Croatia, Slovenia, Austria & Czech Republic 18 Days
This travel program for high schoolers takes you on an adventure across many unique cultures throughout Central Europe. Get your adrenaline pumping in Slovenia’s Julian Alps, immerse yourself in the rich history of Prague’s monuments, see why Vienna is considered one of the most livable cities in the world, and experience firsthand Croatia’s best-kept secret: the Adriatic Coast and its pristine beaches. This small-group adventure allows teens to have some flexibility and spontaneity along the way within this perfectly planned, perfectly paced European adventure!
This program is the first 18 days of our longer 26-day Croatia, Slovenia, Austria, Czech Republic & Greek Islands program.
Experience new cultures and thrilling activities in a smaller, tight-knit travel group.
Hotels.
Includes breakfast and dinner daily.
Includes all recreation & activities listed.
Deluxe, private motor coach between cities, and occasional public transportation within cities.
ON TOUR departures offer more independence and age-appropriate activities for older teens currently completing 11th or 12th grade.
Separate departure dates are assigned to create compatible co-ed age groups.
Up to 26 participants.
We can accommodate most dietary preferences and allergies.
Fly overnight to Prague. Once you land, your orientation will officially begin with some of our favorite icebreakers and “get to know you” activities.
Castles, bridges, church spires, and quaint cottages are just a few things that make this city magical. Nestled in the heart of Bohemia, Prague is situated on the banks of the flowing Vltava. Here, you will explore historic castles, see Old Town, cross the Charles Bridge and watch the swans swim by your boat on Slovansky Island. Experience a moving visit to Theresienstadt, the former World War II concentration camp.
Český Krumlov
This small town will delight you with its picturesque cottages and winding cobbled lanes. Enjoy exploring the 13th-century castle in the center of town (a UNESCO world heritage site) and lunch on the banks of the Vltava with your friends.
Once a city of emperors and palaces, Vienna now combines a fascinating history with exciting modern culture and energy. Feast on local specialties at the Naschmarkt, tour Schonbrunn Palace a masterpiece of Rococo architecture, and enjoy the view from the top of the giant Ferris Wheel at the Prater, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world. Cycle with your new friends along the lovely Danube.
Emerald green waters and lush mountain scenery lend this lake (and the island castle in the middle of it) an air of majesty and timelessness. This area is a haven for outdoor adventurers. Go underground and explore the vast expanse of tunnels and open spaces at the Škocjan Caves. Feel the thrill of the Alpine Coaster and enjoy an adrenaline-filled canyoning adventure by the glacial Lake Bohinj. After rock climbing, biking, and canoeing, relax lakeside at the Lido Beach Club. From here you will take in the sights of the capital city of Ljubljana and discover the fascinating castle overlooking the city.
Imagine exploring the ruins of Diocletian's Palace, strolling along the seaside promenade and sampling Mediterranean delights at charming cafes. Conquer the thrilling whitewater rapids as you raft on the Cetina River and hang out at the lovely and popular Bacvice Beach, home to the exciting local beach game of picigin.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is sure to impress. Whether you are kayaking by sunset along the fortress walls or exploring the winding streets and fortresses that give Dubrovnik its unique character, you will feel at home in this warm and beautiful city. Enjoy Lopud and Kolocep Islands on a private, chartered cruise.
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!
Prague, Czech Republic
The Ibis Praha Wenceslas Square is located just a short walk from the famous Wenceslas Square. Enjoy the air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi.
Vienna, Austria
Hotel Leonardo is an excellent base for sightseeing. Take advantage of the fantastic views of the city of Vienna from its central location in the Europaplatz area.
Bled, Slovenia
Stay at the Hotel Park located in the very center of Bled by the shore of Lake Bled. This hotels offers breathtaking views of Lake Bled for you to enjoy!
Split, Croatia
While in Split, your stay at Hotel Globo or Hotel Dioklecijan puts you right in the heart of the Dalmatian capital of Split.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Enjoy the amazing sights of Dubrovnik's Old Town and famous beaches from Hotel Lero, where you can also enjoy air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi.
Flight To Prague, Czech Republic
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 Prague. Our leaders greet you at the airport 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 Prague and we will help you coordinate your flight times and greet you upon arrival.
Return Flight Home From Dubrovnik, Croatia
For the 18-day trip return flight from Dubrovnik, our leaders help with check-in and remain in the airport until flights in designated times have departed. They then remain in Europe for the duration of the longer 26-day program and chaperone that flight home. Depending on the number of students departing after 18 days, one staff may chaperone that flight as well.
About ON TOUR
This program features separate, age-compatible departure dates, including an ON TOUR departure for older teens currently completing 11th or 12th grade. The ON TOUR departure offers 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.
Meals
Breakfasts in Europe are eaten at our hotels and served buffet style with a variety of options. For dinners, either the whole group goes to the same restaurant or we divide into smaller groups of your choosing. For lunch, you will enjoy eating in smaller groups and choosing from local cafés, bistros, and other restaurants. Are you ready for the freshest seafood and produce in Croatia, succulent roasted meats and herbs in the Czech Republic, and warm schnitzel and strudel in Austria? The food in Europe is terrific, so get set to eat extremely well!
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.
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, public transportation tickets, 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!
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 if I need to contact my teen during the program?
Participants may bring their cell phones so parents may call and message their kids directly. You may also contact our Communication Centers which serve as the official link between programs on the road and parents. We are staffed every day during the summer and have somebody on call for after hours emergencies ready to assist you 24/7.
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 26 participants on all itineraries other than the 17, 20 or 25-day Greece & Italy, 20-day Greece & Portugal or 10-day Greek Islands, which varies from 24-36 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.