Group Travel

Travel with confidence knowing that BBYO organizes supervised group flights to and from Israel. Our staff are present at departure airports to greet teens and help them feel welcome right away, and they accompany each group throughout the journey—both on arrival and on the return trip home. To learn more about how we organize travel for our programs, click here.

Zürich, Switzerland (3 Days)

Experience the beauty of Switzerland's largest city, where historic streets, charming neighborhoods, and the shores of Lake Zürich create a perfect setting for your Alpine Adventure. Wander through the picturesque Old Town, stroll along the Limmat River, and take in the city's architecture and lively atmosphere. Spend time along Bahnhofstrasse, one of Europe's most famous shopping streets, and enjoy the peaceful scenery surrounding Lake Zürich.

Learn about centuries of Jewish history in Switzerland and the communities that have helped shape the country's cultural identity. Discover the stories of Swiss Jewry through historic synagogues and opportunities to learn about Jewish traditions and experiences across generations. Celebrate your first Shabbat together, with opportunities to participate in services, connect with the local Jewish community, and enjoy time getting to know fellow travelers in a beautiful new setting.

St. Gallen, Switzerland (1 Day)

Feel the power of Europe's largest waterfall at Rhine Falls, where rushing water and dramatic scenery create one of Switzerland's most memorable natural wonders. Take in the incredible views from the surrounding pathways, with the possibility of a boat ride that brings you closer to the falls for an entirely different perspective.

In St. Gallen, step into a town known for its historic architecture and beautifully preserved streets. Visit the UNESCO-listed Abbey District and its remarkable Abbey Library, home to centuries-old manuscripts and stunning Baroque interiors. Wander through the Old Town, admire its colorful buildings and decorated windows, and learn about the Jewish community's contributions to life and commerce in eastern Switzerland.

Innsbruck, Austria (2 Days)

Surrounded by the towering peaks of the Austrian Alps, Innsbruck combines the charm of a historic European city with incredible opportunities for outdoor adventure. Walk through its medieval Old Town, admire the famous Golden Roof, and enjoy the lively streets and riverside promenades. Learn about Jewish life in Austria's Tyrol region and the history of its Jewish community, including the challenges it faced during World War II.

The mountains surrounding Innsbruck offer some of the trip's most exciting experiences. Ride the Nordkette Cable Car high above the city for sweeping views of the Inn Valley and surrounding Alpine peaks. Take on the twists and turns of an alpine coaster, where mountain scenery meets a thrilling downhill ride. Whether you're admiring the view from above or sharing the excitement with your group, Innsbruck offers plenty of opportunities to experience the Alps in a whole new way.

Dolomites, Italy (2 Days)

Few places capture the beauty of the Italian Alps quite like the Dolomites, where dramatic limestone peaks rise above green valleys, mountain villages, and wide-open alpine meadows. Spend time in a charming mountain town such as Ortisei, exploring its pedestrian streets, artisan shops, and traditional Alpine atmosphere. Surrounded by the incredible scenery of this UNESCO World Heritage region, you'll discover a different side of Italy far from its bustling cities.

Take a cable car high into the mountains for breathtaking views of the Dolomites, including the spectacular peaks near Seceda. Enjoy a scenic hike through alpine meadows and experience the peaceful beauty of Alpe di Siusi, one of Europe's largest high-altitude meadows. Additional outdoor opportunities may include adventure park activities or mountain scooters, giving you plenty of ways to enjoy the fresh mountain air.

The region also holds stories of courage and survival. Learn how Alpine mountain passes served as escape routes during World War II, helping refugees, including Jewish families fleeing persecution, seek safety across international borders. These stories offer an opportunity to reflect on the region's history while experiencing its extraordinary natural beauty.

Lake Como, Italy (3 Days)

Picture sparkling blue water surrounded by dramatic mountains, colorful villages, and beautiful lakeside villas. Lake Como offers the chance to experience one of Italy's most picturesque destinations while enjoying time with your group. Stroll along the waterfront, explore charming lakeside streets, and take in the relaxed atmosphere of northern Italy.

Experience the beauty of the lake from the water on a scenic private boat cruise, passing elegant villas and mountain landscapes along the shoreline. Spend time in Bellagio, often called the Pearl of Lake Como, with its narrow streets, beautiful waterfront, and local shops. Visit Varenna, another picturesque village known for its colorful buildings and peaceful lakeside setting.

Celebrate Shabbat surrounded by the natural beauty of Lake Como, with opportunities for BBYO programming, group reflection, and time to relax together. Whether you're enjoying the scenery from the water or spending an afternoon exploring a lakeside village, this portion of the journey offers a wonderful opportunity to slow down, strengthen friendships, and appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.

