About Europe for Middle School: Spain and Portugal Program
Discover two of Europe's most vibrant destinations on this carefully curated 13-day summer program designed specifically for middle school students. You'll spend time in Spain and Portugal exploring iconic cities like Barcelona, Seville, Granada, Lagos, and Lisbon—each offering unique cultural experiences that will deepen your understanding of European history and daily life.
This program takes a hands-on, beyond-the-tourist approach to travel. Rather than visiting major attractions in isolation, you'll use public transportation, stay in family-run hotels in safe, centrally located neighborhoods, and engage with local communities. You'll learn to make paella and tapas in private cooking classes, kayak through stunning coastal grottoes in Portugal's Algarve, and bike through Barcelona's hidden passageways. You'll visit world-class sites like Gaudí's Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell, explore the majestic Alhambra palace in Granada, and climb the Moorish Castle in Sintra with views extending to the Atlantic Ocean.
The itinerary balances cultural immersion with age-appropriate adventure. You'll experience traditional fado music in Lisbon's historic Alfama district, taste the famous Pasteis de Belem at their original bakery, visit the FC Barcelona stadium including the players' locker room, and enjoy a flamenco show in Seville. Day trips take you from vibrant cities to mountain estates and pristine beaches, giving you a diverse sense of how people actually live in these regions.
TravelForTeen's Middle School Programs are specially designed to provide a safe space where you can build confidence and independence while experiencing authentic European culture. You'll be supported by knowledgeable chaperones and guides throughout, and the program includes all accommodations, ground transportation, meals (breakfasts and dinners), activities, and admissions. Parents receive regular updates and photos, and all hotel information is securely shared after registration to ensure safety.
This is an ideal introduction to European travel—one that goes far beyond typical tourist experiences and creates lasting memories and newfound independence.