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 seven different countries and diving into subjects like sustainability, food, fashion, engineering, and history through hands-on activities. You'll return home with greater independence, confidence, and global perspective to navigate whatever path you may choose.
Upcoming travel dates:
Spring 2025: February 5–April 16, 2025 (Prices increase November 1st!)
Fall 2025: September 5–November 14, 2025
Note: This itinerary is subject to change due to availability and local conditions at the time of departure.
London
9 Days
London: Orientation
Fly to London, where you'll meet your cohort for Orientation at EF's London office; bond with your cohort of fellow EF Gap students, learn about important travel topics, and get excited for the semester ahead.
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; do a guided tour of the British Museum with a focus on the history of 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
11 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.
Spain
7 Days
Barcelona: Sports Culture
Explore the vibrant city of Barcelona with a focus on the city's unique sports culture. Visit one of the world's most famous soccer stadiums, do a soccer activity with locals, and learn about the city's unique role in the sports industry. Take in the beauty of Barcelona with visits to Park Güell and guided sightseeing around Barcelona's scenic neighborhoods.
Portugal
7 Days
Lisbon: Art & Architecture
Take in the winding streets and picturesque views of Lisbon as you explore art and architecture in this iconic city. Do a workshop where you'll make your own tiles, explore the fairy-tale castles of Sintra, and enjoy an evening of traditional Fado music.
Germany
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
Seamlessly blend Germany's old-world charm and modern engineering industry during your time in Munich. Visit the BMW Museum and Factory and meet with a local engineering firm to learn about their work. Learn more about the history of this region by visiting Dachau, the former WWII concentration camp, to better understand this important part of world history.
Switzerland
7 Days
Lucerne: The Alps and the Environment
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. Visit the UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch for a workshop on environmental conservation, and take an optional hiking excursion at a nearby mountain.
Italy
13 Days
Florence: Food & Agriculture
Visit Italy's most famous destinations for foodies. First, check out 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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