Croatia, Slovenia, Austria, Czech Republic & Greek Islands 26 Days
Join us in Europe on this amazing summer adventure program for teens. Begin by traveling across Central Europe and experiencing the rich culture throughout. 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. But wait, the summer tour of Europe is not over! Continue on to Greece and enjoy snorkeling in the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea, kayaking around Santorini and touring the wondrous ruins in Athens. This small, tight-knit group of high schoolers led by amazing summer program leaders allows travelers to have some flexibility and spontaneity along the way on this perfectly planned, perfectly paced European adventure!
Please note that a limited number of participants depart on day 18 while the 26-day participants continue on to Greece.
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, and ferries within Greece.
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 (which is also 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 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.
Venture to the heart and soul of Greece and its capital city of Athens. Marvel at the astounding architectural feat of the Parthenon and Acropolis. See Aphrodite amongst her friends in the New Acropolis Museum just down the hill from where she used to live. Wander through the streets of the Plaka area filled with shops and markets with something for everyone.
Ferry across the Aegean Sea to the ancient port town of Parikia. Explore the towns of Naoussa and Parikia with their classic whitewashed and blue-accented houses and historical monasteries and churches. Enjoy an authentic Parian cooking class and marvel at the beauty of the Mediterranean ocean during a sunset cruise. This will be a stunning adventure unlike any other!
Once you visit, you always remember the signature view of the white-painted houses of Fira, with sheer cliffs, blue skies & sea. Enjoy sunsets over this amazing city. Explore the town of Fira by taking a cable car ride to the port. Voyage across the sea to hike the volcano Nea Kameni and stop to swim in the hot springs that surround it. Enjoy dinner in the town of Oia and explore the incredible red, white and black sand beaches on our guided sea kayaking excursion and swim in the warm waters of the Aegean Sea.
Enjoy one last evening with your friends in Athens and celebrate your time together at a farewell banquet.
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.
Athens, Greece
You will stay in the city center at either the Central Hotel, Plaka Hotel, Attalos Hotel, or Acropolis Select. Surrounded by small art museums, cafes, and galleries, enjoy the most elegant and residential blocks of Athens.
Paros, Greece
The Narges Hotel offers gorgeous spaces to take advantage of the sun and relaxation that the Greek islands boast.
Santorini, Greece
While in Santorini, we will be staying at either the El Greco Resort, Rosebay Hotel, or Santorini Palace. All properties are comfortable hotels located on the magnificent island of Santorini.
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.
Internal Flights
Separate from the airfare to and from this program, there is an additional $495 USD fee for internal flights between Dubrovnik and Athens.
Return Flight Home From Athens, Greece
For your return from Athens, we offer a chaperoned flight to New York. For travelers from other areas, you may choose to join that flight and arrange transfers at suitable times from New York after the group has cleared customs and immigration in the USA; or you may fly from Athens to your home city and our leaders help with check-in and remain in the airport until flights in designated times have departed.
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, warm schnitzel and strudel in Austria, and delectable feta in Greece? 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.