High School Experiential Learning Programs in Western Europe

Experience the ancient pilgrimage of the Camino de Santiago, hiking through the stunning landscapes of northern Spain. This historical journey, dating back to the 10th century, invites you to walk in the footsteps of millions of pilgrims who have ventured this sacred path before you. Each day, you’ll trek from village to village, soaking in the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty that defines the region. The journey culminates in the breathtaking city of Santiago de Compostela, home to the shrine of St. James the Apostle. Along the way, you'll stay in authentic albergues (pilgrim hostels) or cozy guest houses, connecting with fellow travelers from all over the world. As you hike, you’ll witness firsthand the spirit of community that unites pilgrims on this incredible trail. From the picturesque countryside to the vibrant towns, every step brings you closer to history, beauty, and inner peace. Join this transformative experience in Spain, where the Camino offers a unique opportunity to connect with yourself, embrace nature, and create lifelong memories.

Develop fluency in the French language and culture by living with a host family and studying at a local high school. Paris is magnificent, but France is more than one city. AFS students have lived in communities ranging from the snowcapped Alps to the sparkling Mediterranean. Most host families live in small towns, which will help you become a part of the community. Since France is a historically Catholic country, even the most rural villages have incredible cathedrals rising above quaint cobblestone streets. And, if you long to stroll the Champs-Élysées and snap pics of the Eiffel Tower, you’ll likely have that opportunity. AFS area chapters in France are usually large and active, planning trips to some of the most iconic destinations with other AFS exchange students worldwide. With AFS, you will discover what it means to live in France as a local. With its architecture, painting, cuisine, fashion, philosophy, and much more, it's easy to understand why France attracts so many AFS students.

Spend a semester abroad in Barcelona, taking English classes in a city where Mediterranean sunshine meets daring architecture and vibrant street life. Think Gaudí’s colorful curves at Park Güell, the sound of guitars drifting through plazas, and palm trees swaying beside the sea. From golden beaches to mountain views, Barcelona blends coastal calm with a bold, creative spirit. Join a welcoming host family, form close friendships with your cohort, and immerse yourself in Catalan culture. From tapas nights in El Born to afternoons at Barceloneta Beach, every day brings something new. Take guided excursions to Tarragona’s Roman amphitheater by the sea and the awe-inspiring Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece. Your semester promises fun adventures, lifelong friends, and a future shaped by global experiences.

Adventure through Europe with us and get a real backpacking experience as we navigate from Italy through Switzerland to Paris! Our approach is rooted in the classic backpacker strategy—get a rail pass, explore cities with various daily choices, and leave ourselves open to the spontaneous possibilities that every day brings. Our Older Teens trips are specially designed with older teens in mind. They are all about a hands-on approach to travel where we go beyond the casual tourist experience, take public transportation, and learn how life is in each place we visit. They provide a unique and carefully crafted itinerary that allows for more challenges and independence. We encourage teens on these trips to learn how to use a Eurail pass along with other handy travel skills so that they become confident and able to take on even more of the world in the future! This is one of our most popular Older Teens trips and combines a great mixture of classic European cities, mountain adventure, and Mediterranean beaches. Those looking to discover a nice mix of European cultures will love experiencing the best Italy, Switzerland, and France has to offer.

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

Our Florence program is one of Abbey Road's most popular study abroad programs for nearly twenty years running. Our students benefit from the residential living experience in the heart of Florence and 24/7 support from our program staff of professional artists, chefs, photographers, and art historians. From daily classes in Italian Language, Photography, Studio Art, Tuscan Cuisine, and Art History to activities ranging from museum visits to Top Chef, we challenge our students daily to try new interests, expand their horizons, and make the most of this exceptional summer opportunity. We give our students fresh, high-quality food from local markets. Our culinary staff members shop for our students, they conduct Tuscan cuisine workshops where students learn to make some of the Florentine delicacies. We cook together one or two nights per week, on some nights we go out for group dinners at trendy local restaurants. Some nights we have catered meals. In any case, our students eat authentic, quality food, as opposed to fast food or tourist meals. Abbey Road’s teaching method emphasizes active, hands-on learning, and cultural immersion.

At THINK Global School (TGS), the world's only traveling high school, students live and learn across four countries each year, gaining the skills, perspectives, and friendships needed to thrive in today's interconnected world. In an age of constant digital connection, TGS prioritizes authentic human experiences through real-world immersion and genuine cultural exchange. Students ages 16–18 experience life in up to 8 countries over two years while earning a fully WASC-accredited diploma. Instead of textbooks and lectures, students dive into project-based learning through TGS's innovative Changemaker Curriculum, tackling real-world challenges while drawing inspiration from each host country's culture, environment, and community. With a 4:1 faculty-to-student ratio, students receive individualized guidance from multicultural educators who act as mentors. Since 2010, TGS has called 34 extraordinary countries home, creating a truly global classroom. TGS uses sliding-scale tuition based on family circumstances, ensuring accessibility for qualified students from all backgrounds who have a passion for travel and a desire to improve the world.

