1-2 Weeks Volunteer Programs in Western Europe

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 155,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back; it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

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.

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click! Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered. Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.

Join conservation efforts along the west coast of Greece, where GVI partners with a local organisation to protect loggerhead turtles and their breeding sites. You will monitor nests and turtles, build protective structures, and collect data. With your assistance, the growing awareness of these turtles will lead to better protection for them, ensuring more hatchlings join the population each year. Combine your conservation efforts with learning about the arts and culture of the country. Traverse archaeological sites, medieval ruins, fortresses, and learn about ancient olympic history. Or, develop your palate with local dishes before exploring nearby mountain terrain and heading back to your beachside campsite for the night’s nesting activities. With short- and mid-term contributions, you are supporting the long-term goal of the project, and assisting in measuring our contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including: Goal 14: Life Below Water, Goal 15: Life On Land, Goal 17: Partnerships For Goals, and Goal 11: Sustainable Cities And Communities.

Volunteers taking part in short-term volunteer projects in Germany will be responsible for teaching one-to-one conversational English courses to students at the Center, as well as instructing small groups (anywhere from 2 – 5 students). Students come from a plethora of backgrounds, with ages ranging anywhere from 12 – 70 years old. However, most students will be migrants or the children of migrants, hailing from various Arab countries. Volunteers will not only serve as teachers, but also as cultural diplomats who represent their home country to the community in Halle (Saale). They play an important role in helping with communal activities meant to increase cross-cultural exchanges. In addition to teaching, volunteers will enroll in German language courses (3 hours a week). The advent of additional language courses is meant to further immerse them in local Arabic/German culture, allowing them to better communicate with their students, as well as locals in Halle. The Volunteer to Teach English and Learn German language program spans anywhere from 1 – 12 weeks, with volunteers staying with local host families during their time in Halle (Saale).

Protect endangered sea turtles while basking in the sun on the beautiful Greek island of Kefalonia. Get an in-depth look at conservation efforts, both on land and water. Snorkel in crystal clear waters and explore white sand beaches as you learn how to save turtles amid growing manmade and natural threats. Our Greek Island Turtle Conservation takes students to a part of Kefalonia Island, where endangered loggerhead turtles migrate every spring for food, mating, and nesting. You’ll work with survey teams that regularly walk along the beaches to protect nests while monitoring vulnerable seagrass meadows and dunes that are important for the turtles. It’s a unique opportunity for students interested in environmental science and nature. Combine the popular Northern Italy Adventure and Greece Island Turtle Conservation programs for one epic experience! Start your journey exploring the highlights of Northern Italy: the sights, the foods, the history, and more. Then jump to the Greek Island of Kefalonia and dive into the life of a marine conservationist as you help protect endangered sea turtles.

Are you interested in learning about whales and dolphins and observing them in their natural habitat while contributing to our conservation efforts? Join our unique conservation program in Lanzarote, where you can actively contribute to our mission of making whale-watching trips completely noise and emission-free. Over 1 to 6 weeks, you’ll gain an in-depth understanding of whale and dolphin species, raise awareness about the challenges they face, and gain hands-on experience working alongside the dedicated WeWhale team. Be part of a movement that creates a better future for marine life — while making memories to last a lifetime!

Doing your medical and healthcare internship abroad with Projects Abroad can provide a number of benefits, including: * Gaining hands-on experience in a global healthcare setting * Developing essential medical skills * Witnessing healthcare challenges and solutions first-hand * Contributing to community health outreach programs Internships are also designed to be tailored to your interests so you can focus on a particular area of medicine or healthcare. Additionally, you may be able to shadow experienced doctors and nurses. These experiences can help you decide if a medical career is right for you and strengthen your resume or medical school application. Visit our website now or get in touch to learn more.

Take part in the development of a green tourism project in the South of France while experiencing the French lifestyle. You live in hamlets, farmhouses and sites in the heart of breathtaking landscapes. You share the daily life of a host family and in exchange for accommodation and meals, you give a hand for a minimum of 20 hours per week (maximum 30). Through your daily work and interactions with your host-family and the local community, you’ll have the opportunity to practise your French and meet new people. You’ll also learn a lot about yourself, as you take on the challenge of living and working in a completely new environment. Participative Tourism is based on the concepts of respect and authenticity; It enables the exchange and sharing between the guests and the local population. The local projects aim to provide a tourism that respects the environment. Tourists stay in the wilderness and enjoy the rich nature of this region through ecological activities such as hiking, trekking with donkeys, horse-riding.

