Extreme Day Trip to Dublin on New Year’s Day - Perfect Xmas Gift!
Extreme Day Trip to Dublin on New Year’s Day
From just £52.48pp
If you’re looking for a brilliant Christmas gift for the man (or woman!) in your life, an extreme day trip to Dublin is the perfect surprise. Fly out in the morning, explore the city, tour the world-famous Guinness Storehouse, and still be home by bedtime.
Get an extra 5% off your Guinness Storehouse tickets when you use the code BUILDABREAK5 on the Get Your Guide app. Download the app here.
The Guinness Storehouse is Dublin’s most popular attraction, with more than one million visitors a year. Enjoy a self-guided tour, learn how Guinness is brewed, and finish off with a complimentary pint at the Gravity Bar overlooking the city with its incredible 360° views.
Getting to Dublin City Centre
Dublin Airport is extremely well connected:
Aircoach and Dublin Express buses run up to every 10 minutes.
Tickets cost from €8–€10 one way.
Buy your ticket right outside arrivals and be in the city centre in around 20–30 minutes.
Flight Deals + Guinness Storehouse Tickets
(New Year’s Day)
Disclaimer: Build a Break does not sell holidays or provide quotes and is not a travel agent. We share deals we find online to help you save money on travel. Prices were correct at the time of posting but are subject to change and availability. Always check luggage policies, transfers, and final total price before booking. Build a Break is not responsible for any errors, omissions or the fulfillment of any travel arrangements.
This post contains affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you book through our links, at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my content!
Extreme Day Trips to Amsterdam — Barbie: The Dream Experience from £98pp
Extreme Day Trips for Kids- Barbie Dream House Experience
This Christmas, gift an experience rather than another toy ! How about a day in Amsterdam at Barbie: The Dream Experience, this is pure magic for little (and big) fans.
With flights from nine UK & Irish airports, and prices from just £76 for flights + Dreamhouse ticket, these extreme day trips are designed to give you the most time in Amsterdam for your day out. I’m obsessed!
Why go?
Step into life-sized recreations, explore 12 interactive zones, travel through 6 decades of Barbie history, visit the DreamHouse™, take a trip to space, hit the slopes, and finish with a themed treat at the café. It’s a full-on, joyful, photo-ready experience. Plus, you'll have free time in Amsterdam, the ultimate Extreme Day Trip for kids, and the most amazing Christmas gift.
What’s included at the Barbie Experience:
Ticket for Barbie: The Dream Experience
Access to all 12 interactive zones
Entry to the Barbie-themed café
Access to exclusive merchandise at the Barbie Shop
Use of lockers
Further Details & Logisitics
Ticket prices for the Barbie Experience: Adults £22.06 (ages 11+), Children £16.76 (3-10yrs) - use code BUILDABREAK5 for an extra 5% off (you need to download and redeem for via the Get Your Guide App for this discount).
Barbie Experience Location: Meeuwenlaan 88-B, 1021 JK Amsterdam.
Suggested route from Schiphol Airport: Take the Intercity train to Amsterdam Centraal (around 15 minutes), then Metro 52 (Noordlijn) to Noorderpark — short walk to the venue.
Things to do in Amsterdam with KIds
The experience lasts around 1.5 hours, so you'll have plenty of time to explore a little bit of Amsterdam. Here are some low-cost suggestions, which don't need to be scheduled in, leaving you some flexibility.
Dam Square: lively, great for people-watching and street performers, my kids loved it here
Canal strolls & dancing houses: a perfect photo spot without taking up much time.
Vondelpark: playgrounds and wide open space for kids to run off energy.
Tasty foods to try while you’re in Amsterdam:
Stroopwafels: best warm from a market stall.
Poffertjes : mini Dutch pancakes (kid-favourite).
Frites with mayo: classic street food that’s simple and tasty.
❗️ Please remember: We’re a travel platform sharing great finds, not a travel agent. We do not take requests for alternative dates/airports or provide personal travel quotes 😀
⚠️ All prices and availability are correct at the time of posting but may change or be withdrawn at any time. Always check all details carefully with the travel provider before booking, as we are not responsible for any changes, omissions, or errors. Any booking or contract is made directly between you and the travel supplier.
This post may contain affiliate links – we may earn a small commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you. This helps to maintain our webiste, to keep bringing you the best trip inspiration and price finds.
Extreme Day Trip Flights & Booking Links
All totals below use the standard Dream Experience adult ticket price plus an adult airfare. For under 11's the total price will be around £17.50 cheaper than stated due to no Air Passenger Duty on the outbound flight, plus the cheaper Barbie Experience ticket.
For ages 11-16 years, the price should be £12.50 cheaper. The discounted air passenger duty does not apply on the Dublin flights.
Don't forget to use the code BUILDABREAK5 for an extra 5% off tickets when booking via the Get Your Guide App.
Extreme Day Trip to Iceland: Reykjavik & Sky Lagoon in 1 Day
Thinking about an 'Extreme Day Trip' to Iceland? It might sound crazy, but we did it – and it was absolutely worth it!
Is a One Day Trip to Iceland Really Possible? Here’s How to Turn It Into an Extreme Day Trip
My 15 year old daughter wanted a spa day as part of her 16th birthday present, so we took things to the next level with a Extreme Day Trip to Iceland.
If you’re short on time but want to experience Iceland’s magic, here’s exactly how we did a one day trip to Reykjavik and the incredible Sky Lagoon.
We break down our timings, costs, and handy tips to make your own adventure as smooth as possible.
Just a quick note before we begin- some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting our work and happy planning!
Is it possible to do an Extreme Day Trip to Iceland?
Can you visit Iceland in just one day from the UK?
Our Iceland Extreme Day Trip Timings
Flight: Manchester 7:10 AM → Keflavik 9:55 AM (EasyJet)
Transfers: Flybus 10:50 AM → Reykjavik center
Reykjavik highlights: Hallgrimskirkja, Rainbow Street & street murals
Sky Lagoon: 2pm slot with 7-step ritual
Left the Sky Lagoon: 4:30pm
Bus back to the airport: 6:00pm
Return flight: Keflavik 9:05pm → Manchester 11:30pm
Total cost per person: Approx £250
Flights from Manchester to Iceland
We flew out of Manchester Airport with easyJet at 7:10am and landed earlier than expected at 9:55am at Keflavik Airport (KEF) in Iceland.
With no checked baggage (just a backpack each), we were quickly through security with zero queues and were outside the airport within minutes.
Tips:
Pack light to skip luggage queues
Book early for cheapest fares (~£58 return from Manchester)
We had pre-booked the Flybus with Get Your Guide, which offered:
Free cancellation
Payment just 2 days before
No need to queue at the airport
All we had to do was show the driver our voucher, and it meant we didn't need to queue in arrivals to purchase a ticket. Tickets are valid for any departure from the airport.
We got on the bus at 10.20am and it departed at 10.50am, taking 40 minutes to then reach the centre of Reykjavik.
Q: Where to find the Flybus:
A: Just outside arrivals at Keflavik Airport.
Q: How long does The Flybus take?
A: Around 40 minutes to Reykjavik.
Q: Do you need to book the Flybus in advance?
A: Not necessarily – tickets can be bought at the airport and are valid for any departure time on your selected day.
If you’re travelling solo with a child, Icelandic immigration officials may ask for a letter of authority from the other parent- they did with us, and many other parents from our flight. We didn’t have one but got through – however, it’s better to be prepared!
Exploring Reykjavik
We had a few hours before our Sky Lagoon slot, so we explored the city.
Hallgrimskirkja – Reykjavik’s Iconic Church
A 10-minute walk (800m) from BSI Bus Terminal took us to Hallgrimskirkja, Reykjavik’s iconic church.
Its stunning modernist design and towering height make it the city’s most famous landmark.
You can go to the top for breathtaking views (we skipped this due to time), which costs ISK 1000 for adults and ISK 100 for children ages 7-16 years.
Reykjavik’s Rainbow Street & Street Art
From Hallgrimskirkja, we walked 4 more minutes to the famous Rainbow Street Skólavörðustígur. The street is lined with cafés, boutiques, and street art – perfect for a quick wander and photo stop. We got some lunch here and also a few souvenirs.
After soaking up the sights, we grabbed lunch before heading back to BSI Bus Terminal.
Keep an eye out for Reykjavik’s quirky houses and street murals – they’re dotted everywhere and make the city feel like an open-air art gallery.
