What’s An EDT? The Rise Of ‘Extreme Day Trips’ As A Travel Trend

There’s no denying plenty of us love a nice long holiday to unwind and unplug from the stresses of modern life. A fortnight next to the beach? Bliss!

But being able to take huge chunks of time off work, or take the kids out of school (’cause summer holiday travel can be pretty extortionate), isn’t a luxury lots of us have. Plus, some of us want to see more of the world – and only have so much time to do so.

It’s perhaps unsurprising then that travel companies are seeing interest in EDTs – or extreme day trips – in 2026.

Fuelled by low-cost flights, high-speed rail connections and a desire to see more of the world on a budget (all while preserving precious annual leave), EDTs involve travelling to other cities early in the morning, spending a full day sightseeing, eating and exploring, before returning home that evening.

In fact, one in four millennials and Gen Z travellers plan to take a one-day international trip in 2026, according to Expedia.

The benefit is you save on accommodation costs while getting to explore a new place. You can also enjoy several trips without breaking the bank – or ploughing through PTO (paid time off).

Although it may sound ambitious – and perhaps even a little tiring – Kayak reports that 66% of UK travellers plan to take several shorter trips this year, enjoying landmarks, local food and cultural experiences without the expense of multiple nights away.

Here, Manuela Savoca, travel expert at airport transfer company Transfeero, shares the European cities that work best for a one-day adventure, and how to make the most of every minute.

If there’s one city that proves an EDT can feel like a real holiday, it’s Paris. Thanks to the Eurostar (just over 2 hours) and frequent flights (just over 1 hour), you can enjoy breakfast in London and lunch beside the Eiffel Tower just a few hours later. A private transfer from the airport (Charles de Gaulle Airport) to central Paris takes just 40 minutes.

Start your morning with a coffee and fresh pastries at a Parisian café before walking to the Eiffel Tower. Stroll along the Seine towards Pont Alexandre III, continue to the Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe, then stop for lunch at a traditional bistro, advises Savoca.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Louvre courtyard, relaxing in the Tuileries Garden or browsing the boutiques of Le Marais before finishing with an evening walk around the river – and perhaps a quick bite to eat before you head home.

Best way to get around: Walking, the metro and a private airport transfer from the airport to the city centre.

Bruges feels like stepping into a storybook, and because its historic centre is compact, it’s “one of Europe’s easiest cities to explore in a day”, claimed the travel pro. The flight only takes 1 hour, plus a 35-40 minute private transfer from the airport.

Start in the Markt Square before climbing the Belfry for panoramic views. Wander along the canals, visit local chocolate shops, enjoy Belgian waffles or moules-fries for lunch and take a relaxing canal cruise, suggested Savoca. Finish with a peaceful walk through the Begijnhof before heading home.

Best way to get around: Walking.

Bologna is one of Italy’s best cities for an EDT thanks to its small centre and incredible food scene, said the expert. It’s a slightly longer flight at just over 2 hours, however an airport transfer to the centre takes just 22 minutes.

His advice is: Start in Piazza Maggiore before wandering beneath the city’s famous porticoes to the Two Towers. Stop for tagliatelle al ragù or handmade tortellini before looking around the bustling Quadrilatero food market. Finish with authentic Italian gelato before coming home.

Best way to get around: Walking.

Surrounded by mountains, packed with history, and just two hours via flight from London, Salzburg offers an unforgettable day without feeling rushed.

Visit Mozart’s birthplace, stroll along the colourful Getreidegasse shopping street, admire Salzburg Cathedral and take the funicular to Hohensalzburg Fortress for breathtaking views across the city and the Alps, he suggested. End the day with a traditional Austrian cake or schnitzel before heading back.

Best way to get around: Walking and the funicular.

Geneva has both lakeside scenery with elegant streets, and is just under two hours flight away from London. Many of its attractions are within easy walking distance to each other. Savoca recommends spending the morning walking along Lake Geneva to the famous Jet d’Eau before exploring the charming Old Town. Visit St. Pierre Cathedral, browse luxury watch boutiques, enjoy lunch overlooking the water and, if time allows, take a short boat cruise across the lake before making your return journey.

Best way to get around: Walking.

Book the earliest departure you can: The earlier you arrive, the more time you’ll have to explore without feeling rushed.

Don’t try to see everything: Pick three or four must-see attractions and leave time to wander.

Plan your transport in advance: Know how you’ll get from the airport or station before arriving. In cities like Paris, a pre-booked airport transfer can save valuable sightseeing time.

Travel light: A small backpack or handbag is usually all you need and makes getting around much easier.

Leave room for spontaneous discoveries: Avoid planning every minute. Stop at a local café or browse a market.

Keep an eye on the return journey: Allow extra time for security, train departures and unexpected delays so your trip ends as smoothly as it started.