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Germany

Portugal & Germany: European Adrenaline

15 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

Begin your adventure in Portugal, where you’ll immerse yourself in coastal life with surf lessons on beautiful beaches and engage in meaningful marine conservation efforts. Explore the vibrant streets of Lisbon, savor local delicacies, and discover a breathtaking natural park that combines coastal beauty with rugged landscapes. Then, journey to Germany, where fairy tale towns and picturesque mountain scenes await. Explore the vibrant cities of Munich and Salzburg, and challenge yourself with rafting and hiking in the Bavarian Alps. Along the way, you’ll create lasting memories in a region that blends modern and traditional, offering a perfect mix of adventure and culture.

Nothing compares to the memories made on this trip, and this experience has reinforced my love of travel & belief that it is the most important form of education.

– Laurel Smith, Rustic Pathways Alumni

Program Tuition

$6,790

Excluding flights.
Financial aid and scholarships available.

Summer sessions typically fill by March

No departures scheduled

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 15-Day Program Include?

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

1

Depart for Portugal

Arrive at Newark Airport (EWR) where you’ll meet your Rustic Pathways Flight Leader, who will help get you checked in and through security before traveling with your group to Portugal. Get acquainted with fellow Rustic travelers before boarding your flight. Get some rest on the flight because this is going to be a great week!
2

Bem-vindo a Portugal!

Touch down in Lisbon and meet your Program Leaders who will guide you throughout this adventure. Begin your journey with a visit to a vibrant local market, where you can experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of Portuguese culture. Afterward, enjoy a delicious traditional Portuguese lunch before heading to the villa base house in Setúbal. At the base house, you'll learn about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and local culture. Relax, play fun games, and enjoy pool time as you get settled. You'll share rooms with 2-3 other students, separated by gender. Our spacious and comfortable accommodations will be where we can recharge and connect during our exciting adventure.
3

Surfs Up!

Kickstart your journey with surf lessons at Costa da Caparica’s beautiful beaches. Expert instructors will help you catch your first wave. In the afternoon, team up for a beach cleanup, actively contributing to marine conservation efforts.
4

Sustainable Surf Warriors

Continue your surf lessons, honing your skills in the morning waves. Later, delve into a marine conservation workshop where you’ll learn about the impact of climate change on Lisbon's coastal ecosystems and brainstorm your own sustainability initiatives.
5

Lisbon Thrills!

Explore Lisbon’s streets, from the historic Alfama district to the modern LX Factory. We’ll uncover hidden gems and immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere. Try the famous custard tart called Pastel de Nata, and spend some time shopping for unique souvenirs. We'll indulge in a traditional feast at a local restaurant for dinner.
6

Coastal Bliss

Set off on a scenic boat tour around Arrábida, Troia, and Setúbal. Dive into the clear waters or try stand-up paddle boarding before savoring a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, relax and explore the stunning beaches of Parque Natural da Arrábida, enjoying beach games and the beauty of Portugal's coastline.
7

Sintra’s Enchanted Escape

Begin your day with a visit to Regaleira Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning architecture and mysterious underground tunnels. Next, enjoy a yummy traditional lunch in a charming local village, savoring authentic Portuguese flavors. After lunch, take a leisurely stroll along a local beach, soaking in the beauty of the coastal scenery. Continue your journey to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, where breathtaking cliffs and panoramic views await. From there, step into the Enchanted Forest, a magical place said to be where elves reside. After returning to our villa, we'll gather for a heartfelt Rustic Ties ceremony, reflecting on your journey and the connections you've made along the way.
8

Transitions

Your Program Leaders will help you have a relaxing day at a hotel in Lisbon where you can rest up for the continuing adventures in Germany. Tomorrow we make our way to Munich!
9

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. Start your adventure at Marienplatz, where the iconic Glockenspiel comes to life, captivating onlookers with its charming show. Then, wander through the bustling Viktualienmarkt, a foodie’s paradise brimming with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and tempting treats. With each step, you'll discover Munich’s rich history and lively culture, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience!
10

Exploring Munich

Today we will transfer to the famous BMW museum where you will get to witness the amazing history and development of the brand over the years. We will head back in town to relax and have a picnic at one of the largest inner city parks in the world, Englischer Garten. Where you get to witness people from all over the world try their hand at urban river surfing.
11-12

Bad Reichenhall

Get ready for an exhilarating journey to Bad Reichenhall, your perfect alpine base for adventure! Nestled in stunning mountain scenery, this charming town offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. 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. Stroll through picturesque streets, where stunning alpine views and quaint architecture create a perfect backdrop. We will enjoy a delicious lunch at a traditional German food hall, where you can try the local specialities. We will unwind at our cozy basehouse, enjoying some well-deserved downtime to recharge for the next few days.
13

Salzburg

Get ready for an exhilarating day in Salzburg, where stunning baroque architecture and rich history come alive! We will stroll through the charming Old Town, where picturesque streets are lined with vibrant shops and cafes and explore the beautiful Mirabell Gardens, bursting with colorful blooms and perfectly manicured landscapes.
14

Berchtesgaden

On our final day in Bavaria we will hop on a ferry and glide across the stunning emerald waters of Lake Königssee, surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks. Our adventure takes us to the iconic St. Bartholomew’s Church, where we'll enjoy a delightful picnic lunch with jaw-dropping views that will leave you in awe. Afterward, embark on a short hike that reveals stunning panoramas above the water, each step offering a new breathtaking perspective. As the day winds down, we’ll head back to the basehouse for a cozy final night together, sharing stories and memories under the alpine sky. We'll participate in Rustic Ties, to capture the memories and learning moments of the program to process and share back home.
15

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: 15 calendar days / 14 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
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