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 16^th 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)
See more extreme day trips from Manchester

Getting from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik

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.

Click Here for FlyBus Tickets we bought.

Important Tip for Solo Parents

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 Experience

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 spa's aren't your thing but you're still looking to try a one day trip to Iceland, check out our 10 budget-friendly things to do in Iceland guide

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

Mon 1st Dec- Rome

£99 per person

Tues 2nd Dec-Belfast

£66 per person

Wed 3rd Dec- Lisbon

£76 per person

Fri 5th Dec- Barcelona

£115 per person

Sat 6th Dec- Milan

£78 per person

Sun 7th Dec- Madrid

£70 per person

Mon 8th Dec- Rome

£89 per person

Tues 9th Dec- Paris

£118 per person

Wed 10th Dec- Geneva

£120 per person

Thurs 11th Dec - Reykjavik

£144 per person

Fri 12th Dec- Belfast

£63 per person

Sat 13th Dec - Milan

£108 per person

Mon 15th Dec- Rome

£86 per person

Tues 16th Dec- Paris

£128 per person

Wed 17th Dec - Dublin

£92 per person

Fri 19th Dec- Belfast

£58 per person

Sat 20th Dec- Cork

£40 per person

Shop ryanair & EasyJet Compatible Backpacks

Sun 21st Dec- Belfast

£104 per person

Mon 22nd Dec- Venice

£74 per person

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.

8 Things to do in London with Kids This Christmas 2025

Ah, Christmas in London! The city transforms into a twinkling winter wonderland, packed full of family-friendly festive events, Christmas days out and magical things to do in London with kids.

If you’re searching for the best Christmas events in London for families in 2025, you’re in the right place! From dazzling Christmas lights seen from an open-top bus to ice skating under the stars, this guide brings you the top kid-friendly Christmas activities in London that parents love too.

Whether you’re planning a festive day trip, a weekend in the city or looking for ideas for where to take the kids in London at Christmas, here are eight brilliant Christmas events guaranteed to make magical memories.

Just a friendly heads-up, this may contain affiliate links which doesn't effect the price you pay, but helps us maintain this site and bring you great deals.

10 Things to this Christmas in London for Kids

1. Harry Potter- 'Hogwarts in the Snow' at Warner Bros. Studios with Bus from London

Between 16th November and 19th January, you can experience a very ‘Harry Christmas’ at the Studio Tour during Hogwarts in the Snow, the most magical time of year, when iconic Harry Potter sets are dressed for the festive season in a blanket of filmmaking snow.

Enter the Great Hall, bedecked in the gold decorations from Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, you’ll find a mouth-watering banquet of roast potatoes, peas, turkeys, and puddings aflame set up as it was to celebrate the end-of-term feast at Hogwarts.

Christmas trees will tower over you in the Great Hall topped by authentic flying witches and inviting fireplaces will be adorned with festive holly, mistletoe, and wreaths.

The Hogwarts in the Snow experience is included within the general entry ticket for the Warner Bros. Studos Tour.

Transport from central London is also included in the tour price.

Images Copyright of Warner Brothers

2. Christmas at LEGOLAND® Resort Windsor

Enjoy a festive family day out, whilst building lifetime memories with your little elves.

Start your day by snapping an (s)elfie in front of the giant DUPLO^® Christmas Tree - the perfect spot to capture a family photo for the Christmas card.

If your little elves love discovery, then visit Miniland, where there will be lots of festive scenes hidden – don’t forget to write down your findings in your very own Jolly Journal!

Don’t miss the live entertainment, Christmas singalongs, characters to meet, plus a selection of awesome rides and attractions to enjoy.

The Christmas experiences are included in the normal admission ticket from 23rd November.

Opening times for Legoland are various weekends in November and early December, then it is open daily from 15th December.

Please note tickets to meet Santa are at an additional cost.

Images Copyright of LEGOLAND® Resort Windsor.

3. Christmas Lights by Night Open-Top Bus Tour

Catch a sparkling glimpse of Christmassy London with an open-top bus tour. See some of its most famous neighborhoods and landmarks, all done up for the festive season.

Make it a memorable Christmas with a festive tour of London’s top attractions.

A top of an open double-decker bus, you’ll have the best seats in the house for savouring panoramic views of the glowing streets.

Watch the city light up when the sun goes down, and see how London does Christmas. Set off from the illuminated London Eye, and onto the iconic Westminster Abbey and Big Ben. Marvel at the exquisite displays on Regent Street and Oxford Circus.

See one of the tallest Christmas trees in the city at Trafalgar Square and pass by Buckingham Palace. Cruise through the winding streets of London and feel dazzled by the merry décor. Learn some jolly facts about each location with your live tour guide.

Images Copyright of Get Your Guide

4. Ice Skating at Hyde Park

Glide into the festive season on the UK’s largest open-air ice rink. Trade in your shoes for skates and enjoy the fan-favourite attraction, set under a canopy of twinkly lights and around the charming Victorian bandstand in Hyde Park.

Ice skating is the perfect festive activity to kick off your experience at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland whether you’re there for first dates, play dates or with your best mates.

Each ice skating session will last 45 minutes.

Skates are included in the ticket price and available in minimum children’s size 8, maximum adult’s size 13 (Limited supply of skate size 14/15 available).

This activity is also wheelchair accessible.

Images Copyright of Hyde Park Winter Wonderland.

5. Christmas at Kew Gardens

As one of the UK’s leading and most acclaimed illuminated trails, Christmas at Kew is an unmissable opportunity to herald the start of Christmas or welcome in the New Year.

It’s a botanical world brimming with seasonal cheer as twinkling lights and seasonal sounds fill the air. Discover glittering tunnels of light, dancing lakeside reflections and trees drenched in jewel-like colour.

Images Copyright of Kew Gardens

6. Christmas at the London Transport Museum

Children will love climbing aboard the Routemaster-inspired sleigh in the twinkling winter wonderland to flash the headlights, ring the bell and set the Christmas cheer-o-meter!

They are also running a range of exciting family activities right through to the New Year.

Cosy up for Christmas stories in the den, get creative with holiday crafts inspired by wintery posters from their collection, and weave through the galleries following a story trail.

All festive family activities are included for free with your tickets - and kids go free!

Images Copyright of London Transport Museum.

7. Visit a Traditional Pantomine

Don’t miss the London Palladium's pantomine for Christmas 2025 -Sleeping Beauty.

Expect laughs, music, special effect and some big names in the line up.