Getting to the Sky Lagoon from Reykjavik
We pre-booked the Sky Lagoon- including transfers via Get Your Guide. We went for the package which included our own private changing room, unlimited amounts of towels, shampoo and conditioner, a private shower and hairdryer too. This was the most expensive package, but saved us taking lots of things on our trip.
You can also chose a cheaper package which includes transfers, but with shared changing facilities.
Tickets without transfers are also available for those who've hired a car here.
We booked this back in December as it does sell out, however, with Get Your Guide, we didn't need to pay for it until 2 days before the visit.
The bus left BSI Bus Terminal at 2pm and took us straight to Sky Lagoon – a geothermal infinity pool overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
The journey to the Sky Lagoon from Reykjavik takes around 20 minutes (although more like 30 mins on the way back as it drops off at hotels).
Buses leave on the hour from BSI terminal and return on the half hour- you don't need to specify a return time and you can stay at the Sky Lagoon as long as you wish.
Tip: Book early – slots sell out fast. We recommend 1 PM instead of 2 PM for more time.
Sky Lagoon was honestly incredible. Floating in the steaming geothermal waters while looking out at the Atlantic was pure magic.
The 7-step ritual includes:
Sauna
Steam room
Cold plunge
Body scrub
Refreshing Icelandic drink
Mist room
Relax in infinity pool overlooking the Atlantic
We originally booked for 2pm, but in hindsight, we’d go for 1pm to allow more time.
At 4:30pm, we reluctantly left and caught the return bus back to BSI Bus Terminal, arriving just before 5pm.
Why it’s unforgettable: Floating in geothermal waters while looking at the ocean is magical.
Tip: Allow 2–2.5 hours for the full experience.
Return to Keflavik Airport
Before heading back to the airport, we grabbed food at BSI Bus Terminal. The bus terminal is small, so really easy to find your bus. Plus, there's an information counter with staff that speak English. They can advise on any queries over logistics and other tours you may find of interest.
Inside the bus terminal, you'll also find clean toilets (around £1.15pp to access) and a café. We got a huge pizza slice for around £6 each.
At 6pm, we took our pre-booked FlyBus back to Keflavik Airport, arriving with plenty of time to check in.
Keflavik Airport Prices & The Northern Lights from the Plane!
Keflavik Airport has plenty of food options, and surprisingly, prices weren’t as bad as expected, despite Iceland's expensive reputation. We got two of the famous Icelandic Hot Dogs for around £5 each. We also got 2 bottled soft drinks and 2 bars of chocolate for £6 in total, which I actually think is cheaper than Manchester Airport!
Our 9:05 PM flight home departed on time, but the real highlight?
We saw the Northern Lights from the plane!
The display lasted a full two hours – an unforgettable end to our Icelandic adventure.
Top Tip: Book seats on the left-hand side for the best chance of seeing them.
We landed back in Manchester at 11:30 PM, absolutely exhausted but buzzing from an incredible day.
Cost Breakdown of Our One Day Trip to Iceland
For less than £250 each, we experienced Iceland’s capital, its famous landmarks, a luxury spa, and even the Northern Lights – all in one day!
Return Flights from Manchester to Iceland: £58
Return Airport transfers £32.09pp (for 1 ad & 1 teen ticket)
Sky Lagoon tickets with transfers £122.54pp
Was it Worth Doing an Extreme Day Trip to Iceland?
✅ YES! It was a whirlwind, but every moment was incredible. If you’re up for an extreme day trip, Reykjavik is surprisingly doable from Manchester.
Would we do it again?
Absolutely – but next time, we’d:
Book Sky Lagoon earlier (1pm instead of 2pm).
Stay overnight to see more of Iceland.
Next time, if we did another Extreme Day Trip to Iceland, we would probably try the Blue Lagoon instead. This is nearer to the airport than the Sky Lagoon. If you're debating going, and not sure which to pick, read our guide on Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon Guide,where we weigh up the advantages (and disadvantages) of each spa.
If you’re tempted to try this yourself, go for it – it’s one epic travel story you’ll never forget!
Watch the Video of our Extreme Day Trip to Iceland
Christmas Extreme Day Trips from Manchester Airport
Looking for an epic ‘Extreme Day Trip’ from Manchester Airport this December without breaking the bank?
We’ve rounded up some of the best extreme day trips you can take this winter.
With return trips starting at just £40 per person, you can explore magical destinations throughout the month - be quick as prices will rise.
Think of these as an affordable Christmas break- a whirlwind adventure that fits into a single day. From sunrise flights to late-night returns, these trips let you explore more for less.
We've included weekend dates too and there's some incredible winter destinations available.
Want the full list? Read the full article and start planning your next extreme day trip from Manchester!
Scroll further down and you’ll find our full guide to planning your next Extreme Day Trip.
Just a quick note before we begin- this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these. This helps us to continue finding you the best deals and to keep the website going.
All prices are checked and correct at time of posting this article but are subject to change. Whilst every care is taken to copy over details- please double check all dates and times before booking.
Our Best Extreme Day Trips from Manchester this Christmas!
December Extreme Day Trips from Manchester Airport
Build a Break Ltd provides information only and is not liable for bookings, payments, or any issues arising. Please ensure you read all terms and conditions with suppliers before proceeding.
Extreme Day Trips to Disneyland Paris – The Perfect Christmas Gift
🎁 Give the Gift of Travel – February Disneyland Paris Extreme Day Trip
Treat your loved ones to something magical this Christmas – a Disneyland Paris adventure in February! Prices start at just £105 for adults and £102 for children (that's flights and Disneyland Paris tickets!)
Imagine stepping off the plane in the morning, hopping on the TGV straight from Charles de Gaulle Airport, and within minutes you’re walking down Main Street U.S.A., enjoying the winter atmosphere and crisp February air.
From character meet‑and‑greets to parades and seasonal shows, the park feels extra special in winter. Even a one-day trip is packed with unforgettable moments.
Fly in, hit the highlights, then fly home – with the right planning, you can see more than you’d expect. That’s what makes these Extreme Day Trips so rewarding.
For a full guide to making the most of a single day at Disneyland Paris, see our trip: Click here to read
To get from Charles de Gaulle to the parks quickly, you can catch the TGV — fast and efficient. Step-by-step details here:Click here to read
💡 Pro Tip: Save an extra 5% on your park tickets by using the Get Your Guide app.
Disneyland Paris Tickets (Adults £60.91 / Children £56.49) – click here
Use BUILDABREAK5 for 5% off
⚠️ Disclaimer:
Build a Break is a travel platform sharing the best finds we come across. We are not a travel agent and cannot provide quotes, alternative dates, or personal travel advice.
All prices and availability are correct at the time of posting but may change or be withdrawn at any time. Always check all details carefully with the travel provider before booking, as we are not responsible for any changes, omissions, or errors. Any booking or contract is made directly between you and the travel supplier.
24 Christmas Extreme Day Trips from London Airport
Christmas Markets Extreme Day Trips from London
Looking for an epic ‘Extreme Day Trip’ from London this Christmas without breaking the bank?
We’ve rounded up some of the best extreme days out you can take this Christmas.
What's more, they're all on a Saturday or Sunday, requiring no annual leave!
Think of it as an affordable Christmas break- a whirlwind adventure that fits into a single day. From sunrise flights to late-night returns, these trips let you explore more for less.
With cheap flights from London and smart booking tricks, you can pack in a full travel experience without an overnight stay.
Want the full list? Read the full article and start planning your next extreme day trip from London!
Scroll further down and you’ll find our full guide to planning your next Extreme Day Trip.
Just a quick note before we begin- this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these. This helps us to continue finding you the best deals and to keep the website going.
All prices are checked and correct at time of posting this article but are subject to change. Whilst every care is taken to copy over details- please double check all dates and times before booking.
Our Best Extreme Day Trips from London this winter!
Build a Break Ltd provides information only and is not liable for bookings, payments, or any issues arising. Please ensure you read all terms and conditions with suppliers before proceeding.
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12 of The Best Extreme Day Trips from Bristol Airport
Looking epic ‘Extreme Day Trips’ from Bristol Airport without breaking the bank?
We've still rounded up 12 of the best extreme day trips from Bristol airport you can take this June, all for under £100 per person!
With cheap flights from Bristol and smart booking tricks, you can pack in a full travel experience without an overnight stay.
Think of it as an affordable mini break- a whirlwind adventure that fits into a single day. From sunrise flights to late-night returns, these trips let you explore more for less.
