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Living in the UK means you're just a short journey away from exploring entirely different countries. With much of Europe within easy reach, extreme day trips are becoming increasingly popular among UK travellers. According to Google search data, searches for "extreme day tripping" have skyrocketed by 9,900% between October 2023 and October 2025. The concept involves departing in the morning for another country and returning home the same evening. It provides a budget-friendly travel option as you avoid accommodation costs whilst still experiencing the thrill of an international getaway. Lille in France makes an ideal destination for a day visit this festive season. The average Eurostar journey from London takes just one hour and 22 minutes, making it perfect for exploring during the winter months. The city also boasts a delightful Christmas market where you can browse before heading home to sleep in your own bed, reports the Express . Iglu Cruises has created an ideal itinerary for a Lille day trip. Upon arriving at the station, you can stroll through the historic old town, taking in the cobblestone streets and numerous cafes and bakeries. Pop in for a coffee and croissant to energise yourself, then make your way to the Palais des Beaux-Arts. This art gallery is amongst the city's most stunning buildings and contains France's second-largest art collection, behind only the Louvre . In the afternoon, why not explore some of Lille's renowned boutiques before pausing for a snack at Maison Méert, one of France's oldest tea rooms still in operation. It's particularly famed for its waffles filled with Madagascan vanilla — the ideal sweet treat for an afternoon boost. Before you catch your evening train home, make sure to visit the Grand Place at the city's heart for a spin on the Ferris Wheel that takes you high above the cityscape. Finally, round off your day by wandering through the Christmas Village in Place Rihour, with its 90 wooden chalets offering gifts, art and naturally, food. Don't depart without savouring a cup of mulled wine and some rich, indulgent raclette.