Featuring Catherine Tate and Julian Clary, this will sell out.

8. The Snowman™ Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Step aboard the magical Snowman™ Afternoon Tea Bus and enjoy a festive sightseeing tour of London inspired by Raymond Briggs’ classic tale. This cosy one-hour experience blends an indulgent Christmas afternoon tea with the sparkle of London’s festive lights.

Guests can tuck into Snowman™-themed treats, including cupcakes, finger sandwiches, traditional scones and Snowball truffles, all while sipping hot chocolate, tea, or a deluxe marshmallow-topped upgrade.

Choose a departure from the London Eye or Aldwych and enjoy views of Big Ben, Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square and Regent Street’s iconic angels. Christmas carols and music from The Snowman™ play softly throughout, making it an enchanting choice for families, especially younger children.

Make a full day of it and book tickets for 'The Snowman Live' from just £20. You can find theatre tickets here

That's a Wrap!

As the festive season sparkles into full swing, London becomes the ultimate playground for families, packed with Christmas events, shows, lights trails and things to do with kids in London at Christmas.

Whether you’re hunting for family-friendly Christmas days out, wondering what’s on in London for kids between Christmas and New Year, or simply want to soak up the festive atmosphere, there’s something for every age and budget.

From open-top bus light tours to pantomimes, ice skating, and magical winter trails, these Christmas London activities for kids will help you plan an unforgettable festive trip. So wrap up warm, grab the hot chocolate, and get ready to make Christmas 2025 in London extra special!

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.

Our Best Extreme Day Trips from London this winter!

Sat 6th Dec

️ London Stansted
🇩🇪 FRANKFURT

£52 per person

Sat 6th Dec

️ London Stansted
🇩🇪 BADEN-BADEN

£57 per person

Sat 6th Dec

️ London Stansted
🇩🇪 BERLIN

£108 per person

Sat 6th Dec

London Stansted
🇱🇺 LUXEMBOURG

£44 per person

Sat 6th Dec

London Stansted
🇵🇱 GDANSK

£58 per person

Sat 6th Dec

London Stansted
TIRANA

£43 per person

Sat 6th Dec

London Stansted
🇮🇹 MILAN

£36 per person

Sun 7th Dec

London Gatwick
🇮🇹 MILAN

£49 per person

Sun 7th Dec

London Stansted

🇩🇪 FRANKFURT

£100 per person

Sun 7th Dec

London Stansted

🇩🇪 NUREMBERG

£80 per person

Sun 7th Dec

London Stansted

Kaunas, Lithuania

£35 per person

Sun 7th Dec

London Gatwick

🇨🇭 ZURICH

£112 per person

Sat 13th Dec

️ London Stansted

🇩🇪 FRANKFURT

£86 per person

Sat 13th Dec

London Stansted

🇩🇪 GDANSK

£76 per person

Sat 13th Dec

London Stansted

🇩🇪 BADEN BADEN

£59 per person

Sat 13th Dec

London Stansted

LUXENBOURG

£57 per person

Sat 13th Dec

London Stansted

🇩🇰 COPENHAGEN

£106 per person

Sat 13th Dec

️ London Gatwick

🇫🇷 PARIS

£105 per person

Sun 14th Dec

London Stansted

🇮🇹 MILAN

£40 per person

Sun 14th Dec

️ London Gatwick

🇮🇹 VENICE

£83 per person

Shop ryanair & EasyJet Compatible Backpacks

📆 Sun 14th Dec - Frankfurt

London Stansted

🇩🇪 FRANKFURT

£107 per person

📆 Sun 14th Dec - Barcelona

London Gatwick

BARCELONA

£87 per person

📆 Sun 14th Dec - Venice

London Gatwick

VENICE

£85 per person

📆 Sun 14th Dec - Gdansk

London Stansted

GDANSK

£99 per person

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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10 Things to do In Lapland for Tweens & Teens

things to do in Lapland for teens and tweens teenagers and pre-teens

10 Things to do In Lapland for Tweens & Teens

Having visited Lapland myself with children ranging for 8-15 years, I know that the activities that we often associate with such a trip, might not appeal to teenagers.

We’ve put together 10 of the best activities for Teens and pre-teens in Lapland, to give you some inspiration for your next trip.

Arcandia- Lapland on a Budget — Lapland with teens- Arcandia in Levi

However, there is so much more to Lapland than Santa and his elves! In fact, I’d say there is more to do for older ones, than younger, when you start digging deeper.

Of course, most teens would love to do a husky and reindeer ride (and probably even meet Santa if truth be told), but, there’s so much more available that would appeal to this age group.

Lapland as a destination, can be far better as they get older and the main reason being, teens can handle the extreme in temperature far better than their younger counterparts. This means you can look at some of the more adventurous and longer activities, which are off limits to little ones.

1. Ice Karting

Available in Levi, Rovaniemi, Saariselka and Pyha, Ice Karting provides teens the opportunity to race round an ice track in an adrenaline-fueled activity – like real life Mario Karting, with the extra thrill of doing it with snow as your barriers.

ice karting in Lapland ice karts teenagers driving in the snow

All equipment, including clothing and helmets are provided, along with a hot drink to warm up afterwards. The activity typically takes around 1.5 hours in total. Each provider has different age and height requirements, so check carefully before booking.

ice karting track in Lapland with Karting suitable for teens

2. Ice Floating

Imagine donning a bright orange suit and then drifting round in a specially cut out hole, on a frozen lake.

Ice floating can be done in the day, but there are also special aurora ice floating activities too. Tours tend to include pick up/drop off, all equipment, plus hot drinks and cookies. We found Ice Floating activities available in Rovaniemi and Yllas.

3. E-Fat Biking

Relatively new to Lapland, E- Fat Biking, is basically mountain biking in the snow, but with fatter tyres, and electric power behind you. Most trips tend to take you out into the wilderness, to explore the landscape for around 2hrs depending on the provider. Fat Biking tours are available in Rovaniemi, Levi, Saariselka and Pyha.

electronic bike in lapland snow perfect for teens in Lapland

4. Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is fantastic way to move in deep snow. This ancient form of winter hiking is ideal for exploring the arctic nature, whilst offering great opportunity for photography.

Go off the beaten track, with a guide, all equipment is provided, and hot drinks are usually included too. Tours tend to be around 2hs+ and are available in Levi , Pyha, Rovaniemi, Saariselka and Ruka.