Want the full list? Read the full article and start planning your next extreme day trip!
Just a quick note before we begin- this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these. This helps us to continue finding you the best deals and to keep the website going.
All prices are checked and correct at time of posting this article but are subject to change. Whilst every care is taken to copy over details- please double check all dates and times before booking.
Our Best Extreme Day Trips from Bristol Airport this June
Build a Break Ltd provides information only and is not liable for bookings, payments, or any issues arising. Please ensure you read all terms and conditions with suppliers before proceeding.
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12 of The Best Extreme Day Trips from Leeds Bradford Airport
Looking for an epic ‘Extreme Day Trip’ from Leeds Bradford Airport this June, without breaking the bank?
We’ve rounded up a selection of the best extreme day trips you can take in June, all for under £100 per person!
With cheap flights from Leeds Bradford and smart booking tricks, you can pack in a full travel experience without an overnight stay.
Think of it as an affordable mini- break- a whirlwind adventure that fits into a single day. From sunrise flights to late-night returns, these trips let you explore more for less.
Want the full list? Read the full article and start planning your next extreme day trip!
Just a quick note before we begin- this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these. This helps us to continue finding you the best deals and to keep the website going.
All prices are checked and correct at time of posting this article but are subject to change. Whilst every care is taken to copy over details- please double check all dates and times before booking.
Our Best Extreme Day Trips from Leeds Bradford Airport this June
Build a Break Ltd provides information only and is not liable for bookings, payments, or any issues arising. Please ensure you read all terms and conditions with suppliers before proceeding.
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Extreme day trips from Leeds Bradford Airport, Extreme Day Trips from Leeds Airport, How to take an extreme day trip from Leeds, How to take an extreme day trip from Bradford, Cheap flights from Leeds, Cheap flights from Leeds Bradford.
The Best Extreme Day Trips from Birmingham & East Midlands
Looking for an epic ‘Extreme Day Trip’ from Birmingham or East Midlands Airport, without breaking the bank?
We’ve rounded up a selection of best extreme day trips you can take this June, all for under £100 per person!
With cheap flights from Birmingham & East Midlands airports and smart booking tricks, you can pack in a full travel experience without an overnight stay.
Think of it as an affordable mini break- a whirlwind adventure that fits into a single day. From sunrise flights to late-night returns, these trips let you explore more for less.
Want the full list? Read the full article and start planning your next extreme day trip!
Just a quick note before we begin- this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these. This helps us to continue finding you the best deals and to keep the website going.
All prices are checked and correct at time of posting this article but are subject to change. Whilst every care is taken to copy over details- please double check all dates and times before booking.
Our Best Extreme Day Trips from Birmingham & East Midlands this June!
Build a Break Ltd provides information only and is not liable for bookings, payments, or any issues arising. Please ensure you read all terms and conditions with suppliers before proceeding.
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Extreme day trips from East Midlands Airport, Extreme Day Trips from Birmingham Airport, How to take an extreme day trip from Birmingham, How to take an extreme day trip from East midlands, Cheap flights from Birmingham, Cheap flights from East Midlands.
Rome in One Day: Our Extreme Day Trip to Italy
Looking for a budget friendly yet action packed one day trip to Rome?
I managed just that over the Bank Holiday weekend with a friend- and it turned out to be one of the most memorable 24-hour trips I’ve ever done.
I think this would class as an Extreme Day Trip to Rome, as we were there for just 24 hours!
One day in Rome Cost Breakdown
With affordable flights, delicious food, stunning sights and a Vespa sidecar tour, Rome proved the perfect backdrop for a whirlwind trip.
Here's exactly how we did it, costs included, and how you can too!
Uber Taxis around Rome including transfers to/from airport £60
3 hour Pasta Making Class with lunch, dessert & alcohol £46
3 hour Vespa & Side Car Tour with Gelato £110- see later in the guide on how to get a further 15% off with our exclusive code!
Just a quick note before we begin- this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission. This helps us to continue finding and publishing the best deals and travel tips.
All the opinions in this blog are our own, including reviews of the activities and hotel.
Our One Day Itinerary for Rome
Our trip began in the early hours of the Bank Holiday Sunday with a flight from Liverpool John Lennon Airport at 5:55am.
It’s never easy waking up at 1am, but when Rome is waiting on the other side, it’s surprisingly doable! Unfortunately, we live 2 hours from our nearest airport, so any one day trip, always starts with a very early morning.
The flight departed on time and we landed at Rome Ciampino Airport at 9:35am (Flight time of 2hrs 40 mins from Liverpool to Rome).
Thanks to electronic passport gates rather than border staff, we were through security very quickly, although we were a little gutted not to get a passport stamp- one of those little mementos I love collecting!
Getting from Rome Ciampino to The Trevi Fountain
By 10:00am we were outside the airport trying to book an Uber. This is where things got a bit confusing. Staff told us to wait at the taxi rank, but that turned out to be the wrong place for Uber pickups.
After our first Uber cancelled, we figured it out- if you’re ordering an Uber from Ciampino, wait by Bus Stop 6. Our second Uber arrived at 10:15am and took us straight to our first stop: the Trevi Fountain. The ride took about 35 minutes and cost €40, which we split (€20 each).
Our 1st Stop in Rome- Trevi Fountain
We arrived at the Trevi Fountain at 10:50am. As expected, it was heaving with tourists- I swear it's busier every time I visit. There is now a queuing system to get down the steps which initially looked daunting but actually moved fairly quickly.
We decided to take a few photos from the upper level and planned to return later that evening when it would (hopefully) be quieter.
Aperol Spritz at the Pantheon
From the Trevi Fountain, we strolled over to the Pantheon- less than a ten minute walk away. This area of Rome is full of beautiful side streets and little cafes, and the vibe is truly magical.
Outside the Pantheon, we found a charming café offering Aperol Spritz with a small aperitivo plate of nibbles for just €5. Absolute bargain! Sitting in the sunshine, sipping spritz and watching the world go by in one of Rome’s most iconic squares was a dreamy way to kick off the day.
Pasta Making Class: A True Italian Experience
At noon, we headed back toward the Trevi Fountain for our first booked activity—a pasta-making classhosted by the lovely Martina. This 3-hour experience turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip.
Martina welcomed us with warmth and enthusiasm. She began by telling us about her roots in Puglia and her memories of making pasta with her nonna. Then we got stuck in—rolling dough and learning how to make three different types of pasta: tagliatelle, tortellini, and ravioli.
Martina had prepared a rich ragu earlier for our tagliatelle, and for the stuffed pastas, she showed us how to make a butter and sage sauce that was genuinely mind-blowing.
Once all the pasta was ready, we sat down as a group (with fellow travellers from the US, Greece and France) to enjoy the meal. It felt like a big Italian family lunch, complete with red wine, chocolate salami (Salame Al Cioccolato) and a cheeky shot of limoncello to finish.
We were also given all the recipes to take home- so of course, I’ve already ordered some pasta tools from Amazon to recreate the magic!
We found this experience to be very good value for money- it cost £46, not much difference in price to a restaurant meal with wine and dessert, so the fact we had a truly authentic Italian experience too was great
We finished the pasta class around 3:30pm and grabbed another Uber to our hotel—Hotel Des Epoques near Porta Pia. This ride cost €20.50 (€10 each).
The hotel was great value at £99 for a triple room for one night, including breakfast. With traditional Italian decor, a grand lobby, and a 24-hour airport shuttle, it was perfect for our quick stay. The nearest metro station, Castro Pretorio, was just a 10-minute walk away, making it easy to get around.
We had a couple of hours to freshen up and take a much-needed nap before our evening activity.
Our guides, Sal and Ali, were brilliant- knowledgeable, funny, and full of fascinating stories about Rome.
Our first stop was the Colosseum, followed by a whirlwind ride past both major landmarks and hidden gems.
We even got to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city from lesser-known viewpoints that weren’t overrun with tourists.
The tour ended back at the Pantheon, where we were treated to a double scoop of gelato—included in the tour price.
Chatting with the owner afterwards, we arranged a 15% discount codefor our readers!
Just use the code BUILDABREAK at checkout on any of their tours. Genuinely, if you're short on time and want to see a lot, this is the way to do it! CLICK HERE TO BOOK!
A Magical Evening in the Pantheon Area
At 9:00pm, we decided to stay in the Pantheon area. The square was beautifully lit up, with street musicians playing and restaurants buzzing with life.
