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Volunteer in Europe and discover a continent full of history, diverse landscapes and culture ... read more

Volunteer in Europe and discover a continent full of history, diverse landscapes and culture. From the icy north of Iceland to the Mediterranean gems that are Italy , Greece or Spain , there are many volunteer projects that are perfect for a short-term commitment or a summer abroad.

If you love animals, look no further! Volunteer in Europe with animals like dolphins , horses or street dogs . You prefer working with people? Due to the European refugee crisis, there are many volunteer programs in Europe that work with refugees and provide teaching and general support. Get active now and help these volunteer projects in Europe!

Health and Environment Supporter

Cultivate your skills in our geothermal Greenhouse in southern Iceland. Prepare organic medicines and learn about organic agriculture. 🌱 landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="0" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Greece Turtle Conservation Volunteers

Protect endangered sea turtles through hands-on fieldwork on the island of Kefalonia. Partake in the ultimate research and conservation project. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="1" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

One earth, our home - Let's prevent global warming

Engage in environmental education, sustainability efforts, and vital tasks like beach cleanups, seed collection, and renovation work in beautiful Iceland! 🌱 landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="2" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Let's get Sustainable - 6 Weeks on the move

Learn about the Sustainable Development Goals of the UN. Embark yourself on an adventure that will take you to discover all of Iceland and its natural wonders. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="3" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Ecovillage - One with Nature

Volunteers at the one and only Ecovillage in the South of Iceland. You will have the opportunity to do forestry work, organic agriculture, and workshops. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="4" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Dog Sanctuary Supporter

Our Dog Sanctuary is a place where the dogs can roam free. They live in the house where you are staying; a unique experience to learn about the dogs and connect with them landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="5" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Medical Shadowing in Hospitals

Shadow doctors & nurses in Greek hospitals for up to 40 hours per week. Rotate between different departments, clinics & surgeries. 🩺 landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="6" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Animal Welfare Helper

Volunteer at animal shelters and give your love and care to animals that have been abandoned or abused by their owners and are looking for a new home 🐕. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="7" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Force-free Equine Sanctuary Assistant

Join our team! Care for horses, improve the sanctuary, and promote equine welfare, all while honing your force-free horsemanship skills. 🐴😊 landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="8" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Support Dog Shelter

Help to take care of street dogs and support rescue activities in Greece. Find a new home for helpless animals. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="9" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Greece Marine & Conservation Volunteers

Protect large seagrass meadows and sand dune systems on a meaningful conservation and research experience in Kefalonia. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="10" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Beach and Mountain Cleaning Supporter

Since many beaches and mountains are not yet adequately protected from an environmental point of view, the support of volunteers is required. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="11" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Psychology Internship

Shadowing & practical involvement internship in Greece for up to 40 hours per week landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="12" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

English Teacher assistant For Kids

Make a profound impact by teaching English to our eager and deserving children in a heartwarming project in Northern Spain. 📚 landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="13" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Conservation of Whale & Dolphin Populations

Contribute to critical whale & dolphin conservation initiatives in the beautiful subtropical island archipelago - Canary Islands. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="14" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Community Beautification of a Greek Island

This community-based project covers a variety of tasks focusing on beautifying local community institutions in different areas of Chios Island. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="15" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Support Greek Dog Shelter

Support rescue activities in Greece and take care of street dogs. Find a new home for helpless animals. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="16" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Sustainable Animal Sanctuary Supporter

Come and grow your experience with animals on our vibrant eco-sanctuary, caring for baby goats to parrots to bearded dragons whilst learning how to live sustainably ♻️ landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="17" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Sustainable Urban Permaculture Initiatives

You don't have to be an expert to have a great impact on the conservation and positive management of our natural environments 🌱. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="18" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Veterinary Internship in Greece

Shadow veterinarians in Greece at private clinics for up to 40 hours per week landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="19" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Volunteer programs in Europe

Are you drawn to culture and diverse landscapes? If you’re also passionate about volunteering, you’ll be happy to know that there is a wide variety of volunteer opportunities available in Europe. Volunteer in countries like Spain, Greece, Italy, and Ireland in the European Union or explore hidden treasures like Albania and Moldova in Eastern Europe. While Europe might not be the first continent that comes to mind when you think of volunteering, your volunteering efforts in Europe are just as meaningful as anywhere else in the world. Whether you’re protecting its unique wildlife, teaching English in Europe, or joining one of the community service projects, your commitment is highly appreciated!

If this is the first time that you are considering becoming a volunteer abroad, we are here to help you. We will introduce you to our top volunteer opportunities in Europe. Find out what Europe has to offer and choose where you want to volunteer abroad in Europe!

Whether you are interested in teaching English in Europe, devoting your time to marine conservation, contributing to local communities, or working at a horse sanctuary, the possibilities are almost endless. We will give you more insight into volunteer opportunities in Europe. Find out which volunteer projects are taking center stage in Europe.

Once you are confident that you have found your desired European country for volunteering, we encourage you to check out the respective country page where we provide you with more detailed information. Let’s start by learning a little more about volunteer opportunities in Europe.

🌍 Why Volunteer in Europe?

According to Business Insider , Europe is facing some serious challenges. By engaging yourself in one of the European volunteer opportunities, you will be able to provide relief in the following areas:

• inflation and a rise in the cost of living
• gender inequality in political and economic life
• immigration and integration issues
• climate change
• deterioration of the environment

There are many ways for volunteers to help with these challenges abroad. The most hands-on and active way is to volunteer abroad in Europe for one of the many volunteer projects on site. Whether you are passionate about women empowerment in Ireland, care about injured horses at a horse sanctuary in Spain, or are eager to contribute to marine conservation in Greece or Italy, one of the volunteer programs in Europe will give you the chance to do meaningful work.

Continue reading to find out where to volunteer in Europe Find the answer to what kind of volunteer abroad programs are available and what you will be doing when you decide to volunteer in Europe.

🐬 How to Volunteer with Animal and Wildlife Conservation in Europe

Although you may not think of Europe as the most diverse destination in terms of wildlife, there are quite a few opportunities to work with animals and contribute to wildlife conservation .

From horses in Spain to the conservation of wolves in Portugal and saving bears in Finland, he life on land in Europe portrays a variety of amazing animals. However, Europe doesn’t only convince animal lovers with its diversity on land - its oceans are filled with spectacular marine life such as dolphins , whales , and sea turtles that can be admired on the islands of the Mediterranean.

One of the main problems Europe is facing when it comes to its animals and wildlife is its exploitation for economic purposes. This includes, for example, whaling, poaching of bears, and mistreatment of horses. Additional threats are:

• illegal poaching
• wildlife trade
• shrinking habitats
• environmental pollution

The combination of all these threats has led to declining numbers of many animals, in some cases to the point of near extinction. As a wildlife conservation volunteer in Europe, join other EU aid volunteers to prevent this decline and rehabilitate native European species .

👩🏼‍🤝‍👩🏻 How to Support Community Services in Europe

If you want to immerse yourself in European culture and get in touch with the locals during your volunteer work abroad , a community program is a perfect opportunity. Community work calls for open, outgoing, and empathetic volunteers that aren’t afraid of getting involved and can face realities.

Depending on your skills and qualifications, there are many different ways to help in a community development program in Europe , Despite being one of the most developed places in the world, Europe still has marginalized communities that need support. This can take on many forms. Engage the youth in constructive afterschool activities, help care for those with special needs, or redistribute food waste to homeless communities.

Whether you see yourself joining European voluntary service and supporting in Italy, Portugal, or Albania, here are some community service volunteer opportunities:

• taking care of young children
• taking care of people with special needs
• supporting women empowerment and human rights efforts
• working with street children
• renovating and building community facilities, houses, and schools

Migrants and Refugees Integration

The European Commission is developing a common migration and asylum policy to manage the refugee crisis. It will help Europe both to take advantage of the opportunities and to tackle the challenges of increased cross-border mobility. Support this challenging transition by helping refugees and migrants adapt and gain a foothold in the European Union.

🧒🏽 How to Volunteer for Child Care in Europe

Before you decide to volunteer abroad with children or people with special needs, make sure you are prepared for your task and understand what you can expect from the project .

It’s possible that some of the children you will be working with on the programs may have experienced a difficult past and are traumatized to an extent. For this reason, it is important that volunteers have the appropriate skills . If not, you could be putting yourself and the people you work with at risk. It is beneficial that volunteers have the following qualifications when they decide to volunteer with children:

• experience in working with traumatized clients
• training as a child caretaker
• training for people with special needs
• training as a psychologist
• training as a social worker

It’s not always necessary to have these qualifications but volunteers should get in touch with the program coordinator to be informed about the requirements for European or EU aid volunteers.

