Published on
November 9, 2025
Germany, Switzerland, and Netherlands offer the ultimate Christmas getaway with their extreme day tripping options, allowing travelers to experience the holiday magic in just 24 hours. These countries feature festive destinations like Cologne, Basel, and Amsterdam, where travelers can enjoy iconic Christmas markets, charming light displays, and seasonal traditions—all within a single day. Perfect for those with limited time, these quick yet magical escapes provide a unique way to dive into the heart of the holiday season without the need for long vacations or hotel stays.
Let’s explore these three festive cities and how to maximize a short but sweet Christmas adventure.
Cologne, Germany
Just a short flight of 1 hour and 20 minutes from London, Cologne is the epitome of a Christmas destination. The city is home to some of the most famous Christmas markets in the world, making it an ideal spot for a day trip that will leave you feeling fully immersed in the holiday season.
Start your Cologne journey with a cultural exploration of the city’s impressive museums, such as Museum Ludwig, which showcases a fantastic collection of modern art, and the Fina Frangrace Museum. Afterward, head to the Ehrenfeld district, a vibrant neighborhood perfect for a cozy stop at one of its cafés. Treat yourself to a glass of Kölsch, the city’s signature beer, as you soak in the festive atmosphere.
In the afternoon, take a scenic boat ride along the Rhine River, which offers a unique vantage point of the city’s beautiful Christmas lights and historic architecture. Once evening arrives, make your way to Heinzels Christmas Market. This market is a true highlight, featuring ice skating, holiday shopping, and delicious seasonal food. Don’t forget to visit the KölnTriangle observation deck for panoramic views of the city’s illuminated cathedral and the sparkling Christmas lights below. It’s a sight that will make your day trip truly magical.
Basel, Switzerland
A quick flight of 1 hour and 40 minutes from London brings you to Basel, a Swiss city where medieval charm meets festive cheer. With its cobblestone streets, magical courtyards, and holiday decorations, Basel is a perfect destination for a Christmas day trip.
Begin your visit by exploring Basel’s “Magische Höfe” (Magical Courtyards), where you’ll find beautifully decorated spaces brimming with holiday spirit. The city’s old town, with its centuries-old buildings and winding streets, provides the perfect backdrop for this seasonal adventure. Make sure to stop by the Barfüsserplatz Christmas Market, a popular spot known for its delicious Swiss cheese, gingerbread cookies, and traditional festive foods. The market’s giant Christmas Pyramid, adorned with lights, provides a beautiful place to shop for unique holiday gifts.
If you’re looking for some cultural enrichment, Basel Theatre offers free Advent performances from December 1st to 23rd. These performances, which include opera, ballet, and drama, offer a festive cultural experience that can’t be missed.
To wrap up your day, head to St. Martin’s Tower for a small fee and take in the breathtaking views of Basel’s Christmas market and the twinkling lights of the old town below. The view from the top offers a stunning perspective of the city, making it a perfect ending to your Christmas day in Basel.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Amsterdam, just an hour and 10 minutes from London by plane, is another wonderful city to experience during the Christmas season. Known for its picturesque canals and historic charm, the Dutch capital takes on a magical atmosphere during the holidays.
Start your day in the Jordaan district, where you can take a leisurely stroll along the canals and admire the festive decorations. Enjoy a cozy breakfast in one of the district’s quaint cafés, and take in the serene beauty of the area.
Next, head to the Museum Quarter, where you can immerse yourself in the cultural offerings of the city. Whether you explore the Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum, there’s plenty to see in this iconic part of Amsterdam. In the afternoon, visit the Winter Paradise RAI festival, a true winter wonderland that features ice skating rinks, a Ferris wheel, and festive food stalls serving Dutch waffles and mulled wine. This is the perfect spot to embrace the fun and excitement of the holiday season.
As evening sets in, the Amsterdam Light Festival takes over the city. The streets and canals are adorned with stunning light installations, creating a dreamlike atmosphere throughout the city. For the best experience, take a cruise along the canals, where the lights shimmer across the water, offering a mesmerizing view of Amsterdam’s holiday transformation.
The Ultimate Christmas Day Escape
Whether you’re exploring the historic Christmas markets in Cologne, indulging in Swiss holiday treats in Basel, or cruising through Amsterdam’s sparkling canals, these three cities offer a perfect blend of holiday charm and cultural discovery. And the best part? All of these cities are just a short flight or train ride away from London, making them the ideal destinations for a Christmas adventure without the need for long stays or expensive hotel bookings.
Germany, Switzerland, and Netherlands offer the perfect 24-hour Christmas escapes, allowing travelers to experience festive markets, light displays, and seasonal magic without needing an extended holiday. These extreme day trips let you soak in the holiday spirit in just one day.
These extreme day trips provide a convenient, affordable, and festive way to embrace the holiday season and create unforgettable memories. So why not make the most of your Christmas by jetting off to one of these stunning European destinations? It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season in style—without the hassle of lengthy travel.
