Extreme day tripping: your ultimate festive itinerary - 5 Christmas destinations

According to Google search data, the term "extreme day tripping" has reached record highs, growing 9,900% from October 2023 to October 2025.

As defined by Iglu Cruise:

“Extreme Day Tripping simply means going to another country and returning home within one day. Often, people will catch an early morning flight and return home in the evening, meaning they’ll have less than 24 hours to explore a city or destination.” 

“The term has gathered popularity over the last few months, with many travellers acknowledging the benefits of such a trip. Using less annual leave is one of the primary benefits, particularly for those who struggle to take time off work. Some people also argue that it can be cheaper than a night out in the UK, as you’re not spending money on accommodation.”

With that being said, we have recommended five cities for an extreme day trip this festive season, allowing travellers to experience the magic of Christmas around Europe without incurring the cost of hotel stays, as well as saving days on annual leave. Each destination offers a suggested itinerary that combines Christmas festivities with cultural experiences, covering morning, afternoon and evening activities before returning home.

Please note that all average times listed are from London, whether referring to flight schedules or Eurostar departures.

Contents:

1. Lille, France
2. Cologne, Germany
3. Basel, Switzerland
4. Edinburgh, Scotland
5. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
6. Bonus: Bruges, Belgium

1. Lille, France

Average Eurostar journey: 1 hour 22 mins

Morning: 

After a quick train ride from London and a ten-minute walk through the old town's cobbled streets, you’ll find plenty of boulangeries and patisseries to enjoy a croissant and coffee to kick start the day. Be sure to visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts, an art museum that is one of the city's most beautiful buildings and houses France's second-largest art collection, after the Louvre.

Afternoon:

Famous for its boutiques, experience the excitement of Christmas shopping before a late lunch at an Estaminet, a local Flemish restaurant. Beef-in-beer carbonnades flamandes are on the menu, giving a nod to Lille’s Flemish roots. Alternatively, visit Maison Méert, one of the oldest tea rooms in France, which is still in operation. It is particularly famous for its waffles filled with Madagascan vanilla.

Evening:

Wander to the Grand Place, which is situated at the heart of Lille city. Enjoy its wide selection of Christmas festivities, including its giant Ferris wheel and a towering Christmas tree. Soak up the sparkling lights at the Christmas Village in Place Rihour, featuring 90 wooden chalets. Enjoy mulled wine and indulge in raclette before heading home.

2. Cologne, Germany

Average flight time: 1 hour 20 mins

Morning:

Start your day by exploring one of its fascinating museums. Museum Ludwig is a great choice, as it boasts Europe’s largest collection of Pop Art, as well as works by Picasso. After this, head to the Fina Frangrace Museum, renowned for being the birthplace of Eau de Cologne, offering a glimpse into the history of fragrance production. 

Afternoon:

Stroll through the trendy district of Ehrenfeld, admiring the street art, browsing vintage shops for any festive gifts, before heading to one of its many trendy cafés. Don’t forget to try an afternoon Kölsch, a light beer served in a tall, thin glass. The waiter will continue to bring you fresh glasses until you place a coaster on top of your empty one. Afterwards, make your way to the Rhine River for a boat tour to sail past and soak up Cologne's Christmas magic. 

Evening:

Visit Heinzels Christmas Market for some ice skating and shopping. Before heading home, visit the KölnTriangle observation deck for the best photo opportunities overlooking Cologne's illuminated cathedral and Christmas lights.

3. Basel, Switzerland

Average flight time: 1 hour 40 mins

Morning:

Head to the enchanting medieval old town for the Tinguely Fountain, where ten iron sculptures dance in the water. Additionally, stroll through the beautifully decorated Christmas courtyards, known as "Magische Höfe" or "Magical Courtyards."

Afternoon: 

Ride a motorless ferry along the Rhine, decorated specifically for the Christmas season, as you take in the city's scenic views along the river. Next, head to the Barfüsserplatz Christmas Market to enjoy some Swiss cheese or the famous local gingerbread biscuit, followed by some Christmas shopping and a mulled wine from the 13m high Christmas Pyramid.

Evening:

Conclude your day with a free Advent production at Basel Theatre. These daily shows, running from 1st to 23rd December at 5:00 PM in the foyer, offer a diverse program of small opera, drama, and ballet performances. Finally, head to St. Martin's Tower, which you can climb during Advent for a small fee. From the top, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking bird's-eye view of the Christmas Market and the twinkling lights of the Old Town.

