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.

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 most cherished 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. Between its history, canals, and culinary traditions, Bruges provides plenty of opportunities to experience Belgian culture.

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 rafting activity that offers the chance to enjoy the outdoors and share a few laughs 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 before experiencing 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. With opportunities to explore, spend time together, and experience local traditions, Amsterdam offers a wonderful setting to celebrate the adventures and friendships shared throughout Western Europe.

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 Western Europe is generally mild to warm, with daytime temperatures commonly ranging from the 60s to the low 80s. Paris can experience warmer days, while Belgium and the Netherlands often have cooler temperatures, particularly in the mornings and evenings.

Rain showers are possible throughout the region, even during the summer months. We recommend packing comfortable layers, a lightweight waterproof jacket, and sturdy walking shoes suitable for exploring cities and participating in outdoor activities. A refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and sunglasses are also helpful for warmer days.

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?
Western Europe offers a wide variety of culinary experiences, and teens will have opportunities to sample local favorites throughout France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. From French pastries and traditional Belgian waffles to Dutch cheeses and pancakes, food is another exciting 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.