July 27, 2022

Ranking the Best Hen Do Destinations in Europe

We think it's fair to say that hen parties are a real rite of passage for anyone who's about to get married and wants to enjoy their last few days of freedom. After all, they offer the opportunity to bond with your besties, don your finest clothes and indulge in fun and frolics aplenty, all before tying the knot. With all this comes the chance to sample the delights of an exciting and vibrant new location.

But where should you go? We think it's a total conundrum because pinning down the perfect experience is hard when there are so many unique continental options. That's why, at DiscoverCars.com, we made it our mission to do the hard work for you by uncovering the most fabulous hen do destinations across Europe.
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Methodology

We analyzed data from Google via the website planthehen.co.uk to ascertain the overall best locations. We then drilled down other key factors, including flight costs, hotel, bar, and club choices, food prices, how many attractions and activities are available, how sizzling the weather is during the summer months and how much it costs to sample a selection of delectable drinks. We ranked the destinations based on 12 different factors to give an overall score out of 120.

The complete list of factors we investigated was:

  • Average Flight Cost from London Heathrow
  • Average Car Rental Cost
  • Average Hotel Costs
  • Average Meal Costs (£)
  • Average Cost for a Bottle of Wine (£)
  • Average Domestic Beer Cost (0.5L) (£)
  • Number of Adults-Only Hotels
  • Number of Restaurants 'Good for Groups'
  • Number of Attractions 'Good for Groups'
  • Number of Bars & Clubs
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Temperature (°C)
  • Average Days of Rainfall (July-Sept)
  • Average Summer (July-Sept) Sun Hours

Each of our categories was ranked, with the best results receiving a maximum of 10 points and the worst in that category receiving one. So, without further ado, here are the best hen party destinations!

Barcelona, Spain

Fun-filled Barcelona in Spain scoops our top spot for the best hen do destination, scoring 90 out of a possible 120 points. It's perfect because it's affordable, as well as being a mere two-hour plane ride away from the UK. It's fair to say that it combines all the fun of a bustling, cosmopolitan city, alongside fantastic beaches that are great when it comes to putting on your favorite swimwear and getting involved in some all-important people-watching.

In addition to all of this, the weather is delightfully sunny and we can't think of anything better than taking in the vibrant street art and music while enjoying a select choice of tapas, churros and a pitcher of sangria on Las Ramblas.

  • Average Flight Cost: £303.50
  • Average Car Rental Cost: £172.58
  • Average Hotel Costs: £1,321
  • Average Meal Costs: £10.34
  • Average Domestic Beer Cost (0.5L): £2.58
  • Average Cost for a Bottle of Wine: £4.31
  • Number of Adults Only Hotels: 10
  • Number of Restaurants 'Good for Groups': 1081
  • Number of Attractions 'Good for Groups': 418
  • Number of Bars & Clubs: 522
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Temperature (°C): 23
  • Average Days of Rainfall (Jul-Sept): 4
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Sun Hours: 9

Prague, Czech Republic

Brides-to-be can't resist Prague, the Czech Republic's gothic capital city, which also scored a total of 90 out of 120 points. Prague is a classic tale of two cities, with its diverse architectural delights and abundance of shopping and nightlife options, meaning you definitely won't get bored!

Highlights include magical Prague Castle, catching the view at the top of the Old Town Hall's tower, and the medieval Astronomical Clock. There is something for everyone, so what's not to love?

  • Average Flight Cost: £220.80
  • Average Car Rental Cost: £128.22
  • Average Hotel Costs: £863.13
  • Average Meal Costs: £5.76
  • Average Domestic Beer Cost (0.5L): £1.53
  • Average Cost for a Bottle of Wine: £4.06
  • Number of Adults Only Hotels: 2
  • Number of Restaurants 'Good for Groups': 785
  • Number of Attractions 'Good for Groups': 384
  • Number of Bars & Clubs: 634
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Temperature (°C): 16
  • Average Days of Rainfall (Jul-Sept): 1
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Sun Hours: 7

Paris, France

Next on our list is the City of Love; Paris, which scored 81 points out of 120. Romantic, chic, and essentially the ultimate film set, Paris provides the perfect Instagrammable backdrop for plenty of photos of you and the girls.

Other Parisian highlights include spa sessions, karaoke bars, and escape rooms, all while having the chance to take in the likes of the iconic Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe. Also, the food, drink, and people-watching options at the likes of restaurants Costes and L'Avenue are to die for. Trust us.