Milan, Italy (2 Days)

Experience the energy of Milan, where historic landmarks, art, fashion, and modern Italian culture come together. Stand before the magnificent Duomo di Milano, one of Europe's largest Gothic cathedrals, and make your way to its rooftop terraces for incredible views across the city. Browse the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, explore local shops and cafés, and spend time in the Navigli District, known for its canals and lively atmosphere.

At the Memoriale della Shoah, also known as Platform 21, learn about the deportation of Italian Jews during the Holocaust and honor those who suffered under Nazi persecution. Through personal stories and historical exhibits, reflect on this important chapter of Italian Jewish history and the enduring strength of Jewish communities.

From the mountain peaks of the Alps to the sparkling shores of Lake Como, Alpine Adventure offers memories, friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the cultures and Jewish history of this remarkable region.

How will my teen travel to the program?
BBYO strongly recommends all North American participants to fly on the group supervised flight for this program. Flight costs are not included in the program’s land cost. The flight cost for programs with supervised flight options will be announced, along with the flight booking details for all programs, after registration. The supervised flight for this program will depart from the New York City area, typically Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) or John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Learn more about flying to the program .

Where will my teen be sleeping?
The group stays in a variety of 3-star hotels. When booking our accommodations, we request for each teen to have their own sleeping accommodations in a shared living space. On a rare occasion, your teen may share a large bed with another teen of the same gender. We try to avoid this as best as possible, but sometimes have limitations due to hotel space.

How is the program staffed?
Each group is accompanied by a team of madrichim (counselors), a local European tour leader, and a bus driver. Senior field staff also circulate between our groups for extra support. Staff names are sent out approximately 2–3 weeks prior to your departure as part of the pre-trip preparation emails. Staff are asked to make welcome calls to teens before departure. Feel free to ask them any remaining questions you may have. Learn more about our staff team.

What's the summer weather like?
Summer in the Alps offers a mix of warm, sunny days and cooler mountain temperatures. Cities such as Zürich, Innsbruck, and Milan can be warm during the day, while higher elevations in the Alps and Dolomites may be significantly cooler, particularly in the mornings and evenings.

Rain showers are possible throughout the region, and weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains. We recommend packing comfortable layers, a lightweight waterproof jacket, and sturdy walking shoes suitable for city exploration and outdoor activities.

How do you approach security?
The safety of the teens under our care is our guiding consideration. Learn more about our organization’s approach to safety and security.

What's the typical group size?
Group sizes vary by departure and program enrollment. Our Europe programs typically include approximately 34–42 teens per bus, with participants joining from communities across North America.

Some teens may also be participating in connecting programs that combine two separate BBYO Passport experiences. For more information about group assignments and friend requests, please visit our General Travel FAQs.

What's the food like?
Throughout Switzerland, Austria, and Italy, teens will have opportunities to experience a variety of local foods and culinary traditions. From Swiss specialties and Austrian schnitzel to Italian pasta and regional dishes, meals are another way to experience the cultures of each destination.

As a travel-based program, our meals take a variety of forms and may include hotel buffets, restaurants, catered meals, and allowance funds for participants to purchase a meal on their own. When a meal is served in a public buffet format (e.g. hotel breakfast), we will always ensure that there are vegetarian, pescatarian, or dairy options available and we will not restrict teens from eating the food of their choice.

Some meals may be provided via a cash allowance where teens will be given money to purchase the food of their choice, called a pizur meal. Such meals are typically arranged in an area where there are multiple restaurant options and teens can choose the food of their liking. When time is limited for meal choice, staff may choose to facilitate meal orders on behalf of teens using their allowance funds.

Participants with special dietary needs (i.e. lactose intolerance, gluten-free, kosher, etc.) should review our dietary restrictions commitment document and contact us in advance to be sure we can accommodate your needs during the program.

Will I need a visa?
Visa and travel authorization requirements depend on a participant's nationality and passport. U.S. citizens generally do not require a visa for short tourist visits to Switzerland, Austria, or Italy, but additional entry requirements may apply.

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) may also be required for eligible travelers once implemented. Families should review the latest requirements on the official European Union ETIAS website and confirm that their teen's passport meets all applicable entry requirements before departure.

What are the payment and cancellation terms?
All of these details are available here: Enrollment and Registration Terms.

How do I enroll my teen if we live outside of North America?
Visit this page to find all the information you will need and express your interest.

For more information, check out our general FAQs or the pre-trip guide.