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.

Greece Discovery

Athens, Greece (4 Days)

Few places bring ancient history to life quite like Athens, where thousands of years of Greek civilization meet the energy of a modern Mediterranean city. Stand before the magnificent Parthenon at the Acropolis, one of the world's most recognizable archaeological landmarks, and wander through the charming streets of Plaka, Athens' oldest neighborhood. With its lively squares, traditional shops, and historic architecture, the city offers a fascinating look at the culture and traditions that have shaped Greece.

Athens also holds a rich Jewish history dating back more than 2,000 years. Learn about the generations of Jewish families who have called Greece home through visits to sites such as the Jewish Museum and Holocaust Memorial, and discover how Jewish traditions continue today. Share a meaningful Shabbat experience with your group, with opportunities to connect with the local Jewish community and experience familiar traditions in a different part of the world.

Along the Athens Riviera, enjoy a different side of Greece through its beautiful beaches and coastal neighborhoods. Spend time in Glyfada, known for its lively shopping streets and seaside atmosphere, and relax along the sandy shores of Lagonissi Beach. Between historic landmarks and the warm Mediterranean sunshine, Athens offers plenty of opportunities to experience Greek culture and coastal life.

Santorini, Greece (4 Days)

Whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches, volcanic cliffs, and sparkling water make Santorini one of Greece's most recognizable islands. Explore the winding streets of Fira, perched high above the island's volcanic caldera, and ride a cable car toward the Old Port for an incredible perspective of the coastline. Spend time in the picturesque village of Oia, where narrow pathways, local boutiques, and sweeping views of the Aegean Sea create a setting unlike anywhere else in Greece.

The island's beautiful beaches offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. Relax on the distinctive volcanic sands of Kamari Beach, or enjoy water activities at Perissa Beach, with opportunities for paddleboarding, kayaking, and beach games. There's also time to experience the relaxed atmosphere and beautiful coastal scenery that make Santorini such a special destination.

One of the island's most memorable experiences takes place on the water. Sail around Santorini's volcanic caldera, passing dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and the famous Red and White Beaches. Enjoy opportunities to swim in the clear waters of the Aegean Sea and take in the remarkable scenery while sharing an exciting day on the water with your group.

Mykonos, Greece (3 Days)

With its iconic windmills, whitewashed buildings, colorful balconies, and winding streets, Mykonos captures the charm of the Greek islands. Wander through the narrow pathways of Mykonos Town, browse local shops, and enjoy the lively waterfront overlooking the Aegean Sea. Between its beautiful beaches and traditional island architecture, Mykonos offers plenty of opportunities to experience Greek island culture.

Just off the coast lies Delos, one of the most important archaeological sites in ancient Greece and home to an extraordinary piece of Jewish history. Travel by boat to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you'll learn about the ancient civilizations that once flourished here. Visit the remains of one of the world's oldest known synagogues and discover the role Jewish merchants and communities played in the Mediterranean more than 2,000 years ago.

Celebrate Shabbat on Mykonos with fellow Jewish teens, with opportunities to share familiar traditions and connect with Jewish life on the island. Enjoy time relaxing along the coast, swimming, and spending time together while taking in the beauty of the Aegean Sea.

Nafplio, Greece (2 Days)

Along the Peloponnese Peninsula, Nafplio offers a charming mix of Greek history, coastal beauty, and local traditions. Once the first capital of modern Greece, the town is known for its colorful buildings, Venetian architecture, picturesque squares, and beautiful waterfront. Stroll through its narrow streets, browse local shops, and experience the relaxed atmosphere of this historic seaside destination.

Get a taste of Greek culture through experiences that introduce you to the region's culinary traditions. Visit a traditional olive farm to learn how one of Greece's most important ingredients is produced, complete with an olive oil tasting. Sample local specialties on a guided food tour of Nafplio, discovering the flavors and traditions passed down through generations.

The nearby Corinth Canal offers another memorable experience. Marvel at this remarkable feat of engineering from above, then take to the water for a scenic cruise between its towering limestone walls. With additional opportunities to enjoy the nearby beaches and explore the region, Nafplio brings together history, culture, and coastal adventure.