Don't forget to sign the Wish Book in the city hall courtyard before you go! There, you can write down all your Christmas wishes.

4. Edinburgh, Scotland

Average flight time: 1 hour 15 mins

Morning:

Start your day with a traditional (or vegetarian) haggis breakfast bap at one of the charming cafes on Cockburn Street. Afterwards, embark on a morning hike up Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano in Holyrood Park. As you ascend, take in the stunning panoramic views of the city, with its historic architecture and the iconic Edinburgh Castle in the distance. 

Afternoon:

Visit Edinburgh Castle, making sure to schedule your visit to coincide with the daily one o'clock gun firing at Mills Mount Battery. Afterwards, enjoy a late lunch at The Dome on George Street, which is beautifully decorated with lights and features a large Christmas tree. To finish off your afternoon, sip on a whisky at the Scotch Whisky Experience.

Evening:

For thrill seekers, a visit to the Christmas Markets is a must. Try the “Around the World Star Flyer” swing ride, which soars 80 meters above the East Princes Street Gardens. Then enjoy a drink at the Polar Ice Bar, expertly crafted from ice. Warm jackets and gloves are provided upon entry to keep you cosy. Alternatively, you can head back to the castle for the “Castle of Light,” an after-dark walking trail featuring immersive displays, special effects, and soundscapes.

5. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Average flight time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Morning:

Begin your day with a morning stroll along the iconic canals, admiring the city's numerous bridges, or opt to explore the city by bike. For breakfast, head to the Jordaan district, known for its quaint streets, cool boutiques, and restaurants. Art enthusiasts can then walk to the Museum Quarter to discover the Van Gogh Museum, which houses the world's most extensive collection of his works.

Afternoon:

Experience the magic of the Winter Paradise RAI festival, where you can skate on large indoor and outdoor ice rinks, play in the snow, and enjoy stunning views from the Ferris wheel. Listen to live music while you relax at cosy winter bars and try some famous Dutch waffles. While you visit, get a head start on your Christmas shopping!

Evening:

Take an evening cruise to see the Amsterdam Light Festival, where the city is lit up with beautiful light displays that reflect on the waters of the canals. As you travel through the waterways, enjoy views of iconic bridges and houseboats, all lit up in bright colours. Before your adventure ends, try a deep-fried treat, crispy on the outside and filled with rich beef stew seasoned with herbs. 

Bonus: Bruges, Belgium

Average flight time: 1 hour 10 minutes to Brussels, then 1 hour train to Bruges
Or via Eurostar: 3 hours 25 mins in total

Bruges is an ideal destination for a Christmas getaway. While the journey may be slightly longer, it remains a wonderfully convenient option for a two-day festive escape.

Day 1

Morning:

Begin your stay in Bruges by exploring the medieval historic centre with a visit to the iconic Belfry of Bruges. Prepare for a challenging but rewarding climb up 366 narrow, winding steps. At the summit, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the city. 

Afternoon:

Visit the renowned Christmas Market in the Main Square, right in front of the Belfry. Indulge in a delicious hot chocolate, which includes a big chunk of chocolate that you can stir into the hot milk yourself. Then, go to the floating ice rink for a skating session, followed by a drink at the ‘IJsgloed’ Winter Bar, where you can take in the twinkling view of the rink.

Evening:

Embark on an enchanting journey through the 3.5 km Light Experience Trail set against the backdrop of the historic city. Discover 10 magical light installations, each designed to transport you to a fantasy world where light and creativity come to life. This immersive experience ignites the imagination and celebrates the art of light during the festive period.

Day 2

Morning:

Visit De Witte Pelikaan, a specialty Christmas shop that offers decorations throughout the year, with an even more enchanting selection during the holiday season. Then, check out Rosary Quay, the city's most photographed spot, where you can enjoy the picturesque buildings lining the canal. Finish off the morning by admiring the front of Hotel De Castillion, which is beautifully decorated to resemble a giant Christmas tree.

Afternoon:

For a sweet afternoon, visit the Choco-Story Chocolate Museum to explore the history and process of Belgian chocolate-making, all while sampling a variety of delicious treats. After your visit, head to the Old Chocolate House, renowned for serving the best hot chocolate in town.

Evening:

Visit Brasserie Cambrinus, where you can choose from an extensive beer menu featuring over 400 varieties and enjoy delicious Flemish dishes. Be sure to try a traditional Flemish beef stew cooked in dark beer. Consider taking a canal cruise to experience the stunning reflection of Christmas lights on the water, which adds to the magical atmosphere.

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