Squeeze out one last getaway in 2025 with these betwixmas trips across the UK and Europe.
The week between Christmas and New Year — affectionately called Twixmas — is often an overlooked time.
The magic of the festive period is over, the bottom of the tree is void of presents, leftovers have been scoffed and the buzz of New Year’s Eve still feels far off. However, this period presents a unique opportunity.
During this window, you can escape the usual routine of daytime TV and instead make some memories before the year is out.
Whether your ideal trip is cosying up in front of a roaring fire, exploring an old town on foot or enjoying cascading landscapes — this is a chance to savour the last moments of the holiday season.
For those seeking ideas, here are L360’s top Twixmas getaway destinations, each promising a little festive magic of its own.
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The Cotswolds, England
Quaint villages and traditional pubs make the Cotswolds the perfect place for a few days of exploring. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly trip in an Airbnb or a luxury getaway at Estelle Manor (the haunt of choice for many A-listers) — you can find it here.
The Cotswolds are a conglomerate of towns located in southwest England, many of them steeped in history with medieval churches, traditional markets and award-winning eateries.
Top tip: Book a cottage with a fireplace for the quintessential Cotswolds experience. Bonus points if you settle in with a hot chocolate and your favourite feel-good movie.
Read more:Extreme Christmas European day trips from the UK
 ReykjavÃk, Iceland
For a truly magical Twixmas, the Icelandic capital of ReykjavÃk is a hard one to beat. The real draw here is the natural beauty surrounding the city. Think geothermal hot springs, snow and, if you’re lucky, the Northern Lights dancing in the sky.
The city can be pricey, particularly as this time of year, but if you do make the trip, be sure to take in all the key highlights. A visit to the Blue Lagoon takes around 45 minutes by bus and is an unmissable experience. Many tour operators offer trips out to various hiking locations that conclude at the Blue Lagoon for a relaxing experience in the warm waters.
Top tip: Your camera can often pick up the colours of the Northern lights better than the naked eye, so be sure to have your phone handy.
Read more: Why Oxford is the best destination for a winter weekend break
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Edinburgh, Scotland
The Scottish capital has a bit of everything. For those who like shopping and a bougie dinner, St James Quarter is a godsend. History-lovers can easily spend hours exploring Edinburgh Castle and the old town.
During the Twixmas period, the city tends be less crowded, but the festive cheer lingers on in cosy pubs as well as the market, which stays open until 4 January.
Top tip: If you’re planning to visit the castle, book tickets online in advance to guarantee entry.
Salzburg, Austria
As the birthplace of Mozart, this Austrian city is an art-lover’s dream. Salzburg’s architecture and cobblestone streets make it nothing short of a picture-perfect Twixmas getaway.
The Unesco-listed city is famous for its musical heritage, which adds a special touch to the season. Be sure to catch a concert at the 17th-century Mirabell Palace to take in the beauty of Mozart’s compositions in its ornate gilded interiors — a true feast for the senses.
Top tip: Be sure to sample Salzburger Nockerl, a fluffy local dessert.
Read more: How to spend 48 hours in Bruges
Bruges, Belgium
Foodies, this one is for you. Belgium is where gluttons thrive — and you’re on holiday, after all.
Belgian chocolate, Belgian waffles and Belgian fries (often fried in beef dripping) are all delicacies you’ll find on every street corner.
And don’t worry, there are plenty of opportunities to walk in this picturesque destination to offset the food intake somewhat.
The city has vast canals with dusky coloured buildings — a bit like Venice, but with a quirky twist. It’s easily explored on foot, too, so is the perfect place for taking things at your own pace rather than rushing from one tourist attraction to another.
Top tip: Be sure to take a canal boat tour for a unique view of this city.
Feature image: Unsplash