Snowshoeing for teens and tweens in Lapland

5. Laser Tag

Set in an abandoned Movie set, Arcandia offers the most unusual programmes which are perfect for teens. They have a ‘Parkside’ programme where you can do activities such as axe throwing, knocker balls, human snowballing, and hill sliding. Plus they also have a separate part of the park which is dedicated to laser tag.

Imagine a game of laser tag, but in a beautifully lit forest, covered in snow with lots of hiding spots. Arcandia can be found in Kittila (Levi). To read our full guide to Arcandia click here

Arcandia Parkside Tickets & Info

Acandia Laser Tag Tickets & Info

6. Ice Skating

There are various place in Lapland you can ice skate. Some through the forest on specially created tracks, whilst places like snowman world have small rinks to skate included in the entrance price. Kotatieva Winter Leisure Park in Rovaniemi has a 500 meter long ice skating track in the middle of a snowy forest. You can also find ice skating at Saariselka.

7. Horse Riding

There are some companies in Lapland offer horse treks through the forest, which even a beginner can try, with routes for the more advanced too. What better way to discover Lapland’s beauty forests than on horseback. Riding treks are available in Rovaniemi and Levi.

8. Riding a Snowmobile

Rules are pretty strict in Lapland, around who can (and cannot) drive snowmobiles. Most companies insist that their adult sized snowmobiles are only to be driven by adults, with a full driving license.

However, there is the opportunity in Rovaniemi and Levi for tweens to ride one of the mini versions with Arctic Circle Snowmobile Park, which cost around 20-25 euros for 10 laps of a large course. There is no need to pre-book these. The age limit for the mini snowmobiles is 13 years.

9. Arctic Sauna & Spa

What better way to warm up, than by taking an arctic sauna experience. We were lucky enough to try the 3 step sauna at the Arctic SnowHotel in Rovaniemi. You are given a private changing room with shower, and traditional Finnish sauna inside, and are provided with slippers and a robe.

After enjoying a traditional sauna, you get go outside for a snow sauna- this is so unusual, in that the whole sauna is made purely from ice.

To finish off, you then get to enjoy a hot tub surrounded by the snow. You can read about our stay at the SnowHotel and Sauna experience here.

The Snow Sauna Experience at the Arctic SnowHotel

Sauna tickets include pick and return from Rovaniemi, plus a tour of the incredible snow hotel, which is fascinating. The whole hotel is rebuilt each year, and each room is completely different to the next. We stayed for one night, but if you’re not as brave, you can look round and see all the unique ice carvings and learn about how they build it.

Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos, Rovaniemi

The hotel is also right next to a frozen lake, where sledges and tubing rings are available to use free of charge. If you wish you can also stay for lunch and dine in the unique ice restaurant or even have a drink at the ice bar. This is a great value excursion lasting around 6 hours in total, and one I’d highly recommend. You can get more info and check availability here.

10. Ice Fishing

Last but certainly not least on our list, we have ice fishing. Most tours involve learning the local Finnish art of ice fishing from a local guide which starts with drilling a fishing hole then catching your own fish and finally cooking it on a fire. Trips are available in Rovaniemi, Inari, Levi, Saariselka and Ruka.

Lapland for Teens and Tweens

As you can see, we've tried to include a wide range of activities to suit every personality type. From quiet and relaxed activities, like ice fishing and a spa day. To ones for those seeking adventure and thrill, such as ice karting and laser tag through the forest. There is truly something in Lapland for everyone!

To see all our blogs and guides on Lapland click here

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!

Don't forget to take a look at our guide to planning your next Extreme Day Trip.

Our Best Extreme Day Trips from Bristol Airport this June

2nd June- Dublin

(Monday)

Outbound: 7:40am- 8:45am

Inbound: 8:00pm-9:05pm

£80 per person

3rd June- Krakow

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 5:55am- 9:20am

Inbound: 9:30pm-11:10pm

£74 per person

4th June-Alicante

(Wednesday)

Outbound: 8:05am- 11:35am

Inbound: 9:00pm-10:35pm

£98 per person

5th June- Copenhagen

(Thursday)

Outbound: 8:55am- 11:50am

Inbound: 9:50pm-10:55pm

£79 per person

7th June- Dublin

(Saturday)

Outbound: 7:00am- 8:05am

Inbound: 10:30pm-11:35pm

£29 per person

10th June- Nice

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 6:30am- 9:35am

Inbound: 11:05pm-12:10am

£95 per person

11th June- Palma

(Wednesday)

Outbound: 7:30am- 10:55am

Inbound: 8:20pm-9:50pm

£69 per person

12th June- Copenhagen

(Thursday )

Outbound: 8:55am- 11:50am

Inbound: 9:50pm-10:55pm

£69 per person

Explore Things to do in Dublin

14th June- Dublin

(Saturday)

Outbound: 7:00am- 8:05am

Inbound: 10:30pm-11:35pm

£46 per person

16th June- Madrid

(Monday)

Outbound: 8:05am- 11:20am

Inbound: 9:45pm-11:00pm

£76 per person

17th June- Lanzarote

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 6:05am- 10:05am

Inbound: 9:25pm-1:10am

£91 per person

23rd June-Paris

(Monday)

Outbound: 7:15am- 9:35am

Inbound: 10:00pm-10:20pm

£94 per person

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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!

Don't forget to check out our full guide to planning your next Extreme Day Trip.

Our Best Extreme Day Trips from Leeds Bradford Airport this June

1st June- Dublin

(Sunday)

Outbound: 8:55am- 9:55am

Inbound: 7:15pm-8:15pm

£45 per person

5th June- Belfast

(Thursday)

Outbound: 8:30am- 9:40am

Inbound: 8:30pm-9:25pm

£67 per person

7th June- Gdansk

(Saturday)

Outbound: 8:00am- 11:10am

Inbound: 7:55pm-9:15pm

£74 per person

8th June- Dublin

(Sunday)

Outbound: 8:55am- 9:55am

Inbound: 7:15pm-8:15pm

£53 per person

14th June- Gdansk

(Saturday)

Outbound: 8:00am- 11:10am

Inbound: 7:55pm-9:15pm

£87 per person

15th June- Dublin

(Sunday)

Outbound: 8:55am- 9:55am

Inbound: 7:15pm-8:15pm

£59 per person

16th June- Palma

(Monday)

Outbound: 8:15am- 11:55am

Inbound: 10:05pm-11:55pm

£84 per person

19th June- Dublin

(Thursday)

Outbound: 7:45am- 8:45am

Inbound: 8:50pm-9:50pm

£28 per person

Explore Things to do in Gdansk

21st June- Gdansk

(Saturday)

Outbound: 8:00am- 11:10am

Inbound: 7:55pm-9:15pm

£53 per person

24th June- Malaga

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 8:15am- 12:15pm

Inbound: 9:15pm-11:15pm

£85 per person

28th June- Gdansk

(Saturday)

Outbound: 8:00am- 11:10am

Inbound: 7:55pm-9:15pm

£58 per person

28th June- Dublin

(Saturday)

Outbound: 7:35am- 8:35am

Inbound: 9:55pm-10:55pm

£48 per person

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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!