We returned to the same spot we had our Aperol earlier in the day for another round of drinks, then wandered to a nearby restaurant for a late dinner at 10pm.
Despite not feeling super hungry (thanks to the pasta feast and gelato), we tucked into a tasty meal with plenty of drinks. The bill came to around €40 per person—not bad for Rome on a Saturday night!
Midnight Stroll to the Trevi Fountain
At midnight, we took a short walk back to the Trevi Fountain. This time, it was much quieter. We walked straight down the steps, soaking in the view of the fountain lit up.
At 12:30am, we grabbed a taxi back to our hotel for €20 (€10 each), totally exhausted but absolutely buzzing with how much we had packed in to one day.
Heading Home: One Last Look at Rome
The next morning, we enjoyed a relaxed breakfast at the hotel before checking out and hopping in a taxi at 10:30am for our return to Ciampino Airport.
This was a set price of €40 (€20 each). Our flight back to Liverpool departed at 1:25pm—perfect timing after our whirlwind 24-hour Roman holiday.
Final Thoughts: Is a Day Trip to Rome Worth It?
Absolutely. From pasta-making to sightseeing from a Vespa sidecar, we squeezed so much into one day and made memories to last a lifetime. If you’re considering a quick escape with a friend, this is your sign to book it.
Rome in a day? Challenge accepted—and conquered.
Helpful Tips for Your Own Rome Day Trip:
Book early flights and late returns for maximum time in the city.
Travel hand luggage only so you can hit the ground running and save £££'s
Share taxis and hotels with a friend to cut costs.
Know your Uber pick-up point at Ciampino (Bus Stop 6!).
Book an experience—like a pasta class or Vespa tour—to make it memorable.
Stay central to reduce travel time.
Visit the Trevi Fountain at night for a peaceful photo opp.
Planning your own Roman holiday? Let me know your questions in the comments or follow me on Instagram and TikTok @BuildABreak for more travel tips!
Best Extreme Day Trips from Liverpool Airport This Summer
Looking for epic ‘Extreme Day Trips’ from Liverpool Airport without breaking the bank?
We've rounded up some of the best extreme day trips you can take in May from Liverpool, this June and July! But be quick, as prices tend to increase the closer it gets to departure.
To get the best price, use a mobile phone rather than a desktop to access the links.
If you're able to travel to other airports, check our finds from Edinburgh airport, Glasgow or even Manchesterfor even more choice of destination and dates.
With cheap flights from Liverpool and smart booking tricks, you can pack in a full travel experience without an overnight stay.
Think of it as an affordable break- a whirlwind adventure that fits into a single day. From sunrise flights to late-night returns, these trips let you explore more for less.
Want the full list? Read the full article and start planning your next extreme day trip!
Scroll further down and you’ll find our full guide to planning your next Extreme Day Trip.
Just a quick note before we begin- this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these. This helps us to continue finding you the best deals and to keep the website going.
All prices are checked and correct at time of posting this article but are subject to change. Whilst every care is taken to copy over details- please double check all dates and times before booking.
Our Best Extreme Day Trips from Liverpool Airport this Summer
Build a Break Ltd provides information only and is not liable for bookings, payments, or any issues arising. Please ensure you read all terms and conditions with suppliers before proceeding.
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12 of the Best Extreme Day Trips from Newcastle Airport
Looking for epic ‘Extreme Day Trips’ from Newcastle Airport without breaking the bank?
We've rounded up 12 of the best extreme day trips you can take in May from Newcastle, all for under £100 per person! But be quick, as prices tend to increase the closer it gets to departure.
Unfortunately, there isn't a great deal of choice from Newcastle- just Dublin, Belfast and Alicante at the moment . If you're able to travel, check our finds from Edinburgh airport, Glasgow or even Manchester.
With cheap flights from Newcastle and smart booking tricks, you can pack in a full travel experience without an overnight stay.
Think of it as an affordable break- a whirlwind adventure that fits into a single day. From sunrise flights to late-night returns, these trips let you explore more for less.
Want the full list? Read the full article and start planning your next extreme day trip!
Scroll further down and you’ll find our full guide to planning your next Extreme Day Trip.
Just a quick note before we begin- this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these. This helps us to continue finding you the best deals and to keep the website going.
All prices are checked and correct at time of posting this article but are subject to change. Whilst every care is taken to copy over details- please double check all dates and times before booking.
Our Best Extreme Day Trips from Newcastle Airport this May
Build a Break Ltd provides information only and is not liable for bookings, payments, or any issues arising. Please ensure you read all terms and conditions with suppliers before proceeding.
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The Best Extreme Day Trips from Glasgow Airport
Looking for epic ‘Extreme Day Trips’ from Glasgow Airport this Spring, without breaking the bank?
We've rounded up 6 of the best extreme day trips you can take in April and May from Glasgow, all for under £100 per person! But be quick, as prices tend to increase the closer it gets to departure.
Unfortunately, there isn't a great deal of choice from Glasgow. If you're able to travel, check our finds from Edinburgh airport or even Manchester.
With cheap flights from Glasgow and smart booking tricks, you can pack in a full travel experience without an overnight stay.
Think of it as an affordable break- a whirlwind adventure that fits into a single day. From sunrise flights to late-night returns, these trips let you explore more for less.
Want the full list? Read the full article and start planning your next extreme day trip!
Scroll further down and you’ll find our full guide to planning your next Extreme Day Trip.
Just a quick note before we begin- this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these. This helps us to continue finding you the best deals and to keep the website going.
All prices are checked and correct at time of posting this article but are subject to change. Whilst every care is taken to copy over details- please double check all dates and times before booking.
Our Best Extreme Day Trips from Glasgow Airport this April & May
Build a Break Ltd provides information only and is not liable for bookings, payments, or any issues arising. Please ensure you read all terms and conditions with suppliers before proceeding.
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12 of The Best Extreme Day Trips from Edinburgh Airport
Looking for epic ‘Extreme Day Trips’ from Edinburgh Airport this May, without breaking the bank?
We've rounded up 12 of the best extreme day trips you can take in May from Edinburgh, all for under £100 per person! But be quick, as prices tend to increase the closer it gets to departure.
With cheap flights from Edinburgh and smart booking tricks, you can pack in a full travel experience without an overnight stay.
Think of it as an affordable break- a whirlwind adventure that fits into a single day. From sunrise flights to late-night returns, these trips let you explore more for less.
Want the full list? Read the full article and start planning your next extreme day trip!
Scroll further down and you’ll find our full guide to planning your next Extreme Day Trip.
Just a quick note before we begin- this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these. This helps us to continue finding you the best deals and to keep the website going.
All prices are checked and correct at time of posting this article but are subject to change. Whilst every care is taken to copy over details- please double check all dates and times before booking.
Our Best Extreme Day Trips from Edinburgh Airport this May
Build a Break Ltd provides information only and is not liable for bookings, payments, or any issues arising. Please ensure you read all terms and conditions with suppliers before proceeding.
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18 of The Best Extreme Day Trips from Dublin, Ireland
Looking for an epic ‘Extreme Day Trip’ from Dublin Airport this Easter, without breaking the bank?
We’ve rounded up 18 of the best extreme day trips you can take in April from Ireland, all for under 100 € per person!
Plus, there are lots of weekend and school holiday dates, making it a great option if a full holiday is out of budget
With cheap flights from Dublin and smart booking tricks, you can pack in a full travel experience without an overnight stay.
Think of it as an affordable Easter break- a whirlwind adventure that fits into a single day. From sunrise flights to late-night returns, these trips let you explore more for less.
Want the full list? Read the full article and start planning your next extreme day trip!
Scroll further down and you’ll find our full guide to planning your next Extreme Day Trip.
Just a quick note before we begin- this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these. This helps us to continue finding you the best deals and to keep the website going.
All prices are checked and correct at time of posting this article but are subject to change. Whilst every care is taken to copy over details- please double check all dates and times before booking.
Our Best Extreme Day Trips from Dublin Airport this April
Build a Break Ltd provides information only and is not liable for bookings, payments, or any issues arising. Please ensure you read all terms and conditions with suppliers before proceeding.
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Extreme day trips from Leeds Bradford Airport, Extreme Day Trips from Leeds Airport, How to take an extreme day trip from Leeds, How to take an extreme day trip from Bradford, Cheap flights from Leeds, Cheap flights from Leeds Bradford.
