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TFT Older Teens: Florence, Cinque Terre, Switzerland & Paris logo

TFT Older Teens: Florence, Cinque Terre, Switzerland & Paris

by: Travel For Teens

4.78 (23)VerifiedSince 2003

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.

Program Highlights

Stroll across the famous Ponte Vecchio and experience Florence lit up at night.

Stay in the heart of the Cinque Terre and hike between five tiny fishing villages.

Relax on a pristine beach in the Italian Riviera and swim in the mediterranean.

Hike, bike, and ride a cable car through the breathtaking Swiss Alps.

Visit the most iconic Parisian sites such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Arc de Triomphe, the Luxembourg Gardens and the Champs Élysées.

Quick Details

Locations:
  • Paris, France
  • Florence, Italy
  • Interlaken, Switzerland
Availability
Year(s) Offered: Year Round
Age Requirement: 14-20
Types & Subjects
Adventure Types:
  • Student Tours
Focus Areas:
  • Experiential Learning
  • Outdoor Education
Guidelines:
  • All Nationalities
See all program details
Last Updated: Aug 18, 2026

Awards

GoAbroad Top Rated Provider 2025 - Adventure TravelNotable Mention - GoAbroad Top Rated High School Abroad Providers 2024Top Rated Provider 2023 - High School AbroadTop Rated Notable Mentions 2022Top Rated Organization 2021 - High School Abroad

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

4.78

Total Reviews

23

An Unforgettable Journey Through Europe with Amazing Memories

July 11, 2026by: Jermicah OB - American Samoa
5

As someone who travels full-time and enjoys blogging about new experiences, this trip was one of the most memorable journeys I've had. Visiting Florence, Cinque Terre, Switzerland, and Paris gave me the opportunity to experience different cultures, beautiful landscapes, and incredible history in a single adventure. Florence impressed me with its stunning architecture and rich artistic heritage, while Cinque Terre offered colorful coastal villages and breathtaking sea views that were perfect for photography and relaxing walks. During the trip, I captured many memorable moments and later shared some of my travel experiences alongside my gaming and technology articles on my website, 33RS Game (33rsgame.net). Traveling inspires much of my writing, and exploring new places always gives me fresh ideas for creating engaging content. Switzerland was everything I hoped for, with its breathtaking mountain scenery, crystal-clear lakes, and efficient transportation making every day enjoyable. Paris was the perfect destination to end the journey, offering iconic landmarks, charming cafés, beautiful architecture, and an unforgettable atmosphere. The itinerary was well organized, giving us enough time to explore each destination without feeling rushed. I also met wonderful people throughout the journey, making the experience even more enjoyable and meaningful. I would happily recommend this tour to anyone who loves travel, discovering new cultures, and creating unforgettable memories. Whether you're visiting Europe for the first time or returning to experience more, this journey offers an excellent combination of history, nature, culture, and adventure that you'll remember for years to come.

An Unforgettable Journey Through Europe with Amazing Memories

July 11, 2026by: Jermicah OB - American Samoa
5

As someone who travels full-time and enjoys blogging about new experiences, this trip was one of the most memorable journeys I've had. Visiting Florence, Cinque Terre, Switzerland, and Paris gave me the opportunity to experience different cultures, beautiful landscapes, and incredible history in a single adventure. Florence impressed me with its stunning architecture and rich artistic heritage, while Cinque Terre offered colorful coastal villages and breathtaking sea views that were perfect for photography and relaxing walks. During the trip, I captured many memorable moments and later shared some of my travel experiences alongside my gaming and technology articles on my website, 33RS Game (33rsgame.net). Traveling inspires much of my writing, and exploring new places always gives me fresh ideas for creating engaging content. Switzerland was everything I hoped for, with its breathtaking mountain scenery, crystal-clear lakes, and efficient transportation making every day enjoyable. Paris was the perfect destination to end the journey, offering iconic landmarks, charming cafés, beautiful architecture, and an unforgettable atmosphere. The itinerary was well organized, giving us enough time to explore each destination without feeling rushed. I also met wonderful people throughout the journey, making the experience even more enjoyable and meaningful. I would happily recommend this tour to anyone who loves travel, discovering new cultures, and creating unforgettable memories. Whether you're visiting Europe for the first time or returning to experience more, this journey offers an excellent combination of history, nature, culture, and adventure that you'll remember for years to come.