👩🏽‍🏫 How to Teach English in Europe

The shortage of staff and geographical difficulties make it difficult for many students, especially in rural areas, to get the education they deserve. As a teaching volunteer in Europe, you can support the staff in local school programs and encourage the progress of the children in the classroom by giving them extra attention. You can also contribute by volunteering for afterschool programs where you help teach kids certain skills. Depending on the volunteer program you choose, there is a great variety of tasks you can do:

• helping out at a daycare center for children with special needs
• assisting disabled children
• supporting local teachers and staff
• teaching school subjects
• teaching English
• providing shelter and education for orphanages
• teaching sports or other after school activities

France, Ireland, Croatia, Italy, and Albania are waiting for enthusiastic volunteer teachers to support their community.

🌳 How to Volunteer for Conservation in Europe

As a volunteer in Europe, you can join environmental programs to make a real difference in protecting the environment . Environmental programs abroad are focused on agriculture, conservation work, and marine conservation .

All conservation programs are spread across the continent, so you will have several options to choose from. Typical voluntary work in Europe for conservation may include:

• Habitat restoration
• Biodiversity monitoring: land, sea, and coast
• Clearing trash from the sea
• Recycling trash
• Archaeological preservation
• Diving and snorkeling
• Sustainable farming
• Wildlife monitoring and research
• Wilderness conservation
• Mapping within Geo-information tool
• Educating environmental awareness

Volunteers who are concerned about the environment and are eager to help maintain Europe’s unique biodiversity have several projects which they can contribute to Ireland, the Russian Federation, Greece, and the UK.

🌍 Where to Volunteer in Europe?

Environmental enthusiasts will likely head to the south of Europe for their volunteer adventure while community service programs are spread over the continent. Here are our top Europe volunteer destinations:

• Spain > Tenerife
• Italy > Naples

🤑 How Much Does it Cost to Volunteer in Europe?

The suggested daily budget for a volunteer in Europe is between US$ 70 and US$ 230. This is an estimate made considering the average price of some of the goods and services you may need.

It gives you a general overview of how much things cost in this country, so you can be prepared and save the money you need for your voluntary work in Europe. The cost of living can vary greatly within Europe. Eastern Europe is much cheaper compared to Western Europe for example and volunteering in the European Union is also more convenient. This is important to keep in mind when selecting projects. Look into the cost of living for the respective country.

Additional costs you should consider as a volunteer in Europe:

• program fees
• flight tickets ( find cheap flights to Europe )
• travel insurance (find your travel insurance )
• fees for your visa
• personal expenses

💲 Can I Volunteer in Europe for Free?

There are some very affordable volunteer programs in Europe. You can search for volunteer programs within your budget by using our filter option. Please know that most free volunteer opportunities don’t offer accommodation . This can turn out to be more expensive than some paid volunteer projects.

Almost all paid volunteer projects will offer accommodation. Check the program description for all details about what’s included so you can make an informed decision.

💡 Good to Know Before Volunteering in Europe

Before starting your volunteer work abroad, it’s important to think about the cultural norms you’ll need to adjust to . In addition, learn about the precautions you might need to take when volunteering abroad . The following list can help you with that:

Safety & Precautions

Before you leave on your volunteer trip, make sure to read up on the safety advice your government gives tourists for the country you are planning on visiting. Most European countries, especially the ones in the European Union are pretty safe, however, it is important to use common sense at all times and be aware of the current political situation .

Here are some universal tips you might want to follow during your volunteer work in Europe:

• Keep your personal belongings and important travel documents with you at all times ! It also makes sense to bring attested photocopies of these documents, in case you lose them.
• If you are going out, do not take a lot of money, jewelry, or other fancy possessions with you. Take only the money you will need and leave everything else back home!
• In the unfortunate case of being robbed, never resist the robbery!
• Be careful when withdrawing money from a bank or at an ATM!
• Do NOT ever buy, take or sell any kind of drugs .

Health Advice

It is annoying to get sick when traveling abroad and although it’s not so common for travelers in Europe to fall ill , there are some basic precautions you can take to avoid it at all costs:

• Drink tap water only in countries where you know it is safe to do so. Most countries in Europe have drinkable tap water .
• Wash all your fruits and vegetables thoroughly .
• Plan for how you will get health care during your stay . Get travel insurance and bring medication you normally take with you, also bring the prescription just in case.

Packing Essentials

It's nice to have an idea of what to expect from a foreign country. It's even nicer to know what to pack! This makes life a lot easier when it comes to preparing for your time as a volunteer for one of the programs in Europe. It is always a good idea to ask your project coordinator what volunteers should bring for the program .

• Apart from the essential travel documents, like passport, travel medical insurance information, and visa, you should also keep photocopies or scanned copies of these.
• Always carry sunscreen with you in the summer.
• Keep enough cash with you! You might want to consider getting a money belt .
• Carry luggage with you that will, not complicate your trip , like daypacks or backpacks; as well as lightweight bags.
• Pack appropriate clothing and shoes! This means clothes that are suitable for a variety of climates, as temperatures can vary greatly on a daily basis in Europe. Especially, when working in the forests, long clothing protects you from bug bites.
• Don't forget to bring locks for hostel lockers and also for your luggage!

🕵🏽‍♀️ Who Can Volunteer in Europe?

All projects expect different skills and abilities from their volunteers . While you can find the specific requirements for each project on the program page, here are some general requirements that apply to most volunteer opportunities in Europe .

• You need to be at least 18 years old for most of the volunteer projects in Europe . When in doubt, we advise you to get in touch with the local project manager. Some projects accept volunteers from the age of 16 .
• You need to have basic English skills to join a volunteer project in Europe. Please note that some teaching projects might ask for more advanced English skills.
• Depending on the project you're interested in, you might need to provide a criminal background check and a health declaration before volunteering.

🙋🏽‍♀️ Can I Volunteer in Europe Under 18?

Europe is a wonderful place to volunteer and relatively safe so it’s a great place for volunteers under 18. You can use the filter option on our website to select volunteer programs in Europe that accept volunteers under 18.

There are quite a few volunteer opportunities in Europe for under 18s. You can also get in touch with the volunteer organization to see if they will accept you. This is a great opportunity to gain hands-on work experience abroad while being a European aid volunteer!

❓ How to Volunteer in Europe?

So you want to volunteer in Europe but you’re not quite sure how to get started ? Take a look at the following 3 steps that will prepare you for your volunteer programs in Europe and an unforgettable time abroad:

• Check whether there’s a match between you and the project by looking at their requirements on the program page.
• Take a look at the location of the project and decide whether it is a place you want to travel to.
• Get in touch with the organization and see whether your expectations and your schedules matched up.
• Once this is sorted. Let’s take a look at the practical steps:

Insurance (Health & Travel)

What are the best alternatives to the european solidarity corps.

The European Solidarity Corps is a European Union initiative that aims to engage young people in solidarity activities and projects that benefit communities and tackle societal challenges. It offers opportunities for young people to volunteer, work, and learn in different countries, with the goal of promoting solidarity and building a more inclusive and cohesive society.

However, the European Solidarity Corps is relatively new and not widely known, which means that participants may not receive the same level of recognition and support as other volunteering and internship programs. This can make it difficult for participants to gain valuable skills and experiences, and may not be able to provide the same level of support and opportunities as other programs.

There are also restrictions to join the European Solidarity Corps: Only selected programs are available for non-Europeans and the volunteers need to be aged between 18-30. Additionally, many projects are specifically catering long-term volunteers up to 12 months. If you are looking to join for a short duration, it's a good idea to opt for an alternative to the European Solidarity Corps.

There are many alternatives to the European Solidarity Corps, some of which include volunteering with international volunteer organizations such as Plan My Gap Year , GVI or ImpacTrip . You can do independent volunteer work in a community or organization that aligns with your interests and values. These are just a few examples, and there are many other ways to get involved in volunteering and solidarity efforts both within Europe and around the world.

🛂 Do I need a Visa to Volunteer in Europe?

Visa, passport, and documentation.

Look into the visa requirements for the country you will volunteer in. Make sure you have a valid passport considering the requirements of the host country and prepare the correct documents to fulfill the visa application .

And that’s it! You’re ready to volunteer in Europe and fall in love with nature and the rich culture You have a choice of over 60 different volunteer programs in Europe that are waiting for volunteers. Are you ready to do your part?

