Program Overview
Organized in partnership between Travel For Teens and Duchesne Academy, this unforgettable journey invites students to explore Spain’s most captivating cities—Madrid, Granada, Seville, and Barcelona—while experiencing the perfect blend of history, art, and vibrant local culture. Through guided tours, hands-on workshops, and authentic cultural activities, students will discover the rich heritage and timeless beauty that make Spain one of Europe’s most inspiring destinations.
Begin your adventure in Madrid, the elegant capital where grand boulevards and centuries-old landmarks meet modern energy. Students will explore world-famous sites such as the Prado Museum, Retiro Park, and the lively Puerta del Sol, all while savoring traditional Spanish cuisine and soaking in the city’s dynamic atmosphere. From there, journey south to Andalusia, where the charm of Granada and Seville reveals the lasting influence of Moorish culture. Wander through the majestic Alhambra, stroll the cobblestone streets of Seville, and experience the magic of flamenco during an evening performance that captures the soul of Spain.
The journey continues to Barcelona, a coastal gem known for its creativity and architectural wonders. Students will marvel at the surreal designs of Antoni Gaudí, including the iconic Sagrada Familia and colorful Parc Güell, and take in the city’s vibrant rhythm during a visit to the Boqueria Market and the lively Gothic Quarter. A hands-on Spanish cooking class adds a delicious touch, allowing travelers to prepare their own tapas and paella before celebrating their final night in true Catalonian style.
Throughout the trip, students will not only explore Spain’s historic treasures but also gain a deeper appreciation for its people, language, and way of life. With a balance of cultural learning, leisure time, and unforgettable experiences, this program offers a journey that is as educational as it is inspiring—one that brings the story of Spain to life.
During this trip, you will…
- Stroll through Madrid’s historic streets, from Puerta del Sol to Plaza Mayor, and enjoy classic churros con chocolate
- Visit world-renowned landmarks including the Prado Museum, Royal Palace, and Retiro Park
- Experience the vibrant culture of Andalusia, exploring Granada’s Alhambra and Seville’s Plaza de España
- Discover the beauty of Seville, enjoying a flamenco show and traditional tapas dinner
- Travel by high-speed train to Barcelona and marvel at Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces such as the Sagrada Familia and Parc Güell
- Bike (or walk) through Barcelona’s lively streets, markets, and seaside neighborhoods
- Learn to cook your own authentic paella and tapas during a hands-on culinary class
- Enjoy a balance of sightseeing, local culture, and free time for shopping and exploration
- Soak in Spain’s unique blend of history, art, and Mediterranean charm
Trip Itinerary
DAY 1: DEPART FROM THE USA
Flight departs for Madrid, Spain
DAY 2: ¡Bienvenidos a España!
- Flight arrives in Madrid
- Meet your TFT Counselors at the airport and transfer to the hotel
- Lunch and First Day Meeting in the Sabatini Gardens
- Guided Walking tour of Madrid – check out the Puerta del Sol, the statue of Oso and Madrono, Kilometer Zero, the clock tower, and more!
- Dinner in Madrid!
DAY 3: The beauty of Madrid
- Self-Guided tour of the Museo del Prado- Featuring masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, el Greco and so many more of Spain’s greatest.
- Lunch in Parque del Retiro
- Relaxing in the Parque del Retiro: Wander the beautiful gardens, see the turtles at the Crystal Palace, and go for a rowboat ride on the pond!
- Churros for dessert! We’ll go to a churrería so famous, where even the King goes to get his churros!
DAY 4: "Moorish Jewel”
- Private coach transfer to Granada
- Lunch
- Walking tour of Granada – see the Tomb of Catholic Monarchs, climb up to the Mirador San Nicolas and walk through the Albaicin, and do some souvenir shopping on Calle Elvira
DAY 5: Crossing Andalusia
- Guided tour of the Alhambra – one of the most famous monuments of Islamic architecture
- Lunch
- Walking tour of Granada – see the Tomb of Catholic Monarchs, climb up to the Mirador San Nicolas and walk through the Albaicin, and do some souvenir shopping on Calle Elvira Dinner in a local restaurant
- Flamenco show! Partake in one of the most traditional aspects of Andalusian culture! Olé!
DAY 6: Exploring Seville
- Seville Walking Tour with beautiful Plaza de España and Alcazar of Sevilla – amazing Moorish fortress
- Cathedral of Sevilla – Pay a visit to Christopher Columbus’ tomb and climb to the top of the Giralda Belltower
- Traditional tapas dinner
- Flamenco show – ! Partake in one of the most traditional aspects of Andalusian culture! Olé!
