Experience the ultimate European adventure on this 13-day summer program designed for high school students seeking an authentic backpacking journey across three iconic countries. You'll travel through Florence, Cinque Terre, Interlaken, and Paris—combining world-class cities with mountain adventures and Mediterranean beaches in a single transformative trip.

Your adventure begins in Florence, the heart of the Italian Renaissance, where you'll stand in awe of Michelangelo's David at the Accademia gallery and explore the Uffizi's unparalleled collection of Italian Renaissance art. You'll stroll across the iconic Ponte Vecchio at sunset with gelato in hand, visit the magnificent Duomo, and receive a special invitation to a traditional leather shop to learn about the Italian leather industry. Beyond the museums and monuments, you'll experience "la bella vita" through authentic pizza dinners and a nighttime gelato tour of the city's best handmade shops.

Next, you'll discover the Cinque Terre, one of Italy's hidden gems on the Italian Riviera. Rather than staying in touristy towns, your accommodations place you steps from the beach in the heart of Monterosso village, where you'll be treated like family thanks to Travel for Teens' strong local relationships built through years of community volunteering. You'll hike the spectacular trails connecting five idyllic fishing villages perched on dramatic cliffs above crystal-blue Mediterranean waters, sample local pesto and focaccia, enjoy fresh seafood, and relax on pristine beaches surrounded by vineyards clinging to the cliffsides.

In the Swiss Alps, you'll be based in Interlaken, the backpacker mecca nestled between two alpine lakes. Breathe in fresh mountain air as you hike through breathtaking scenery, cruise a pristine alpine lake at sunset while enjoying dinner, and ride cable cars to some of Switzerland's highest restaurants. For the truly adventurous, optional paragliding offers an unforgettable experience soaring above the Alps (weight restrictions: 30-100 kg). You'll also experience the Thrill Walk and Skyline Walk at Birg, testing your limits against dramatic alpine vistas.

Your journey concludes in Paris, the City of Light, where you'll marvel at priceless masterpieces at the Louvre, climb to the top of the Eiffel Tower, and explore the artsy neighborhood of Montmartre where famous artists once lived and worked. Take local-led walking tours through hidden Parisian alleyways, visit the Palace of Versailles and Marie Antoinette's gardens, relax on sunset river cruises down the Seine, and explore the Luxembourg Gardens and Père Lachaise Cemetery. You'll eat your way through different arrondissements sampling crêpes, fondue, omelets, and escargot at authentic restaurants, finishing with one final incredible French dinner before heading home.

Throughout this 13-day program, you'll travel like a local—staying in centrally located, family-run hotels rather than impersonal chains, eating at authentic establishments rather than tourist traps, and connecting with local guides who share insider knowledge. Travel for Teens handles all ground transportation via rail pass, accommodations, chaperones, program activities and admissions, and all breakfasts and dinners, allowing you to focus on the experience. This program is perfect for 9th and 10th graders from around the world seeking an authentic, hands-on European experience that goes far beyond the typical tourist trail.