We would love to help you find the right volunteer program in Europe. Our live chat team is here to answer your questions.

"Europe is the world’s wealthiest continent, and the need for international volunteers differs from the world’s poorer regions, such as Africa or Latin America. But despite well-developed welfare, education, and health programs, there are communities all across Europe that require volunteers, be it for teaching English, child care, summer camps, or preservation work. In addition, a volunteer vacation in Europe is a great way to help people and communities in need and an excellent opportunity to get to know Europeans and their cultures and experience Europe differently." — Living Abroad Contributing Editor Volker Poelzl.

Angloville Volunteer English Exchange Program Angloville is looking for volunteers who are available for short courses (1-8 weeks) to help local participants improve their language skills. We offer a stay in one of our beautiful venues in Poland, The Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania, Malta, England, and Ireland. We only ask you to help our clients improve their English through a series of general conversations and activities. In return, Angloville provides accommodation with full board and an unforgettable cultural exchange experience.

ARCHELON Volunteer with the Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece Enthusiastic and committed volunteers are required for demanding sea turtle conservation projects run by ARCHELON in Greece. Zakynthos, Peloponnesus and Crete are major nesting areas for the loggerhead ( Caretta caretta ) turtle in the Mediterranean and have been monitored by ARCHELON, a non-profit making organization, for 20 years. In Athens, ARCHELON also runs the only Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Centre in Greece. Volunteers are invited to work on the island of Zakynthos where the first National Marine Park for sea turtles in the Mediterranean was established in 1999 and assist the Management Body of the Park in its task to protect the nesting beaches. In Peloponnesus, volunteers will protect nests from foxes and other mammals, experience the pilot project of sand dune restoration, help maintain nature trails and the running of the newly established Nature Information Centres. On the island of Crete, participants will work for the implementation of a Management Plan for the nesting areas. At the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre, volunteers will have the opportunity to assist our staff in daily treatment of sea turtles that suffer from accidental and deliberate injuries.

Armenian Volunteer Corps (AVC) Provides a way for Diasporan Armenians to come to Armenia and be easily integrated into the society. By way of cultural and language training, combinded with appropriate volunteer work placement. AVC volunteers work towards rebuilding a great and historic nation. For the amount of time of your choice you can join us and walk away with the expirience of a lifetime.

Balkan Sunflowers Volunteer with Roma, Ashkali and Egyptian Communities in Kosovo Projects require help, including education for disadvantaged children, minority and human rights advocacy, women's rights, etc. Intensive language and development training during the first month. Work to help develop the program for Roma, Ashkali and Egyptian communities in Kosovo.

CADIP Short-Term Volunteer Projects in Europe Participating in an international short-term volunteer project (so called Workcamp) can be an exciting prospect. It is an interesting and meaningful way to travel with purpose and spend 2-3 weeks in a foreign environment. Working and living together with other young people from around the world provides an excellent opportunity to make many new friends, learn about unknown places and culture, gain new skills and experience. Your time, energy, and enthusiasm can make a difference in areas where help is really needed.

Earthwatch | Non Profit Environmental Organizations Volunteer Conservation Expeditions in Europe Spanish Dolphins On a fantastic 10-day boat trip help gather vital data that is leading directly to the implementation of conservation measures. Whales and Dolphins of Moray Firth, Scotland Stay in a beautiful village surrounded by majestic cliffs and rolling farmland. Spend your days on the water looking for Whales and Dolpins and gathering crucial population data on these populations to improve their conservation. Icelandic Glaciers Stay in a remote part of the beautiful Skaftafell National Park and collect important data on glacial retreat to help understand how climate change is affecting glaciers. This is a unique opportunity to explore one of the most geologically active areas in the world with a team of leading earth scientists.

Englischhausen Discover Germany in an English Conversation Holiday The Pueblo Ingles program has been described as an inspiring cultural adventure, an enriching personal journey, and a unique, human experience. Each week 15-20 Native English speakers are sponsored to stay in beautiful hotel resorts in different regions of Germany so they can converse with German professionals who want to improve their English. Accommodation, food and drinks are provided in exchange for your conversation. It's a unique and enjoyable experience and the best way to learn about Germany if you don't speak the local lingo.

Global Volunteers Volunteer to Teach English in Greece Volunteer to teach English to youth and adults as well as gardening on the island of Crete in Greece. Teach English in Italy Volunteer to teach English to students in the Puglia region of southern Italy. Teach English in Poland Volunteer to teach English to children in Poland, help disabled youth, and participate in creating community gardens. Teach English in Portugal Volunteer to teach conversational English to youth and adults.

GVI Turtle Conservation Volunteer Program in Greece   This volunteer program gives you the chance to live in the beautiful Bay of Lakonikos in the southern Peloponnese, while working with a team of international volunteers to conserve and protect one of the most important loggerhead turtle nesting areas in Greece. Your team will perform surveys every morning to record nesting activity and protect turtle nests against predation by mammals and inundation by sea water. Volunteers also provide important conservation information to overseas visitors and the local community. Opportunities exist for you to explore the fascinating Greek culture and to enjoy the sights of the surrounding local area in your free time.

La Giraudiere Volunteer in France The volunteer program provides a comfortable, affordable place for a diverse group of people from all over the world to meet and to work towards a common goal together. La Giraudiere is an old French residence which the owner, Pau, aims to turn into a place for primary school children to come and immerse themselves in the true French culture. Don't miss this chance to exchange and to learn new skills across different fields of work, from internet optimization to plastering!

La Sabranenque Volunteer in the South of France Volunteers needed to help preserve and restore villages and monuments in beautiful locations in France, primarily in Provence near Avignon. Work in an international and peaceful communal environment helping to restore and maintain one of the most beautiful villages in a country overflowing with beautiful villages.

Live it Lisbon! Summer Volunteer Program in Lisbon, Portugal A non-profit and low-cost summer experience. The program aims at promoting intercultural dialogue and social justice. It is meant to be a responsible and meaningful alternative to mainstream tourism, as over half of the time of the program is spent on intercultural activities and on giving back to the socially and economically challenged host community of Bairro Padre Cruz in Lisbon, Portugal. The program has been run since 2015 by a small independent Development NGO.

Love Volunteers Make a Ddifference in Central and Eastern Europe with Love Volunteers! Love Volunteers has been trusted by thousands of volunteers to travel abroad and immerse themselves in new cultures, whilst providing help where it is really needed. Join the world’s fastest growing independent volunteering organization on an affordable, safe and responsible voluntary service project in Albania, Moldova, Ukraine or Russia for a truly memorable experience! Visit our website to check out our range of community-based projects and find out how you can make a REAL difference!

National Trust Working Holidays Britain’s National Trust cares for more wildlife, including 1,250 vulnerable species, than any other European charity. It owns more than 240,000 hectares of land and 575 miles of coastline, making it the largest private landowner in Britain. A virtual army of staff and volunteers assist in managing these habitats with 450 well-organized holidays a year in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The catalog is online. Bookings from overseas volunteers between 18 and 70 are welcome and very inexpensive, including food and hostel accommodations. Most older adults choose projects classified as Oak, Oak Plus, and Archaeological Holidays because they are less physically rigorous.

Projects Abroad Volunteer in Transylvania, Romania Support communities in need and experience life in Transylvania, Romania. You can work in archeology, childhood development, or write for a magazine.

PuebloIngles — Volunteer in Spain in an English Conversation Holiday Pueblo Ingles has been described as an inspiring cultural adventure, an enriching personal journey, and a unique, human experience. Each week twenty Native English speakers are sponsored to stay in a beautiful, picturesque 3-4-star resort in Spain so they can converse with Spanish professionals who want to improve their English. Accommodation, food and wine are provided in exchange for your conversation. It's a unique and enjoyable experience and the best way to learn about Spain if you don't speak the local lingo.

REMPART Summer Volunteer Workcamps Volunteers are need to help restore and care for ancient monuments, including castles, throughout France. 3,000 volunteers participate yearly, of which 25% are from abroad . Projects are led by expert local technicians and charges vary, so see the website for details.

SCI (Service Civil International) Volunteer Projects in France SCI is an exchange organization that sends volunteers on 2-3 week international work projects and long term 3-12 month opportunities in over 45 countries, including France. For all overseas camps for a small fee. Workcamps include shared accommodations, group self-cooked meals and basic health/accident insurance, without additional cost, unless otherwise noted in the camp description. SCI promotes voluntary service to impact social, environmental and humanitarian issues.