DAY 7: Train to Catalonia
- Depart for Barcelona on our high
speed train - Lunch on the train
- Arrive in Barcelona and check-in
- See Antoni Gaudi’s unfinished masterpiece at the Sagrada Familia on our guided tour!
- Dinner: Cook your own dinner tonight – learn how to make paella and tapas!
DAY 8: Exploring la ciudad ‘Condal’
- Bike tour of Barcelona – for those who don’t feel comfortable on a bike, we will go up to the cliff-top fortress of Montjuic
- Lunch at the Boqueria Market
- Head up to Parc Guell and take in the stunning views of Barcelona while exploring this amazing park designed by Antoni Gaudi
- Afternoon options – final souvenir shopping or check out the Camp Nou Stadium home to FC Barcelona
- Fancy final dinner in Barcelona
- Marvel at the Magic Fountain of Montjuic, with its incredible display of color, light, and water acrobatics with musical accompaniment.*
*if it reopens.
DAY 9: Adiós, España.
¡Adios, España! The group returns back to the US.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Travel For Teens?
We are in our 21st year in the teen travel business and have emerged as the industry leader for teen travel in the United States, Canada, Europe, Latin America, Asia, Oceania, and Africa. We operate over 100 programs in 47 countries on 6 continents.
Our philosophy: We offer genuine and authentic trips for travelers, not tourists.
Our goal is to engender a passion for learning about other cultures and places through living like a local in that place.
How much is tuition and what does it include?
Tuition for the trip is $3,295 ($3,545 for adults), which INCLUDES Breakfasts and dinners, accommodations, admissions, departure taxes, registration charges and ground transportation
Tuition does NOT INCLUDE mandatory Trip Cancellation insurance, meals not referenced in the itinerary, PPE costs, COVID testing during the trip or for the return to the USA (as applicable), additional baggage fees (one free checked bag max weight 44lbs per passenger), laundry, internet, phone calls home, deviations from the itinerary, drinks at meals, admissions and activities not included on the itinerary, additional transportation costs due to maintaining the safety of the group, sickness, injury, transportation delays related to circumstances beyond our control (acts of nature) or transportation strikes (trains, metro, or planes), unplanned and unexpected costs associated with events beyond the control of TFT.
Tuition for the trip is $3,295 ($3,545 for adults), which INCLUDES Breakfasts and dinners, accommodations, admissions, departure taxes, registration charges and ground transportation
Tuition does NOT INCLUDE mandatory Trip Cancellation insurance, meals not referenced in the itinerary, PPE costs, COVID testing during the trip or for the return to the USA (as applicable), additional baggage fees (one free checked bag max weight 44lbs per passenger), laundry, internet, phone calls home, deviations from the itinerary, drinks at meals, admissions and activities not included on the itinerary, additional transportation costs due to maintaining the safety of the group, sickness, injury, transportation delays related to circumstances beyond our control (acts of nature) or transportation strikes (trains, metro, or planes), unplanned and unexpected costs associated with events beyond the control of TFT.
If I cannot afford the payment schedule listed above, does Travel For Teens provide flexible payment plans?
Yes, Travel For Teens is willing to customize a payment plan for any participant who needs a little flexibility in the payment schedule. Please email help@travelforteens.com for details on payment plans.
Yes, Travel For Teens is willing to customize a payment plan for any participant who needs a little flexibility in the payment schedule. Please email help@travelforteens.com for details on payment plans.
How much is trip cancellation insurance?
Trip insurance will be mandatory for all participants and is not included in your deposit payment. We feel that this gives everyone more peace of mind in case of unforeseen events. The trip insurance, if purchased directly from Travel For Teens, is $244 for the standard plan. You may also choose to purchase a more comprehensive cancel-for-any-reason insurance for $361. All paying participants will need to provide proof of an independently-purchased policy if not purchasing the plan offered by Travel For Teens.
Participants may purchase Cancel For Any Reason policies directly using this link: http://www.travelinsured.com/agency?agency=53809&p=53809Retail
Trip insurance will be mandatory for all participants and is not included in your deposit payment. We feel that this gives everyone more peace of mind in case of unforeseen events. The trip insurance, if purchased directly from Travel For Teens, is $244 for the standard plan. You may also choose to purchase a more comprehensive cancel-for-any-reason insurance for $361. All paying participants will need to provide proof of an independently-purchased policy if not purchasing the plan offered by Travel For Teens.
Participants may purchase Cancel For Any Reason policies directly using this link: http://www.travelinsured.com/agency?agency=53809&p=53809Retail
How much is airfare? How do the flights work?
Travel For Teens will reserve a group contract for all participants. Flight details will be announced closer to trip departure.
Travel For Teens will reserve a group contract for all participants. Flight details will be announced closer to trip departure.
Who can go on this trip?
