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Germany

Germany & Austria: Alpine Adventure

8 days | Ages 14-18 | Summer 2026 | Fully Supervised | 4.9 on GoOverseas | International flights not included

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Questions? Call (440) 975-9691 for an admissions counselor

Discover a region of Europe where fairy tale towns dot picturesque mountain scenes. As you explore the Bavarian Alps you’ll be immersed in the friendly hospitality and independent nature of the people of Bavaria. You’ll get to explore the vibrant cities of Munich and Salzburg. You’ll follow in the footsteps of “The Sound of Music”. You’ll take in breathtaking mountain views as you wind your way along alpine trails with your new friends. You’ll leave with memories of a place that feels modern and traditional, quaint and quirky, and like a second home.

The people just make this program the best. The local staff, the international staff, and the other peers around you are all so nice. It’s such a tight-knit community and you feel like a family from day one. I honestly cried so much the day I had to leave. You’re guaranteed to have some of the best times of your life.
–Kei Yamashita, Rustic Pathways Alumni

Program Tuition

$3,395

Excluding flights.
Financial aid and scholarships available.

Summer sessions typically fill by March

Summer 2024

Program tuition refundable until March 31

Scott Ingram

Scott Ingram

Director of Admissions

At Rustic since 2018

Not sure yet?

Email Rustic Pathways

Talk to a personal travel advisor: +1 (440) 975-9691

Schedule a call

View program itinerary

What Does a 8-Day Program Include?

A typical program. Daily activities are subject to change based on group logistics and weather.

1

Gute Reise

Gute Reise means "safe travels" and we hope today's travels are smooth as you embark on this adventure! Meet your Rustic Pathways Flight Leader at the gateway airport, Newark International Airport (EWR). They will help get you checked in and through security before traveling with your group to Germany. You’ll use this day to travel and arrive tomorrow in Germany!
2

Bad Reichenhall

Welcome to Bavaria! As soon as you land, we'll head to the charming town of Bad Reichenhall, your perfect alpine base for adventure! Soak in the charm as you stroll through its picturesque streets, where stunning alpine views and quaint architecture create a perfect backdrop. We'll kick off the fun with a scenic hike, taking in the fresh mountain air while getting to know your fellow adventurers. Then, we will unwind at our cozy basehouse, enjoying some well-deserved downtime to recharge for the next few days.
3

Salzburg

Enjoy an exhilarating day in Salzburg, where stunning baroque architecture and rich history come alive! We will stroll through the charming Old Town, where streets are lined with vibrant shops and cafes. Explore the beautiful Mirabell Gardens, bursting with colorful blooms and perfectly manicured landscapes.
4

Service and Rafting

Today’s going to be a day full of adventure and giving back! We’ll kick things off with some hands-on service work, lending a hand to maintain the trails in the stunning national park. From here, prepare for an adrenaline-pumping rafting experience on the spectacular Saalach River! Feel the rush as you navigate thrilling rapids, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and the sound of rushing water.
5

Königssee & Alpine Hike

Today, we’ll hop on a ferry and glide across the emerald waters of the famous Lake Königssee, surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks. Our adventure takes us to the iconic St. Bartholomew’s Church, where we'll enjoy a picnic lunch with jaw-dropping views of Mount Watzmann. Afterward, embark on a short hike that reveals panoramas above the water, where each step offers a new breathtaking perspective.
6

Welcome to Munich

Get ready for an exhilarating two days in Munich! After settling into your cozy accommodations, dive right into the city's vibrant atmosphere. Visit Marienplatz to see the charming Glockenspiel show. Then, wander through the Viktualienmarkt, and try some artisanal cheeses and other treats. Over the two days, you’ll discover Munich’s history and culture.
7

Exploring Munich

Today, we’ll explore the legendary Residenz, a royal palace steeped in history and grandeur. Afterward, we’ll head to the heart of the city to relax at the sprawling Englischer Garten, one of the largest urban parks in the world. Here, you can watch surfers take on the urban river waves, or simply dive into the cool waters for a refreshing swim. We'll participate in Rustic Ties, to capture the memories and learning moments of the program to process and share back home.
8

Auf Wiedersehen

Today we will wake up and travel back to Munich to catch your flight back home or on to your next adventure!

Total: 8 calendar days / 7 nights. International flights are not included.

How Does Rustic Pathways Handle Safety?

