Group Travel

Travel with confidence knowing that BBYO organizes supervised group flights to and from Europe. 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.

United Kingdom Discovery

Scottish Highlands, Scotland (3 Days)

Towering mountains, beautiful lochs, and historic castles make the Scottish Highlands one of the most spectacular regions of the United Kingdom. Take in the region's rugged landscapes while visiting Scone Palace, known for its connections to Scottish royalty, and challenge yourself to navigate its beautiful hedge maze. Surrounded by rolling hills, ancient landmarks, and breathtaking scenery, you'll experience a side of Scotland far beyond its famous cities.

The legendary waters of Loch Ness offer another opportunity to experience Scotland's natural beauty. Cruise across the mysterious loch while keeping an eye out for the famous Loch Ness Monster, and explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle overlooking the water. Learn about the region's fascinating history while taking in incredible views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.

Put your skills to the test during a private Highland Games experience, inspired by traditional Scottish competitions and celebrations. Enjoy some friendly competition with your group while learning about customs that have been part of Scottish culture for generations. There's also plenty of outdoor adventure to enjoy, including kayaking and hiking in the spectacular landscapes surrounding Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the United Kingdom.

Edinburgh, Scotland (2 Days)

Edinburgh's medieval streets, beautiful architecture, and imposing castle tell the story of Scotland's fascinating past. Visit Edinburgh Castle, perched high above the city, and learn about the people and events that helped shape the country's royal and military history. Walk along the famous Royal Mile, where centuries-old buildings, charming shops, and historic landmarks create one of Scotland's most recognizable streets.

Discover more about Scotland's history through a visit to the National Wallace Monument, dedicated to William Wallace and the country's struggle for independence. From its elevated position, take in sweeping views of the surrounding countryside while learning about an important chapter in Scottish history.

One of the most distinctive experiences in Edinburgh brings together Scottish culture and Jewish identity. Meet a local Jewish kiltmaker and discover how two cultural traditions can intersect in unexpected ways. Celebrate Shabbat in Scotland's historic capital, sharing familiar traditions and meaningful moments with fellow Jewish teens while experiencing Jewish life in another part of the world.

Liverpool, England (1 Day)

Liverpool is famous for its music, waterfront, and lively cultural scene, but few names are more closely connected to the city than the Beatles. Learn about the band's beginnings and the incredible influence their music has had around the world through experiences celebrating their legacy. Enjoy the atmosphere of this historic English city while discovering the stories behind one of the most recognizable groups in music history.

Football is another important part of British culture, and nearby Manchester offers an opportunity to experience that passion firsthand. Visit Manchester United's legendary stadium, Old Trafford, and learn about the history of one of the world's most famous football clubs. A visit to a local Manchester synagogue also offers a glimpse into Jewish life in northern England, where established Jewish communities have contributed to the region's cultural and religious traditions for generations.

London, England (2 Days)

From royal history and famous landmarks to lively neighborhoods and cultural attractions, London is packed with places to experience. Step inside the historic Tower of London, a fortress that has served as a royal palace, prison, and home to the Crown Jewels. Take in the city's remarkable architecture and explore the streets of central London, where centuries of British history meet the energy of a modern global city.

See the capital from above on the London Eye, where sweeping views stretch across the River Thames and the city's famous skyline. Spend time in Covent Garden, known for its bustling market atmosphere, street performers, shops, and historic surroundings. Along the Thames, discover Greenwich, a neighborhood known for its maritime heritage and beautiful waterfront setting.

England's academic traditions also come to life during a visit to Oxford, home to one of the world's oldest and most prestigious universities. Walk through its historic streets and admire the centuries-old college buildings that have welcomed generations of students and scholars. Between London's famous attractions and Oxford's beautiful architecture, this portion of the journey offers a fascinating look at Britain's history and modern culture.

Western Europe Adventure

Paris, France (3 Days)

Few cities capture the imagination quite like Paris, where world-famous landmarks, elegant streets, and centuries of history create an incredible setting for exploration. Stand beneath the Eiffel Tower, stroll along the Champs-Élysées, and see the magnificent Arc de Triomphe. Spend time around Notre-Dame Cathedral and explore the city's neighborhoods, where historic architecture, charming cafés, and local shops offer a glimpse into everyday Parisian life.

Experience another side of French culture through a hands-on perfumery workshop, where you'll learn about the art of fragrance and the traditions that have made French perfumes famous around the world. Outside the city, marvel at the grandeur of the Palace of Versailles, once home to French royalty, and discover the remarkable history behind its ornate architecture and gardens.

Paris also holds a rich Jewish history that continues to shape the city's identity today. Walk through Le Marais, the historic Jewish Quarter, where generations of Jewish families have built communities, established traditions, and contributed to French culture. Explore the neighborhood's lively streets while learning about the history of Jewish life in France and its enduring place in the city today.