Don't forget to check out our full guide to planning your next Extreme Day Trip, packed with top tips.

Our Best Extreme Day Trips from Birmingham & East Midlands this June!

3rd June- Dublin
From Birmingham

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 5:55am- 7:00am

Inbound: 10:55pm-11:55pm

£26 per person

3rd June- Malaga
From East Midlands

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 9:40am- 1:35pm

Inbound: 10:25pm-12.15am

£85 per person

5th June- Barcelona
From East Midlands

(Thursday)

Outbound: 5:50am- 9:05am

Inbound: 11:20pm-12:45am

£97 per person

10th June- Alicante
From East Midlands

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 9:40am- 1:35pm

Inbound: 10:25pm-12:15am

£94 per person

10th June- Malaga
From Birmingham

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 10:10am- 2:00pm

Inbound: 10:20pm-12:15am

£69 per person

10th June-Dusseldorf
from Birmingham

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 7:45am- 10:00am

Inbound: 6:50pm-7:15pm

£97 per person

13th June- Palma
From East Midlands

(Friday)

Outbound: 5:45am- 9:10am

Inbound: 10:55pm-12:30am

£56 per person

23rd June- Malaga
From East Midlands

(Monday)

Outbound: 7:50am- 11:45am

Inbound: 9:40pm-11:30pm

£83 per person

24th June- Alicante
From East Midlands

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 8:45am- 12:25pm

Inbound: 9:05pm-10:45pm

£91 per person

24th June- Malaga
From East Midlands

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 9:40am- 1:35pm

Inbound: 10:25pm-12:15am

£92 per person

24th June- Dublin
From East Midlands

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 8:00am- 9:05am

Inbound: 6:00pm-7:05pm

£32 per person

25th June- Alicante
From East Midlands

(Wednesday)

Outbound: 7:00am- 10:40am

Inbound: 9:10pm-10:50pm

£78 per person

26th June- Barcelona
From East Midlands

(Thursday)

Outbound: 5:50am- 9:05am

Inbound: 11:20pm-12:45am

£53 per person

26th June- Dublin
From East Midlands

(Thursday)

Outbound: 6:00am- 7:05am

Inbound: 11:50pm-12:55am

£28 per person

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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 Manchester for 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.

Our Best Extreme Day Trips from Liverpool Airport this Summer

1st June-Dublin

(Sunday)

Outbound: 8:15am- 9:10am

Inbound: 8:30pm-9:25pm

£28 per person

2nd June- Alicante

(Monday)

Outbound: 9:50am- 91:35pm

Inbound: 9:25pm-11:15pm

£118 per person

11th June- Malaga

(Wednesday)

Outbound: 5:55am- 9:50am

Inbound: 10:25pm-12:30am

£83 per person

26th June- Malaga

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 9:10am- 1:05pm

Inbound: 10:35pm-12:30am

£83 per person

6th July- Dublin

(Sunday)

Outbound: 8:15am-9:10am

Inbound: 9:50pm-10:45pm

£47 per person

8th July- Malaga

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 9:55am- 1:50pm

Inbound: 11:00pm-12:55am

£63 per person

15th July- Palma

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 6:00am- 9:35am

Inbound: 9:50am-11:35am

£87 per person

21st July- Dublin

(Monday)

Outbound: 8:10am- 9:05am

Inbound: 7:15pm-8:10pm

£49 per person

Explore Things to do in Dublin

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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.

Our Best Extreme Day Trips from Newcastle Airport this May

6th May-Alicante

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 9:55am- 1:50pm

Inbound: 8:40pm-10:40pm

£65 per person

7th May- Dublin

(Wednesday)

Outbound: 7:20am- 8:25am

Inbound: 10:45pm-11:55pm

£32 per person

12th May- Dublin

(Monday)

Outbound: 8:15am- 9:20am

Inbound: 9:40pm-10:50pm

£44 per person

13th May- Alicante

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 9:55am- 1:50pm

Inbound: 8:40pm-10:40pm

£57 per person

14th May- Dublin

(Wednesday)

Outbound: 7:20am- 8:25am

Inbound: 10:45pm-11:55pm

£32 per person

17th May- Dublin

(Saturday)

Outbound: 10:35am- 11:40am

Inbound: 8:00pm-9:10pm

£33 per person

19th May- Belfast

(Monday)

Outbound: 8:30am- 9:25am

Inbound: 8:45pm-9:40pm

£71 per person

21st May- Dublin

(Wednesday)

Outbound: 7:20am- 8:25am

Inbound: 10:45pm-11:55pm

£30 per person

24th May- Dublin

(Saturday)

Outbound: 10:35am-11:40am

Inbound: 8:00pm-9:10pm

£74 per person

26th May- Dublin

(Bank Hol Monday)

Outbound: 8:15am- 9:20am

Inbound: 9:40pm-10:50pm

£75 per person

28th May- Dublin

(Wednesday)

Outbound: 7:20am-8:25am

Inbound: 10:45pm-11:55pm

£47 per person

31st May- Dublin

(Saturday)

Outbound: 10:35am- 11:40am

Inbound: 8:00pm-9:10pm

£80 per person

Explore Things to do in Dublin

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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.

Our Best Extreme Day Trips from Glasgow Airport this April & May

29th April-Malaga

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 8:35am- 12:50pm

Inbound: 9:15pm-11:35pm

£97 per person

30th april- Dublin

(Wednesday)

Outbound: 8:25am- 9:25am

Inbound: 5:20pm-6:30pm

£30 per person

2nd May- Dublin

(Friday)

Outbound: 7:55am- 8:55am

Inbound: 9:10pm-10:20pm

£54 per person

4th May- Alicante

(Super Sunday)

Outbound: 8:20am- 12:20pm

Inbound: 8:50pm-10:55pm

£96 per person

5th May- Belfast

(Bank Hol Monday)

Outbound: 7:55am- 8:40am

Inbound: 10:00pm-10:45pm

£66 per person

6th May- Malaga

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 8:35am- 12:50pm

Inbound: 9:15pm-11:35pm

£88 per person

Explore Things to do in Dublin

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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.