  • Average Flight Cost: £201.40
  • Average Car Rental Cost: £268.52
  • Average Hotel Costs: £1,330
  • Average Meal Costs: £12.92
  • Average Domestic Beer Cost (0.5L): £5.60
  • Average Cost for a Bottle of Wine: £6.89
  • Number of Adults Only Hotels: 4
  • Number of Restaurants 'Good for Groups': 1161
  • Number of Attractions 'Good for Groups': 330
  • Number of Bars & Clubs: 423
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Temperature (°C): 19
  • Average Days of Rainfall (Jul-Sept): 11
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Sun Hours: 8

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest scored highly on our list with 78 out of 120 points, meaning it's a firm favorite for hens with its rich culture, underground caves, stunning Danube River and great choice of bars. Budapest is known for being the spa capital of the world so you can't afford to miss soaking with the girls in its natural hot springs and thermal baths, which are dotted around all over the city.

Other entertainment includes river cruises and guided bar crawls, alongside nightclubs and restaurants which offer affordable food and drinks to whet your appetite come nighttime.

  • Average Flight Cost: £239.80
  • Average Car Rental Cost: £92.26
  • Average Hotel Costs: £941
  • Average Meal Costs: £6.04
  • Average Domestic Beer Cost (0.5L): £1.47
  • Average Cost for a Bottle of Wine: £3.40
  • Number of Adults Only Hotels: 2
  • Number of Restaurants 'Good for Groups': 481
  • Number of Attractions 'Good for Groups': 270
  • Number of Bars & Clubs: 253
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Temperature (°C): 19
  • Average Days of Rainfall (Jul-Sept): 11
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Sun Hours: 9

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam, which scored 72 out of 120 points, boasts a mix of culture, history, and fun activities. It's also home to scenic canals, historic museums and some seriously cool bars and coffee shops.

Easy and quick to get to from the UK, this thriving city also offers up the perfect combination of being super chilled yet great for a night out, with its party bikes, canal tours and a cheeky red light district.

  • Average Flight Cost: £120.90
  • Average Car Rental Cost: £330.88
  • Average Hotel Costs: £1,453
  • Average Meal Costs: £13.79
  • Average Domestic Beer Cost (0.5L): £5.14
  • Average Cost for a Bottle of Wine: £5.16
  • Number of Adults Only Hotels: 7
  • Number of Restaurants 'Good for Groups': 536
  • Number of Attractions 'Good for Groups': 305
  • Number of Bars & Clubs: 264
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Temperature (°C): 14
  • Average Days of Rainfall (Jul-Sept): 11
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Sun Hours: 6

Ibiza, Spain

Ah Ibiza, this magical island, also scoring 72 points out of 120, will always hold a place in our hearts. The stunning White Isle attracts party people from all over the world and is home to a host of hedonistic beach bars and world-class clubs. It also has the added benefit of having great weather, while being close to the UK and relatively cheap to get to.

Along these pristine sandy beaches, you and the girls can charter a private boat, learn how to make cocktails or watch an idyllic sunset while listening to some banging beats. Who could possibly say no to that?

  • Average Flight Cost: £348.80
  • Average Car Rental Cost: £190.18
  • Average Hotel Costs: £3,591
  • Average Meal Costs: £12.06
  • Average Domestic Beer Cost (0.5L): £1.72
  • Average Cost for a Bottle of Wine: £3.45
  • Number of Adults Only Hotels: 54
  • Number of Restaurants 'Good for Groups': 416
  • Number of Attractions 'Good for Groups': 127
  • Number of Bars & Clubs: 121
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Temperature (°C): 25
  • Average Days of Rainfall (Jul-Sept): 4
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Sun Hours: 10

Benidorm, Spain

Scoring 71 points out of a possible 120, this perennially popular seaside resort on Valencia's Costa Blanca is ideal if you're after beaches, sunny weather, and lots of fun activities - including a waterpark - to keep you and your squad occupied.

The nightlife is also live along the town's palm-lined promenades, with plenty of flights from the UK to get you there safe and sound. A walk around the Old Town will help you to get a feel for the area and it boasts a range of bars and tapas restaurants, perfect to head to before hitting up a club or two.

  • Average Flight Cost: £392.40
  • Average Car Rental Cost: £193.35
  • Average Hotel Costs: £1,218.33
  • Average Meal Costs: £8.18
  • Average Domestic Beer Cost (0.5L): £1.29
  • Average Cost for a Bottle of Wine: £3.45
  • Number of Adults Only Hotels: 11
  • Number of Restaurants 'Good for Groups': 197
  • Number of Attractions 'Good for Groups': 81
  • Number of Bars & Clubs: 146
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Temperature (°C): 24
  • Average Days of Rainfall (Jul-Sept): 4
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Sun Hours: 10

Marbella, Spain

The Costa del Sol's ever-popular and glam Marbella scored 67 points out of 120 and it's easy to see why with its array of designer boutiques, super yachts, endless sunshine, swanky terraces and fabulous parties.