Trip of a Lifetime

November 06, 2023by: Molly Melito - United States
5

From paragliding above the Swiss Alps to cruising along the Seine past the Eiffel Tower, this was the most incredible trip I have ever experienced. While the company and friends I made along the way were what ultimately made the trip, the counselors, adventures, and new cultures also left behind a truly impactful effect. This trip allowed me to build my confidence, skill set, and independence by creating an environment that allowed me to make mistakes, learn, and grow. Travel For Teens fosters an amazing family through their communication and leaders that make their trips feel like family by the end. I wouldn't trade my experience for the world.

A line of young women walking a metal hanging bridge

Great programs

November 02, 2023by: Khloe Thompson - United States
5

I just learned about the TFT programs. The programs look amazing I plan on doing a trip in 2024. I really excited to meet new people, travel and learn about different cultures. I want to try as many programs that they offer so I can see the world

Once in a life time experience

December 04, 2019by: Christina Marciano - United States
5

This past summer I got to travel through Europe. We started in Florence where we explored magnificent art museums and got a feel for the Italian city life. Next we hopped on the train to Monterosso. Here we hiked the Amafi Coast and got to make our own pesto. Our next stop was Interlaken, Switzerland where we got an adrenaline with paragliding. We also filled up on fondue and chocolate! Our adventure ended in Paris, France. We got a beautiful view of the city from the top of the Eiffel Tower. For dinner I tried escargot and rabbit! One day we got to tour the city via bike and even got to see the Mona Lisa up close! This trip has been such an amazing experience and I have made life long friends. If I had the chance to do it again I would.

Swiss Alps

Best graduation trip ever!!

November 14, 2019by: Sierra Whitney - United States
5

My experience traveling with TFT was nothing but extraordinary. In the summer of 2017 I set off, by myself for the first time, to travel abroad in Europe. Not only did Travel for Teens place me in a group with amazing people that I grew to be very close with, but I was guided through this trip with knowledgeable group leaders who cared about giving us the best experience possible. Through TFT I was able to visit the countries of Italy, Switzerland, and Paris. Each day was jam packed full of different activities including museums, hiking, eating delicious local cuisine, and creating new relationships with my group. My leaders, Taylor and Holden, knew facts regarding each area we ventured to, which made the trip so much more interesting and thoughtful. My favorite part about this trip, and the TFT company as a whole, was that travel, accommodation, and each experience was local and unique. We never loaded onto a tour bus, did not wait in long lines, stand in big crowds, or follow someone with a giant sign to each destination. Travel for Teens was personal, giving chief importance to an authentic experience abroad. I felt so secure with my team throughout the whole trip, with each activity being very well researched and planned, so there was never any confusion or worry. It was through this safe environment I was able to experience the true beauty of travel, which has inspired me to go out of my comfort zone, not to be timid, but to run towards any new opportunity in my life with an open mind!

