trips

IF YOU only have one day to spare for a trip, then it is still possible to squeeze in some foreign travel.

Indeed, there are many destinations to head abroad to from the UK for exploration in the space of 24 hours.

These include the breathtaking Danish islands a flight away from Scotland as well as the cute French city that you take a train ride to in just 90 minutes.

We’ve rounded up the speediest ways to enjoy a foreign jaunt – just don’t forget your passport…

Paris

One of the most iconic day trips from the UK to abroad has to be the revered French capital.

While you can get there by Eurostar, a faster route is flying which is just 1hr15 from London.

SEIZE THE DAY

Sun travel team’s top day trips abroad with £15 flights and free attractions

FESTIVE FIND

I went on a £20 Mystery Christmas Market day trip in the UK

Some of the earliest flights leave at 7am (arriving just after 9am) with departures as late as 9pm.

This gives you a cool 12 hours to explore the stunning city, including its iconic sights.

This includes the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe and Notre-Dame.

It is easy to walk between many of the main attractions, or to use the metro to reach the rest.

To see more of the city in one go, you can also do a boat tour on the stunning River Seine or the hop-on , hop-off Batobus.

The Sun’s Travel Reporter Alice Penwill recently tried a Paris day trip – here’s what she thought.

Dublin

The Irish capital makes a lesser known UK day trip abroad.

A flight is just 1hr20 from London, with the cost as low as £30 return with the likes of Ryanair.

Once you’ve landed, it is then possible to get a 30-minute bus from the airport to the city centre, which operate between 04:05 and 00:35.

It is then very possible to see the walkable city’s main attractions in the space of just a day.

These include the stunning university Trinity College, which is home to the famous Book of Kells in the Old Library.

You can then walk along the bustling Grafton Street and grab a pint in the Temple Bar area.

There’s also Dublin Castle within close proximity, which has available a self-guided tour that takes 30 minutes on average.

It is also possible – and smart – to explore Dublin via a hop-on, hop-off bus which will take you past all the main spots.

The Guinness Storehouse – a brewery dedicated to the famous drink – recommends allowing 90 minutes to visit, however the self-guided tour means you can go at your own pace.

Here’s what it’s like to visit the city of Dublin.

Lille

Another Eurostar destination is Lille, a city in northern France that’s close to the border with Belgium.

Unlike Paris, it takes just one hour 22 minutes to get to Lille and tickets start from £39.

This means that you needn’t have too early a start in order to be there for mid-morning.

The quaint spot, with its strong Flemish influences, is also very possible to experience in a just a day.

Fuel up on coffee and waffles, before exploring the old town, packed with restaurants and shops.

There’s also 17th-century brick town houses, cobbled streets and a large central square called the Grand Place.

The latter – along with La Vieille Bourse – is only a few hundred metres from the Lille-Flandres and Lille-Europe train stations.

Head to the top of the town hall’s belfry and you’ll get a view of Lille in its entirety.

Additionally, the ‘city pass’ gives you access to 40 sites, starting from €20 (£17) for 24 hours.

A particularly good time to visit is the first weekend of September when there is a famous street market on the Braderie de Lille.

The Sun’s Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey visited Lille for a quick weekend trip – here are her top tips.

Faroe Islands

The Danish archipelago is actually closer to the UK, even though it lies 200 miles north of Scotland.

You can fly to the Faroe Islands directly from Edinburgh, from just over £100, and it takes less than 1hr30 to reach Vágar Airport.

The islands are home to stunning rugged coastline, dramatic waterfalls and mountainous landscapes.

The main island is Streymoy, which makes up 24 per cent of the total land area and half of the entire population.

However, there are 17 other islands to explore, many of which are easily connected by tunnels and ferries.

Booking on a day tour will ensure you can explore as much as possible in a time-efficient manner.

This includes the Súðuroy Island Day Tour by ferry ride, which includes a visit to the ancient coal mines in Hvalba.

There is also a seven-hour ‘see it all’ islands tour that begins in Tórshavn and takes in the iconic Vágar island.

Given its northern location, the ideal time to visit would be between June and August when temperatures are a more pleasant 12-14°C.

Here’s our top tips on visiting the Faroe Islands.

Calais

You can reach the northern French port city in just 35 minutes by Eurotunnel’s LeShuttle from Folkestone, Kent.

The railway shuttle service, which runs beneath the sea, is faster than the 90-minute Dover to Calais ferry crossing.

There are up to four departures every hour, 365 days a year, and tickets start from £59 for up to nine people travelling in one vehicle.

Because you’ll already have your car with you the other end, you’ll be able to get exploring faster.

This includes taking a trip to the Calais Lighthouse, built in 1848, which has panoramic views of the quay – and sometimes the White Cliffs of Dover.

