5 Festive Destinations Less Than Two Hours From London

Ever heard of “extreme day tripping”? Us neither, until now. But according to Google data the term has reached record highs, growing 9900% from October 2023 to October 2025.

According to the geeks at 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 said, the travel experts at Iglu Cruise 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.

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, still in operation. It is particularly famous for its waffles filled with Madagascan vanilla.

Evening:
Wander to the Grand Place, the heart of Lille city and its Christmas festivities, to take a ride on the giant Ferris wheel and admire the views of the 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 Cologne’s 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. Next, 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, offer a diverse programme of small opera, drama and ballet productions. 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 in beautiful Edinburgh with a traditional (or vegetarian) haggis breakfast bap at one of the charming cafés 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 which 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 filled with rich beef stew seasoned with herbs.