Teen Travel in Europe

Hey...didn't Rick steves started his adventure that way?? And his son too??

I would probably start off with budget. Then plot out the cities they want to go, and check the route with the Euro Rail.

At 17 they cannot rent a car so they will need to rely on the rail, bus, etc.

If they are on a meager budget they can do the hostel route. Many Rick travelers can recommend a hostel, or, they can also use hotels Rick recommends in his book.

I would also check out or buy Rick's books for help. In Germany most young adults speak English. In Spain, a little spanish will go a long way... except in some parts of Barcelona.

We ran into a lot of kids doing just this on our first trip to Europe a few years ago. There always seemed to be one person "leading the tour". This mastermind would organize everyone else. Perhaps your son would be interested in this position? Definitely look into a rail pass. All the student discounts available should make for a less expensive trip. I am envious!

Do they have a budget are or you just paying for what every they want??
When my friend and I did our backpacking trip around Europe when I was young ,, the first thing we had to figure out was how much money we had, how much more could we earn before we went , and how far we could stretch our dollars. So for us that was a huge factor( two weeks in Greece was cheaper then 5 days in Switzerland for instance) .

Have them buy a Let's Go Western Europe, or a Lonely Planet book, they are made for student budgets, listing hostels and modest hotels, fairly inexpensive eateries from actual restaurants to where to grab a slice of pizza or some tapas, usually listing a supermarket as well. They also list a lot of sights and nightlife which people our age are interested in.

Also have suggested itineriries at the beginning of the book, so the boys should start to framework a plan.

Let's Go and Lonely Planet pretty much cater to a young demographic (up to maybe early 30's). The recommendations they give are most likely to line up with what the boys want to see.

Hopefully they'll heed advice on keeping their stuff secure. Many times teens have to learn things the hard way.

Make sure everyone leaves copies of credit cards, passports at home so you can help if they lose something.

My oldest son, 18, is very responsible and has been thousands of miles from home before with no problems. My youngest son, 14, is totally carefree and I could envision a trip for him turning into a disaster (although a carefree disaster).

Many thanks to everyone for the great suggestions and thoughtful advice. I think we'll have them start with the Let's Go Western Europe, or a Lonely Planet book since they will definitely be on a budget!