This program combines cultural immersion, historical exploration, and meaningful volunteer work in the vibrant city of Athens. Participants will have the opportunity to contribute to the lives of vulnerable individuals while experiencing Greece's rich heritage and beauty. Itinerary Week 1: Orientation and Cultural Immersion Days 1-3: Arrival in Athens, orientation, and cultural immersion activities. Explore the Acropolis, visit the National Archaeological Museum, and participate in a Greek cooking class. Days 4-7: Volunteer at a local orphanage or homeless shelter. Engage in activities such as tutoring, playing games, organizing events, and providing companionship to the children and adults. Week 2: Mega Greece Tour and Volunteer Continuation Days 8-10: Embark on the Mega Greece Tour, visiting iconic sites like Argos and Mycenae. Learn about ancient Greek history, mythology, and culture. Days 11-14: Continue volunteering at the orphanage or homeless shelter, deepening your connection with the community and making a lasting impact.

Eager to give back to the community? Embark on a transformative journey that will change your life and the lives of those you help. By choosing our Volunteer Abroad Program in Spain, you won't only contribute to meaningful projects but also satisfy your curiosity about different ways of life. We have established partnerships with local organizations in Seville, providing you with hands-on experiences, invaluable life skills, and personal fulfillment while benefiting local communities. Combine volunteering with Spanish classes to enhance your communication skills and join cultural activities and excursions to deepen your understanding of Spain’s rich history and traditions. Embrace the spirit of giving back, learn a new language, and experience the beauty of Spanish culture. Immerse yourself in Spanish life by living with a host family. Gain firsthand insight into customs, cuisine, and routines. This unique arrangement allows you to practice your Spanish skills continuously and understand the culture from an insider’s perspective. Apply now and start your meaningful summer adventure today! Starting dates: June 14th & June 28th, 2026 Price: $3,100

The Doctors in Italy Pre-Vet Fellowship Program is a unique experience to appreciate the breadth of opportunities that a degree in Veterinary Medicine can offer while immersed in Italian culture and stunning natural landscapes. By shadowing veterinary professionals specializing in different disciplines, you will learn about animal welfare and behavior, basic clinical examination skills, animal nutrition, zoonotic diseases, the importance of human-animal interactions, and many other topics. You’ll spend time with cats, dogs, cows, sheep, horses, boars, rabbits, a spunky llama, and several other animals. From daily care and feeding to special needs, hand rearing, and veterinary checks ─ be in the midst of the action. You will assist veterinarians in clinical settings and during fieldwork in animal sanctuaries and wildlife rescue centers. You will be exposed to various species such as equids, large and small ruminants, wild and domestic pigs, rabbits, llamas, wildlife, birds, dogs, cats, and exotic animals—learning how to approach and care for them.

Do you love animals, and do you want to get involved in a good cause? In Ireland, you can volunteer to help neglected dogs, cats, horses, ponies, and donkeys at animal shelters. Ireland is a pet-loving nation, with more than two-thirds of Irish households either keeping a dog or a cat. Unfortunately, the country is facing a major street dog problem. Even though the Irish government is committed to responsible pet care and the number of stray dogs has been reduced by 50% since 2004, thousands of homeless dogs still end up in animal shelters every year. Therefore, we work with several dog shelters that take care of abandoned, abused, or neglected dogs, nursing and trying to find a new home for them. We also partner with some shelters that take in other animals like cats. Did you know that Green Island is world-famous for horse-keeping? Horse riding is a popular hobby in Ireland. There are also animal shelters that specialize in horses, donkeys, and ponies. This is where animals, confiscated by the authorities as a result of neglect or abuse, are kept. You can let us know what type of shelter you would like to work in!