24/7 Support

In-person staff + US emergency line

7:1 Student-to-Leader Ratio

Background-checked, first-aid certified, deep local knowledge

Licensed & Insured Transport

Risk management plans for every program

Gender-Separated

Rooms with staff on site

Learn more about Rustic Pathways safety protocols.

Germany

What Do Parents Ask?

Flights & Cost

How do flights work?

Students join a chaperoned group flight from a U.S. gateway airport. A Rustic Pathways Flight Leader travels with the group. International students arrange independent flights and Rustic Pathways coordinates airport pickup.

What's included in the price?

Included: Lodging, all meals, in-country transport, all activities, 24/7 staff.
Not included: International airfare, travel insurance, personal spending ($150–200).

Do you offer financial aid or scholarships?

Yes. Monthly payment plans are available for all families, and Rustic Pathways offers both need-based financial aid and merit scholarships. Explore scholarships and financial aid

Is travel insurance required?

Travel insurance is not included in the program fee. Rustic Pathways recommends that families purchase travel insurance. Get a quote from our recommended provider →

Supervision & Safety

Who's supervising my child?

Rustic Pathways Program Leaders complete a four-month vetting process, and programs maintain a 7:1 student-to-staff ratio. All Program Leaders are first-aid certified, and most have led multiple Rustic Pathways programs. Leaders range from 25 to 35 years old.

Are rooms gender-separated?

Yes. Students room with same-gender peers. Staff stay in adjacent rooms.

What about medical emergencies?

All Program Leaders are first-aid certified. Nearest hospitals are mapped out in all locations. Our health & safety team reviews all medical forms before departure and works with families to plan medications, allergies, and dietary needs.

Communication

Can I reach my child?

Yes. Students can call, text, or WhatsApp during free time. Parents can reach Rustic Pathways’ 24/7 emergency line at any time.

How will I know they're okay?

Parents receive daily photo updates throughout the program from staff on the ground.

What is the phone/device policy?

Students may bring phones but cannot use them during group activities or meals. Wi-Fi is available at most accommodations.

Group & Logistics

How big is the group and how old are the participants?

Groups are typically 12-20 students per session. Students are ages 14-18, with most being 15-17.

Can international (non-U.S.) students join this program?

Yes. Students from 50+ countries join Rustic Pathways programs each year. International students book their own flights and Rustic Pathways coordinates airport pickup.

Do students come with friends, or on their own?

Most students travel solo without knowing anyone. Program Leaders run ice-breakers on day one, and friendships form quickly. Friends are welcome to enroll together.

What is the accommodation like?

Students stay in locally operated lodging with shared rooms accommodating 2-4 students. Accommodations include private bathrooms and common areas.

Can friends room together?

Yes. Roommate requests are accepted during enrollment.

Program Details

Will my child have unsupervised time?

Students have structured independence during free-time blocks with staff always nearby. There is no unsupervised time in public areas.

Can you accommodate dietary needs & food allergies?

Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and common food allergies are accommodated with advance notice. Dietary needs are collected during enrollment.

How much spending money?

$150-200 recommended for souvenirs and incidentals. Tipping is included in the program fee.

Do we need a visa?

Visa requirements vary by passport and destination. Contact a Rustic Pathways travel advisor for guidance specific to your student’s nationality.

Support

What if my child gets homesick?

Homesickness is common in the first few days. Rustic Pathways staff are trained to support students through it. Read more about managing homesickness

Do you support neurodiverse students?

Rustic Pathways welcomes all students and works with families to provide appropriate support. Learn about Rustic Pathways’ approach to inclusion

What Should Parents Know?

Which students thrive on this program?
Students who are curious, adaptable, and open to new experiences. No prior travel experience is required.
What will students do each day?
Each day includes a mix of structured activities, cultural experiences, and group time. See the itinerary above for a day-by-day overview.

Germany offers a unique combination of cultural richness, safety, and meaningful engagement opportunities for student groups. Rustic Pathways has operated programs here for years and maintains strong local partnerships.

Meals: All meals are included. Local cuisine is featured throughout the program. Dietary needs are accommodated with advance notice.

What is the refund policy?
View terms & conditions

Included:

  • All lodging
  • All meals
  • In-country transport
  • All activities and excursions
  • 24/7 staff support

Not included:

  • International airfare
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal spending money

What Other Program Types Are Available?

Germany Europe 2026