Volunteers for Peace Projects in France VFP offers over 3000 projects in more than 90 countries every year, including France! Project costs starts at $500, which includes food and accommodation. Types of projects include construction, environmental, agricultural, social, work with kids, renovation, art & culture and more! Since 1982, VFP has exchanged over 32,000 volunteers worldwide. Start planning your volunteer adventure or learn how to get involved at VFP.org!

WWOOF (Willing Workers on Organic Farms) Volunteer locations in countries worldwide, including most countries in Europe. Members may exchange farm work for food, accommodations, and opportunities to learn about organic lifestyles.

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Volunteering in Europe

Immerse yourself in a new culture and give back by volunteering in Europe

By volunteering in Europe, you’ll focus on long-term, sustainable development in local communities. You’ll also gain a deeper insight into people’s lives and the challenges they face.

Your work can make an incredible difference to the people you meet. Use this opportunity for personal growth, by stepping out of your comfort zone and immersing yourself in a new culture.

On our volunteer opportunities in Europe, you can do things like:

• Improve education and career opportunities for children and teenagers with volunteer teaching English in Europe .
• Help teachers and caregivers provide the best start in life by volunteering with children .
• Work at a shelter to give dogs love and care and volunteer in Europe with animals .

When looking for volunteer programs in Europe, our Project Experts will help you find the project that best fits your interests and ambitions.

When you do volunteer work in Eastern Europe with us, we take care of the details, so you can have a hassle-free experience. Our local staff are available to help you 24/7 . This means you can focus all your energy on making a real impact in the community where you’re working.

Why do volunteer work in Europe?

Compared to other continents, you may not think that Europe needs volunteers. However, we work in Eastern Europe, which is home to many disadvantaged communities where you can make a real impact. Romania has a high number of stray dogs who need looking after, as well as children from low-income households placed in overcrowded care centers. Our volunteers are able to ease the pressure and provide extra support.

You’ll also have the unique opportunity to gain practical archaeology experience. You’ll be placed on real archaeology sites, uncovering the remains of the Roman Empire. This can help you build the skills and confidence to succeed in your dream career, but it also helps preserve local cultural heritage by providing support to understaffed archaeology sites.

One of the biggest impacts you can have is to head into the region and teach English. This gives local people the chance to land a high paying and secure job, which in turn helps the whole economy to grow.

In doing this great work, you’ll be immersed in a new and fascinating culture. You’ll get to live life from a different perspective and leave with new skills and a lifelong group of friends. Plus, European travel does offer a certain level of comfortable infrastructure that many travelers appreciate.  

How to Become a Volunteer in Europe

Want to know more about volunteering in Europe? Getting started is easy! Just follow these steps to make your international volunteer travel dreams into a reality: 

• Think about the work you want to do, whether that’s helping children or gaining practical work experience as a journalist.
• Reach out to our Project Experts, who can provide more information and help you make the right choice for your interests and goals.
• Decide how much time you have to travel to Europe and how flexible your dates are. This will determine what kind of trip is right for you, whether that's an independent Flexi Trip or a High School Special for students aged 15-18.
• Once you know what type of volunteer work you’d like to do, and the length you wish to travel for, there’s nothing left to do but fill in the application form and book your place!

Do You Need a Visa to Volunteer in Europe?

When you apply, we’ll support you every step of the way. We’ll make sure you have everything you need to safely volunteer abroad, wherever you go.

One of the advantages of travel to Europe is that most visitors can stay for 90 days without a visa. Circumstances and requirements can change, but our Visa Team will be on hand to help you out with any visa-related travel concerns.

How Old Do I Have to be to Volunteer in Europe?

All our volunteer opportunities in Europe are open to people aged 16 and over. To join a project, all you need to do is check you meet the requirements and apply. Most of our volunteer abroad projects have minimum requirements which are stated clearly on the project page, but feel free to get in touch for more advice and support.

Looking to volunteer in Europe under 18? We offer volunteer programs in Europe for high school students . Our High School Specials are designed to give teenagers the support and care they need as young travelers. Volunteering in Europe for 16 and 17 year olds is the perfect way to build skills in preparation for university.

And there’s no upper age limit! We believe you’re never too old to do volunteer work in Europe. In fact, your experience and skills are much needed to support development in European communities. No matter your age, you’ll find Europe to be an amazing part of the world to offer your skills and support.

Is Volunteering in Europe Ethical?

Rest assured you’ll have an ethical experience with us in Eastern Europe. We hold all our volunteers to a high standard, especially on the projects that involve animals and children.

As champions of responsible volunteer travel , we follow an eight point checklist for all projects, including our volunteer in Europe opportunities. This guarantees an ethical travel experience for all involved.

Learn more about our policies and approach to ethical volunteering .

Do We Offer Short Term Volunteering in Europe?

Only available for a short trip abroad? No need to worry! You can volunteer in Europe from a minimum of one week. This offers the most flexibility, so you can have an amazing experience and do vital volunteer work, no matter how long you’re able to travel for.

If you’re concerned about what kind of impact you can really make in a week, read our blog that explains how we approach short-term volunteering .

Our price increases per week are minimal, so the longer you stay, the better value your trip! You’ll also have more time to really learn about a new European culture and to see the amazing impact you’re having on local communities.

Do you offer free volunteer opportunities or paid volunteer work in Europe?

We want you to have an experience abroad that is safe and impactful. If you’re looking for free volunteer programs in Europe or paid volunteer work in Europe, then you won’t be able to have the experience that we aim to give all our volunteers. We do offer volunteer work in Europe with accommodation.

We can’t achieve our long term sustainable development goals without adequate funding, which is why we charge a fee for our volunteer projects in Europe. This fee covers food, accommodation, and much more. The money you pay to volunteer overseas ensures you have a safe and hassle-free trip, so you can focus on making a positive transformation.

Read more about why you can’t volunteer abroad for free .

You may not be able to volunteer in Europe for free, but this doesn’t mean it’s not affordable. Especially when you consider that our program fees include:

• Three meals a day
• Accommodation
• Transportation to and from your placement

Plus, the longer you stay, the lower the cost per week.

We also offer affordable volunteering programs in Europe via our flexible payment plans . We understand that paying in one go isn’t always possible, so we just ask for an initial deposit and then you can pay as much or as little as you like in a series of small installments. We’re completely flexible, but the entire fee does need to be paid in full before you leave for your project.

If you’re still thinking about how to finance our volunteer programs in Eastern Europe, we offer advice and support for volunteer fundraising , so you’re able to afford the adventure of a lifetime! Our staff and alumni are experts on raising funds and we’ll ensure that you’re able to secure the required amount.

Is it Safe to Volunteer in Europe?

Eastern Europe, where our projects are based, is a safe and stable region of the world. Wherever you go, you’ll find political stability. You can tavel and volunteer in Europe with great peace of mind. Like anywhere though, visitors should be aware of their surroundings. Local staff will be on hand to offer tips and advice on keeping yourself and your belongings safe. They’re contactable 24/7. If you choose to volunteer in Europe on our High School Specials for under 18s, you’ll have constant support and supervision .

Find out more about safety and backup .

Where to Volunteer in Europe

You can volunteer in Eastern Europe in:

Volunteering in Romania

Support disadvantaged communities while experiencing life in Transylvania

Europe has a long and fascinating history, which can only be fully explored by immersing yourself in the culture. At the same time, many communities are understaffed and under-resourced.

If you’d like to make a difference to local communities while improving your own life prospects, then don’t delay. Book a European volunteering adventure today!

Ready to start your volunteer in Europe adventure?

Talk to our Project Experts today to begin your journey!