Join the ranks of forward-thinking healthcare professionals through International Medical Aid's (IMA) Physician Assistant and Pre-PA Internships. Our program, rooted in the educational standards of Johns Hopkins University, is designed to propel undergraduate students, PA school attendees, certified PAs, and high school students into the heart of global health care. IMA, a non-profit entity, extends beyond traditional borders to bring essential medical aid and education to underserved regions in East Africa, South America, and the Caribbean. The internship, underscored by an ethics-based approach to care, enhances clinical skills and lets you explore the cultural and societal nuances of healthcare, facilitated by our seasoned mentors. IMA's commitment to improving global health while also enriching the educational journey of each intern is evident in our comprehensive support system. From day one, interns receive personalized guidance, from field-specific orientation to admissions consulting for PA school, ensuring a seamless transition into international medical settings.

Learn and improve your Spanish through full language and cultural immersion on Greenheart Travel’s summer language camp program in either the bustling city of Salamanca or in the southeast beaches of Alicante! We welcome teens of all skills, including beginners! Live with a Spanish host family and make friends from around the world, all while learning about the country and culture of Spain. Program at a glance: - Three morning classes for 50 minutes, Monday through Friday, in air-conditioned classrooms - Classes are taught by native-speaking teachers who specialize in teaching Spanish as a foreign language - Students receive a Certificate of Completion at the end of the course - Programs are divided by age (14-16 and 17-18)

Our “High School in Spain” program lets you study at a top-quality Spanish high school in one of Seville’s most vibrant neighborhoods. You’ll live with a carefully selected host family, enjoy cultural activities and excursions, and have the full support of a locally based team. With an office right here in Seville, our staff is always close by and available to help you with anything you need—before, during, and after your stay. We offer summer, semester, and year-long programs, giving you the flexibility to choose the length that fits your plans. This program is perfect for high school students or recent graduates eager to immerse themselves in Spanish culture, improve their language skills, and experience life with a welcoming host family. While in Spain, you will live like any other local student. You’ll make new friends, experience the authentic Spanish way of living, and practice your language skills 24/7—all with the reassurance of having a dedicated local team just around the corner. Embark on this extraordinary journey, make unforgettable memories, and discover a new part of the world—your adventure in Seville awaits!

Join us for the experience of a lifetime! Reach Cambridge offers students aged 14-18 from all over the world the unique opportunity to prepare for their future in the beautiful and inspiring University City of Cambridge. We offer a diverse range of subject courses taught by expert tutors, complemented by engaging workshops and lectures. Each course is specially designed to complement high school studies while offering a glimpse of university-style learning. We also offer a varied daily program of inclusive, fun activities and weekend excursions to other famous cultural highlights within the UK, such as London, Oxford, and Stratford-upon-Avon. Join our truly international community of students and make friends from around the world in a safe and positive environment. Applications are now open for 2025! Please visit our website to check offers and apply. Choose your program: Two weeks Sunday 5th July - Saturday 18th July 2026 Sunday 19th July - Saturday 1st August 2026 Sunday 2nd August - Saturday 15th August 2026 Four weeks Sunday 5th July - Saturday 1st August 2026 Sunday 19th July - Saturday 15th August 2026 Six weeks Sunday 5th July - Saturday 15th August 2026

World Class Programs offers high school students the opportunity to study abroad in Florence, Italy. Our summer program is designed for teens from all academic backgrounds who are excited about immersing themselves in Italian culture and lifestyle. This pre-college program offers various course study options, including Art History, Fine Arts, Philosophy, Photography, Architecture, Italian language, and Tuscan Cuisine. Students can choose a major course for daily focus (Monday to Friday) in the mornings for three hours. Then, they attend elective classes, each lasting two hours, three times a week in the afternoons. On weekends, they go on day trips around Italy to explore cultural differences from city to city. Locations vary yearly; previous participants have visited Cinque Terre, Siena, Pisa, and Venice!