The Ultimate Guide to Extreme Day Trips
Extreme day trips are becoming increasingly popular, allowing travellers to visit a new country in under 24 hours without the hassle and cost of overnight stays.
Whether you’re testing out a destination before a longer trip, want to travel with minimal time off work, or are just looking for an exciting adventure on a budget, extreme day trips are a fantastic way to see more of the world for less!
What is an Extreme Day Trip?
An extreme day trip typically involves flying out early in the morning, spending the day exploring a new destination, and flying back late at night- ensuring you’re tucked up in your own bed the same night.
Some travellers stretch this to an overnight stay, but anything under 24 hours door-to-door fits the definition.
The rising cost of accommodation and travel has made extreme day trips an appealing way to explore new places without breaking the bank.
They’re also perfect for those who want a quick trip, a special experience for a birthday or celebration, or a way to test out a city before committing to a longer holiday.
Extreme Day Trips Abroad
Many European cities are accessible from the UK in just a couple of hours, making them perfect for extreme day trips. Some of the best options include:
Dublin or Belfast– Frequent flights and short distances from the airport to the city, with no language barrier, make these ideal first-time extreme day trip destinations.
Paris, France – Fly into Charles de Gaulle or Orly for easy access to the city. Avoid Beauvais (BVA) as it’s further out.
Amsterdam, Netherlands – A quick 1-hour flight and an easy train ride into the city.
Brussels, Belgium – If you land at Zaventem (BRU), you’ll be in the city in 20 minutes. Avoid Charleroi (CRL) as it’s further out.
Geneva, Switzerland – Stunning scenery, chocolate, and a compact city centre make it ideal for a short visit.
Extreme Day Trip Destination Inspiration
Great destinations include (but are certainly not limited to):
Dublin – Just over an hour’s flight, with plenty of return options.
Paris – Frequent flights mean a full day in the city is possible. We have done two extreme day trips to Disneyland Paris. You can find our first one here
Amsterdam – Less than a 90-minute flight, plus quick transport links.
Alicante- a very popular one that appears quite frequently for less than £50 return
Marrakech- a bit harder to do, due to the flight duration and time spent getting through customs in Morocco, but possible.
Iceland- One of the hardest to find, but one of the best destinations. We have managed to do a trip here and combine it with a spa day at the Sky Lagoon. You can read about this here
Milan- One of the easiest to do, given that there are multiple flights per day and three airports in Milan. This can be combined with a trip to the incredible Lake Como.
Pisa- with Pisa city centre being under 15 minutes from the airport and Pisa, itself being quite small to explore, a day trip here is very easy.
Rovaniemi, Lapland- Usually only possible from Stansted, but take your EDT to the next level with a snowmobiling trip, husky or reindeer ride and a visit to Santa. You may even get to experience the northern lights on the flight home! Get our complete guide to Santa Claus Village here
Geneva- Again, one of the most popular to take. Combine this one with an onward transfer to Annecy or Chamonix or stay in Switzerland and stroll along the Lac Leman in Montreux. Read about our trip to Chamonix & Mont Blanc here
Rome- Sometimes hard to find flights far enough apart to allow you enough time in the city, but they do come up. Allow 1 hour either side for the transfer from either of Rome's airports. We have been to Rome with our kids twice, and although not a day trip, we have plenty of tips here
Bucharest- an extremely popular one with Extreme Day Trippers wanting to experience a spa day
The UK airports with the most Extreme Day Trip options are Manchester, London Luton & London Stansted although, there should be at least 1-2 options from most regional airports.
Extreme Day Trips for Kids & Teens
Looking for a fun adventure with the kids? Consider:
Disneyland Paris - Fly in early, spend the day at the park, and fly home at night.
Dublin Zoo - Easy to reach from the airport and a fun family day out.
Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens - One of the world’s oldest theme parks.
Use Skyscanner – it's a fantastic tool for finding the cheapest flight combinations.
Search “Everywhere” and enter in the date you wish to travel, entering the same date for the return. Skyscanner will then give you destinations in price order. Filter to direct flights only. See the example below
Be flexible- we are literally open to any destination when we begin our search.
Pay close attention to the arrival and departure times. Allow time to exit the airport and take a transfer to the city centre. Also, allow around 3 hours before your return flight, to make your way back to the airport and go through security. The best flights will have an arrival time before lunch, with a departure in the late evening (9pm onwards), to allow you maximum time at your destination.
Look 5-6 weeks in advance for the best prices.
Check multiple airlines - Sometimes booking outbound and return separately saves money, but be aware of potential risks if one leg is changed.
Avoid airports far from the city centre – Paris (BVA), Brussels (CRL), and Oslo (TORP) often have cheap flights but require much longer transfers.
You can often find flights from just £28 return. Other costs to factor in:
Airport transfers – Plan ahead to avoid expensive last-minute options. Public transport tends to be much cheaper than a taxi or private transfers. Many airports in Europe, have trains or buses directly from arrivals to the city centre.
Food – A Boots meal deal (£5) is a great budget-friendly option and a firm favourite of any extreme day tripper! Get one at departures and this will at least cover your lunch.
Airport Parking- this can be expensive, and often end up more than the actual flight. To avoid this, try and get someone to drop and pick you up, or use public transport to get to the airport.
Travel Insurance- if you have an annual policy, make sure it covers trips <24 hours. Use compare the market to find suitable insurance for 1 day from around £5pp.
What to Take on an Extreme Day Trip
Packing light is key! My personal packing list for an extreme day trip includes:
Backpack (avoid checked baggage fees).
Refillable water bottle.
Power bank for your phone (I usually take at least 2 to be on the safe side)
Sunglasses and mini sun cream for warmer destinations
Hat & Gloves for the colder ones
An umbrella, no matter the destination
Spare credit card and currency card (Monzo or Revolut).
Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant in case you get delayed).
Basic Medicines (Paracetamol, Ibuprofen and Plasters)
Don't forget your passport!
Do You Need Currency for an Extreme Day Trip?
I never carry cash! I always use my Monzo card abroad. However, if you do need cash, withdraw a small amount at your destination rather than exchanging before you go.
My Top Tips for An EDT!
Check airport locations – Some “cheap” airports are far from the city, eating into your time.
Pack light – A small backpack saves time and baggage fees.
Use Monzo/Revolut with no fees/charges – No need for currency exchanges; just withdraw cash if needed.
Always have a power bank – You don’t want to be stranded with a dead phone
Plan your transport – Know how you’re getting from the airport to the city before you land.
Extreme Day Trips 2025
Looking ahead, extreme day trips are only set to grow in popularity as more people seek affordable ways to travel. Airlines continue to offer ultra-low fares, making it easier than ever to plan last-minute adventures.
Extreme day trips are an exciting, budget-friendly way to travel. With a bit of planning, you can see new cities, experience new cultures, and be back in your own bed that night. Ready for your next adventure? Let us know your dream extreme day trip in the comments!
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Iceland: Our Top 10 Budget-Friendly Things to Do
Iceland is known for its incredible landscapes, dramatic waterfalls, and unique geothermal activity, but it’s also infamous for being one of the most expensive travel destinations.
However, that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to experience its magic! If you’re looking for affordable ways to explore the Land of Fire and Ice, here are ten budget-friendly activities to do in Iceland.
At Build a Break, we're all about exploring bucket list destinations for less, and sharing money saving tips with our readers.
Yes, Iceland is very expensive, but that doesn't mean you can't explore everything it has to offer- you just need to be clever about it and plan in advance.
We'll take you through our top 10 tips for exploring Iceland on a Budget.
Just a quick note before we begin- some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting our work and happy planning!
Cheap Things to do in Iceland
1. Spot the Northern Lights for Free in Iceland
Seeing the Northern Lights is a bucket-list experience, and the best part? It’s completely free! The key is to visit between September and April when the nights are longest. Get away from city lights for the best view- popular spots near Reykjavik include Grótta Lighthouse or Thingvellir National Park. Check the aurora forecast and hope for clear skies!
We have written a guide for our top tips on spotting northern lights in Finland, and many of our tips for the best apps to use and guidance are the same for Iceland. You can read our guide here
2. Hire a Car!
Iceland’s public transport is limited, and taxis are notoriously expensive. Even the bus from the airport costs around £40 return per person.
Instead, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace while saving money on tours such a northern lights or Golden Circle excursions.
