Spend 12 unforgettable weeks living in three of Europe’s most iconic cities: Barcelona, Paris, and Rome. This program blends immersive language learning with curated cultural experiences designed to help you connect deeply with each place.
Upcoming travel dates:
Spring 2026:
Session 1: Jan. 4–Mar. 28, 2026
Session 2: Feb. 1.–Apr. 25, 2026
Fall 2026:
Session 1: Aug. 16–Nov. 7, 2026
Session 2: Sep. 20.–Dec. 12, 2026
This program is anchored at EF’s campuses in Barcelona, Paris, and Rome, each a vibrant home base where students take daily language classes and immerse themselves in local culture. Beyond the classroom, campuses serve as social hubs for making friends, joining activities, and experiencing the city together.
In the stylish Eixample district, EF Barcelona pairs modern classrooms and a sunny terrace with quick access to tapas bars, shops, and the city’s energetic street life.
Set in the elegant 9th arrondissement, EF Paris features a rooftop terrace and cooking classes, all just steps from cafés, boutiques, and easy metro links to the city’s iconic landmarks.
Located in the historic center, EF Rome combines modern facilities with everyday immersion—just a short walk from the Colosseum, Piazza Navona, and authentic Roman trattorias.
Note: This program features required, interactive Spanish, French, and Italian learning classes Monday-Friday in each city. This itinerary is subject to change based on local availability and conditions at the time of departure. Highlighted activities may not occur in the exact order shown.
Barcelona
Weeks 1-4
Weeks 1 & 2 in Barcelona
Acquaint yourself with the beauty of Barcelona, from a tapas tour as you eat your way through the Poblenou neighborhood to a catamaran tour to see the city from the water. Learn a new skill as you immerse yourself in Spanish culture with a flamenco class.
Weeks 3 & 4 in Barcelona
Wander through the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona and learn about its unique historical and artistic context, and do a ceramics workshop to tap into your own creativity. Take a day trip to Costa Brava, where you'll get to experience this unique area's rugged coastal beauty and visit their botanical gardens.
Barcelona
Excursion
Day trip to Costa Brava
Take a day trip to Costa Brava, where you’ll dive into water activities along the Mediterranean, stroll through vibrant botanical gardens, and cap it off with a fun game of beach volleyball on the sand.
Rome
Weeks 9-12
Weeks 5 & 6 in Rome
Stroll through the ancient ruins of Roma Antica, master the art of pasta and gelato alongside a local chef, and stand in awe of the Vatican Museums and the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Weeks 7 & 8 in Rome
Learn the art of gelato-making at the iconic Gelateria Fassi, wander the cobblestone charm of Trastevere on a cultural walk, and journey back in time with a day trip to the ruins of Pompeii.
Rome
Excursion
Day trip to Florence
Take a day trip to Florence, where you’ll wander Renaissance streets, admire masterpieces at world-class museums, and soak in the city’s charm from the iconic Ponte Vecchio.
Paris
Weeks 5-8
Weeks 9 & 10 in Paris
Uncover masterpieces on a guided tour and scavenger hunt at the Louvre, glide along the Seine before ascending the Eiffel Tower, and master the art of French pastries in a hands-on workshop.
Weeks 11 & 12 in Paris
Stroll the grand halls of the Palace of Versailles, discover style and creativity on a fashion and design tour in the Latin Quarter, wander the artistic charm of Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur, and bring your inspiration to life in a painting workshop.
Paris
Excursion
TBD
TBD
When you need us most, we’re always close: EF Gap Year students are supported by multiple layers of staff throughout their experience abroad.
You will have an option to receive college credits for your language coursework through an accredited US university. For more information, please talk with your Gap Consultant.
The world is too big for just one stop. Extend your adventure by stacking two back-to-back programs into a full year abroad. You’ll unlock more destinations, more experiences, and more memories—plus, save $2,000 when you do.
By submitting your information, you agree to allow EF to process your personal information in accordance with EF’s Privacy Policy and to allow the use of your data for direct marketing purposes. By entering your mobile number, you agree to receive recurring text messages about upcoming offers from EF Gap Year at the number provided and you understand that consent to receive marketing text messages is not a condition of purchase. You agree to all EF Texting Terms and Conditions. 