Le Beffroi de Calais, the city’s historic town hall, holds guided tours which take you up to the top of its tower.

Fancy stretching your legs? Drive to the Sentier des Balcons d’Escalles, which is a beautiful coastal path just west of the city.

If it’s a nice day, then it could also be worth heading to the seaside spots of Blériot-Plage and Plage de Calais.

There’s likewise the Musée Mémoire, which documents the location’s important role in the Second World War.

On your return, make the most of UK residents being able to shop tax-free, and pick up items like cosmetics, technology or food on your shopping list.

LOOKING for somewhere cheap to visit in 2026, that won’t have you stuck on a plane for hours?

We’ve put together a list of some of the most affordable short-haul destinations to visit, with insider tips on where to eat and stay for cheap.

Whether it’s a weekend city break, a romantic getaway or a quick foodie trip – here’s our top picks for the best in short-haul holidays.

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin is one of Europe’s most exciting and lively capital cities, with loads to see and do, and plenty of good craic to be had.

There are plenty of fun experiences like the Guinness Storehouse (from €22 (£19) or Jameson’s Distillery tour (from €26 (£22.80)), both of which are worth every penny.

But there’s also no need to spend on days out when there is so much to see just by strolling through the city.

SHORT BREAK

Popular city named underrated winter city break is still 20C with £28 flights

WEEKEND WONDERS

2 Euro city breaks perfect for a weekend of gorging on food, wine & culture

Wander down Grafton Street to listen to some of the most talented buskers you’ve ever heard.

Or take a picnic to Stephen’s Green to feed the resident swans, relax and watch the world go by.

And if you’re looking for the best pint, we have some insider tips.

Whilst it’s worth visiting the famous Temple Bar for a photo op, there are some much more authentic (and cheaper) places to get a drink.

Grab your pint of Guinness from bars loved by locals such as Gravediggers or Mulligan’s for a more authentic experience.

Flights from multiple UK airports to Dublin are often only £14.99 each way with Ryanair.

Plus the flight over is so fast, cabin crew barely have the time to get the trolley down the aisle before you’ve landed!

Stay at a hostel like Generator Dublin for an urban, industrial vibe right in the heart of the city, whilst paying as little as £14 to stay the night.

Milan, Italy

Milan might be known as one of Europe‘s top fashion capitals, but this sleek Italian city is a surprisingly cheap stay.

Skip the pricey guided tours – Milan is best explored on foot.

Stroll through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, admire the Duomo (or climb the rooftop for €15 (£13)), and unwind in Parco Sempione behind Sforza Castle.

There are loads of architectural masterpieces which are free to enter, such as the grand Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio and the stunning San Maurizio – often dubbed the Sistine Chapel of Milan.

There are also some great museums with free entry, such as the Palazzo Morando art museum and the Mudec – Museum of Cultures.

Another major perk of Milan is that you can feast on authentic Italian food to your heart’s content – without breaking the bank.

Head to the Navigli district, famous for its canals and buzzing nightlife, where you can order an aperitivo for around €10 (£8.80) and you’ll get a cocktail plus a plate of free snacks, or even a mini buffet to go with it.

Or for some traditional pasta, visit restaurants such as Il Brutto Anatroccolo for mains from €8 (£7).

The flight from London to Milan is only 2 hours long, and costs as little as £14.20 each way with easyJet.

There are plenty of cheap hotels to choose from, including the 4-star Cosmo Hotel Palace for £54 per night.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest might look like a luxury city break at first glance, with its grand architecture, thermal spas and classy rooftop bars.

But the Hungarian capital actually one of the most affordable capitals to visit in Europe.

Start your trip in the city’s famous ruin bars – once crumbling buildings turned into quirky bohemian pubs.

Here you can grab a pint for 1000 HUF (£2.25) and dance the night away without burning a hole in your pocket.

Szimpla Kert is the most iconic ruin bar, packed with vintage furniture, fairy lights, and live music most nights.

To relax, skip the expensive spas and head to the picture-perfect Széchenyi Thermal Bath.

It’s the largest medicinal bath in Europe, and costs 12,500 HUF (around £28) to visit.

Soak in your choice of 15 steamy outdoor pools surrounded by Budapest’s signature neo-baroque architecture.

The city is also dotted with street vendors selling delicious chimney cake, or ‘Kürtőskalács’ – a delicious sweet pastry that is a must-try when in Budapest.

It’s made by wrapping dough around a spit before rolling it in cinnamon sugar or chocolate, and you can grab them for as little as 445 HUF (or £1).

Return flights to Budapest cost as little as £42 with Ryanair, and city centre hotels such as the Benczúr offer rooms for as little as £30 a night.

