As pre-wedding parties have gained both popularity and notoriety in recent years, ‘the Stag’ has swelled to the size of an all-out binge-drinking, no-holds barred, international holiday. But, whilst we encourage the practice of an abroad bachelor party – this is your last chance for a true adventure within your circle of friends, after all – we are not at all behind the tacky beach resorts and cheap lager that have come to typify these trips.
Instead, we at the Gentleman’s Journal believe you should stick to a city – a bustling metropolis filled with fine bars and culture. Prague, a particular favourite of stag parties, has all of the above – but is criminally close to being mugged of its virtues and turned into yet another lads destination for cheap booze-ups. We’re here to intervene.
There are two sides to Prague, both of which can be enjoyed alike by grooms-to-be. The first, the ornate and traditional Prague of the city’s old town, is the perfect place for culture vultures. And, if your group of friends loves nothing more than a civilised drink and a museum, head to Boscolo, a hotel housed inside a neoclassical palazzo. With high ceilings, and polished marble adorning the floors, the hotel boasts a Roman spa, great restaurants, and a cigar bar set in one of the oldest Cognac vaults in Europe, this is the bachelor party pad at the top of the pile.
However, if you’re looking for somewhere a little different, more a base for decadent and debauched nights than a destination hotel, try Fusion – a hip hotel complex close to the central Wenceslas Square. Part-hostel, part-modern design hotel, these simple but chic digs include a games room and a spectacular revolving bar.
The food of the Czech people may be an acquired taste, but you must delve in. Try La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise, one of only three restaurants in the country with a Michelin star. Locally-sourced ingredients are the key here, with – hold your judgement – snails with leek, carp in almonds and juniper boar amongst the specialities.
At the other end of the spectrum, V Kolkovně is as traditional and hearty as food comes. Owned by the Pilsner Urquell beer brand, the lager flows freely in this old-time eatery, and – if you can find time to set down your tankard – food includes pork knee, beef goulash and roast duck with sauerkraut. This is rustic eating at its very best – giving you the chance to line your stomach before a night on the old town.
Speaking of which, these are the best watering holes in Prague (although, it should be noted, water should not be on the menu – the Czech Republic produces some of the finest beers in the world.) So where do we start? The number of great bars and cafes in Prague is ludicrous, but perhaps start with a chilled out beer at the Lucerna Cafe, where you can watch people pass, and admire the Art Nouveau architecture of one of the city’s most famous passages.
If you’re feeling more musical, a new bar, Jazz Dock, is a stunning waterfront establishment designed with reflective metals and huge glass walls. At night, it’s quite a spectacle – and the music varies more than you’d think. However, if serious drinking is all you’re after, head to Cafe Bar Propaganda, a bar near the National Theatre that often plays host to local celebrities. Beer is cheap, as are a whole host of dangerously absinthe-heavy cocktails – the stag-do standard.
Other than drink? There are many activities and tours and museums available for entry in Prague, but – in our opinion, the best way to pass the time in the Czech capital is to simply wander around the Old Town – which is virtually a living museum in of itself. Take in the striking hour on the Astronomical Clock – located on the Old Town Hall Tower, marvel at Prague Castle or linger on the incredible 500 metre-long Charles Bridge – beer in hand, of course…
Become a Gentleman’s Journal Member?
Like the Gentleman’s Journal? Why not join the Clubhouse, a special kind of private club where members receive offers and experiences from hand-picked, premium brands. You will also receive invites to exclusive events, the quarterly print magazine delivered directly to your door and your own membership card.
