European Experience ON TOUR 20 Days
Get ready for a summer like you never imagined on this European teen tour! You will visit some of Europe’s greatest cities across England, France, Switzerland, and Italy, with charming little villages in between. Enjoy museums, cafés, theater and dance clubs on this student tour. Then, work off all of those croissants and gelatos by getting active with whitewater rafting, skiing, snowboarding and more.
All departures on this itinerary are ON TOUR travel programs. They are specially designed for high schoolers completing 11th or 12th grades. By focusing on the needs of older teenagers, the activities on this trip are chosen with the independent nature and maturity of a young adult in mind. Our amazing summer program leaders are experts at creating a tight, inclusive family.
This 20-day program ends in Rome, Italy. The longer 28-day European Experience continues on to the Amalfi Coast and French Riviera.
An adrenaline-filled trip with the coolest activities, picture-perfect landmarks, and a close group bond.
Hotels & resorts.
Includes breakfast and dinner daily.
Includes all recreation & activities listed.
Chartered deluxe, air-conditioned motor coach with a professional driver.
ON TOUR departures offer more independence and age-appropriate activities for older teens completing grades 11 & 12.
Varies from 28 to 48 participants.
We can accommodate most dietary preferences and allergies.
Fly overnight to London. Once you land, your orientation will officially begin with some of our favorite icebreakers and “get to know you” activities.
London calling! Your adventure of a lifetime starts in this eclectic city. You will be staying in one of the poshest boroughs in town: Kensington. Get to know your trip mates over dinner followed by a ride on the world's biggest Ferris Wheel, the London Eye. Fall in love with London during an entertaining guided city tour. See how the Royal Family lives at Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the Tower of London, Leicester Square, Covent Garden, and Piccadilly Circus. Take in a London theatre show (past shows include Wicked and Mamma Mia!) in the famed West End. Browse world-famous Harrods' and stroll down the pedestrian-friendly Carnaby Street.
Welcome to the city of fashion, art and fabulous food! You will experience la joie de vivre (joy of living) discovering this unforgettable city filled with amazing sights, world-class museums and the best people-watching in the world. Our trip mixes Paris' iconic landmarks of the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Arc de Triomphe with Parisian living - sipping a café on the famous Champs-Élysées, eating croissants for breakfast, munching on baguettes at lunch and crepes for dinner. Admire Mona Lisa at the Louvre. Get to know the student hangout of the Latin Quarter, Île de la Cité, and the artist haven of Montmartre.
Versailles, France
It's good to be King! The court of Louis XIV set the cultural standard for all of Europe, this can be seen nowhere better than at his famed country home. Be amazed by the majestic Hall of Mirrors and elegant gardens on your guided visit of this historic treaty site. It is said that if you're planning to visit one palace in all of Europe make it Versailles.
The Little Venice of the Alps! This endearing city is magnificently set between the Alps and crystal clear waters of Lake Annecy that reflect them. This is the hidden gem you tell all your friends about. Chill out lakeside after spending some time leisurely biking along the cycle path. Whitewater raft along the roaring Isère River through the Tarentaise Valley, beautifully set amongst the snow-capped peaks.
When you think of the Swiss Alps, what comes to mind? Charming Alpine villages? Check. Breathtaking mountain scenery? Got that too! Sipping on hot chocolate and eating yummy fondue? You bet! Ski* or snowboard*? Naturally, we do that as well in the Valaisan Alps in the shadow of the mighty Matterhorn. You can also ride the gondola for scenic mountain views and explore the eco-friendly car-free zone village. (*Weather Permitting. Note skiing and snowboarding require intermediate-level ability or better.)
Bridges, canals and gondolas! Described as one of the most beautiful and unique cities for the past 500 years, no trip to Europe would be complete without a visit to Venice. Comprised of over 100 islands connected by 150 canals and 400 bridges, Venice is the perfect place to start exploring this country of art, cuisine, romance, and fashion. Visit the workshop of the 700-year-old glass blowers of Murano. Wander through the winding streets exploring small storefronts and artisanal shops until you reach the Piazza San Marco, where you can visit the Doge's Palace or feed the pigeons. Indulge your taste buds with Italian feasts of pizza, pasta and parmigiana after experiencing the ultimate Venetian transport, a gondola!
Beach time! This Adriatic seaside resort town is known for beautiful sandy beaches, bustling promenades and lively nightlife. Rimini is an extremely popular resort destination for local Italians and Europeans alike. Unwind and chill during this popular stop.
The Eternal City! Visiting this amazing city, you'll see it has one foot in the past and one in the present. Relive gladiator games at the Colosseum, and discover ancient, architectural wonders at the Pantheon and Roman Forum. Check out the enormous St. Peter's Square, home of the Vatican, Pope and the Sistine Chapel showcasing Michelangelo's masterpieces. However, Rome is not all ruins, churches and Vespas! Watch the beautiful people and maybe even a fashion show at the Spanish Steps, dine in the celebrated Piazza Navona and even attend a Roman toga party. Guarantee your return to this city by tossing three coins into the Trevi Fountain.
Say farewell to your new friends as you part ways for your return home. The summer might be over, but all the memories you’ve made will last a lifetime!
London, England
Your stay at either the Holiday Inn Kensington or Dorsett Shepherds Bush places you in one of London's most prestigious neighborhoods. These hotels are centrally located to visit all of London’s most famous sights and attractions.
