About Europe for Older Teens: Ultimate Europe (30 Days) Program
Imagine spending a full month backpacking through some of Europe's most iconic cities and breathtaking landscapes—all designed specifically for older teens ready to explore the world with independence and confidence. This 30-day Ultimate Europe program takes you on an unforgettable journey through nine countries: England, France, the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Monaco, Spain, and Vatican City. You'll experience the best of what Europe has to offer, from world-class museums and historic landmarks to outdoor adventures and authentic local culture.
Your adventure begins in London, where you'll ride the London Eye, explore the Tower of London's Crown Jewels, and catch a West End show. From there, you'll float down the Seine in Paris, ascend the Eiffel Tower, and wander through charming Parisian neighborhoods. In Amsterdam, you'll bike through picturesque streets and visit the poignant Anne Frank House, gaining perspective on modern history. The program balances city exploration with outdoor thrills: you'll bike through Munich's cobblestone streets, hike the Swiss Alps, visit the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle, and even have the option to paraglide above stunning mountain vistas.
This program goes far beyond typical tourist experiences. You'll take a Swiss chocolate-making workshop, participate in an Italian cooking class at a private Tuscan vineyard estate, learn to make Spanish tapas in Barcelona, and hike through the colorful fishing villages of Cinque Terre. You'll sample authentic local cuisine everywhere you go—from British fish and chips to German bratwurst, French escargot, Italian gelato, and Spanish paella. The itinerary includes cultural landmarks like the Colosseum and Roman Forum in Rome, the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, and Gaudí's masterpiece Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.
Throughout your journey, you'll stay in centrally located, safe accommodations in each city—small, family-run hotels and high-standard hostels rather than impersonal chain hotels. You'll be supported by experienced chaperones and guides who double as mentors and role models, creating a tight-knit community among travelers. The program is designed to foster independence and cross-cultural awareness while keeping you safe and well-supervised. Daily emails and photos keep your parents connected to your journey, and the relationships you build with fellow travelers and local communities will stay with you for years to come.
This program is perfect for high school juniors and seniors seeking a global perspective before college, or any older teen ready to become a seasoned traveler rather than a tourist. You'll return home with confidence, incredible memories, new friendships from around the world, and a deeper understanding of European culture and history.