Sierra Whitney video

Florence, France and fondue - a trip to savor

November 12, 2019by: Gwendolyn Hoffman - United States
4

My experience going on an adventure with Travel For Teens was incredible and unforgettable. Last summer, I went on the two week trip to Florence, Cinque Terre, Switzerland and Paris with Older Teens. My trip had a rough start, since I did not go on the group flight, and my flight missed a connection in Portugal. I was scared that I would be missing out on activities and that it would be difficult to make friends if I joined the trip after it started. It was such a relief when I finally arrived in Florence and was greeted by my counselor Mike at the airport. He made me feel comfortable right away. It turned out that multiple people on my trip had problems with flights and TFT was able to keep track of everyone and collect them one by one from the airport. Once I got over the sleep deprivation from the long overnight flight, all of my worries went away and I had the best time travelling around Europe with people from all over the country, none of whom I had met before yet all of whom I became friends with. From Italy to Switzerland to France, we saw all of the famous sites and tried all of the amazing food. Just a few of the memorable experiences included learning how to make delicious homemade pesto in Cinque Terre, sampling fondue in Interlaken, paragliding through the Alps, and climbing up the Eiffel Tower in Paris. I must have taken over two thousand pictures over the span of the trip, and I look at them all the time to keep the memories of the trip intact and to put a smile on my face. I had the best summer of my life, and I couldn’t have done it without TFT.

Best two weeks of my life

November 11, 2019by: Sarah Pinkowski - United States
4

For all four years of high school, it was my dream to go on a Travel for Teens Trip. After begging my parents and working for a majority of my senior year, my parents allowed me to go on a trip right before I went off to college. I was so nervous leading up to it, as I had never been on a flight alone and I didn't know anyone else going on the trip, but as soon as I landed in JFK and met the people on my trip, my anxiety disappeared. I met some of my best friends on this trip that I still talk to on a daily basis months later even though we are across the country from each other. The itinerary that was planned enabled me to push myself out of my comfort zone and face my fears through things such as canyoning in the rivers Switzerland, paragliding over the Swiss Alps, and hiking through the trails through the cities of Cinque Terre. I am so thankful that I was able to go on a Travel for Teens trip as it not only prepared me to live on my own in college, but it made me so much more confident and sure of myself. I recommend going on a Travel for Teens trip to people of any age but especially older teens about to go off to college because it will change your life and make your transition to college much smoother and easier.

Top of the Eiffel Tower

Most wonderful experience of my life!

October 28, 2019by: Allison Oligschlaeger - United States
5

I have been so fortunate to experience two unbelievable TFT trips, including TFT Older Teens: Florence, Cinque Terre, Switzerland and Paris. I have visited destinations in Europe that were so beautiful that words cannot describe it. Through these trips I have gained many stories that I look forward to sharing, I have gained confidence in myself to be independent, and I have tasted food that can only be dreamt about. I was able to go paragliding through the Swiss Alps, go canyoning in Slovenia, island hopping in Croatia, visit the Louvre, and climb the Eiffel Tower. The opportunities that were provided through TFT were amazing and I would recommend any of their trips because you will have a once in a lifetime experience.

Amazing and unforgettable experience!

February 08, 2019by: Lindsay Solomon - United States
5

This trip was one of the best weeks of my life. The cities we visited were beautiful and the itinerary had a perfect balance of learning and adventure. There is a mix of activities from visiting museums, trying new foods, going paragliding, hiking, sight seeing, and the list goes on. There is a great amount of time to break off from the group (obviously within a certain area and are still close by to staff) and explore the city, eat, shop, and more. I created lifelong friends on this trip who I still stay in touch with. The staff is amazing; they are well trained, they know what they are doing, and are seen not only as staff but another friend made on the trip. They always make sure we are safe but still having fun. This trip is something I will never forget and is an amazing choice!

Craft your dream adventure!

November 30, 2018by: Hana hayes - United States
5

My trip with Travel For Teens was filled with adventure, opportunities for growth, excitement, and laughter. The staff at TFT is dedicated to making each traveler’s experience the best that it can be. Last summer, I visited Paris, Italy, and Switzerland with travel for teens. The trip I traveled with was small, only about 14 students, which is an average size group for TFT. Each traveler experienced each city in the way that was most beneficial for them. You were allowed to go off on her own with your friends and eat at local restaurants and shop at thrift stores, as well as having the opportunity to explore the Louvre, go paragliding in the Swiss Alps, and so much more. I will always be a fan of TFT, and plan on staying involved in the company for as long as I am able to. Going from a traveler to a CIT has allowed me to see the trip from the perspective of a student as well as the perspective of an employee and has taught me how much effort goes into making sure each traveler has incredible experience.