Girona, Spain

Girona might not be the first place that comes to mind for a Spanish break, but it should be.

This colourful Catalan city has all the charm of Barcelona – without the chaos or the price tag.

Wander through the Old Town”s medieval streets to see sights like the impressive Gothic Cathedral and the famous colourful houses that line the Onyar River.

There are plenty of fascinating historic sites to visit, like the arching Arab Baths and the Força Vella, the Roman fortress remains.

You can even walk along the city walls for some unbeatable views.

There’s also some quirky places to visit such as the Cinema Museum, Game of Thrones filming sites and the Pont de las Peixateries Velles – the city’s iconic red bridge.

Food is where Girona really shines.

A coffee costs €1.50 (£1.30) and you can tuck into a menu del día (a hearty three-course lunch) for under €15 (£13).

Rocambolesc is known for its tubs of ice cream and gelato with lashings of delicious chocolate toppings.

Don’t miss out on xuixos, the city’s signature cream-filled pastry that’s best enjoyed warm with an espresso.

One-way flights from Manchester to Girona with Ryanair start from £14.99.

For a cheap place to stay, opt for the Ibis Budget Girona Costa Brava – with doubles from £48 per night.

Antiques Road Trip star Angus Ashworth has shared the items he would most like to find in his work, including rare Victoria Cross and Napoleonic War medals

Antiques Road Trip’s Angus Ashworth has disclosed his ultimate discovery – and it could command a staggering price. The seasoned antiques specialist and auctioneer, a familiar face on BBC’s Antiques Road Trip and his own programme, The Yorkshire Auction House, has encountered countless valuable treasures throughout his career.

However, he’s opened up about specific pieces he’s particularly keen to stumble upon. “I love military history, so my dream find would be a Victoria Cross or an Army Gold Medal from the Napoleonic Wars,” he revealed. “That’s the holy grail for me.”

When discussing potential values, the expert estimated between £60,000 and £80,000 for an Army Gold Cross medal. Angus also presents Yorkshire Heritage Hero, which follows him exploring Yorkshire’s magnificent country estates, assisting families in discovering valuable pieces from their properties.

READ MORE: Ex-BBC boss calls for Strictly Come Dancing to be paused to ‘save show’s reputation’READ MORE: Gordon Ramsay’s scathing digs at Adam Peaty’s family ‘filmed for Netflix show’

He pinpoints critical repair needs and generates funding for restoration projects by unearthing and auctioning concealed treasures found within these historic residences.

The presenter observed: “No one has an ‘antiques sale’ anymore – these days it’s always a ‘country house sale’. People have really bought into the idea of this quintessentially British interior look. The public fascination provides potential to keep things above water.

“There’s a huge second-hand market for items such as dark furniture, lighting and table lamps, and soft furnishings – so curtains, cushions and rugs,” he added. “And there’s one place in particular worth checking: the garden shed.

“There can be real value in the garden and what’s in the shed – my day job is as an auctioneer, and I can see a huge interest and value in decorative pieces for the garden, from plant pots to benches.”

He also highlighted that 90s nostalgia items like games consoles and Harry Potter first editions are hot commodities among buyers looking to recapture their youth.

“You can even see it in the classic car world,” he added. “The market for people who dreamed of owning an MG has shrunk, while Ford Escorts are now far more desirable because that’s what people remember wanting.”

Last month, viewers of Antiques Roadshow watched in amazement as a man was adamant he wouldn’t sell his family heirloom, despite learning its eye-watering value.

As experts looked at a timepiece, horological expert Alastair Chandler hailed it “a real classic”. The Speedmaster watch belonged to the guest’s father, who only wore it on special occasions throughout his son’s childhood.

Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads

WE’VE had a corker of a year, travelling far and wide to hunt the best bargain getaways, newest spine-tingling attractions and hottest resorts to share with you, our wonderful readers.

From a behind-the-scenes look at the first new theme park to open in Orlando in 25 years, to discovering secret speakeasys on board the world’s largest cruise ship, here are The Sun Travel’s top trips from 2025.

EPIC UNIVERSE, FLORIDA

Lisa Minot, Head Of Travel

UNIVERSAL’S hugely anticipated third theme park opened this year and I was among the very first to get a sneak peek.

I can definitely say the reality surpassed my high expectations. The attention to detail, sheer scale and truly immersive nature of the five new “worlds” that make up the £7billion park are astonishing.

From the breathtaking recreation of 1920s Paris in the Wizarding World Of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, to the technicolour dreamscape of Super Nintendo World, there is something for every age and interest.

SANDS GREAT

Little-known pink beaches & turquoise lagoons you won’t believe are in Wales

ICE COLD COOL

From lagoons & sauna to divine dishes – the perfect quirky weekend break

Families with younger kids will love How To Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, a whimsical recreation of the movie ­franchise’s Viking village, complete with colourful longboats.