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GoEco > Europe

Volunteer in Europe

Volunteer and travel in Europe with GoEco! Discover the Mediterranean as you work to protect dolphins or turtles, grow your teaching skills in local schools, or make friends from around the world in a youth hostel. GoEco’s European volunteering programs combine the best of volunteering with outstanding travel opportunities in cultural, historic, and artistic centers. In a nutshell:

• Choose from 15 exciting programs with measurable impacts
• Strong ethical values for peace of mind
• Excellent volunteer reviews and multiple awards
• Program fees cover volunteer accommodation, most meals, airport transfers, and 24/7 support
• Experience Europe’s major travel highlights

European countries have rich cultural histories and a huge array of landscapes to explore. There’s an almost impossible list of places to visit; from royal palaces and museums packed with some of the greatest artworks in the world, to golden Mediterranean beaches and verdant vineyards. Volunteering in Europe will help you carve a path through the best sights, sounds, and experiences of Europe. Why volunteer in Europe? Europe is a diverse patchwork of countries stitched together historically and geographically. Because of this, Europe stands out as a travel and volunteer destination. You could be sinking your toes into the sand of a Greek island one day, wandering cobblestone streets in Italy the next, and sipping on sangria in Barcelona the day after that. Each country has its own defined history, culture, and traditions, so take a one-hour flight in any direction and you’ll find yourself somewhere entirely different. Living and volunteering in Europe is a chance to sample la dolce vita, the good life, surrounded by fine wines and cuisine that has been perfected over hundreds of years. For volunteers, Europe also presents an exciting opportunity to gain real-world experience in hospitality, teaching, or conservation initiatives. With a multitude of languages spoken on the continent, Europe is also a great place to get an English teaching qualification​ and then practice your teaching skills in a number of countries looking to brush up on their English. At the same time, you can practice your own language skills with locals, learning a new tongue such as Spanish. Locations Locations where you can experience a volunteer program, or internship, in Europe, with GoEco: Greece – The Acropolis, Mount Olympus, Meteora – Greece is full of great sights. Ancient ruins, sun-bleached islands, and blue Aegean sea are just the beginning. Turtle conservation projects give you a chance to immerse yourself in the wealth of natural and archaeological sites along the country’s coast, while helping to protect the vulnerable species of turtles . Spain – One of Europe’s most lively countries, Spain has volunteer projects covering everything from marine protection, to sustainable farming, and hospitality internships . Soul-stirring landscapes and strong traditions around enjoying food, wine, and the good life mean exploring Spain will be a journey of a lifetime. Ireland – The ‘Emerald Isle’ is a friendly and beautiful place to volunteer. The rolling green countryside is the perfect setting for learning about sustainable agriculture , while the lively towns keep your weekends interesting. Croatia – Bordering the Adriatic Sea, Croatia is famed for beaches covered with silvery pebbles, and rich blue waters that hide a treasure trove of marine life . The coastline is dotted with both islands and ancient walled towns, so your sunny days will be filled with exploration. United Kingdom – From the northern tip of Scotland to the white cliffs of Dover, the whole of the United Kingdom is steeped in history and traditions. Fill your days with expeditions to crumbling castles, ancient stone circles, or just the local village pub. No matter where you are, you’ll be surrounded with fascinating stories and a dash of British eccentricity. Italy – Art, architecture, and cuisine make Italy a distinctive center of style and sophistication. There are more UNESCO World Heritage sites in Italy than in any other country. From the Roman Empire to the Renaissance, there is an incredible depth of history to explore and learn about. Then there’s the natural beauty of Italy – from the snowy Alps to the country’s glorious Mediterranean coastline . Portugal – With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and Spain on the other, Portugal is a vibrant blend of cosmopolitan cities, such as Lisbon , and untamed nature. Lisbon’s tangle of narrow streets and colorful buildings invite you to satisfy your curiosity and explore every corner. Nearby, you can visit windswept beaches or quiet mountain towns. Programs A meaningful volunteer project can lend a higher purpose to your Euro trip. You’ll be doing more than just traveling for the sake of personal interest – you could contribute to areas such as conservation, hospitality or education. Wildlife conservation – Europe has a vast array of wildlife. Many European countries border the sea, so there are a large number of conservation programs centering around marine animals such as dolphins and turtles. Being a part of a positive movement to protect these fascinating creatures is immensely rewarding. Not only do you get to feel good about contributing to important conservation work, but you’ll also get to know (and even swim with) dolphins and turtles on serious research expeditions. In Italy for example, the data you help to collect can directly contribute to dolphin conservation . Hospitality – Volunteering in a hostel is a fun way to learn more about the international hospitality industry. This is a dynamic and fast-paced volunteer environment that will encourage you to think on your feet while honing accounting, communication, and organizational skills. As you gain work experience, you’ll also make friends from all over the world! Education – Gain valuable teaching experience while facilitating English classes or working with children in education centers . Teaching programs are a great way to tap into your creativity and have fun while engaging others in important educational activities. You’ll also be working closely with community members, so you’ll be sure to make plenty of local friends! Get in touch with us today to find out more about our projects.

Marine Conservation in Split

Dive into marine conservation in Split, Croatia, and help clean the Adriatic Sea’s seabed. Learn scuba diving, meet like-minded volunteers, and explore the Croatian coast while making a meaningful environmental impact.

Marine Conservation in Barcelona

Scuba dive into the beautiful waters of the Spanish Mediterranean to help clean up pollutants that threaten local marine life. Experience Barcelona’s unique culture and spend your days diving and protecting nature in one of the world’s most beautiful places.

Food Rescue in Lisbon

Help fight food waste in Lisbon by participating in this program! Join local volunteer groups to share leftover food from grocery stores & eateries with the homeless and families in need.

Marine Conservation in Lisbon

Dive into marine conservation in Lisbon, Portugal, and join efforts to clean up the Atlantic coastline. Enhance your scuba diving skills, protect local marine life, and connect with volunteers from around the world in this impactful program.

Liveaboard Dolphin Research Expedition

Volunteer on a famous historic boat and contribute to dolphin conservation by collecting vital data. Sail along the beautiful Italian coastline with a dedicated team of researchers and international volunteers.

Wolf Conservation and Lisbon Experience

Contribute to the conservation of wolves in Portugal ! Begin your volunteer adventure experiencing the bustling capital city of Lisbon and then enjoy making a difference at a nearby wolf reserve.

Barcelona Youth Empowerment

Join our Youth Support program in Barcelona and empower young minds! Help students in after-school centers with homework, English, and activities, while immersing yourself in Spanish culture.

Barcelona Food Rescue & Community Empowerment

Volunteer in Barcelona to combat food waste and empower communities. Work with an NGO in a diverse neighborhood to create sustainable solutions.

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Volunteer in Europe

When you think about volunteering abroad with animals, what comes to mind? African wildlife, such as lions, rhinos and elephants? What about volunteering in Europe? This diverse continent is often forgotten when it comes to volunteering abroad, as the majority of people would choose locations such as Asia or Africa first before even considering Europe. With that being said, volunteering in Europe is terribly under-rated yet has so much to offer, as people do not realise that Europe is home to some exquisite, natural hidden gems and amazing wildlife! While Europe is renowned for its rich culture and ancient history, rather than its biodiversity, there are still endangered species in need of help here. By becoming a volunteer in Europe you could help species such as the Eurasian wolf, Siberian tiger, brown bear or even the Arctic fox, all of which can be found across this close-knit continent. However, pollution, climate change and habitat loss are all contributing factors to the decrease in wildlife population across Europe. As a result of this, conservation efforts are needed now more than ever to aid in the protection of these iconic animals. As a wildlife volunteer, you will have the chance to work with other like-minded people in building a safer future for the animals across Europe. You could take part in activities ranging from whale monitoring in the secluded paradise of the Azores to feeding brown bears in the unspoilt countryside of Romania. With its untouched, peaceful countryside and deep valleys; you will have the opportunity to volunteer in a range of destinations across Europe, all offering rewarding and life-changing experiences.

Whether you are looking to volunteer for the first time or if you are city-hopping through Europe, join a project today and turn a holiday into a volunteering experience you’ll never forget. Start your journey to becoming a volunteer in Europe today.

Projects Do More

The Great Whale Project

6 - 55 nights from £695.00.

Help to assist a team of marine biologists in important whale and dolphin conservation.

Romanian Bear Sanctuary

7 - 28 nights from £1,195.00.

Volunteer at one of Europe's best bear sanctuaries and aid in the conservation of these incredible animals.

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Nordic Wilderness Adventure Tour

On the blog.

Who Volunteers in Europe

Europe is the heart of the Western world, with millions of visitors travelling each year. People of all ages choose to volunteer in Europe from first-time travellers to seasoned jet-setters, all who share similar views on wildlife conservation. 

You may be looking to travel alone, wanting to explore Europe and all within it whilst meeting friendly volunteers along the way, or maybe you are a newly wedded couple, looking to spend their honeymoon volunteering with animals abroad. 

Our award-winning projects are suitable for everyone, whether you’re in a group or family, or even at university. No matter who you are or your background, The Great Projects have wildlife opportunities to suit you. Get in touch today and become a volunteer in Europe.

Why Volunteer in Europe

Volunteering in Europe has never been easier, with a variety of travel options available for you choose from; you can opt to drive through this remarkable continent whilst taking in spectacular sights or find manageable flight routes from wherever you may be. 