I fell in love with travel

November 27, 2018by: Alayna Donovan - United States
5

In the summer of 2018 I went on Travel for Teens’ “Europe for Older Teens: Florence, Cinque-Terre, Switzerland, and Paris” AND “Europe for Older Teens: Amsterdam, Munich, Swiss Alps, and Venice.” I can very honestly say that it was the best summer experience of my entire life thanks. I set out with the simple intention of being more well traveled and hopefully making a couple new friends, and that I certainly did. I couldn’t believe it! I actually made connections with people that I truly feel are going to last a lifetime. I’ve met up with friends I met over the summer since then and I carry the memories of those trips with me everyday. I would recommend those two trips especially because I felt as though I saw a good spread of Europe. Those are also some of the most historically fascinating destinations in the world, not to mention the food (nothing quite like Gelato in Florence). Switzerland is probably my new favorite place in the world and I absolutely can not wait to return to the karaoke nights and basking in the beautiful mountain range view from the balcony. If you have the opportunity to travel with TFT...take it! I will never forget my experience:) Alayna Donovan 16 Kansas

The best experience of my life!

November 14, 2018by: Melania Hillery - United States
5

Travel for Teens provided me with the opportunity to not only explore new cultures and sights, but also allowed me to experience life as a local not a tourist. My trip to Italy, Switzerland, and France completely changed my life by instilling an appreciation for other languages, foods, and traditions. One of my favorite parts was traveling with a group of students my age and the extremely knowledgeable and passionate counselors who I still communicate with to this day.

Best trip through Europe ever!

October 15, 2018by: Muskan Uppal - United States
4

The Travel for Teens trip to Florence, Cinque Terre, Switzerland and Paris was the best experience of my life! The itinerary for each location was full of amazing activities and excursions that helped me experience the culture of each city like a local. The counselors made sure we always felt safe, but gave us freedom to explore on our own. There is nothing I would change about my two weeks in Europe as they were the best of my life! Thank you Travel for Teens for some unforgettable memories.

Best two weeks of my life

December 17, 2017by: Sofia Casale - United States
5

I had the best experience on this trip. Everyday there was a new adventure, from sun up to sun down. I met lifelong friends and have memories that I will treasure forever. When you travel with TFT you get the full experience to be a traveler, not a tourist. Staying in hostiles, traveling by train, and trying authentic cuisine was truly spectacular. I got to experience the most amazing landscapes and incredible activities. I got to check some things off the bucket list: paragliding in the Swiss Alps, go to the top of the Eiffel Tower, see the Statue of David, etc.

The time of my life

November 21, 2017by: Kate - United States
5

On my trip with TFT i was able to learn so much about the cultures around me as well as those within my own country since i met 23 others from all around the United States. It was a trip of the lifetime and i was able to do things and have experiences i wouldn’t have otherwise. I would go back on another TFT trip any day if i could!

The best!!! 11/10 recommend

November 19, 2017by: Madeline - United States
4

I went into this trip knowing nobody and not having been to 2/3 countries that I visited. I left with a ton of new friends and experiences that I will never forget. This trip was my favorite that I have ever been on. The counselors were organized and awesome and the other kids were great!! The food we ate was unforgettable and the excursions we went on were unbelievable. My personal favorite was definitely paragliding in Switzerland. I had an injury the entire time and everyone was super accommodating and helpful. I never felt in danger or worried at all the entire time either.

Night view of the cityDelicious food!

Europe for teens

November 17, 2017by: Maddie - United States
5

This was my very first trip to Europe! I loved every minute of it. There was a wide variety of activities to choose from that were interesting to people that had different interests. Our counselors were awesome with really letting us get involved and helped us really get to know the cultures and places that we visited.

