This program aims to foster connections to Israel and Jewish peoplehood by bringing together teens from diverse Jewish backgrounds. Participants will share the journey with Israeli teens, building meaningful relationships and gaining a deeper understanding of Israeli culture and perspectives. Additionally, they will meet with local European Jewish youth communities, experiencing the vibrancy of modern Jewish life across Europe. Through these interactions, combined with immersive explorations of European Jewish history and culture, we will have the opportunity reflect on our personal Jewish identity and strengthen our connection to the global Jewish community.

We are in the process of becoming an approved program to receive a RootOne Voucher and more information will be available soon.

If your teen received a $250 b’nei mitzvah certificate, you can apply it towards this program. URJ Camps may also have scholarship available (Eisner Camp, for example).

We also recommend reaching out to your local federation or synagogue to inquire if they offer scholarships or financial assistance.

For more information about logistics—such as how travel arrangements are made, passport requirements, food and lodging accommodations—and health and safety concerns, including program safety, group supervision, and medical care provisions, please visit our main FAQ page. There, you’ll find answers to these and other important questions to help you prepare for your Journey Europe experience.

Chapter One: Classic Europe, Jewish Heritage – Budapest

The journey begins with an arrival in Vienna, followed by an opening lunch and orientation at Lake Neusiedl. Participants explore the ruins of the Balaton Synagogue and hike in a nearby park before continuing to Tihany for the night. The next day, after enjoying some beach time, the group travels to Budapest for a Danube River cruise, a visit to the Chain Bridge, and a peulah at the Green Space on top of the Ethnographic Museum. In Budapest, participants explore the city's rich Jewish heritage, including visits to Buda Castle, Gellért Hill, Central Market, Theodor Herzl’s House, and the Great Synagogue. A highlight of the week is joining Camp Szarvas, the largest Jewish summer camp in Europe, for a meaningful Kabbalat Shabbat, rikudey am (Israeli folk dancing), and engaging activities with Hungarian Jewish youth. Shabbat is spent together as a community, featuring peulot, discussions with Hungarian Youth Movement leaders, and a mix of rest, learning, and sports. The final day in Budapest includes an exploration of the Jewish Quarter, a visit to the Dohány Street Synagogue and Jewish Museum, and relaxation at the Széchenyi Baths.

Chapter Two: Mountains, Rivers, and Lakes – Outdoor Adventures in Slovakia

Leaving Budapest, the adventure continues in Slovakia with a breathtaking hike through the Suchá Belá Gorge in Slovak Paradise National Park. The following day is spent at Tatralandia Water Park, providing a refreshing break from travel. The chapter concludes with an exhilarating hike and rafting experience in the scenic Dunajec River Gorge at Pieniny National Park.

Chapter Three: Tragedy of the Jewish People – The Shoah in Poland

The journey through Jewish history takes a somber turn in Poland, beginning with a visit to Krakow’s Kazimierz Jewish Quarter and Schindler’s Factory. The next day, participants travel to Auschwitz-Birkenau for a powerful and emotional visit to the memorial and museum, followed by a meaningful Friday night service at the Jewish Community Centre of Krakow (JCC Krakow). Shabbat is spent together as a community, providing time for reflection through tefillah, menucha, and processing activities. The day concludes with a moving Havdalah ceremony on a Vistula River cruise.

Chapter Four: Decompression – Fun and Nature in Poland and the Czech Republic

After an intense and emotional experience, the group transitions to a period of decompression, beginning with a day at Legendia Silesian Amusement Park before traveling to Prague. In the Czech Republic, participants explore the Koněpruské Caves and take part in a graffiti workshop at the iconic John Lennon Wall, blending adventure with creative expression.

Chapter Five: Prague and Vienna

The journey continues in Prague with an exploration of the city's rich Jewish history, including visits to the Jewish Quarter, the Old-New Synagogue, the Old Jewish Cemetery, and the Jewish Museum. Participants then tour the Spanish Synagogue, Maisel Synagogue, and Prague Castle before traveling to Austria for a scenic hike along the Dyje River in Podyjí National Park. In Vienna, they experience the city's highlights, enjoy a swim at Donauinsel, and celebrate Kabbalat Shabbat with the local Jewish community, followed by spirited Rikudey Am at the hotel. Shabbat is spent immersing in Vienna’s Jewish heritage, including a synagogue tour and a shared pizur lunch with local Jewish teens. The journey concludes with free time at Augarten Park and Belvedere Palace before a final closure activity, marking the end of an unforgettable experience.