Our Best Extreme Day Trips from Edinburgh Airport this May

1st May- Milan

(Thursday)

Outbound: 10:10am- 1:40pm

Inbound: 9:40pm-11.15pm

£72 per person

2nd May-Belfast

(Friday)

Outbound: 8:20am- 9:15am

Inbound: 8:50pm-9:45pm

£90 per person

6th May- Dusseldorf

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 7:00am- 9:35am

Inbound: 10:25pm-11:05am

£52 per person

8th May- Milan

(Thursday)

Outbound: 10:10am- 1:40pm

Inbound: 9:40pm-11:15pm

£70 per person

9th May- Barcelona

(Friday)

Outbound: 6:50am- 10:35am

Inbound: 9:30pm-11:25pm

£93 per person

10th May- Barcelona

(Saturday)

Outbound: 8:10am- 12:00pm

Inbound: 9:30pm-11:25pm

£74 per person

12th May- Barcelona

(Monday)

Outbound: 7:30am- 11:155am

Inbound: 8:55pm-11:50pm

£89 per person

13th may- Berlin

(Tuesday )

Outbound: 6:00am- 9:05am

Inbound: 9:40pm-10:50pm

£73 per person

Explore Things to do in Dublin

19th May- Venice

(Monday)

Outbound: 7:05am- 10:45am

Inbound: 9:55pm-11:45pm

£76 per person

20th May- Dusseldorf

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 7:00am- 9:35am

Inbound: 10:25pm-11:05pm

£52 per person

24th May- Dublin

(Saturday)

Outbound: 8:20am-9:25am

Inbound: 10:05pm-11:10pm

£52 per person

27th May-Dussledorf

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 7:00am- 9:35am

Inbound: 10:25pm-11:05am

£52 per person

24th May- Dublin

(Saturday)

Outbound: 8:20am-9:25am

Inbound: 10:05pm-11:10pm

£53 per person

27th May-Dussledorf

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 7:00am- 9:35am

Inbound: 10:25pm-11:05am

£50 per person

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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.

Our Best Extreme Day Trips from Dublin Airport this April

1st April- Amsterdam
The Netherlands

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 6:50am- 9:35am

Inbound: 9:00pm-9:45pm

39 € per person

1st April- Valletta
Malta

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 7:10am- 11:55am

Inbound: 9:35pm-12:30am

40 € per person

1st April- Faro
Portugal

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 6:00am- 8:55am

Inbound: 9:25pm-12:25am

40 € per person

1st April- Porto
Portugal

(Sunday)

Outbound: 9:25am- 11:50am

Inbound: 10:25pm-12:50am

69 € per person

2nd April- Malaga
Spain

(Wednesday)

Outbound: 6:55am- 11:10am

Inbound: 9:15pm-11:20pm

52 € per person

3rd April- Krakow
Poland

(Thursday)

Outbound: 7:55am- 11:45am

Inbound: 9:35pm-11:35pm

77 € per person

4th April- Reus
Spain

(Friday)

Outbound: 6:55am- 10:25am

Inbound: 9:20pm-10:55pm

92 € per person

5th April- Faro
Portugal

(Saturday)

Outbound: 6:50am- 9:45am

Inbound: 10:00pm-1:00am

51 € per person

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6th April- Valencia
Spain

(Sunday)

Outbound: 7:45am- 11:20am

Inbound: 8:10pm-10:00pm

42 € per person

7th April- Amsterdam
The Netherlands

(Monday)

Outbound: 7:05am- 9:50am

Inbound: 9:30pm-10:15pm

44 € per person

8th April- Valletta
Malta

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 7:10am- 11:55am

Inbound: 9:35pm-12:30am

70 € per person

9th April- Amsterdam

(Wednesday)

Outbound: 7:05am- 9:50am

Inbound: 9:20pm-10:05pm

45 € per person

15th April- Brussels
Belgium

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 6:45am- 9:25am

Inbound: 10:20pm-11:00pm

52 € per person

16th April- Faro
Portugal

(Wednesday)

Outbound: 5:45am-8:40am

Inbound: 9:55pm-12:55am

87 € per person

23rd April- Brussels
Belgium

(Wednesday)

Outbound: 6:20am- 9:00am

Inbound: 9:30pm-10:10pm

78 € per person

24th April- Frankfurt
Germany

(Thursday)

Outbound: 7:00am-10:15am

Inbound: 11:25pm-12:25am

85 € per person

28th April- Brussels
Belgium

(Monday)

Outbound: 6:30am- 9:00am

Inbound: 10:25pm-11:05pm

60 € per person

29th April- Berlin
Germany

(Tuesday)

Outbound: 6:40am-10:00am

Inbound: 9:40pm-11:00pm

89 € per person

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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.

Bucharest- Enjoy a spa day in Romania!

Extreme Day Trips for Couples

Want a romantic escape? Try:

Venice - Wander the canals and enjoy a long lunch.

Paris - Perfect for a quick city break with a short flight from the UK

Bruges - A fairy tale town with amazing chocolate shops.

How to Find an Extreme Day Trip

The best way to find deals is:

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.

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How Much Does an Extreme Day Trip Cost?

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.

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- Search here

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.”

5. Go Hiking in Iceland’s Incredible Landscapes

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!

7. See Iceland’s Unique Wildlife for Free

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!

9. Discover Iceland’s Volcanic Beaches

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

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Iceland Blue Lagoon vs Sky Lagoon- Which is Better?

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, chances are you’ve heard of the famous Blue Lagoon- one of the country’s most iconic attractions.

But in recent years, a new contender has entered the scene: Sky Lagoon, a luxurious geothermal spa with an incredible oceanside infinity pool.

Having recently visited Sky Lagoon as part of an extreme day trip to Iceland for my daughter’s 16^th birthday, I can confidently say both experiences offer something special. But which one should you choose? Here’s a deep dive into Sky Lagoon vs. Blue Lagoon, comparing location, packages, pricing, and, of course, which is the most Instagram-worthy!

Location & Accessibility

Both lagoons are easily accessible from Keflavik International Airport (KEF) and Reykjavik, making them ideal for a layover or part of a city break.

Blue Lagoon: Located about 20 minutes from the airport and 45 minutes from Reykjavik, this makes it a popular first or last stop when arriving in Iceland.