Fun hen party options include hiring a catamaran for the day, hitting up an exclusive beach club, taking part in a flamenco class or trying your hand at life drawing. The options are endless here when it comes to putting on the ritz and having a good time.

  • Average Flight Cost: £275.50
  • Average Car Rental Cost: £130.44
  • Average Hotel Costs: £4,361.60
  • Average Meal Costs: £10.34
  • Average Domestic Beer Cost (0.5L): £3.45
  • Average Cost for a Bottle of Wine: £3.88
  • Number of Adults Only Hotels: 4
  • Number of Restaurants 'Good for Groups': 274
  • Number of Attractions 'Good for Groups': 58
  • Number of Bars & Clubs: 71
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Temperature (°C): 23
  • Average Days of Rainfall (Jul-Sept): 1
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Sun Hours: 10

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin, which is Ireland's capital and scooped 63 out of 120 points, is a true hen party haven that combines culture with a wild night out. And it's a mere hop, skip and a jump from home - we call that a definite win! This lively city has lots of bars, hilarious hen party activities aplenty and a thriving nightlife.

Things not to be missed include pints of Guinness, live music in pubs, and native oysters galore. It's fair to say that Dublin will always deliver, whether you're after a more sophisticated affair or a truly raucous party.

  • Average Flight Cost: £108.00
  • Average Car Rental Cost: £771.31
  • Average Hotel Costs: £1,808
  • Average Meal Costs: £12.92
  • Average Domestic Beer Cost (0.5L): £4.91
  • Average Cost for a Bottle of Wine: £10.34
  • Number of Adults Only Hotels: 1
  • Number of Restaurants 'Good for Groups': 498
  • Number of Attractions 'Good for Groups': 299
  • Number of Bars & Clubs: 251
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Temperature (°C): 15
  • Average Days of Rainfall Jul-Sept): 22
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Sun Hours: 5

Hvar, Croatia

An up-and-coming Croatian destination, Hvar scores 55 out of 120 on our list and is the ideal place to sip on a cocktail or two while enjoying stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. This charming town has outstanding natural beauty, not to mention a fantastic bar and club scene.

Hen do activities on this sunny Dalmatian island include white sand beach parties, luxurious yacht trips and soothing spa days, all perfect for snaring that all-important pre-wedding tan top-up.

  • Average Flight Cost: £334.60
  • Average Car Rental Cost: £243.18
  • Average Hotel Costs: £1,952.33
  • Average Meal Costs: £6.86
  • Average Domestic Beer Cost (0.5L): £2.06
  • Average Cost for a Bottle of Wine: £4.57
  • Number of Adults Only Hotels: 1
  • Number of Restaurants 'Good for Groups': 41
  • Number of Attractions 'Good for Groups': 24
  • Number of Bars & Clubs: 10
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Temperature (°C): 23
  • Average Days of Rainfall (Jul-Sept): 6
  • Average Summer (Jul-Sept) Sun Hours: 10

We believe that with our top hen party list, you'll have been bitten by the travel bug and be keen to book your next trip away with the girls.

If you're looking to rent a car for your trip, please consider choosing us as we are a leader in online car rental bookings. This is because we compare car rental deals from many companies so that you can choose the best deal for your individual needs.

We also operate in more than 10,000 locations across 145 countries, so we're sure to have the car rental deal for you no matter where your next road trip happens to be.

Sources

Plan The Hen
https://www.google.com/travel/flights (Based on flights between the 19th and 22nd of August from Heathrow to the closet airport that accepts flights from there sorted by duration)
https://www.discovercars.com/ (Based on a 3-day rental between the 19th and 22nd of August)
https://uk.hotels.com/?locale=en_GB&pos=HCOM_UK&siteid=300000005 (Based on a 3-night stay between the 19th to the 22nd of August for 6 people in 2 rooms)
https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/ (Meal and beer costs)
TripAdvisor (Hotel, Restaurants, Activities, and Bars)
https://www.holiday-weather.com/ (Made an average out of results for the months of July to September)

Aleksandrs Buraks

Head of Growth at DiscoverCars.com
Aleksandrs has over 10 years of experience in marketing with a focus on creating stellar content that provides topical insights using data. Having taken five road trips across Europe and one in the U.S., he is passionate about traveling by car. His favorite countries to visit are Denmark and Thailand. You can find him on Linkedin, Facebook, and Twitter.