Mediterranean Adventure

Milan, Italy (1 Day)

Milan is known for its impressive architecture, vibrant streets, and rich cultural heritage. Walk through the elegant Piazza del Duomo, home to Milan's magnificent cathedral, and admire the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of Italy's most famous historic shopping galleries.

A visit to Memoriale della Shoah offers a meaningful opportunity to learn about the Holocaust and the experiences of Jewish communities in Italy during World War II. Through this powerful educational experience, teens will gain a deeper understanding of an important chapter of European Jewish history while beginning their journey through Italy and Slovenia.

Verona, Italy (2 Days)

The historic city of Verona offers a beautiful setting to experience Italian culture, architecture, and traditions. Walk through its charming streets and lively piazzas, see the famous Verona Arena, and visit landmarks such as Juliet's House, Piazza delle Erbe, and Piazza dei Signori. With its centuries-old buildings and welcoming atmosphere, Verona offers a glimpse into the history and character of northern Italy.

Before arriving in Verona, enjoy a day of excitement at Gardaland, one of Italy's most popular amusement parks. Spend time on thrilling rides and attractions with your group before settling into the city for Shabbat.

Celebrate Shabbat together with fellow Jewish teens, sharing familiar traditions, group programming, and time to relax. With opportunities to unwind by the hotel pool and enjoy a slower pace, this portion of the journey offers a chance to recharge, reflect, and strengthen friendships before continuing the adventure.

Venice, Italy (3 Days)

Few places are as unique as Venice, where beautiful bridges connect historic neighborhoods and canals wind between centuries-old buildings. Experience the city from the water on a traditional gondola ride, taking in its distinctive architecture and atmosphere. Wander through picturesque streets and squares while seeing famous landmarks such as St. Mark's Basilica, the Rialto Bridge, and the magnificent Doge's Palace.

Venice also holds an important place in Jewish history. Visit the historic Jewish Ghetto, established in 1516, and learn how generations of Venetian Jews preserved their traditions and built a vibrant community despite centuries of restrictions and challenges. A guided visit to the Jewish Museum of Venice offers a closer look at the community's history, cultural contributions, and enduring legacy.

Beyond the city's famous canals, explore the islands of the Venetian Lagoon, including Murano, known for its centuries-old glassmaking traditions, Burano, famous for its colorful houses, and Lido, celebrated for its beautiful beaches. Each island offers a different perspective on the culture, traditions, and scenery that make this region so special.

Ljubljana, Slovenia (2 Days)

Slovenia's charming capital, Ljubljana, blends historic European architecture with beautiful natural surroundings. Stroll through the city's picturesque streets and public spaces, and visit Ljubljana Castle, perched high above the capital. Ride the funicular to the castle grounds for sweeping views of the city and surrounding landscape.

The adventure continues beyond the capital with an exciting rafting experience along the Soča River near Kobarid. Known for its striking turquoise waters and dramatic Alpine scenery, the river offers an unforgettable opportunity to experience Slovenia's natural beauty while navigating the water with your group.

In the Bela Krajina region, discover another side of Slovenian culture through activities along the Kolpa River. Enjoy kayaking or rafting, take part in a traditional flatbread-making workshop, and experience local games and traditions surrounded by the beautiful countryside. These experiences offer a memorable combination of outdoor adventure and cultural discovery.

Kranjska Gora, Slovenia (2 Days)

Surrounded by the towering peaks of the Julian Alps, Kranjska Gora offers a beautiful setting for outdoor adventure and a relaxing Shabbat. This mountain destination is known for its forests, clear lakes, and spectacular Alpine scenery, creating an entirely different atmosphere from the historic cities explored throughout the journey.

Along the way, visit some of Slovenia's most remarkable natural attractions. At Postojna Cave, journey underground to see impressive limestone formations and vast chambers shaped over thousands of years. Continue to Lake Bled, one of Slovenia's most recognizable destinations, and take a traditional Pletna boat across its beautiful waters to the island at its center, home to St. Mary's Church.

