Extreme Getaways: The Rise of 24-Hour Adventures

Friday 11 April, 08:09 Europe/London

There’s a growing trend in travel that’s all about maximising your time away and squeezing every drop out of adventure. It’s called the extreme getaway – a fast-paced, full-on travel experience that fits into a tight window of time. Whether it’s a spontaneous overnight escape or a tightly-packed one-day adventure, these trips are designed for people who want to experience something new without using up much annual leave or splashing out on a long holiday.

An extreme overnight trip is about stepping out of your comfort zone and immersing yourself in a new destination, just long enough to enjoy a whirlwind taste of local life. Picture this: a spontaneous dinner somewhere new, a night in a beautiful hotel, and breakfast overlooking a place you’ve never explored before – all before heading back to reality. It’s a quick change of scene, a burst of sunshine and culture, and just enough time to reset before coming home with a story to tell. Because the trip is so short, it makes travel feel far more accessible – both in terms of time and cost. It’s a refreshing, no-fuss way to see more of the world, even if you’ve only got a small time window to spare.

Destinations You Can Do the Extreme Way from Glasgow Prestwick Airport

While same-day trips may not currently fit our schedule, there are plenty of exciting overnight options that offer the thrill of a short, sharp escape. From sun-soaked coastlines to culture-packed city breaks, some destinations lend themselves perfectly to the extreme getaway format.

Barcelona offers a vibrant mix of culture, food, and buzzing street life – perfect for a short but memorable escape. From the winding alleys of the Gothic Quarter to the striking architecture of Gaudí, there’s plenty to explore at your own pace. Spend your time soaking up the city’s creative energy, browsing local boutiques, or relaxing with a drink on a sunny terrace. As evening falls, enjoy rooftop views, live music and plates of tapas before a relaxed journey home the next day.

If you’re in need of warmth and some sun, Tenerife is a brilliant option. With its volcanic landscapes, coastal towns and perfect evenings, it’s the kind of place where you can truly switch off – even for just one night. A seaside dinner followed by morning coffee in the sun might be all it takes to feel completely refreshed.

Alicante, with its laid-back Mediterranean vibe, is effortlessly scenic. You could spend the day strolling the marina, enjoy a long lunch by the sea, and watch the sun set from the castle or the promenade before winding down for the night. It’s the kind of trip that offers just the right balance of culture, coast, and calm.

Why Try an Extreme Getaway?

Extreme overnight trips are perfect for travellers who want the thrill of a holiday without the logistics of a full-blown break. They require less planning, less time off, and less expense – but still deliver that buzz of being somewhere new. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, surprising a loved one, or just craving a change of scenery, these short escapes offer all the benefits of travel in a more accessible, bite-sized format. And with their flexibility, they’re much easier to fit around a busy schedule – making last-minute getaways feel totally doable.

Top Tips for Planning Your Trip

A little planning goes a long way when it comes to making the most of your extreme overnight adventure. Here’s how to make every minute count:

  • Pack light – carry-on only keeps things speedy and stress-free.
  • Book central accommodation – waste no time getting into the action.
  • Plan a few highlights – but leave room for spontaneity.
  • Check flight times – early departures and later returns help maximise your stay.

Ready for Take-Off?

Your next big adventure doesn’t need to be weeks away or half the world away. Sometimes, one night in a new city is all it takes to feel recharged, re-energised, and a little more alive.

Visit Ryanair to browse flights and start planning your next extreme overnight trip.