And thrill-seekers will enjoy Dark Universe with its Monsters Unchained and Curse Of The Werewolf attractions as well as the Stardust Racers dual-launch coaster in Celestial Park.

In 2025, visitors were restricted to one-day tickets to the new park, to manage capacity and give as many people the chance to visit as possible.

But from next year, Epic will be included on 14-day multi-park tickets, meaning you can pop in and out as many times as you like.

BAHAMAS CRUISE

Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

IT has been my year for cruising, from sampling a knock-out cheese souffle on board Oceania’s new Allura to sipping frozen margaritas on the glossy sun deck of Princess Cruises’ Sun Princess.

However, none of these ships were as mindboggling as Star Of The Seas. Royal Caribbean’s newest colourful giant shares its title of “largest cruise ship in the world” with sister ship, Icon Of The Seas.

You need a whole week at sea to sample all the non-stop activities and to sink a beer or cocktail in every one of the 19 or so bars (save room for a punchy boulevardier from the coffee-themed Rye & Bean).

Much of what is on board has already been seen on Icon, including the thrill ride Crown’s Edge that sends passengers free-falling towards the ocean, their plummets saved by a harness as they dangle from the edge of the 16th deck.

What’s unique to Star, though, is the Lincoln Park Supper Club, an all-singing immersive dining experience that takes passengers back to the jazz boom of Chicago in the roaring Twenties.

It is costly for speciality dining but, my word, you’ll be well fed and watered. If you like martinis, you won’t regret booking this.

OSEA ISLAND, ESSEX

Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel (Digital)

PICTURE a private island with two outdoor pools, white clapboard houses and a huge sandy beach and you are more likely to be imagining somewhere exotic in the Caribbean than Essex.

But Osea is a private island linked to the mainland by a causeway you can only drive over for a few hours every day – which means you are marooned for most of the day and night.

Osea has several houses available to rent, from one-bedroom studios to 12-bedroom mansions, the largest featuring a recording studio that has been used by everyone from Stormzy to Rihanna.

It also has a tiny pub, a yoga studio, a bar and a huge event space where people can hold parties for up to 200 people.

I was there for a friend’s 50th and we spent a glorious 48 hours swimming in the sea, going on walks, eating, drinking and generally considering ourselves incredibly lucky to be in such a magical place.

You can only go to Osea if you are booked to stay in one of the properties but they are available to the public, with rooms from £60pp a night.

INDIA

Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

INDIA has long been on my wish list to travel to, but as a young woman, I was always extremely wary.

However, Intrepid’s Women Expeditions meant I could tick off all of the top bucket list attractions while staying safe with a local female guide.

So I could visit the famous pink palace of Jaipur, and the stunning Taj Mahal in Agra.

But it also meant we got to experience this vast country like a local, meeting female rickshaw drivers and staying at the rustic Chandelao Garh – a 17th century former fort which is now a hotel with 20 rooms.

And, with Virgin Atlantic launching more flights to India in the New Year, it’ll be easier to get there than ever before.

SARDINIA

Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter

ITALY is full of stunning, historic cities and hidden gems, but one island destination, thought to be a top spot to visit in 2026, offers a serene escape in the Mediterranean Ocean.

Sardinia is closer to Africa than mainland Italy, so boasts warming breezes and the smell of olive trees in the air.

If I am heading to a hot country, I prefer to be somewhere where everything I could want is at my fingertips – and Hilton’s Conrad Chia Laguna Resort achieves this.

Many of its stylish, sprawling rooms have small private ­gardens looking out to Chia Beach, surrounded by cream-coloured limestone.

The Conrad also has relaxing pools ideal for a refreshing dip before stretching out on one of the sun loungers.

For a touch of indulgence, the spa has a circuit of saunas, hot tubs and steam rooms ideal for a rejuvenation session.

The plush Hilton resort is just an hour from Cagliari – the island’s vibrant capital – which boasts a rich ­history and is the ideal spot for a day trip.

Return flights with British Airways in January start from a bargain £35 per person.

FINLAND

Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

I’VE always been a fan of a hot holiday and since I live in the UK, who can really blame me?

But after heading to ­Finland for a winter adventure, I now think chilly getaways could be the way forward.

After a variety of activities from hiking through a snowy blueberry farm in outer Jyväskylä to taking a dip in a frozen lake in the city of Tampere – after a hot sauna, of course – I came to appreciate and love the cold.

One of the most special nights was at Revontuli Lakeland Village, in Hankasalmi, Jyväskylä Region, where I was able to get all cosy and enjoy a beautiful snow-scape from the comfort of a pretty igloo.