Car hire starts around £50 for a 2 day hire- Searchhere
Find the Cheapest Car Hire in Iceland
3. Relax in Budget-Friendly Geothermal Spas
The Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon are stunning, but at €70+ per person, it’s not budget-friendly.
Thankfully, Iceland has plenty of cheaper geothermal pools! Try a more affordable experience like Laugardalslaug in Reykjavik, which costs under €10 and still offers warm, mineral-rich waters.
For an even more budget-friendly soak, check out hot springs in nature, like Reykjadalur’s hot river- completely free!
4. Visit Free Waterfalls
Iceland is home to countless waterfalls, and many of the most famous ones are free to visit. Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss are along the south coast and easily accessible.
For a hidden gem, check out Kvernufoss, a stunning waterfall with far fewer tourists. If you’re exploring the north, don’t miss Goðafoss, known as the “Waterfall of the Gods.”
Hiking in Iceland doesn’t cost a thing, and the views are priceless! Glymur Waterfall is a fantastic hike with breathtaking scenery, and Mount Esja near Reykjavik is perfect for a day hike.
If you’re heading to Landmannalaugar, you’ll find some of Iceland’s most colourful landscapes- just remember to check road conditions if travelling in winter.
6. Explore Reykjavik on Foot
Reykjavik is a compact and walkable city, so you don’t need to spend on transport. Stroll along the colourful streets, visit the famous Hallgrímskirkja Church (you can admire it for free, but there’s a small fee to go up the tower), and check out Harpa Concert Hall with its striking glass architecture.
Don’t miss the Sun Voyager sculpture for a perfect photo spot!
Puffins, seals, and even whales can be spotted in Iceland without expensive tours!
Visit the harbour in Reykjavik for a chance to see seals or head to Dyrhólaey (May to August) for a great puffin-watching spot.
If you’re lucky, you might even see whales from the shore at places like Hvalfjörður.
8. Visit Free Museums on Certain Days
Reykjavik has several museums that offer free entry on specific days. For example, the National Museum of Iceland sometimes has free admission days, and the Reykjavik Art Museum occasionally offers free entry.
Always check the museum websites before your trip to plan around their free or discount days!
Black sand beaches are one of Iceland’s most unique attractions and visiting them costs nothing. Reynisfjara Beach near Vik is the most famous, with its striking basalt columns.
For a quieter experience, check out Diamond Beach, where glistening ice chunks wash up onto the shore, creating a magical scene.
10. Go Supermarket Shopping Instead of Eating Out
Eating out in Iceland is expensive, with even a simple meal costing €20 or more. Instead, save money by shopping at budget supermarkets like Bonus or Kronan. Many accommodations have kitchen facilities, so you can cook simple meals instead of dining out.
If you do want to try Icelandic food on a budget, grab a famous hot dog from Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur- it’s one of the cheapest meals in Reykjavik!
Final Tips for Budget Travellers in Iceland
Bring a refillable water bottle – Iceland’s tap water is some of the cleanest in the world!
Book accommodation with kitchen facilities to save on meals.
Visit in the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) for cheaper flights and accommodations.
Consider camping in summer – Iceland has great campsites, and it’s much cheaper than hotels.
If travelling from Europe, budget airlines like easyJet tend to fly from October to March. Our return flight was under £60pp!
For deals that include flights, hotel, luggage and a northern lights tour, Jet2 have departures from many UK airports that start from £600! click here to search
How to do One Day at Disneyland Paris this Christmas
We decided to treat my daughter, Violet, to a special day at Disneyland Paris for her 9th birthday. I’d previously taken my older daughter on a similar day trip in January, and what you do for one, you have to do for all! Come with us and see our one day itinerary for Disneyland Paris.
Just a quick note before we begin- some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting my work and happy planning!
In January, we took the first flight out of Manchester and the last flight back. It was a wonderful experience, but since we live two hours away from Manchester Airport, we had to stay the night before in Manchester.
This time, we opted for a different approach. We took a late afternoon flight on Friday, planning to spend the night near Disneyland Paris instead.
It was working out the same cost as 1 night in a Travelodge in Manchester, so made no difference to the overall cost.
This way, we could start our day fresh and early and avoid the risk of losing time in the parks, in the eventuality of a flight delay.
getting to Disneyland Paris
We found great flights out of Manchester for just £33 each return. From landing in Paris, to arriving at the park gates, it took only 2 hours and 10 minutes! Security at Charles De Gaulle was quick, the flight lasted just over an hour, and we managed to catch the TGV train with minimal waiting.
The high-speed train took us directly from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Marne-la-Vallée station in only 9 minutes. We booked the train tickets on our way to the station using the Trainline app, paying £28.91 for one adult and one child.
I'd recommend only purchasing your ticket when you are nearly at the train station. It's quite a walk from some terminals and of course, you don't know exactly when you will land and be through security. TGV tickets can only be used on that specific train and are non-refundable.
Taxi's are around €60 and private transfers from €75- both taking around 1 hour to reach Disneyland Paris.
The TGV therefore, was both much faster and cheaper.
Marne-la-Vallée station is located right next to Disneyland Paris park gates.
Our flight left Manchester at 3 pm, and by 6:10 pm (adjusting for the 1 hour time difference), we were at the Disneyland Paris gates. If we had known we’d arrive that early, we might have bought a 2-day park pass. But since the parks closed at 8 pm that night, we decided against it as we would have been cutting it fine.
Hotel at Disneyland Paris
Instead, we explored Disney Village and used the time we had to visit some of the shops. We had a meal at Five Guys, which cost €23.25 for the two of us. I always recommend Five Guys as it's a very similar price point to quick service restaurants inside the parks, however, it feels much better quality.
After dinner, we took a taxi to our hotel, the Best Western, just a 12-minute ride from the parks.
Now a word of warning. You will struggle to get a taxi from outside the parks 1 hour, either side of the parks closing time. We tried numerous times to get an Uber but they kept cancelling the bookings as they couldn't meet demand.
There are taxi's outside Disney, however, they all wanted €35 for journeys which should cost around €8-€12 and would only accept cash- that tells you everything you need to know! Disneyland Paris and the train station really should be clamping down as I think 80% weren't even real taxis.
We usually stay at the Adagio in Val d’Europe or the Explorers Hotel, but these were both £150 for the night we wanted. The Best Western was only £66 and as we'd barely be there, it seemed a better option.
It turned out to be an excellent choice, with a spacious room featuring a double bed and bunk beds. The rooms were clean and hotel looked like it has recently been refurbished or was new.
We had a very comfortable nights stay and would highly recommend this option. Although, it may be better suited to those visiting with a car, as there is no shuttle bus to the parks.
For disclosure, we were gifted the park tickets by Get Your Guide, which made our Christmas day trip to Disneyland Paris truly special.
After booking we received the tickets instantly and were able to add them to our Disneyland Paris app, allowing us to easily scan in and out of the parks and monitor ride wait times all at once. Alternatively, you can keep just scan the tickets from your Get Your Guide account.
if you're considering doing Disneyland Paris in a day or even Disneyland Paris in one day at Christmas, Get Your Guide offers a wide range of ticket options, from 1-day, 1-park passes to multi-day tickets- as well as the Magic Shuttle bus tickets, private transfers, and various other activities in Paris.
The tickets for a 1 day/2 park entry for 1 adult and 1 child on the date we visited would have cost £185.08. Prices vary depending on the date booked, but start at £46pp.
The next morning, we enjoyed breakfast at the hotel for €25. We would have normally just ate at the parks, but my daughter was so excited for the day ahead, that we were up at 4am and therefore really hungry by around 7am.
The buffet had plenty to offer, including pastries, pancakes, toast, cereals, cheese, meats, and even hot options like sausage, bacon, and scrambled eggs. It was more than enough to fuel us for the day and meant we could hit the ground running once we got to parks.
We checked out and ordered an Uber from the hotel lobby, which arrived immediately, taking us back to Disneyland Paris in 12 minutes for €15.35.
We went through bag check at 8:55 am and were at the Disneyland Park entrance for 9am.
The park opening was at 9.30am, so we had a little wait, but they opened the park for normal ticket holders at 9.20am which was great.
The park opens for Disneyland hotel guests and annual pass holders at 8.30am, so whilst we were waiting I was able to check some of the ride times for the ones that were already operating.
Park Opening
We headed straight to Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast, which had only a 10-minute wait. This was Violet's one must-do ride, and frequently the wait for it, is around 1 hour so we wanted to get it completed whilst it was quiet.