Memories to last a lifetime

November 16, 2017by: Ashley Allen - United States
5

The summer after my senior year, I had one question: how do I make this last summer before college unforgettable? I am so glad I chose Travel for Teens to help me accomplish this goal. Our counselors were unforgettable and awe-inspiring, having not only the credentials to guide such a trip (being fluent in multiple languages and an overqualified travel background) but having the necessary interpersonal skills to make a fun, safe trip that allowed freedom. Reflecting back, this freedom, whether present in the multiple options for daily activities such as hiking, shopping, sight-seeing, etc. immensely prepared me for the college lifestyle and future travel adventures I will be completing now on my own. Each location provided new experiences and adventures, being carefully selected to provide a different facet to create a well-rounded trip. Florence allowed me to expand on my art history background through experiencing the creative environment that inspired so many of my favorite artists and writers. Cinque Terre was the picturesque, coastal town that not only provided a beach haven but allowed for more personal interactions with the locals (a part of the TFT experience that I have found nowhere else). Switzerland provided an adrenaline rush while France was the perfect blend of culture, language, and adventure. I believe Travel For Teens’ format in quickly adjusting to different environments has made me more adaptable, a trait that most of my employers have commented upon and praised. This trip allowed me to mature and grow as a person, whether it be preparing me for college or my future job opportunities. Yet, ultimately, Travel For Teens provided the adventure filled summer I craved, blending fun and learning experiences with the wonderful opportunity to meet lifelong friends and mentors that will continue to influence me for years to come.

Go TFT!

November 15, 2017by: Sofia Casale - United States
5

This past summer, after graduating high school, I went of my first ever TFT trip, and the rest is history! I immediately fell in love with the company and have no intention of ever leaving the TFT family. The two weeks I was abroad with TFT were the best few weeks of my life hands down. I met life long friends, done things I never thought I would. It was beyond a humbling experience. The cultural immersion, the independence, custom itineraries, and everything else truly gives the atmosphere of travelers not tourist groups. I can't speak highly enough about them. If you're thinking about going abroad, go TFT! You absolutely will not regret it!

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Paris, France
  • Florence, Italy
  • Interlaken, Switzerland

Types and Subjects

  • Adventure Types
  • Student Tours
  • Focus Areas
  • Experiential Learning
  • Outdoor Education

Availability

Years Offered: Year Round

Duration:
  • 1-2 Weeks

Age Requirement

14-20

Guidelines

All Nationalities

This Program is also open to Group

Program Cost Includes

  • Tuition & Fees
  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • Some Program Activity Costs
  • Some Meals / Partial Meal Plan
  • In-Country Transportation To & From Project
  • On-Site / In-Country Staff Support

Accommodation Options

  • Guest House

Qualifications & Experience

    Language Skills Required

  • English

    Accepted Education Levels

  • High School Freshman (1st Year)
  • High School Sophomore (2nd Year)
  • High School Junior (3rd Year)
  • High School Senior (4th Year)
  • High School 5th Year or More

Application Procedures

  • Online Application
  • Physical Exam/Health Records

Interviews

Read interviews from alumni or staff

Sofia Casale

Sofia Casale

Participated in 2017

Alumni

I've always had a passion for traveling and dreamed about going overseas. Last winter I was planning out my summer and stumbled upon TFT and immediately knew that I wanted to spend my summer traveling with them.

Show Full Interview
Ashley Allen

Ashley Allen

Participated in 2017

Alumni

Ultimately my love for adventure, cultural exploration, and stories. I wanted to experience life abroad before I went to university that would allow me to experience different cultures, to challenge what I held as my core beliefs, and what I wanted my life to look like as an emerging adult.

Show Full Interview
Travel For Teens

Travel For Teens

4.78Verified

Ready to Learn More?

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 ...

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