Experience an unforgettable 15-day journey through two of Europe's most captivating destinations on the Italy and France Explorer program. You'll begin in Italy, immersing yourself in the birthplace of the Renaissance, exploring world-class museums, sampling authentic cuisine, and discovering both iconic cities and hidden coastal gems. Then you'll travel to France, where you'll experience the magic of Paris and the relaxed beauty of the French Riviera. This program is designed for culturally curious high school students (grades 9-12) who want to step outside their comfort zones and create lasting memories while discovering the authentic culture, history, and lifestyle of these remarkable countries.

Your Italian adventure starts in Florence, the outdoor museum of the Renaissance. You'll see Michelangelo's famous "David," climb the iconic Duomo, and explore the Uffizi Museum's unparalleled collection of Italian Renaissance art. Beyond museums, you'll shop in Florence's legendary markets and gain exclusive access to authentic leather shops. A day trip takes you to Montalcino, a stunning medieval hill town where you can stroll cobblestoned streets and visit historic churches and fortresses. For those interested, an optional excursion to a private Tuscan vineyard offers hands-on Italian cooking classes using fresh vegetables from the family's garden, a winery tour, and wine education—a Travel For Teens favorite that exemplifies the program's commitment to authentic, immersive experiences.

The Cinque Terre becomes your coastal paradise, where you'll stay in the heart of Monterosso, steps from pristine Mediterranean beaches. This UNESCO World Heritage region features five idyllic fishing villages with pastel-colored houses clinging to dramatic cliffsides. You'll hike the spectacular trails connecting these towns, enjoying breathtaking sea views and vineyard-lined cliffs. Local specialties like pesto and focaccia await, along with fresh seafood and beach relaxation. Your stay here is enhanced by the program's long-standing relationships with locals through past service projects, so you'll be welcomed like family. After two nights in this Italian Riviera gem, you'll return to Florence for one final night of celebration and last-minute exploration before saying arrivederci to Italy.

In France, you'll experience Paris like an insider thanks to Travel For Teens' 20+ years of expertise and deep-rooted connections with local guides and businesses. You'll ascend the Eiffel Tower, enjoy a traditional fondue dinner in the Latin Quarter, and take a romantic Seine sunset cruise watching the tower sparkle. The Louvre Museum brings you face-to-face with the Mona Lisa and countless masterpieces. A local-led walking tour reveals Paris's vibrant atmosphere, while leisurely strolls through the Tuileries Gardens and charming Montmartre showcase the city's diverse character. Shopping on the iconic Champs-Élysées and experiencing the grandeur of the Arc de Triomphe round out your Parisian immersion.

Your journey concludes on the French Riviera in Nice, the gem of this sun-soaked coastal region. You'll relax on crescent beaches, explore the narrow alleyways and shops of charming Old Nice, and stroll the iconic Promenade des Anglais. A visit to the medieval town of Èze and a tour of a famous perfume factory add cultural depth to your coastal retreat. This portion perfectly balances the intensity of city exploration with the serene charm of Mediterranean living. Throughout the program, you'll stay in centrally located, family-run hotels chosen for safety and authentic local connections—never impersonal chain hotels. Travel For Teens provides chaperones, expert guides, ground transportation, accommodations, all breakfasts and dinners, and program-related activities and admissions. Food is elevated to an integral part of your cultural education, from authentic Italian pizza and pasta to French ham, cheese, and bread, with dietary accommodations readily available. This program is ideal if you're ready to make international friends, expand your horizons, and discover why Italy and France have inspired travelers for centuries.