Volunteers are choosing Europe for many reasons, helping to save the iconic wildlife being one of them; from brown bears, huskies to marine life.

During your time as a volunteer, you will gain new life experiences, create lasting memories, and potentially make life-long friends, all whilst helping to save endangered animals. 

Europe has long been the go-to destination for many volunteers, as more and more people are choosing to stop over at other countries within Europe during their travels. With magnificent wildlife, diverse landscapes and easy stop-overs, the overall volunteering experience in Europe is an unforgettable one!

Things To Avoid

Whilst parts of Europe have banned the use of wild animals in circus acts, unfortunately, the rest of the continent still allows this to go on. 

These wild animals are taken from their natural habitats, many as babies, caged and kept in cruel conditions. Distressed and fearful, they are then forced to perform tricks and routines in the tourism industry for human entertainment. 

To be sure you are not encouraging such animal exploitation, we recommend you do not visit or support any attractions or circus acts where wild animals are involved. Instead, volunteer in Europe to help support conservation efforts and put a stop to the mistreated animals for good!

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Volun­teering in Europe: Volunteer projects in Europe

Volunteer programs in Europe: Volunteer abroad in Europe and become active in wildlife research, environmental protection and animal welfare

Volunteer work in Europe

Conservation and wildlife volunteering in Europe: When volunteering in Europe, you can support animal welfare and conservation initiatives and, at the same time, immerse yourself into awe-inspiring landscapes and fascinating cultures.

Magnificent landscapes, multifaceted cultures and a breathtakingly complex history – Europe fascinates its visitors on many levels. For all those who would like to get to know the European continent in a special way and at the same time want to give something back, volunteering is an appropriate option. This way, they can dive into beautiful landscapes, gain insights into diverse cultures and actively contribute to conservation and animal welfare in Europe. From a short time-out to gap year volunteering in Europe – learn more about Natucate’s manifold options for wildlife research, nature conservation and animal volunteer opportunities in Europe .

Highlights of your volunteer work in Europe:

Adventures to get you dreaming.

Volunteer in Southwest Europe, help protect and conserve the Iberian wolf and discover Portugal's natural diversity

As a volunteer in this project you live in Greece's fascinating Attica region and help take care of rescue cats in need

Join our volunteer project in Costa Rica and contribute to the survival of endangered sea turtles

Volunteering in Europe with Natucate

Natucate gives you the chance to become engaged as a conservation or animal sanctuary volunteer in Europe . Your voluntary commitment may in an aid project reach from a few weeks to several months to an entire gap year . Wildlife, animal and eco-volunteering in Europe – receive more details about the Natucate volunteer opportunities .

Wildlife conservation and animal volunteering

The European fauna is rich in species – bears, lynxes, wolves, deers, elks, ibex as well as numerous bird species are just some of the many animals that are found in Europe. But due to factors like targeted hunting in the past and habitat loss, population levels of several species have been and still are shrinking . As part of dedicated conservation programs, volunteers can contribute to the protection of Europe’s unique fauna. When joining a Natucate program, you can volunteer in conservation projects or animal sanctuaries in different parts of Europe .

Wolf conservation in Portugal

Volunteer with wolves in Europe : Travel to Portugal and actively contribute to preserving the rare Iberian wolf as a volunteer! You are based on the grounds of a wolf sanctuary near Lisbon where you assist with forest maintenance on the sanctuary grounds, feeding the wolves, performing monitoring activities and maintaining the shelter’s infrastructure. Your voluntary commitment in Portugal enables you to get to know nature and wildlife of Southwest Europe in an incomparable way.

Lynx and wolf research in Slovakia

Wildlife conservation volunteering in Europe : As a volunteer in Slovakia , you work together with experienced nature conservationists and local residents to research wolf and lynx populations in the impressive Liptov region. By working with camera traps and collecting DNA samples, you and your team help to identify changes in the species’ population levels. The project takes place in the beginning of each year, giving you the chance to immerse yourself into Slovakia’s magical winter wilderness.

Conservation volunteering in Europe

Not only Europe’s fauna, but also its flora is incredibly diverse. In the European forests, meadows, riparian zones, wetlands and other biotopes, a multitudes of plant species can be found which themselves serve as habitats and food sources for animals. However, climate change, intensive agriculture and habitat destruction pose growing dangers for the continent’s flora and biodiversity. In order to help preserve biological diversity, you can support different projects in Southern and Northern Europe as a Natucate volunteer.

Conservation volunteering in Spain

Nature and marine conservation volunteer in Europe : Join a fascinating nature conservation program in Spain and help preserve pristine natural areas of the country’s Mediterranean region! The program operates on two different sites: As a volunteer in Valencia , you will mainly be working in the Albufera Natural Park – as a volunteer in Denia , you will focus on the conservation of marine ecosystems. Both sites provide valuable insights into the work of professional conservationists.

Nature conservation in Estonia

Eco-volunteering in Europe : As a volunteer in Estonia , you can experience the fascinating landscapes of Northern Europe while helping to conserve pristine habitats. Based in different workcamps throughout your stay, you and your international team head out into nature each day to contribute to the preservation of biodiversity through manual vegetation work like removing invasive plant species .

Nature travel in Europe : Contact our team at Natucate, join one of our European volunteer programs and experience an unforgettable time as a conservation and animal sanctuary volunteer .

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Volunteer Abroad Programs

Discover the best volunteer opportunities abroad in over 50 destinations with international volunteer hq.

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) is the world’s leading volunteer travel organization - trusted by 137,170 volunteers since 2007. With volunteer abroad programs starting from just $20 per day including accommodation, you won’t find a more affordable and trustworthy organization for impactful volunteer vacations, gap years, volunteer trips abroad, or an alternative break.

You can volunteer overseas with IVHQ for durations ranging from 1 week to 24 weeks, with volunteering abroad programs available year round in Africa , Asia , South America , Central America , North America , Europe , the Caribbean , the Middle East and the Pacific .

Discover North America

Or explore by destination.

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Or explore by destination:.

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• Puerto Rico
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See the world. Immerse yourself. Make a difference.

300+ projects across 40+ countries.

Volunteer programs running in more countries than anyone else

Most affordable & flexible

Fully hosted experiences from only $20 per day including accommodation

Ethical, responsible & regenerative

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Impact driven programs run by locals

Supports long-term employment for local communities

Volunteer Abroad Opportunities

Volunteering abroad with IVHQ enables you to make meaningful contributions to community projects in the areas of education, healthcare, construction, childcare, community development, conservation, social enterprise, volunteering with animals, wildlife and more. Browse by project type .

Looking for inspiration on where to volunteer abroad? Here’s where you can make a difference with IVHQ:

• All regions
• Africa & Middle East
• North & South America

Volunteer in Argentina

Volunteer in Australia

Volunteer in Bali

Volunteer in Belize

Volunteer in Brazil

Volunteer in Cambodia

Volunteer in China

Volunteer in Colombia

Volunteer in Costa Rica

Volunteer in Croatia

Volunteer in Ecuador

Volunteer in Fiji

Volunteer in the Galapagos Islands

Volunteer in Ghana

Volunteer in Greece

Volunteer in Guatemala

Volunteer in India

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Volunteer in Jamaica

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Volunteer in Kenya

Volunteer in Laos

Volunteer in Madagascar

Volunteer in Mexico

Volunteer in Morocco

Volunteer in Namibia

Volunteer in Nepal

Volunteer in New Zealand

Volunteer in Peru

Volunteer in the Philippines

Volunteer in Portugal

Volunteer in Puerto Rico

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Volunteer in South Africa

Volunteer in Spain

Volunteer in Sri Lanka

Volunteer in Tanzania

Volunteer in Thailand

Volunteer in Trinidad and Tobago

Volunteer in the United States

Volunteer in Victoria Falls

Volunteer in Vietnam

Volunteer in Zambia

Volunteer in Zanzibar

See what's required to visit your chosen destination

Fill out the quick form below to find out what the border and visa requirements are for the IVHQ destination you're traveling to, based on your country of residence.

Volunteering abroad involves traveling to a foreign country or region with the purpose of dedicating your time, energy, skills, and efforts to assist local communities, organizations, or projects. It can encompass a diverse range of volunteer activities that contribute to the betterment of society, such as education, healthcare, environmental conservation, wildlife conservation, community development, and more.

Through volunteering abroad, you have the unique opportunity to truly immerse yourself in a different culture, broaden your global perspective, and make a positive impact on the lives of others. This experience enables you to step out of your comfort zone, acquire new skills, and create meaningful connections with local communities and other volunteers from around the world.