All students in grades 10-12, as well as alumni and parents associated with Jackson Academy are welcome to join this adventure of a lifetime!
All students in grades 10-12, as well as alumni and parents associated with Jackson Academy are welcome to join this adventure of a lifetime!
Where do we stay?
We will be staying in three-star hotels throughout the program. The names of the accommodations are available to all families once they have signed up. Students will be roomed in a combination of twins, triples, and quad rooms. Every participant will have their own beds.
Single rooms can be requested and will be charged an additional fee per person per single. Note, Singles must be requested at the time of registration to be guaranteed.
We will be staying in three-star hotels throughout the program. The names of the accommodations are available to all families once they have signed up. Students will be roomed in a combination of twins, triples, and quad rooms. Every participant will have their own beds.
Single rooms can be requested and will be charged an additional fee per person per single. Note, Singles must be requested at the time of registration to be guaranteed.
Trip Emails and Photographs
PHOTOGRAPHS
We will take dozens, if not hundreds, of photos each day. The best photos will be posted as regularly as possible (ideally every day) to a private webpage where you can follow along with the trip. We will send you an email to alert you when we post new photos. We will provide every family a link for downloading all pictures immediately after the trip returns.
EMAILS
The trip director will be in regular email contact every 24-48 hours, internet willing, with the families. Email will be the best way to communicate messages to the Trip Director.
PHOTOGRAPHS
We will take dozens, if not hundreds, of photos each day. The best photos will be posted as regularly as possible (ideally every day) to a private webpage where you can follow along with the trip. We will send you an email to alert you when we post new photos. We will provide every family a link for downloading all pictures immediately after the trip returns.
EMAILS
The trip director will be in regular email contact every 24-48 hours, internet willing, with the families. Email will be the best way to communicate messages to the Trip Director.
Safety, Sickness and Communication
SAFETY AND SICKNESS
The safety of your kids is our #1 concern, which is why we have only experienced trip leaders running the show.
All trip leaders and chaperones will have international mobile phone access and TFT will give you these numbers before departure.
The TFT trip leader will also have a smartphone that is accessible 24/7 that can be called in case of emergency.
Your kids will be given opportunities to call and email home on a regular basis. Teens are encouraged to bring a cell phone on the trip. Outside of the hotel students can use their cell phone for photos/videos and emergencies. At the hotel, they can use their smartphones for social media, texting, emailing etc.
SAFETY AND SICKNESS
The safety of your kids is our #1 concern, which is why we have only experienced trip leaders running the show.
All trip leaders and chaperones will have international mobile phone access and TFT will give you these numbers before departure.
The TFT trip leader will also have a smartphone that is accessible 24/7 that can be called in case of emergency.
Your kids will be given opportunities to call and email home on a regular basis. Teens are encouraged to bring a cell phone on the trip. Outside of the hotel students can use their cell phone for photos/videos and emergencies. At the hotel, they can use their smartphones for social media, texting, emailing etc.
What are the safety qualifications for our staff?
Our staff members undergo a rigorous hiring process. They receive the same background check as school educators, an extensive training process to go over all safety precautions and protocols, and are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. We exclusively hire responsible, multi-talented individuals who are safety-minded and are as passionate about teen travel as we are.
What is the food like on a TFT program? Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
In a word – delicious! At TFT, we believe food should be an integral part of the travel experience and always make an effort to eat at authentic establishments when we can. What better way to immerse yourself in the culture of a place than by sampling the local delicacies, and we encourage students to do so whenever possible! Just as we stay away from Americanized hotel chains, we try to avoid restaurants with menus that cater only to tourists because every good traveler knows the best food is found wherever the locals are eating!
We also love to have picnics al fresco and do this whenever possible, which is a great way to taste some local food while sitting out in the fresh air taking in the sights and sounds of our surroundings.
As always, we are willing and able to accommodate vegetarians, vegans, gluten allergies, and other dietary restrictions.
Do I need to speak the language?
No, our skilled staff members will help you get around and even teach you a few fun phrases!
Are participants allowed to have their cell phones on the program?
We do allow participants to bring their phones, but we ask that they use it solely as a camera when we are out and about during the day. We want everyone to focus on living in the moment and fully experience each new destination we are visiting without being absorbed in their phones. We ask that participants look at their journey with us as a way to disconnect. When we have downtime at our hotels in the evenings it is okay for participants to use their devices to connect with friends and family back home.
What is the activity level of this trip?
This is an active trip. The goal of the trip will be to maximize each day. We aim to achieve a good balance of activity and downtime. You will need to be comfortable walking about 5 miles a day in total.
This is an active trip. The goal of the trip will be to maximize each day. We aim to achieve a good balance of activity and downtime. You will need to be comfortable walking about 5 miles a day in total.