Tip: Make sure to download the Disneyland Paris app before your visit—it’s a lifesaver for checking wait times and planning your route.
After Buzz, we then headed up to Fantasyland where all the ride times were currently showing as 5-10 minutes.
We managed to do Dumbo The Flying Elephant, It's a Small World, Mad Hatter's Tea Cups and Le Carrousel de Lancelot all by 10.40am. After a quick stop at the toilets and to refill our water bottles, we hopped on Casey Junior, the last ride we wanted to do in Fantasyland, which opened at 11am.
We then spent some time at the castle, visiting the dragon beneath it (a hidden gem!) and snapping photos. Violet wanted to shop for Star Wars merchandise, so we made our way to Discoveryland to the Star Traders shop to find her some Grogu goodies using her birthday money.
Lunch and Studio Park Adventures
By 11:40 am, we decided to switch over to Walt Disney Studios Park. The food stalls outside the Ratatouille ride looked tempting and we were peckish by then, so we grabbed two Nutella crepes for €10. The Ratatouille ride had a long wait time, so we chose to do the single rider option, getting on in just 10 minutes.
The Studios Park felt much more crowded than the main park, probably due to construction work going on and many areas being unavailable.
We still managed to enjoy several rides with short wait times. We went on Cars Road Trip, Cars Quatre Roues Rallye, Slinky Dog Zigzag Spin, and the Parachute Drop, which we lucky to walk straight onto just as it reopened after a technical issue.
After ticking off everything we wanted to do in the Studios Park, we decided to head back to Disneyland Park around 2 pm. We skipped the shows this time in the Studios, as we’ve seen them before and they’re better suited for younger kids or Marvel fans (which Violet isn’t).
Afternoon Magic and Parade
With the sun shining, we took more photo of all the beautiful Christmas decorations lining Main Street and the incredible huge Christmas tree.
We treated ourselves to ice cream and a Mickey beignet for €9- we weren't hungry but who can resist the snacks at Disneyland Paris though?!
We then decided we needed actually eat something savoury, so we stopped at Casa de Coco in Frontierland- a Mexican style restaurant based on the 'Coco' movie. Violet just wanted some of the zig zag fries, while I enjoyed a delicious beef burrito, one of the best things I’ve ever eaten at Disneyland Paris. The total bill with a large soft drink came to €16.89.
We decided to try the Premier Access service for Big Thunder Mountain (basically the new fast pass system at Disneyland Paris). It cost €16 each, but it was totally worth it-especially as it was Violet’s first roller coaster! We were on the ride in under 5 minutes.
By 4:30 pm, we made our way back to Main Street to secure a spot for the parade. Even 40 minutes early, Main Street was packed with guests. The parade started at 5:20 pm and reached where we stood by 5:40 pm.
Watching the magical floats with snow falling was a truly enchanting experience and one I'll never forget- just so magical.
Heading Home
After a bit of last-minute shopping on Main Street, we slowly made our way to the train station around 6:20 pm. We had pre-booked our TGV tickets back to the airport for 6:50 pm. The flight departed on time and we were tucked up in bed at 12.30am.
The whole day was filled with magical moments, and it was the perfect way to celebrate Violet’s birthday. With a bit of careful planning, we made the most out of our short but sweet trip to Disneyland Paris.
Our aim with the day trips is never to do it all. There was a couple of Christmas shows we would have liked to have seen, but with it being a Saturday, crowd numbers were high and seats for shows were gone 1 hour before. We didn't feel the wait was worth it, with only having a day in the parks. We chose to include our favourite rides, see the parade and eat some Disney snacks and we completed everything we set out to do.
Of course, we also didn't get to see the fireworks but in all our trips, we seen them around 20 times at least, so it wasn't a great forfeit.
Is it worth going to Disneyland Paris for one day?
If you're thinking of planning a Disneyland Paris day trip from the UK and wondering, “Is it worth going to Disneyland Paris for one day?”, the answer is definitely yes!
You won't get everything done in a day and to be honest this is our 16th visit and each time we tick off a new ride or attraction that we haven't done before. Pick out your favourite rides and make a plan to visit those first before the park gets busy. After 5pm ride wait times also decrease. We managed to include both Disneyland Park and Disney Studio's, but you could choose to just focus on the one. Make full use of the Disneyland Paris app to see ride times before making your next move and be flexible.
How much does it cost to go to Disneyland Paris for one day?
For those curious, we spent £33pp for the flights, £34pp for the hotel, then £30pp for the TGV high-speed train to/from CDG airport. Tickets for the date we visited would have been £92 each so a total of £189pp- this would have been cheaper if we'd opted for just a 1 park ticket instead of 2 and not visited on a weekend.
Disneyland Paris tickets are usually cheapest between January to March and you'll often find fewer visitors in the parks then too.
If you live near an airport, you can also eliminate the cost of the hotel too and go there and back in a day like we did in January.
How much can you do at Disneyland Paris in one day?
Despite it being a weekend and Christmas season we were really pleased in what we managed to do in just one day at Disneyland Paris.
We rode 12 rides- Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast, Small World, Mad Hatters Tea Cups, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Casey Junior, The Carousel, Ratoutille, Parachute Drop, Slinky Dog, Cars Road Trip, Cars Quatre Rallye and Thunder Mountain.
We also did a few walk through attractions, stopped for food three times, visited a few shops and took time out to enjoy the decorations then the main parade. If we'd have skipped the parade, we probably could have managed at least another 5 rides.
Disneyland Paris there and back in a day from Manchester! Not possible, right? Wrong!
Join us as we share with you our one day itinerary for Disneyland Paris
Birthday at Disneyland Paris
We did just this back in January for my daughter’s 12th birthday, spending one whirlwind day soaking in the magic of Disneyland Paris.
After our video post went viral on social media, I finally found time to detail the logistics of our incredible trip. If you’re wondering how we managed this feat, read on!
Planning a Trip to Disneyland Paris
How We Booked a One Day Trip To Disneyland Paris
Initially, we didn’t intend for Disneyland Paris to be a day trip. We had booked a three-night stay. However, when a super cheap deal to Lapland came up a few months after booking—a once-in-a-lifetime experience—we couldn’t resist.
There was no way we could take the children out of school twice in a six week period, so we decided to run with the Lapland trip instead.
Having been to Disneyland Paris around 15 times (we were annual pass holders previously), we decided to cancel our hotel and ticket package as we had free cancellation on this.
This left us with only the flights which we would lose all the money for (minus the airport tax) which seemed such a shame.
Planning an Extreme Day Trip to Disneyland Paris
It was getting closer to my daughters birthday and we had nothing planned, then it occurred to me that we could still use the outbound flight and just book a new return for each of us, this time returning the same day making it an 'Extreme Day Trip' to say the least, but Disneyland Paris in One Day, were we being crazy?!
Purchasing a New Flight
The fee for changing the original return flight was greater than the cost of purchasing a new one entirely.
Plus by just booking a new flight home we could also factor in a refund of the airport tax from the unused flights which amounted to £50.
This would cover at least half the cost of adding a new return so it didn't seem much more to pay.
Cost of the Flights to Charles De Gaulle
Being tied to our original outbound flight on my daughter’s birthday meant the flights weren’t the cheapest. Ideally, you can get return flights to Paris for around £40 if you watch for easyJet's flight releases and various price drops.
We added a new inbound flight and claimed tax back from EasyJet for the original flight, making it just an extra £50 in total.
However, for transparency if we hadn't done that, then the flights we went on would have cost £89.98 each so this is the total we will use in our breakdown.
One Day Disneyland Paris Park Tickets
As we now needed separate Park Tickets instead of the ones included with a hotel stay, we then purchased a one-day/two-park pass for £75.50pp.
You could save money by focusing on one park and buy a one-day/one-park pass for as little as £62.
Tickets with free cancellation are available, providing flexibility. We purchased our tickets using 'Get Your Guide' as we do for all our excursions.
You can see the prices for your dates and purchase below.
We had no desire to see and do everything during this visit. We’ve experienced the parades and fireworks countless times. Our main goal was to bask in the magic, celebrate my daughter’s birthday, and enjoy her favourite rides.
Depending on the time of year, yes you can see and do lots.
Could I do one day at Disneyland Paris and Stay One Night?
For first-time visitors, I recommend purchasing a two-day pass and booking a night at one of the more affordable Disney partner hotels. Many of which include breakfast and offer regular shuttles to and from the parks.
