France, Switzerland and Italy

Welcome to Europe! To start our journey, we venture to the center of the Italian Renaissance: Florence. Here artists such as Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, as well as writers like Dante and Machiavelli completed some of their most famous masterpieces. We’ll stand in awe of Michelangelo’s gorgeous David at the Accademia gallery, and we’ll tour the Uffizi, the world’s best collection of Italian Renaissance art, marveling at paintings by Botticelli, Caravaggio, and others. Art and culture are not all that is in store for us in Florence, however; we’ll also enjoy an amazing pizza dinner, challenge ourselves to complete a tasty nighttime tour of some of the best handmade gelato places in the city, and even enjoy a special invitation to a leather shop for an introduction to the Italian leather industry. No trip to Florence would be complete without a visit to the Duomo, the magnificent Gothic-style basilica. And don’t forget a sunset stroll over the Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s oldest and most iconic bridge that crosses the Arno River. Before you know it you will truly understand the meaning of “la bella vita!”

We’ll begin our Italian adventure in the Cinque Terre, which is one of Italy’s hidden gems! Often referred to as the Italian Riviera, this region is home to five idyllic fishing villages with pastel colored houses perched on dramatic cliffs that plunge into the crystal-blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Rather than staying in the touristic towns outside of Cinque Terre, our accommodations are steps from the beach and charming shops in the center of Monterosso village. We will be treated like family during our stay, thanks to our strong local relationships that we developed throughout years of volunteering with the community.

The Cinque Terre is known for its spectacular hiking trails that connect the towns and we will have the opportunity to hike them for ourselves! On the hike we will enjoy spectacular views of the sea and the vineyards that line the cliffs and be inspired by the natural beauty in this region. During our time here we will also sample local specialties like pesto and focaccia, enjoy fresh seafood and relax on the beach in our seaside paradise.

There’s no better place to end our European adventure than Italy, and we’ll spend our final night dining on incredible Italian food and reminiscing on the trip of a lifetime. And of course, we’d be remiss if we didn’t get a gelato (or two)!

We’ll depart France and head to our destination, the breathtaking Swiss Alps. Backpackers in the know head for the green valleys and dramatic alpine mountains of Switzerland. The backpacker mecca of Interlaken, nestled in a valley between two large lakes in the mountains, is our base to explore this elegant country and culture. Outdoor sports and activities abound for those who wish to breathe in the fresh mountain air. We will go on a hike in the alps to discover breathtaking scenery and views and spend plenty of time getting to know traditional Swiss culture and history in the nearby towns. Cruise a pristine alpine lake at sunset for dinner and take a cable car to one of the highest restaurants in Switzerland! You’ll even have the option to fly high above the Alps while paragliding!*

*Please note that the weight restriction for paragliding is 30-100 kg*

Last but not least, our adventure concludes in Paris where we’ll experience the best of French culture as we marvel at priceless masterpieces and stunning architecture, stroll along the quintessential Parisian boulevards, and eat our way through the different arrondissements, or neighborhoods. You’ll see Quasimodo’s home at the Cathedral of Notre Dame, where famous artists used to live and be inspired in Montmartre, and shop ’til you drop on the Champs-Elysées. You’ll have the chance to visit the Palace of Versailles and learn about the rise and fall of the French Monarchy, as well as stroll through Marie Antoinette’s gardens and go for a rowboat ride on the lake. Take a local-led walking tour through Paris’ hidden alleyways with our local guide and learn interesting aspects of the city’s long history. Explore the Luxembourg Gardens or Père Lachaise Cemetery, take in the best of Impressionist art at the Musée d’Orsay, and relax on a sunset river cruise down the Seine. Try some of your favorite recipes at authentic restaurants, such as crêpes, fondue, and omelets, or maybe taste something new–escargot anyone? Finally, let’s not forget the experience of a lifetime going all the way to the top of the Eiffel Tower!