Spain attracts travelers with its old-world charm and vibrant people. Explore the country in a way most tourists never will! Beyond experiencing ancient sites and modern cities, you become exposed to a beautiful and untainted Spain. Dive into an unforgettable and authentic experience through community collaboration in our partner local communities on this student travel program to Spain! Focus on environmental conservation as you connect with locals. Our Spanish adventure takes you through all the must-see places and beyond the tourist track. These are adventures you do not want to miss! Program Options: Spain: Sustainable Communities & Mediterranean Culture - 17-day high school program through Madrid, Malaga, Granada, and Barcelona

Are you looking for hands-on work experience to help launch your professional career? One of the best ways to impress prospective employers is to complete an international internship! Students appreciate the unique opportunity the Spanish Institute provides through our internship program. With the option to intern at a wide selection of companies or non-profit organizations, you will have the chance to gain invaluable work experience in the field of your choice. You’ll also get to practice Spanish, make new contacts and friends, and get to know beautiful Seville, famed for its deeply historic and cultural roots. Spanish Institute's orientation gives students vital information about adapting to life in Spain, the program, schedule, safety, activities, transportation, and internship placement. Spanish Institute's program includes an intensive two-week Spanish Course for all placements, which run for two months or longer. Each day comprises four-hour morning classes and afternoon activities. During this time, students get to know the city, its transportation system, and its cuisine – all while improving their Spanish skills.

This exciting adventure will take our students to some of the best destinations on the Greek islands and mainland Greece, introducing them to one of the oldest, richest, and most awe-inspiring cultures of the world. Our students will marvel at the natural beauty of Crete and the Cycladic islands, washed by the turquoise waters of the Aegean sea, the colorful seaside villages, and some of Europe’s most spectacular beaches. They will learn about Greek history, mythology, and culture in a fun and engaging way, based on our Experiential Learning Method. The students will also participate in community service projects with our Greek partners, protecting animal habitat and fighting deforestation, sea pollution, and climate change. Key Details: Dates: July 10 - July 24 Locations visited: Crete, Santorini, Naxos, and Athens Housing: Hotels and student apartments

Join us for the adventure of a lifetime! Volunteers For Peace (a Vermont-based nonprofit) can place you on a team of international volunteers who contribute to a meaningful community service project designed, planned, and hosted by local partners. We offer the most affordable projects and the best way to meet people from all over the world. Work project types vary by country but may include environmental and wildlife conservation, historic preservation, educational and language learning, archaeology, organic farming, and arts and festivals. We also have social services projects, which could involve working with children, the elderly, or refugees. Projects are designed to combine service with recreational activities and cultural exchange – whether by visiting local beaches, learning local dances, meeting local officials, or volunteering with residents at the place you’re visiting. Each project is unique, but all bring people together for the most meaningful travel experience imaginable. Please note that VFP can only place US Citizens. This is due to our agreements with our international partners.

Learn, serve, and lead with Bright Light Volunteers in a country of your choice. Our Global Service Learning (GSL) program is designed for passionate middle and high school students, exposing them to various aspects, including cultural and social, of their host community. Participants not only broaden their knowledge but also develop a deeper understanding of local, national, and global issues. They gain insight into the interdependency and interconnectedness of people and communities, becoming equipped to act responsibly and effectively toward a more just and peaceful world. Additionally, they develop a range of skills outside a conventional classroom environment. If you’re interested in joining our movement and becoming a global citizen, get in touch with us today for more information.

The NGO enriquezArte offers training on Community Building, centered around the creation and management of communities. We welcome students and volunteers from all over the world who aim to experience community life in Barcelona. The goal is integral personal development based on creative methodology with greater participation and involvement. The challenge for students is their own commitment to work on personal development, with individual and community goals. From our years of experience in developing projects, we create a dynamic of inclusivity and social participation.

Each year, more than 130,000 seals, whales and dolphins are killed by the trash found in our oceans. This project aims to tackle ocean pollution off the coast of Portugal through diving. Volunteers complete daily dives in various dive sites near Lisbon, with the aim of removing debris from the reef and ocean bed. Volunteers to date have helped to remove almost 3000kg of fishing nets, as well as tyres, fridges, laptops, cell phones and of course, plastic. This project has been running since 2016, and since then a noticeable increase in biodiversity has been seen in the ocean around the dive sites. Volunteers can take part for one week to four weeks. You are provided with full training once in Portugal. We recommend a minimum stay of two weeks for people without prior dive experience. Volunteers live in an eco-guest house in Lisbon with other volunteers. Three meals per day are provided.