Sky Lagoon: Found just 10 minutes from Reykjavik but 50 minutes from the airport, Sky Lagoon is much closer for those staying in the city.

How to Get There

Blue Lagoon offers a dedicated shuttle service from both Reykjavik and the airport, making it very convenient for travellers.

Sky Lagoon is easy to reach by taxi, rental car, or by shuttle bus from Reykjavik, but there’s no direct airport transfer option.

Winner: Blue Lagoon (for airport access), Sky Lagoon (for city convenience).

Packages & Pricing

Both lagoons offer different packages depending on your budget and the level of luxury you want.

Blue Lagoon Packages

1. Comfort – From 9900 ISK (£57)

Entry, silica mud mask, towel, first drink.

2. Premium – From 12,990 ISK (£75)

Comfort package + two additional masks and two drinks included.

3. Signature- From 16,490 ISK (£95)

Premium package + use of bathrobe with skin care products to take home.

4. The Retreat Spa Package – From 79,000 ISK (£455) for two people

Private changing suites, access to the Retreat Lagoon, unlimited masks, a drink of your choice and a 5-hour experience with access to 8 areas.

5. A Full Day Retreat Spa Experience 159,000 ISK (£915) for two people

As above, but for a full day.

6. The Jet Lag Package 144,600 ISK (£831) for two people

5 hour admission to the retreat spa, retreat lagoon and blue lagoon. First drink of your choice, Blue Lagoon ritual, breakfast or light lunch for two and 2 In-water massages.

Sky Lagoon Packages

1. Shared Access – From 12,990 ISK (£75)

Includes the 7-step Ritual (cold plunge, sauna, steam, body scrub), towel and access to the lagoon.

2. Sky Pass – From 15,900 ISK (£92)

Private changing rooms with amenities + 7-step Ritual.

Winner: Blue Lagoon for affordability, value and range of packages Sky Lagoon for private changing facilities.

The Spa Experience

Blue Lagoon:

Famous for its milky silica-rich blue waters, which give it that ethereal look.

The water is known to be great for your skin but terrible for your hair, as silica can make it stiff and dry.

It’s expansive, with lots of areas to explore, including a waterfall, in-water bar, and face mask stations.

Sky Lagoon:

Features an infinity-edge pool overlooking the North Atlantic, giving it a more natural and immersive feel.

The water doesn’t contain silica, so it won’t damage your hair.

Includes the 7-Step Ritual (cold plunge, sauna, steam room, scrub, and more), making it a full spa experience rather than just a soak.

Winner: Sky Lagoon for a true spa experience. Blue Lagoon for iconic milky-blue waters.

Which is More Instagrammable?

This is a tough one!

Blue Lagoon is instantly recognisable with its dreamy blue waters, black lava rocks, and steamy atmosphere.

Sky Lagoon, however, offers infinity-pool aesthetics with dramatic ocean views, making for incredible sunset and moody sky photos.

If you’re after that classic “I’ve been to Iceland” shot, Blue Lagoon wins. But for a luxury, natural aesthetic, Sky Lagoon takes the prize.

Winner: Tie! Blue Lagoon for unique colour; Sky Lagoon for dramatic ocean views.

Can Children Visit the Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon?

Yes! However, both Lagoons have a minimum age policy.

For the Blue Lagoon, children need to be 12 years and over.

For the Sky Lagoon, children need to be 15 years and over.

Winner: Blue Lagoon for allowing younger children to enter.

Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose? Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon?

Pick Blue Lagoon if:

You want the classic Icelandic spa experience.

You don’t mind crowds.

You want airport convenience.

You’re after those iconic blue water photos.

Pick Sky Lagoon if:

You want a peaceful, more luxurious feel.

You’re staying in Reykjavik.

You want to try the 7-Step Ritual.

You don’t want to ruin your hair with silica.

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How to Spend a Weekend in Chamonix & Geneva if You Don't Ski

When most people think of Chamonix, they picture pristine ski slopes, snowboarders carving down the mountains, and a winter wonderland for adrenaline seekers.

But what if you’re visiting outside of ski season - or simply don’t ski?

Is Chamonix worth visiting if you don’t ski? Absolutely! As someone who struggles to stay upright on grass, skiing is not on my list of things to try. However, I absolutely love the dramatic snowy scenery and winter feel. Chamonix felt like the perfect place with lots to do for non-skiers.

Let me take you through our unforgettable day trip from Geneva to Chamonix this February, where we discovered just how much this charming Alpine town has to offer.

How to Get to Chamonix from Geneva

Geneva is the perfect place to base yourself if your looking for a trip to Chamonix.

Geneva Airport (GVA) is just 90 minutes by road to Chamonix, making Geneva the ideal gateway to the French Alps.

Geneva Airport is very well-served with international flights, and you can get a train from Geneva airport into Geneva city centre in just 5 minutes, with trains departing every 5-15 minutes.

We chose to stay 2 nights in Geneva, then to book an escorted tour to Chamonix for the day with activities included here

Alternatively, you can book a Flixbus from Geneva and book the activities yourself. Be sure to book well in advance though, as they do sell out and only have a limited number available each day.

What to do in a Day in Chamonix

Travel by Panomoramic Coach from Switzerland to France

Our day trip to Chamonix started bright and early at 8:30 am, with a coach pick-up from Geneva Bus Station, conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from our accommodation at Hotel D Geneva.

The journey takes around 90 minutes, crossing the Swiss-French border before arriving in Chamonix by 9:45 am- don't forget to bring your passport!

We travelled in a luxury coach with a panoramic roof which meant we were treated to breath-taking views of the surrounding Alps along the way.

Aiguille du Midi – See Italy, France and Switzerland All at Once

The highlight of our trip - and an absolute must-do in Chamonix, was the ascent to Aiguille du Midi. Even if you don’t ski, this is one of the top things to do in Chamonix.

The journey up involved two cable cars that delivered us to a staggering 3,842 metres, where you can see Italy, France, and Switzerland all from one viewpoint. The tickets were included in our tour price.

Once at the top, we braved the 'Step into the Void', a glass box that juts out over a sheer drop. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but the thrill made it more than worth it.

A word of advice: altitude sickness can be a real issue at this height, with oxygen levels at just 60%. Be sure to bring plenty of water and maybe even some chocolate to keep your energy up, as we saw several people struggling with dizziness and headaches.

After spending time at the very top, we decided to descend back down a level, to enjoy lunch at a more comfortable altitude.

Here we enjoyed incredible crystal clear views, along with a panini and a wine.

