Posted on November 9, 2025
Germany, Switzerland and the Netherlands offer the perfect Christmas getaway with their ultimate day trip options, allowing travelers to experience the magic of the holiday in just 24 hours. These countries feature festive destinations like Cologne, Basel and Amsterdam, where travelers can enjoy famous Christmas markets, enchanting light displays and seasonal traditions – all in one day. Perfect for those with limited time, these quick and charming getaways offer a unique way to dive into the heart of the holiday season without the need for long vacations or hotel stays.
Let’s explore these three festive towns and how to make the most of your short but sweet Christmas adventure.
Cologne, Germany
Just a short flight of 1 hour and 20 minutes from London, Cologne is the epitome of a Christmas destination. The city is home to some of the most famous Christmas markets in the world, making it the perfect place for a day trip that will leave you fully immersed in the holiday season.
Start your Cologne trip with a cultural exploration of the city’s wonderful museums, such as the Ludwig Museum, which displays an impressive collection of modern art, and the Vienna Frangries Museum. Next, head to the Ehrenfeld district, a lively neighborhood perfect for a relaxing stop in one of its cafés. Treat yourself to a glass of Kölsch, the city’s signature beer, while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
In the afternoon, take a scenic boat trip along the Rhine River, which provides a unique vantage point of the city’s beautiful Christmas lights and historic architecture. Once evening falls, head to the Heinzels Christmas Market. Featuring ice skating, holiday shopping, and delicious seasonal foods, this market is truly a highlight. Don’t forget to visit the KölnTriangle observation deck for panoramic views of the city’s illuminated cathedral and the twinkling Christmas lights below. It is a sight that will make your daily trip truly magical.
Basel, Switzerland
A quick 1-hour and 40-minute flight from London will bring you to Basel, a Swiss city where medieval charm meets festive cheer. With its cobblestone streets, charming squares and holiday decorations, Basel is the perfect destination for a Christmas Day trip.
Start your visit by exploring Basel’s “Magische Höfe” (Magic Squares), where you’ll find beautifully decorated spaces filled with holiday spirit. The city’s Old Town, with its centuries-old buildings and winding streets, provides the perfect backdrop for this seasonal adventure. Be sure to stop by the Barfüsserplatz Christmas Market, a popular spot known for its delicious Swiss cheese, gingerbread, and traditional festive foods. The market’s giant Christmas pyramid, decorated with lights, provides a beautiful place to shop for unique holiday gifts.
If you’re looking for some cultural enrichment, Theater Basel offers free Advent performances from December 1 to 23. These performances, which include opera, ballet and drama, provide a festive cultural experience that cannot be missed.
To conclude your day, head to St. Martin’s Tower for a small fee and enjoy stunning views of Basel’s Christmas Market and the twinkling lights of the Old Town below. The view from the top provides a stunning perspective of the city, making it the perfect end to Christmas Day in Basel.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam, just an hour and 10 minutes away from London by plane, is another wonderful city to experience during the Christmas season. Known for its picturesque canals and historical charm, the Dutch capital has a magical atmosphere during the holidays.
Start your day in the Jordaan District, where you can take a leisurely stroll along the canals and admire the festive decorations. Enjoy a relaxing breakfast in one of the area’s attractive cafés, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the area.
Next, head to the Museum District, where you can immerse yourself in the city’s cultural offerings. Whether you explore the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum, there is plenty to see in this distinctive part of Amsterdam. In the afternoon, visit the Winter Paradise RAI Festival, a true winter wonderland featuring ice skating rinks, a Ferris wheel and festive food stalls serving Dutch pancakes and mulled wine. This is the perfect place to embrace the fun and excitement of the holiday season.
As evening falls, the Amsterdam Light Festival takes over the city. The streets and canals are decorated with stunning lighting installations, creating a dream-like atmosphere throughout the city. For the best experience, take a cruise along the canals, where lights twinkle across the water, providing an enchanting view of Amsterdam’s holiday transformation.
The ultimate escape on Christmas Day
Whether you’re exploring Cologne’s historic Christmas markets, indulging in a Swiss getaway in Basel, or cruising through Amsterdam’s sparkling canals, these three cities offer the perfect blend of holiday magic and cultural discovery. And the best part? All of these cities are a short plane or train ride from London, making them the perfect destinations for a Christmas adventure without the need for long stays or expensive hotel bookings.
Germany, Switzerland and the Netherlands offer the perfect 24-hour Christmas getaway, allowing travelers to experience festive markets, light displays and seasonal magic without needing an extended holiday. These extreme day trips allow you to get into the holiday spirit in just one day.
These tough day trips provide a comfortable, affordable and festive way to embrace the holiday season and create unforgettable memories. So why not make the most of your Christmas by traveling to one of these stunning European destinations? It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season in style – without the hassle of long travel.