As we live 2.5hrs from Manchester Airport by train, I'd also paid £29 on a non-refundable rate for a Travelodge room in Manchester City Centre when we initially planned the three-night trip.
After school, we headed to the station and spent the evening in Manchester having a meal at Zizzi using our Tesco vouchers to pay in full, before heading to bed ready for our 3.30am wake up call.
My daughter initially thought we were just going to Manchester birthday shopping, so you can imagine her delight when I surprised her with a series of little gifts relevant to the trip on the train before the final reveal.
At the Airport
We arrived at Manchester Airport at 5:30am for our 7:05am flight. EasyJet seated us together for free, but we were prepared to sit separately as it’s a short 1-hour flight and of course we only had a backpack each, so no baggage fees were payable.
We landed in Paris at 9:20am. With only hand luggage, we bypassed baggage claim, but passport control took about 20 minutes.
Getting to Disneyland Paris from the Airport
We had planned to take the TGV high-speed train from terminal 2 in Charles De Gaulle Airport as this gets you to the gates of the parks in an impressive 9 minutes, but tickets sold out on the Trainline App whilst we were walking to the station and unfortunately, the next train wasn't for another 90 minutes.
With the TGV you must have an allocated seat and purchase the ticket before boarding. I'd been reluctant to book TGV tickets in advance due to their non-refundable nature and the fact you never can predict how long security will take once landed, so we ended up taking an Uber instead.
The Uber cost £48 and took about 50 minutes, getting us to Disneyland Paris by 10:55 AM. If you're travelling as a group of 4 or more, I would definitely recommend booking a private transfer for ease and convenience.
We use Holidays Extras for overseas transfers. We have a partner discount with them which is applied automatically when clicking here
What to do at Disneyland Paris in One Day
Disneyland Paris Hack - Download the App!
Once through the gates I loaded up the Disneyland Paris App to see the current wait times for the rides.
I would highly recommend installing the app for any length trip as it will enable you to make the most of your time and see when certain rides have less demand, reducing needless queueing. It made our trip so much easier!
Planning a Trip to Disneyland Paris: Make a List of Your Must See's
We did write a quick list of everything we wanted to see and do the night before with time being of the essence but, I'd recommend going with the flow and working around the app to maximise your experience if you're just there for just one day
Main Street and Frontierland
We headed straight into the main park and onto Main Street, using the Disneyland Paris App to check current wait times. My daughter’s main wish for the day was to ride Thunder Mountain, so we aimed for Frontierland where it is located.
Thunder Mountain Disneyland Paris
Whilst wait times were high at 50 minutes, we started with Phantom Manor, which had only a 5-minute wait thinking the ride time may reduce for Thunder Mountain getting closer to lunch, however this did not happen so we decided to head back to Main Street for those all important castle shots.
Fantasyland Adventures
After getting some castle photos, we went through to Fantasyland. Here, we enjoyed 'Madhatter’s Tea Cups' and 'It’s a Small World' with a minimal 5 minute wait. 'Alice’s Curious Labyrinth' was a delightful walk-through experience which I've never actually done in all our visits, and we spent about 20 minutes exploring this, getting lost in the maze and taking panoramic shots of the whole park from the top.
View from Alice's Curious Labyrinth Disneyland Paris
Lunch at Toad Hall
Now hungry, we had a meal at Toad Hall—a place we hadn’t visited in ages as it’s often closed during our visits. The fish and chips were generous (2 whole fish and a large portion of chip), costing £10 for a portion big enough to share.
We then indulged in massive ice creams from the March Hare for £6 each, which we couldn’t even finish.
More Rides at Disneyland Paris
We continued in Fantasyland with 'Le Pays Des Contes' which we walked straight on. As the sun came out, the day turned lovely, totally not what we were expecting in January.
Next, we headed to Discoveryland for 'Autopia', which had a shorter than advertised 25-minute wait. This ride was on my daughters non-negotiables and I'd been reluctant to queue as its usually around an hour but admittedly is great fun, of course she had to be the driver!
Visiting the Studios
By 2pm, we were near to the main gates anyway so decided to head over to the Studios Park using our hopper ticket. We quickly rode 'Slinky Dog' with a 5-minute wait and queued for 'Parachute Drop' for 20 minutes before it very annoyingly broke down just before we were due to get on it which seemed such a waste of our precious time.
To make up for this, we went on 'Ratatouille' as single riders, enjoying the ride without any wait.
Parachute Drop Disneyland Paris
Thunder Mountain Fast Passes
Back at the main park, Thunder Mountain still had a 40-minute wait, so we bought Fast Passes for £11 each, allowing us to go straight on. The ride was a highlight and worth the extra cost to see my daughters' face.
I totally forgot just how good this ride is and as it's quite a lengthy ride £11 seemed worth paying. That's not to say that I still find it annoying that Disney use to offer fast passes for free up until a few years ago.
Frontierland, Disneyland Paris
Lion King: Rhythm of the Pride Show
After Thunder Mountain, we checked the app to see what to do next and saw that the 'Lion King: Rhythms of the Pride Show' was just about to start in the Frontierland Theatre, just a couple of minutes walk away, so we quickly raced to get a seat.
Arriving 5 minutes before showtime, we still found great seats in the centre with a fantastic view. The show is a must see, based on the West End hit musical, with an incredible mix of singing and acrobatics.
Stars on Parade
Post-show, we headed quickly to Main Street for the 5.30pm 'Stars on Parade' which was just about to start. Despite the crowds, my daughter found a curb side spot to watch and this was just an amazing end to our time in the parks.
Disney Stars on Parade
Wrapping Up our Day
Shopping and Dinner in Disney Village
With the rides covered, we spent an hour shopping on Main Street and in Disney Village’s World of Disney so my daughter could spend some of her birthday money.
For dinner, we chose Five Guys in Disney Village, a favourite of my daughter’s, costing £26 for two meals with drinks.
Return Journey home from Disneyland Paris
We booked another Uber back to the airport at 7:20pm for £48. Our flight home at 10:10pm landed in Manchester at 10:50pm, and we were tucked in bed by 1am.
Cost of Disneyland Paris in One Day
Flights: £89.98 pp
1 Day/2 Park Hopper Pass: £75.50 pp
Ubers: £48 pp
Thunder Mountain Fast Pass: £11 pp
Ice Cream: £6 pp
Fish and Chips: £5 pp (shared)
Five Guys: £13 pp
Total Cost: £248.48 pp
Note: You could make this trip cheaper by securing a £40 flight as mentioned earlier and by sharing transfer costs if traveling in a group. Also, consider a 1-day/1-park pass to save even more and just focus on the one park.
Our Disneyland Paris Itinerary- Disneyland Paris in One Day
3:30am: Our Wake Up Call
5:00am: Left our Manchester City Centre Hotel
5.30am: Arrived at Manchester Airport
7:05am: Flight Departed from Manchester
9.20am: Flight Arrived in Paris
9.50 am: Through Passport Control and in a Uber to DLP
10.55am: Arrived at Disneyland Paris
10.50-12 Noon: Phantom Manor, Mad Hatters Tea Cups, It's a Small World, Alice's Curious Labyrinth and Time on Main Street with Castle Photo's
12:00-1:00pm: Lunch at Toad Hall, Followed by Ice Creams at the March Hare
1:00pm-2:00pm: Autopia and a look in the shops on Main Street
2:00pm-3:00pm: Disney Studio's: Slinky Dog, Ratatouille and Wasting Time queueing for Parachute Drop that Broke Down
3.30-4:30pm: Back in to the Main Park and to do Thunder Mountain
4:30-5.15pm: Lion King Show
5.15-5.50pm: Disney Stars on Parade
5:50-6:30pm: A Final Look in the Shops
6:30pm-7.10pm: Tea in Five Guys
7.10pm Returned to the Airport Via an Uber
10:10pm Flight Departed Paris
10:50pm Flight Landed in Manchester
1:00am Tucked up in Bed
An Extreme Day Trip to Disneyland Paris
Our day trip to Disneyland Paris was a whirlwind adventure, perfect for celebrating my daughter’s birthday. For seasoned visitors like us, it was a magical, even if just a quick experience, although it was VERY tiring. My legs the next few days afterwards were like jelly.
If you’re planning your own visit, consider your priorities and use the Disneyland Paris App to make the most of your time. Whether it’s a one-day dash or a longer stay, the magic of Disneyland Paris awaits. Happy travels!
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