Montenvers Railway

At 2pm, we re-grouped and made the short walk to Mer de Glace railway station.

This charming red mountain train winds its way through the Alps, delivering stunning views before arriving at Mer de Glace, the largest glacier in France.

The 3 mile uphill journey takes around 20 minutes- be sure to sit on the left hand side of the train on the way up, and the right hand side on the way down, for the most dramatic scenery.

Again, the cost of the train was included in our tour price.

Mer de Glace Glacier

After exiting the train, we then joined a gondola which would take us down to the glacier and ice tunnel.

The glacier is the longest and largest in France at 7.5 km long and 200 metres (660 ft) deep

Tickets for the gondola and ice cave were included in the tour price.

We then took the return gondola and mountain train back to the station and met our coach to depart back to Geneva around 5pm, getting us back to the hotel around 6.30pm.

Is Chamonix Worth Visiting if You Don’t Ski?

Absolutely! Whether you’re into hiking, sightseeing, or just soaking up stunning mountain views, Chamonix offers something for everyone. It’s the perfect destination for non-skiers, families, and adventurers alike.

On our trip, we should have had some free time in Chamonix included, unfortunately, it was very busy, long queues meant that wasn't possible. But the town itself is beautiful and there's also an alpine coaster we would have loved to have tried, if time had permitted.

Where to Stay in Geneva – Our Stay at Hotel D Geneva

For our base in Geneva, we couldn’t have picked a better spot than Hotel D Geneva. Located just a 5-minute walk from Geneva train station, it’s perfectly placed for both exploring the city and catching transport to Chamonix and beyond.

One of the best perks? Before check-in, the hotel emailed us a free local transport pass, meaning we got from Geneva Airport to the hotel in under 20 minutes – completely free. This pass also gave us unlimited access to Geneva’s buses, trams, and even the little yellow boats that shuttle across Lake Geneva.

From the moment we arrived, the staff couldn’t do enough for us. Our room was modern, immaculately clean, and generously sized, with a huge bathroom and a firm, comfortable bed that guaranteed a fantastic night’s sleep.

The location really sells Hotel D. It’s within easy walking distance of Geneva’s Old Town, Lake Geneva, and a wide variety of international restaurants, with the staff happy to share their personal recommendations.

And while the hotel doesn’t have its own restaurant, the breakfast is absolutely worth adding to your stay — the scrambled eggs were the best I’ve ever had! (I’m still trying to get the recipe).

We’d highly recommend Hotel D Geneva if you’re looking for the perfect base for Geneva and day trips to Chamonix or further afield.

Things To Do in Geneva

Don’t rush through Geneva- it’s a beautiful, vibrant city with plenty to offer. Some of our highlights included:

Jet d’Eau – Geneva’s iconic water fountain.

Old Town – Cobbled streets, historic buildings, and fascinating museums.

The United Nations – A must for politics and history buffs.

Chocolate & Cheese Tasting – Because you can’t visit Switzerland without indulging.

Lake Cruises – See the city from the water for a whole new perspective.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re seeking epic mountain views, adventurous experiences, or cosmopolitan charm, this weekend trip to Geneva and Chamonix delivered it all. With so many incredible things to do in Chamonix beyond skiing, it’s a fantastic destination for year-round adventure. And with Hotel D Geneva as our perfect city base, we truly had the best of both worlds.

If you’ve ever dreamed of standing beneath Mont Blanc, stepping into a glass box high above the Alps, or walking inside a glacier, it’s time to add Geneva and Chamonix to your travel list.

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Is Get Your Guide Legit for Tours and Experiences?

If you’re searching for the best way to book tours, activities, or excursions, GetYourGuide is a platform you’ve likely come across. As frequent users and affiliates of GetYourGuide, we highly recommend it for its reliability, convenience, and wide range of experiences.

Here's everything you need to know based on our personal experience.

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 GetYourGuide Safe and Secure?

Yes, GetYourGuide is a completely safe and secure platform. They use reliable payment systems to protect your financial information and have a reputation for working with trusted local operators.

What sets GetYourGuide apart is its commitment to flexibility and customer support. You can count on 24/7 multilingual assistance and flexible policies, including free cancellation on many activities up to 24 hours before your booking. This ensures that your travel plans remain stress-free.

Is GetYourGuide Any Good?

Without a doubt, GetYourGuide is one of the best platforms for booking tours and activities. With access to over 140,000 experiences in 10,000 cities worldwide, there’s something for every type of traveller.

From skip-the-line tickets for popular attractions to unique, local-led experiences, GetYourGuide offers a range of activities to suit all interests. Last year, we booked several tours through GetYourGuide and were consistently impressed with the quality, clear itineraries, and helpful customer reviews.

Another perk? Most bookings allow you to reserve now and pay later. For example, you can book an activity and only pay two days before the experience. However, a few exceptions like Disneyland Paris tickets require payment in full at the time of booking.

What Does GetYourGuide Do?

GetYourGuide is an online platform that connects travellers with trusted tour operators and local experiences around the globe. Some of the activities available include:

Sightseeing and walking tours
Skip-the-line tickets to attractions
Day trips to nearby landmarks
Food and drink experiences
Family-friendly and adventure activities

The platform allows you to explore, compare, and book experiences that match your travel style. Whether you're planning a city break, a family holiday, or a cultural escape, GetYourGuide simplifies the process by giving you all the information you need in one place.

Last year we tried quad biking in Marrakech, a walking food tour in Manchester, The Crystal Maze Experience and Alcotraz immersive cocktail experience and got our Disneyland Paris tickets via the app- all very well organised, easy to access the details and worth the money.

This year we've already booked a segway tour and a river cruise in Budapest and the Sky Lagoon in Iceland plus airport bus transfers to Rekyjavik, and I'm sure they'll be plenty more!

Do You Have to Pay Upfront with GetYourGuide?

Most activities on GetYourGuide allow you to book now and pay later, meaning you don’t have to pay until closer to your travel date. This flexibility is perfect for travellers who like to plan ahead but don’t want to commit financially right away.

That said, there are a few exceptions. For instance, some high-demand tickets such as Disneyland Paris or Eiffel Tower tickets require full payment at the time of booking. This is standard for certain attractions, but the platform makes this clear during the checkout process.

Is It Easy to Cancel on GetYourGuide?

Yes, cancelling a booking on GetYourGuide is incredibly simple. Many activities offer free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so you can make changes to your plans without losing money.

To cancel, log into your account, find your booking, and click cancel. Refunds are processed quickly, which is one of the reasons we trust GetYourGuide for our own travel plans.