Spend time at Lake Jasna, a picturesque Alpine lake surrounded by mountains, with opportunities to relax by the water and enjoy the scenery. Celebrate Shabbat with fellow Jewish teens in the heart of the Slovenian Alps, sharing familiar traditions and meaningful moments together. It's a chance to slow down, reflect on the journey, and enjoy the friendships formed along the way.

Florence, Italy (2 Days)

The art and architecture of Florence tell the story of one of Europe's most influential cultural centers. Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, this remarkable city is filled with historic streets, magnificent buildings, and some of the world's most celebrated artistic treasures.

At the Galleria dell'Accademia, stand before Michelangelo's David and see firsthand one of the Renaissance's most recognizable sculptures. Discover Florence's Jewish heritage through a visit to the Great Synagogue, learning about the community's history and its contributions to life in Tuscany.

Beyond Florence, the nearby city of Pisa offers another of Italy's most famous landmarks. Visit Piazza dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa alongside the city's historic cathedral and baptistery. Together, Florence and Pisa offer a fascinating look into Italy's artistic achievements, architectural traditions, and cultural heritage.

Rome, Italy (1 Day)

Thousands of years of history come to life in Rome, where ancient landmarks stand alongside bustling streets and lively neighborhoods. Step inside the legendary Colosseum and explore the Roman Forum, where the remains of temples, public buildings, and historic gathering places offer an extraordinary glimpse into life during the Roman Empire.

Rome is also home to one of the world's oldest continuous Jewish communities, with a history stretching back more than 2,000 years. Walk through the historic Jewish Quarter, visit the Great Synagogue, and learn about the generations of Roman Jews who preserved their traditions through centuries of change. These experiences offer an opportunity to connect with the history and enduring presence of Jewish life in Italy.

At Vatican City, discover another remarkable side of Rome's cultural heritage through a visit to the Vatican Museums. Home to extraordinary works of art and centuries of artistic and religious history, the museums offer another perspective on the traditions that have shaped this remarkable city.

Pompeii, Italy (1 Day)

Near the base of Mount Vesuvius, the ancient city of Pompeii offers one of the world's most extraordinary windows into Roman history. Preserved beneath volcanic ash following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE, this remarkable archaeological site reveals what everyday life looked like nearly 2,000 years ago.

Walk through the ancient streets with a local guide, seeing the remains of homes, public spaces, and historic buildings that have survived for centuries. Each part of the city tells a story about the people who once lived, worked, and gathered here, offering a fascinating connection to the ancient world.

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.

Is airfare between programs included when connecting two programs?
All connecting flights are included in the land cost for programs that connect. For more information, please visit our supervised flights page.

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 throughout Greece, Italy, and Slovenia can vary significantly depending on the destination. Cities such as Athens, Milan, Florence, and Rome are typically warm to hot, with daytime temperatures often reaching the 80s and 90s. Greece's islands and coastal destinations may benefit from refreshing sea breezes, although conditions can still be warm and humid.

Slovenia's Alpine regions are generally cooler, particularly in the mornings and evenings. Rain showers and thunderstorms are possible, especially in the mountains, and temperatures can change quickly during outdoor activities.

We recommend packing lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, sun protection, and layers for cooler weather. A lightweight waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes are particularly useful for outdoor adventures in Slovenia.

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?
Greece & Mediterranean Adventure offers opportunities to experience a variety of culinary traditions across three countries. In Greece, teens may sample local favorites such as tzatziki, fresh pita, stuffed grape leaves, baklava, and other Mediterranean specialties. The proposed itinerary also includes an olive oil tasting and guided food tour in Nafplio.

In Italy, teens will have opportunities to enjoy authentic pizza, pasta, gelato, and regional specialties, while Slovenia offers dishes influenced by Alpine, Central European, and Mediterranean traditions.

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 Greece, Italy, or Slovenia, 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.

• Italy & Greece Discovery
• Ultimate Greece Israel

Learn more about our trip connections. BBYO will book connection travel for these programs and include it in the land cost of the program.