nightlife, culture, and activities, but making the most of it takes some planning. This guide covers key decisions, from activities to accommodation, to help you create an unforgettable trip.
Top Activities for Your Group
Madrid stag has something for everyone, making it perfect for diverse groups. Start by gauging your group’s interests—some may prefer adrenaline-fueled activities, while others enjoy taking things slow.
For action-packed fun, consider indoor go-karting or paintball just outside the city. Want something more local? A tapas and wine tour or even a bullfight viewing (non-participatory) can add Spanish flavor.
Football fans should check if Real Madrid or Atlético Madrid has a home game. If tickets aren’t available, tour the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium for an inside look at the pitch, trophy room, and more.
For a relaxing break, rent a boat in Retiro Park or ride the Teleférico cable car for scenic views with minimal effort.
Best Nightlife Districts
Madrid’s nightlife is legendary, with unique areas to suit any vibe:
- Malasaña: Perfect for bar-hopping, with indie bars and late-night venues on streets like Calle de San Vicente Ferrer.
- Chueca: Madrid’s LGBTQ+ district, offering lively bars, strong cocktails, and welcoming atmospheres. Great for free entry and affordability.
- Salamanca: Upscale cocktail bars and clubs for a classy night out. Expect higher prices but polished service.
- La Latina: Ideal for early evening tapas and pre-drinks before heading to livelier districts.
Spanish nightlife starts late—clubs don’t fill up until 2am and stay open past 6am. Plan ahead, and take a nap to keep up with the late hours.
Essential Travel Tips
Getting to the city is easy—take the metro (€5), the 24-hour Airport Express bus (€5), or a taxi (€30 flat rate to the centre). Once in Madrid, the metro is efficient and affordable. A tourist pass (€26.60 for 3 days) offers unlimited metro and bus rides, saving money on single tickets.
Spanish dining times run later than usual—lunch is 2-4pm, and dinner starts after 9pm. Plan your meals accordingly, and if you have dietary requirements, communicate them clearly since many menus are meat-heavy.
Carry some cash for smaller bars and venues, as not all accept cards. ATMs are common, but avoid airport machines to save on fees.
Madrid is sunny year-round, but summers can hit 35°C, and winters can be chilly at night. Bring comfortable walking shoes—you’ll cover a lot of ground between venues.
Accommodation Tips
For stag parties, location is key. Stay in central areas like Sol, Gran Vía, or Malasaña to reduce travel time and taxi costs. Apartments are ideal for larger groups, offering communal space and fewer noise concerns. Airbnb and Booking.com are great for group-friendly options—choose properties with multiple bathrooms and air conditioning if visiting in summer.
While hostels are budget-friendly, private rooms or budget hotels offer more privacy and comfort. Check reviews and confirm stag parties are allowed to avoid issues. A flexible cancellation policy is helpful since plans can change.
Lastly, stay near a metro station for easy access to the city—it’s worth the convenience.