There are a number of reasons why volunteering abroad can be a transformative and rewarding experience for international volunteers. These include:

• Make a positive impact: To make a tangible difference in the lives of others and contribute to meaningful causes
• Cultural immersion: To immerse yourself in a new culture and gain a deeper understanding of different customs, traditions, and ways of life
• Explore new destinations: To explore exciting destinations around the world and travel with purpose
• Personal growth: To develop new skills, build self-confidence, adapt to unfamiliar situations, and overcome obstacles
• Make new friends: To build international connections and form long-lasting relationships with people from diverse backgrounds, including fellow volunteers and local community members
• Career enhancement: To showcase to future employers your commitment, adaptability, cross-cultural understanding, and ability to work in diverse environments

Learn about how volunteering abroad has supported the growth and development of previous IVHQ volunteers.

To volunteer abroad with IVHQ, you generally need to be at least 18 years old (with some programs available for younger participants), have a good command of English (knowledge of the local language may be beneficial in some cases), and meet any specific requirements for certain projects (ie. Medical projects).

Most volunteer programs do not require specific skills or technical expertise - all you need is a passion for making a difference and a willingness to learn. Beneficial skills for volunteering abroad can include communication, cultural sensitivity, empathy, flexibility, teamwork, problem-solving, and patience.

IVHQ offers you the flexibility to choose the duration of your volunteer abroad program with options ranging from 1 week to 24 weeks. Note that some programs may have minimum duration requirements so this is important to take into consideration when selecting your volunteer program.

There is no age limit to volunteering abroad - IVHQ has hosted volunteers up to 88 years-old on programs. In fact, volunteering abroad is becoming an increasingly popular way for older adults to see the world, be immersed in new cultures, and engage in a regenerative form of travel. When choosing a volunteer program, older volunteers may wish to consider factors such as physical demands and accommodations to ensure a comfortable and fulfilling experience. These volunteer program recommendations for over 40s is the perfect place to start your search.

There are numerous destinations around the world where you can volunteer abroad. IVHQ offers programs in 40+ countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Pacific. When deciding where to volunteer abroad, you should consider the type of cause you want to support, your skills and interests, destinations you would like to visit, how long you can commit to, and your budget. IVHQ has a helpful volunteer program search tool that enables you to find the perfect program tailored to your unique requirements.

Some popular destinations for volunteering abroad include:

You can learn more about IVHQ’s top-rated volunteer programs in the Best Volunteer Abroad Programs for 2024 Guide .

Volunteering abroad through IVHQ follows a guided process that ensures you feel supported every step of the way. Regardless of whether you’re a first-timer or experienced traveler, the IVHQ team is committed to ensuring you have access to superior tools and support services both before you leave home and after you arrive in country. The steps involved in volunteering abroad are:

• Research and choosing a program
• Application
• Pre-Departure preparations
• Fundraising and financing
• Training and orientation
• In-country orientation and volunteer experience
• Reflection and post-volunteering activities

All IVHQ volunteers receive access to a comprehensive Pre-Departure Checklist, Program Guide and Online Volunteer Training Course so you can ensure you are properly prepared and have ticked off all the essential steps before embarking on a volunteer abroad trip.

The cost of volunteering abroad with IVHQ varies depending on factors like the program duration, destination, and specific project. Program fees start from as low as $20/day and include accommodation, meals, airport pickup, orientation, local support, and emergency assistance. IVHQ also requires a registration fee. Additional expenses may include flights, travel insurance, visas, vaccinations, and personal expenses. To find the cheapest volunteer programs and compare your options, visit the Affordable Volunteer Program Fees page.

It is unlikely that you can volunteer abroad for free as most volunteer programs have associated costs, including flights, accommodation, meals and other living expenses. However, you may be able to minimize expenses through grants, scholarships, fundraising, or by participating in exchange programs. To learn more about offsetting your travel costs, see How To Volunteer Abroad For Free .

Volunteer work abroad encompasses a wide range of opportunities, including:

• Medical and Health
• Sea Turtle and Marine Conservation
• Wildlife and Animal Care
• Construction and Renovation
• Environment and Conservation
• Climate Action
• Community Development
• Special Needs Care
• Women’s Empowerment

IVHQ has the world’s largest range of volunteer work opportunities with 300+ programs available in 40+ countries.

You can find success stories from previous international volunteers through the IVHQ Blog or IVHQ Reviews .

How to get started

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Get exclusive offers, program opening updates, travel inspo, volunteer stories, scholarships and competitions… Straight to your inbox!

Volunteer Abroad on a Short-Term Quest

When you journey on a United Planet Quest, you will have an impact, both on the community you serve and on yourself.  You will feel connected to a new culture. You will learn, and you will teach. You will discover, understand, grow.  You will come home a different person than when you left.

United Planet also offers virtual volunteering and virtual internships for 4 weeks and more in over 20 countries. Learn more about our virtual volunteering and virtual internship countries and projects .

Short-Term Quest in Peru Available : Support after-school programs, rural development, wildlife, and animal rescues, or volunteer at global health project to shadow doctors and nurses in local clinics in Cusco.

Short-Term Quest in Moldova Available : Help Ukrainian Refugees in Moldova ! There is an urgent need for volunteers in Moldova , helping with the Ukrainian refugee crisis. United Planet is seeking volunteers to support Ukrainian refugees, primarily women and children, în Chișinău, the capital of Moldova . United Planet volunteers are supporting local organizations in Moldova at the forefront of the refugee crisis.

Short-Term Quest to Ecuador Available:  Support a Wildlife Rescue Center by helping care for rescued animals, learning about environmental education, and rehabbing endangered wildlife of the Amazon.

Short- & Long-Term Quest to Costa Rica Available : Support ecological projects in rural areas—sea turtle & butterfly conservation, and ecological reserve protection. Spanish lessons are available for an additional cost.

Short-Term Quests to Italy Available: Volunteers can support foster care projects located in Northern Italy, living near or on site with the family. Volunteer Abroad Quests to Italy are available year-round.

Short-Term Countries

Project Options

Children and Education

Work with community members in classrooms, after school programs, daycares, childcare centers, women’s shelters, and more while immersing yourself completely in the local culture of your host community.

Global Health

Work and learn alongside community health professionals in general medicine, nursing, dentistry, physical therapy, psychiatry, and other areas while gaining real insight into shared healthcare challenges around the globe.

Environmental Sustainability

Live and work in conservation areas, contribute to construction projects, care for wildlife, and collaborate with local professionals to provide environmental education to surrounding communities.

What’s It Like?

“I have made some of the best memories during my Quest, and my stay in Peru was and always will be a monumental time in my life. I feel that I made a real difference in the lives of the children in my project, and I can say without a doubt that they had (and are continuing to have) a huge impact in mine. I felt immersed in the culture and lives of the Peruvian families. My excursion to Machu Picchu was an amazing and spiritually enhancing experience. I will forever cherish the memories of my day at the monumental Incan ruins. My overall experience on my United Planet Quest to Peru was everything I had hoped for and more. I will have these memories for the rest of my life. I have always been bothered by people who come back from life-changing experiences and simply say ‘it can not be put into words,’ but I am beginning to understand where they are coming from.” – Karsen G., volunteer in Peru

Program Details

United Planet Quests are designed to be immersive, authentic, comprehensive and provide you everything you’ll need to succeed. The program elements allow you to engage fully with a new culture, forge strong relationships, and challenge yourself. Most importantly, we partner with the community to ensure your experience will be important, relevant and helpful to the community you serve.

Get In Touch With Us

Complete Guide: Volunteering In Europe For Free Accommodation

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Feb 25, 2023 | Budget Travel , Europe , Travel Tips

If you dream of backpacking Europe; visiting unique and charming destinations while traveling at a relaxed pace, you’re probably wondering how to do it without spending a fortune!

In this guide, you will find plenty of resources to learn how to volunteer in Europe for free accommodation so you can make backpacking in Europe a reality.

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Europe is certainly not the cheapest continent to travel long term. Still, there are some clever hacks to save money and travel for longer, such as volunteering. 

On a volunteer placement, you give some of your free time to help local businesses and communities in exchange for free accommodation.

If you’ve visited Europe before, you’ll know even the hostels there are not cheap.

Therefore, if you can stay in places for free, you’ll have more money to enjoy the destination.

Volunteering in Europe provides many other benefits, too.