Our St Andrews Summer School in Scotland is open for students aged 13 – 18, from around the globe. This all-inclusive, three-week program provides them the opportunity to spend an exciting summer at a leading university in the UK. They choose one academic and one elective subject from the following options. Academics: Debate Study Skills English Language Advanced English Youth Leadership Creative Writing IB Extended Essay Business & Entrepreneurship Electives: Golf Art Film Tennis Theater ISSOS at St Andrews is based on the picturesque grounds of The University of St Andrews and students stay in residence halls, in a block exclusive to ISSOS. This means a comfortable and safe environment for teens while away from home. Here, they combine learning, creative enrichment, and an exciting adventure. And with a mix of native and non-native English speakers, we guarantee a truly international experience for our students. Our next session dates, run as follows: St Andrews Session 1: 28 June – 19 July 2026 St Andrews Session 2: 22 July – 12 August 2026

Step into the world of modern medicine at Oxford or Cambridge, where groundbreaking discoveries have shaped global healthcare for centuries. The Immers Medicine Summer Program offers ambitious students the chance to explore what it’s really like to study medicine at the university level. Over two weeks, you’ll delve into advanced topics such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, and medical ethics, guided by expert Oxbridge tutors. Beyond lectures and discussions, you’ll engage in hands-on workshops that bring medical theory to life. From practising clinical skills and analysing case studies to exploring how technology is transforming healthcare, you’ll develop both scientific knowledge and practical abilities. Small-group teaching and personalised 1:1 tutorials ensure you receive tailored feedback and support.

Join us this summer on an amazing Greece and Italy adventure travel program for teens. Explore ancient ruins and breathtaking natural landscapes, and savour the freshest, most incredible food in this program that takes you off the beaten path. See breathtaking views from the seaside villages of Cinque Terre and tour the wondrous ruins of Athens. Explore Greek islands with a SCUBA diving lesson in Naxos, plus kayaking and sunset views in Santorini. This program, led by friendly trip leaders, places teens into co-ed, age-compatible groups that are fun, inclusive, and dynamic for all. The detailed itinerary allows the flexibility to (perhaps) find a new favourite beach or sample every gelato stand along the way! Please note that on certain departure dates, some participants depart on day 17, and new participants may join as the group continues on to the islands.

GVI offers a variety of opportunities for young adults between the ages of 15 and 17 to gain first-hand experience in cultural immersion, marine and wildlife conservation and community development. This is a great way to become a global citizen with a better understanding of prevalent social and environmental issues. It’s also a gateway to improving your future education and employment opportunities, as you acquire soft and hard skills in your chosen GVI focus. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to dive in the oceans of Greece, visit the jungles of Costa Rica, or the rolling Incan valleys of Peru, all while contributing to sustainability, this is for you. This is an opportunity to connect with a network of people who share similar passions for sustainability, while also expanding your knowledge of different linguistic practices and cultural customs. Each project is aimed at reaching sustainable objectives that align with the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

Join teenagers from around the world for 1 to 4 weeks in Málaga, Spain, for an unforgettable summer Spanish immersion program. Our young participants take intensive language lessons, participate in activities during the day and night, live in a student residence, and go on day trips. This summer camp in Málaga is an excellent way to quickly improve your Spanish skills and immerse yourself in the local culture. Plus, there is an option to receive university credit for the course! The program has multiple start dates from July to August and durations (1 to 4 weeks), offering much flexibility to students.

LITA is a full-immersion program that offers high school students a dynamic experience far removed from English-speaking tourism. Participants advance their language skills through small, intimate groups of 12-16 students and three group leaders, with extensive homestay experiences in small towns, internships, and other off-the-beaten-path adventures. At the same time, they acquire a genuine understanding of Spanish culture as part of a safe, structured, and personalized immersive experience. The name LITA alludes to the philosophical foundation of our program: a Spanish word ending with the diminutive “ita” that often denotes something small and personal and is something or someone toward which one feels great affection. This informs all elements of our programs.

Are you prepared to be the best in AP® Spanish? If so, our AP® Spanish Summer Program is perfect for you! This is the only AP® Spanish Program available in Spain, offering you a unique course. Where better to study Spanish than in Spain itself? Experience the language and culture firsthand in an unparalleled setting. Designed to prepare high school students to excel in AP® Spanish Language or Literature courses and exams, this program offers a comprehensive Spanish immersion experience in the colorful and sunny city of Seville in southern Spain. Study abroad with us and live with a host family for an authentic Spanish immersion experience. This summer adventure is packed with sports, cultural activities, and tours that will create unforgettable memories. Can you envision your next summer with us? Enroll now and make it happen! Starting Dates Seville | June 14th & June 28th, 2026 (Language or Literature) An extended Spanish Language and Culture 3-week program is available. AP® is a trademark registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse, this product.

Jump-start your college experience by studying abroad! Forum-Nexus offers European programs, perfect for traveling and earning credits before university studies. During the program, you will take courses taught by a team of international professors who travel with you to explore top cities and destinations. Together with students worldwide, participate in various courses and earn 3, 6, or 9 credits. Join professional visits to leading companies in the afternoons and spend your evenings and weekends sightseeing. This is Forum-Nexus! Ultimate Summer in Europe: 8 Cities in 1 Month Program itinerary: Barcelona, Rome, Amsterdam, Milan, Lugano, Paris, Verona, Lake Garda Program dates: June 28 - July 25, 2026 Shorter sessions are also available. Visit our website for more details, including how to apply for free.