Antwerp, Belgium (3 Days)

Cobblestone streets, beautiful architecture, and delicious Belgian traditions make Antwerp and its surrounding towns an exciting part of Western Europe Adventure. In Antwerp, learn about the city's history as an important center of trade and culture while experiencing its lively neighborhoods. Visit Chocolate World to discover the story behind Belgium's famous chocolate-making traditions, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS).

Celebrate Shabbat together in Antwerp, home to one of Europe's established Jewish communities. Share familiar traditions with fellow Jewish teens, take time to reflect on your experiences, and discover how Jewish life continues to thrive in different parts of the world.

The nearby medieval city of Bruges offers a different side of Belgium, with picturesque canals, historic squares, and charming streets. Take in the city's architecture from the water on a scenic canal boat ride, browse local shops, and learn to make traditional Belgian waffles during a hands-on cooking experience.

The journey also includes a visit to Fort Breendonk, a former Nazi detention and transit camp in Belgium. Learn about its history during World War II and reflect on the experiences of those imprisoned there, gaining a deeper understanding of this chapter of European history.

Amsterdam, Netherlands (3 Days)

Amsterdam is known for its beautiful canals, historic buildings, and creative spirit, and there's plenty to experience both in the city and beyond. Wander through its charming neighborhoods, explore local streets and waterfront areas, and discover the history of Jewish life in the Netherlands. Through visits to Jewish heritage sites, learn about the contributions of Dutch Jews and the experiences that have shaped the community across generations.

Experience the Netherlands from a different perspective on a scenic bike ride, taking in the landscapes and traditions that make Dutch culture so distinctive. See the country's famous windmills, learn about traditional wooden clogs, and discover how Dutch cheese is made. There's also time for some adventure on the water, with a proposed rafting activity that offers a chance to enjoy the outdoors with your group.

A visit to The Hague brings together art, creativity, and time along the Dutch coast. Explore the imaginative works of M. C. Escher at the Escher Museum, where optical illusions and unexpected perspectives challenge the way you see the world. Enjoy some beach time while discovering more of the region's culture and scenery.

Back in Amsterdam, gather for a special Pancake Boat experience, enjoying a Dutch favorite while cruising along the water. From its historic neighborhoods and canals to its distinctive traditions and outdoor experiences, Amsterdam offers plenty of ways to experience Dutch culture with fellow Jewish teens.

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 weather across the United Kingdom and Western Europe can vary significantly depending on the destination. Scotland is generally cooler, particularly in the Highlands, where daytime temperatures often range from the 50s to 60s. Edinburgh, Liverpool, and London typically experience milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from the 60s to 70s °F and occasional warmer days.

In France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, daytime temperatures commonly range from the upper 60s to the 80s. Paris can experience particularly warm days during summer heat waves, while Belgium and the Netherlands often have cooler mornings and evenings.

Rain showers are possible throughout the journey, and conditions in Scotland's mountains can change quickly. We recommend packing comfortable layers, lightweight clothing, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy walking shoes suitable for both hiking and city exploration. A sweatshirt or fleece is especially helpful for the Scottish Highlands, while sun protection and a refillable water bottle are important throughout the program.

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?
UK & Western Europe Adventure offers opportunities to experience a wide variety of culinary traditions across five countries. In Scotland and England, teens may enjoy traditional British favorites alongside the diverse international cuisines found in cities like Edinburgh, Liverpool, and London. Across France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, they'll have opportunities to sample French pastries, Belgian chocolates and waffles, Dutch cheeses, pancakes, and other regional specialties.

The proposed itinerary also includes hands-on cultural food experiences, such as a traditional Belgian waffle-making workshop in Bruges and a Pancake Boat experience in Amsterdam.

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 to visit the United Kingdom?
Yes! This program includes travel to the United Kingdom, so teens are required to complete an Electronic Travel Authorization (UK ETA) prior to departure. Families will receive guidance on this from BBYO prior to departure day. Additional information about this system can be found here: https://visauketa.com

UK ETA, or the United Kingdom Electronic Travel Authorization, must be applied for online prior to arrival in the United Kingdom. You may also use the official UK ETA app on iPhones or Androids to apply.

What will you need in order to apply?

• A valid passport
• A recent passport-style photo to upload
• A payment method (fee is approximately $13)

Most applications are processed within 3 business days. Once approved, the ETA is digitally linked to your teen’s passport. The ETA is valid for two years or until the passport expires—whichever comes first. It allows multiple entries into the UK, including this program. BBYO Passport cannot confirm or complete the application on your behalf. If a teen does not have an approved ETA before departure, they may not be allowed to enter the UK or continue on the program.

Will I need a visa to visit other countries in Europe?
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 Belgium, France, the Netherlands, and Scotland, 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.