Paris, France
Stay in the heart of the capital at either the Novotel Paris Centre Eiffel Tower, Mercure Paris La Defense or Novotel Paris La Defense. The best monuments and shops in Paris are easily accessible. These properties offer comfortable and modern rooms to unwind in after your exciting days exploring all of Paris’ top attractions!
Annecy, France
While staying in the heart of Annecy’s city center at either Le Pelican or Hotel International (Moxy), you'll be very comfortable in this charming mountain village. These hotels are only a few minutes walk from the old town and Lake Annecy.
Zermatt, Switzerland
The Hotel Excelsior and Hotel National are located in the center of Zermatt. All rooms offer free Wi-Fi internet access. French and Swiss cuisine is served in the La Ferme restaurant with a summer terrace.
Venice, Italy
After exploring the classic streets and canals of Venice, relax in the modern and comfortable Antony Palace.
Adriatic Riviera, Italy
Enjoy fun in the summer in the amazing seaside city of Rimini. Staying at Sovrana Hotel, you’ll enjoy a restful night after enjoying the beach and sea.
Rome, Italy
While staying at either the Hotel Eliseo, Hotel Genio, Hotel Nord Nuova Roma, or Hotel Pace Helvezia. You will be surrounded by Rome’s famous monuments and landmarks such as the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, and the Trevi Fountain.
Flight to London, England
Participants on this trip have the option to fly overseas on our chaperoned flight that leaves in the evening from the New York area to London. Our leaders are at the airline counter area to help you to check-in, introduce you to other travelers and are with you from check-in onward. For the many travelers from outside the New York area, you can choose to join the chaperoned flight and we are happy to assist you with arranging connecting flights at suitable times into New York. You may also choose to meet us in London and we’ll help coordinate your flight times and greet you upon arrival.
Return Flight Home From Rome, Italy
For the return flight from Rome, our leaders help you to check-in and remain in the airport until flights in designated times have departed. They remain in Europe for the duration of the longer 28-day program and chaperone that flight home. Depending on the number of students departing after 20 days, one staff may chaperone that flight as well.
About ON TOUR
This is an ON TOUR program. Meaning it is targeted toward older teens, currently completing 11th or 12th grade. These itineraries offer more freedom of choice than our other TRAVEL programs by balancing the greater independence that young adults crave with the structure and safety that parents expect. Itineraries include amazing activities and sights for the more mature student, as well as a later curfew. Opportunities to do some safe exploring in smaller groups to find that local cafe or indie boutique also makes this a standout experience for older students.
Food and Meals
Savor the tastes of Europe, where every meal is an adventure in itself! We raise the bar for teen dining experiences with our group dinners at authentic local restaurants, savory bistros and popular eateries. For some dinners, we divide into smaller groups of your choosing to explore local hot spots with a variety of different cuisines. For lunch, you will enjoy eating in smaller groups and choosing from local cafés and other restaurants. Are you ready for fresh pasta and pizza in Italy, warm fondue in Switzerland and crispy baguettes in France? The food in Europe is terrific, so prepare to eat extremely well! Cap off some meals with dessert at delicious local establishments where you can find countless gelato flavors to choose from, tiramisu, churros & chocolate, sweet crepes, macarons, and other local sweet treats.
We have satisfied the choosiest of eaters and gladly accommodate most special dietary requests including vegetarian, food allergies, lactose intolerance, celiac disease, and kosher style. We welcome discussing your individual requirements with you and have extensive experience in this area.
Rooming
You will stay in the finest hotels and resorts, which are chosen based on safety, security, amenities, comfort and location. Indoor accommodation rooms vary from doubles to triples. Triples may contain two beds and a rollaway or be a suite-style with a sofa bed. Each trip member has their own bed.
Laundry
You will only need one week’s worth of clothing as outlined in the packing list that will be sent to you prior to departure. Every week you may drop off your laundry at a local wash and fold service and then pick it up clean, folded and ready to go.
What’s Included
Included in your program tuition is all lodging, breakfast and dinner daily, recreation & entertainment listed, airport transfers in designated times, gratuities & taxes.
Not included is transportation to and from the program, lunches, snacks, personal spending money for souvenirs, and laundry. We also make available optional travel insurance that is not included, but highly recommended.
Please contact us with any questions. We are happy to hear from you!
Do you separate different age groups?
It depends on the program, so it’s always best to contact us. On some programs, we assign a specific departure date by age group to create the best possible social dynamics. For example, if grades 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 are listed on a program, note they will not all be traveling together on the same departure.
To find the programs with exclusive age-specific departures, look for tags saying “middle school” for students completing 7th and 8th grades, or “ON TOUR” for students completing 11th and 12th grades.
Who are the staff and what are their qualifications?
Our staff are educators, guidance counselors, coaches, college and university students, former camp counselors, residence life coordinators, community volunteers, world travelers, and other leaders with diverse backgrounds. Many are former participants themselves who couldn’t get enough of the Westcoast experience! Learn more about our summer leaders.
What is the difference between an Active Teen Tour and a Global Adventure program?
Our Active Teen Tours offer larger group sizes (generally 35-48 participants) and travel in deluxe motor coaches. Accommodations include quality hotels and occasional fun college residences.
Global Adventures are smaller group experiences (generally up to 36 participants). Groups travel by private motor coaches and occasional public transportation internationally, and use passenger vans in the USA. Select European programs travel exclusively by train and public transportation. While these programs have a slightly bigger focus on adventure travel, we stay in quality hotels and lodges, always ensuring a good night’s rest.
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