We've had to cancel a few times in 2024 due to rail strikes in Italy and then snow changing our travel plans for Barcelona, and its literally took seconds to cancel the activities on the app- no need to speak to anyone or even provide a reason. I've also had the money back in my account too within 48-72 hours.

Final Thoughts

GetYourGuide is a legitimate, reliable, and user-friendly platform that makes travel planning easy and stress-free. With its flexible payment options, 140,000+ experiences in 10,000 cities, and 24/7 customer support, it’s an excellent choice for travellers worldwide.

Whether you’re looking to book a day trip, a family activity, or tickets to a popular attraction, GetYourGuide offers convenience, variety, and great value.

Ready to explore? Book with GetYourGuide here

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10 Iconic Christmas Film Locations You Can Visit for Real

Ever dreamt of stepping into your favourite Christmas movie and experiencing its magic first hand? From snowy villages to cityscapes, these real-life destinations bring the magic of famous holiday films to life.

Christmas Destinations from Iconic Films

In this guide, we’ll explore the best Christmas movie locations, showcasing must-visit spots and the perfect travel inspiration for your Christmas movie travel list!

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!

We've chosen some of our favourite Christmas films to showcase you some festive inspired destinations for your next break.

1. Die Hard

Location: Los Angeles, California, USA

While it’s an unconventional Christmas movie (and one we disagree with in our house), Die Hard is set during a holiday office party at the fictional Nakatomi Plaza, filmed at the real Fox Plaza in Los Angeles.

Stay: The luxurious InterContinental Los Angeles Century City, a short drive from Fox Plaza.

Don’t Miss: A visit to Fox Plaza to relive John McClane’s epic adventure and enjoy festive lights at LA’s The Grove.

This action-packed holiday classic proves that Christmas
movie travel isn’t always about snow and Santa!

2. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York

Location: New York City, USA

Kevin McCallister’s escapades showcase NYC’s holiday magic, from the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to the bustling streets of Fifth Avenue- one of my personal favourite Christmas films.

Stay: The historic Plaza Hotel, where Kevin checks in (and causes chaos).

Don’t Miss: Ice skating at Rockefeller Center and a walk through Central Park, both featured in this unforgettable holiday film.

There are many themed 'Home Alone Tours' in New York including a ride in a limo with a cheese pizza! (see below)

Add this vibrant city to your Christmas movie travel list for a festive adventure like no other.

3. It’s a Wonderful Life

Location: Seneca Falls, New York, USA

While the fictional Bedford Falls is the film’s setting, the charming town of Seneca Falls is believed to have inspired it. The town embraces the movie’s legacy, making it a must-visit for fans.

Stay: The Gould Hotel, offering cosy accommodations with a touch of nostalgia.

Don’t Miss: The annual It’s a Wonderful Life festival and the It’s a Wonderful Life Museum, celebrating this timeless holiday classic.

4. The Holiday

Locations: Surrey and London, England

Iris’s cosy cottage and Amanda’s chic LA mansion contrast beautifully in this heart-warming film. While Rosehill Cottage was a set, its design mirrors real cottages in Surrey.

Stay: Rent a Holiday Cottage in Holmbury St. Mary area for an authentic experience.

Don’t Miss: Stroll through the quaint village of Shere or visit Covent Garden in London for its festive markets and lights.

Fans of idyllic countryside settings should add this to their Christmas movie travel list!

5. Elf

Location: New York City, USA

Buddy the Elf’s adventures take him through some of NYC’s most iconic landmarks, spreading holiday cheer wherever he goes.

Stay: The Lotte New York Palace, known for its stunning holiday decorations.

Don’t Miss: Snap a photo with the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, visit the Empire State Building, and sip hot cocoa while exploring Central Park.

For a festive trip, NYC tops the list of the best Christmas movie locations.

6. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

Location: Aspen, Colorado, USA

While the Griswolds’ antics mostly take place at home, the snowy mountain vibes of Aspen are the perfect real-life escape for fans of Christmas Vacation.

Stay: The upscale Hotel Jerome, nestled in the heart of Aspen.

Don’t Miss: Skiing or snowboarding on the pristine slopes, followed by après-ski drinks at Ajax Tavern.

7. Love Actually

Location: London, England

This romantic holiday favourite highlights London’s festive charm, with twinkling lights and cosy traditions.

Stay: The elegant The Connaught hotel in Mayfair.

Don’t Miss: Explore St. Luke’s Mews, where Mark famously professes his love, and go ice skating at Somerset House.

8. The Polar Express

Location: Grand Canyon Railway, Arizona, USA

Experience the magic of the Polar Express with a real-life train ride on the Grand Canyon Railway’s Polar Express Experience.

Stay: The Bright Angel Lodge, Arizona.

Don’t Miss: Enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, and a visit from Santa on this unforgettable ride to the “North Pole.”

9. Planes, Trains & Automobiles

Location: Chicago O’Hare International Airport, Illinois, USA

The chaos of holiday travel is hilariously depicted in this film, and Chicago O’Hare is one of its real-life settings.

Stay: The nearby Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport, ideal for travellers passing through.

Don’t Miss: Experience the city's holiday lights and treats before catching your next flight!

10. The Princess Switch

Location: Vienna, Austria

This charming film showcases Vienna’s stunning Christmas markets and royal holiday vibes.

Stay: The Palais Hansen Kempinski Vienna, offering luxury accommodations fit for royalty.

Don’t Miss: Visit the Rathausplatz Christmas Market, known for its festive lights, mulled wine, and local crafts.

Plan your Christmas 2026 Break

From the snowy cottages of The Holiday to the action-packed skyscraper of Die Hard, these 10 Christmas film locations you can visit in real life offer a range of festive experiences.

Whether you’re planning a full itinerary or dreaming of holiday travel, these spots deserve a place on your Christmas movie travel list for 2026.

Which of these best Christmas movie locations will you explore first?

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 9^th 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.

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.

Disneyland Paris Park Tickets

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.

Getting to Disneyland Paris

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.

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Disneyland Paris in One Day: An Extreme Day Trip

Can you do Disneyland Paris in a Day?

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.

Is One Day Enough at Disneyland Paris?

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.

The best hotels for those on a budget include Explorers, Hotel B&B at Disneyland, Adagio Marne-la-Vallee, Campanile Val de France, Grand Magic and Dream Castle.

Getting to Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris Reveal

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.

Find Train Tickets Here

Getting to Disneyland by Taxi

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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