The Pathfinder is perfect for the hands-on learner who can’t wait for their next step, but is still trying to figure out where they’re going: spend your semester traveling to six different countries and diving into subjects—from environmental science to food and fashion—through a global perspective. You’ll return home with confidence in your direction and a passport packed with stamps.
Upcoming travel dates: Spring 2024
Session 1 : February 16–April 26, 2024, limited spots just opened up
Session 2: February 5–April 15, 2024, full
Upcoming travel dates: Fall 2024
September 6–November 15, 2024
Click here to download this itinerary as a PDF.
Note: This itinerary is subject to change due to availability and local conditions at the time of departure.
Boston
3 Days
Boston: Orientation
Fly to Boston, where you’ll meet your cohort for Orientation at EF’s North American Headquarters; bond with your cohort of fellow EF Gap students, learn about important travel topics, and get excited for the semester ahead.
Iceland
10 Days
Northern Iceland: Environmental Science
Iceland is one of the best places on earth to gain hands-on exposure to the field of Environmental Science! After getting your bearings in Reykjavik, head north to the Akureyri area to meet with experts, learn about their approach to conservation, and experience the awe-inspiring landscape by whale watching and hiking the Grabrok Crater.
Reykjavík: Renewable Energy
Enjoy free time in Reykjavik to explore the city in at your own pace. Learn about Iceland’s unique approach to renewable energy at the Hellisheidi Geothermal power plant in the country's capital city Reykjavík, then experience the mind-blowing natural beauty of Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir Geothermal area, and the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon.
United Kingdom
10 Days
London: Business & Academia
Explore the UK's long and prestigious academic history with a day trip to the quintessential university town of Oxford. Explore London's connection to global business through a Q&A with a leader of an innovative global company.
London: Healthcare, History, & Independent Exploration
London is also one of the best places to learn about the fields of healthcare and history; attend a workshop about applied medicine, meet with a midwife, and explore some of London's early 20th century history with a visit to the Churchill War Rooms. Enjoy free days to keep exploring London on your own.
France
13 Days
Normandy: World History
Cross the English Channel via ferry; once in continental Europe, you'll visit Normandy, the site of the D-Day landing and learn about WWII history. There is no better place for history to come alive. Spend a day exploring Mont St. Michel, a stunning island surrounded by an historical abbey.
Paris: Art & Fashion
Explore the chic capital of France with a local guide. Visit some of the art world's most iconic spots, like the Louvre and Monet's Giverny, then take a painting class to tap into your own artistic talent and meet a designer to learn about the fashion industry in Paris.
Germany & Switzerland
15 Days
Berlin: Urban Sustainability
Witness Germany’s evolution from a war-torn and divided country in the 20th century into a 21st century bastion of modernity, innovation, and sustainability. Dive into Germany’s world-leading sustainability culture by visiting an urban farm and learning about sustainable development.
Munich: World History
In the beautiful, Old-World city of Munich, explore the charming streets and lively culture. Dive deeper into the history of this region by visiting Dachau, the former WWII concentration camp, to better understand this important part of world history.
Lucerne: Alps Weekend
Experience the rejuvenation of life in the Swiss Alps: ascend one of the most stunning mountaintops of the Alps, then spend a day wandering the medieval streets of Lucerne.
Italy
18 Days
Milan: Fashion
Creativity and business acumen meet in Milan, the epicenter of the fashion world. Explore the city and learn about the history and industry of fashion. Enjoy two free days in Milan to catch your breath and show off your most fashionable looks.
Bologna & Florence: Food & Agriculture
Visit two of Italy's most famous cities for foodies, Bologna and Florence. Visit the town of Parma to learn how the original Parmesan cheese is made, then taste balsamic vinegar like you've never experienced it before in Acetia. Arrive in Florence, take a food-themed walking tour, and sample the city's culinary delights.
Rome: Wrap-Up
Wrap up your experience in Rome, where you’ll explore iconic sites like the Vatican and the Colosseum, then take an Italian cooking class. Spend some time celebrating all you’ve been through with your cohort before heading home!
When you need us most, we’re always close: EF Gap Year students are supported by multiple layers of staff throughout their experience abroad.
Learn more about on-program Safety & Support, from our on-the-ground Student Life Coordinators and Tour Directors to our 24/7 Safety & Incident Response team.
Our Gap Year Consultants are ready to answer any questions you have and enroll you on our program.
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