You’ll meet locals, help in the community, and potentially contribute to worthwhile causes. So, if you’re wondering how to volunteer in Europe for free, read on.

How To Volunteer In Europe For Free

There are various ways to volunteer in Europe for free. You don’t have to wait until you’re traveling to find opportunities, either.

The following methods allow you to secure placements ahead of your trip, so you don’t have to book any flights until you know you have an exchange confirmed.

Join Worldpackers Europe

Suppose you worry about things going wrong or placements not being as expected. In that case, I recommend using a specialized travel volunteering platform like Worldpackers.

Worldpackers was founded in 2013, so it has almost 10 years of experience arranging Europe volunteer opportunities. Moreover, they implement a vigorous verification process to ensure all listings are legit.  

They have placements and exchanges in almost 40 European countries, from England to Italy, Sweden to Poland. The range of opportunities is highly diverse too.

With Worldpackers Europe, you can plan the most epic backpacking trip.

For example, you could be helping at an animal sanctuary in Wales, teaching yoga in the Canary Islands, or creating social media content in Macedonia. 

Learn more by reading our Worldpackers review .

Sign up on Worldpackers

Post In Facebook Groups

You can also find ways to volunteer in Europe for free by joining Europe backpacking Facebook groups like “Backpacking Europe” and “Traveling in Europe.” Sometimes hosts will post in these groups looking for volunteers.

However, it’s well worth making your own post, too, explaining what you are looking for. 

You can also join the travel volunteering Facebook community “Volunteer Abroad For Free,” which often advertises work exchanges in Europe.

PSSST. Want to get FREE accommodation in exchange for work?

The advantage of using social media to find volunteer placements is that you speak directly with the host and do not have to pay any membership fees.

However, the negative side is that you will not be covered should you find the placement different from expected. 

Research And Email Places You Are Interested In 

Suppose you know which European country or city you want to volunteer in. In that case, you can research places you would be interested in helping out and contact the owner directly through email.

This works best if you know the type of work you would like to do.

For example, if you want to stay for free in Europe’s top cities, you can reach out to several hostels offering to work for accommodation. Learn more about what it’s like to work in a hostel .

However, suppose you are interested in alternative work, such as helping on a farm. In that case, this technique may not work as many small farms in Europe do not have websites or online presence. 

How To Find Volunteer Opportunities In Europe

Finding volunteer opportunities through verified hosts on dedicated online platforms gives you the most security.

In addition, many volunteer websites, such as Worldpackers , provide support services should you encounter any problems once you arrive in Europe and start your placement.

For example, if, upon arrival, you find the exchange is not as described in the listing, you can contact the Worldpackers support team 7 days a week.

M oreover, Worldpackers will reimburse you for up to 3 nights’ accommodation should you have a problem and need to leave early.

Therefore, if you’re volunteering in Europe for the first time, using a trusted platform like Worldpackers is the safest option.

Thanks to their easy-to-use website and advanced search function, finding Europe volunteer opportunities is a piece of cake. Here’s how to do it:

Sign Up On Worldpackers

While you can view listings without being a member, you need to sign up and purchase a membership to be eligible to apply for placements.

Membership costs $49 per year for one person, which gives you access to unlimited trips during that period.

We have a $10 discount for our readers. Simply use the code ABROKENBACKPACK . Your membership will only cost you $39.

Although Worldpackers is not free to join, it’s well worth it as membership includes many additional extras that most other sites do not offer.

For example, all Worldpackers members have insurance covering accommodation costs if you have to leave your placement early. This gives you peace of mind that you won’t be out of pocket should something terrible happen. 

There is also a membership option for friends or partners traveling together, the Couples/Friends plan costs $59 per year. Lastly, the premium “Pack” plan has even more additional extras, priced at $99 a year.

Premium members receive extended insurance and access to the WP academy, which features planning and budgeting tools.

Join Worldpackers

Apply On A Volunteer Position On Worldpackers

Once you’ve signed up, you can start searching and applying to volunteer in Europe straight away.

The innovative search function makes it quick and easy to find your perfect exchange, as there are over a dozen filters to narrow down your search.

For example, you can search by country, host type, style, or required skills. You can also filter to see listings only from the highest rated or the most active hosts.

Here is an idea of what you can expect to find on Worldpackers Europe:

• Practice permaculture and gardening in the Scottish Wilderness.
• Be a vegan chef at a yoga retreat center in Spain.
• Paint murals at an eco-lodge in Estonia.
• Care for rescue dogs in the Croatian countryside.

Final Thoughts On Volunteering In Europe

Volunteering is a fantastic option if you want to travel around Europe long-term yet low-cost.

Of course, it will save you money, but you’ll have some meaningful and memorable experiences integrating into the community too.

What’s more, thanks to online platforms and social media, it doesn’t require much effort or planning to volunteer in Europe for free.

Traveling to Europe soon? Read one of the following blog posts:

• Best cities to live in Europe
• Backpacking essentials for Europe
• Backpacking Greece itinerary

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Volunteer for regional cooperation

Last updated on Tuesday, 23/04/2024

Would you like to make an impact on the world we live in by supporting cooperation? The Interreg Volunteer Youth is there for you. Supporting Cooperation Across Borders, Together.

What's the Interreg Volunteer Youth?

Interreg Volunteer Youth (IVY) is a volunteering programme of the European Commission to promote cooperation in the European Union and all its neighbouring countries.

Along with local actors, IVY volunteers tackle the challenges that Europe and its neighbouring regions are facing, helping to find and implement common solutions.

What do IVY volunteers do?

Every IVY volunteer supports and promotes cooperation – and there are various ways to do so: from sparking engagement in communication campaigns to fuelling the implementation of transformative projects.

IVY offers a diverse range of experiences, with volunteers supporting a variety of projects and activities across different regions. We welcome individuals from various cultural backgrounds, each bringing their unique competencies, experiences, and interests.

Through their engagement, IVY volunteers also develop new skills on both a personal and professional level.

Learn more about roles and activities of IVY volunteers .

How does an IVY volunteering experience work?

Citizens and residents of the European Union and eligible countries (see full list ) who are 18 to 30 years old can participate.

Each experience lasts 2 to 6 months, depending on the offer and the volunteer’s availability.

IVY volunteers are hosted by programmes of cooperation and related projects – so called Interreg, as they enable regional cooperation.

Support and benefits of participating to IVY

Volunteers are fully supported throughout their experience with:

• financial support plus contribution to travel costs
• health, accident and liability insurance
• pre-departure training and continuous assistance
• tailored support if needed

Check all benefits .

Contact the IVY team at [email protected] – we are happy to clarify any detail!

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How to buy tickets for the Olympic Games Paris 2024?

Tickets for the Olympic Games Paris 2024 are available for spectators around the world only on the official ticketing website. To buy tickets, click  here .

The Paris 2024 Hospitality program offers packages that include tickets for sporting events combined with exceptional services in the competition venues (boxes, lounges) or in the heart of the city (accommodation, transport options, gastronomy, tourist activities, etc.).

The Paris 2024 Hospitality program is delivered by the official Paris 2024 Hospitality provider, On Location.

For more information about the Paris 2024 Hospitality & Travel offers, click here .

What is the official mascot of the Olympic Games Paris 2024?

The Olympic Games Paris 2024 mascot is Olympic Phryge. The mascot is based on the traditional small Phrygian hats for which they are shaped after.

The name and design were chosen as symbols of freedom and to represent allegorical figures of the French republic.

The Olympic Phryge is decked out in blue, white and red - the colours of France’s famed tricolour flag - with the golden Paris 2024 logo emblazoned across its chest.

When and where are the next Olympic Games?

The Olympic Games Paris 2024 will take place in France from 26 July to 11 August.

What sports are in the Olympic Games Paris 2024?

• 3X3 Basketball
• Artistic Gymnastics
• Artistic Swimming
• Beach Volleyball
• Canoe Slalom
• Canoe Sprint
• Cycling BMX Freestyle
• Cycling BMX Racing
• Cycling Mountain Bike
• Cycling Road
• Cycling Track
• Marathon Swimming
• Modern Pentathlon
• Rhythmic Gymnastics
• Rugby Sevens
• Skateboarding
• Sport Climbing
• Table Tennis
• Weightlifting

Where to watch the Olympic Games Paris 2024?

In France, the 2024 Olympic Games will be broadcast by Warner Bros. Discovery (formerly Discovery Inc.) via Eurosport, with free-to-air coverage sub-licensed to the country's public broadcaster France Télévisions. For a detailed list of the Paris 2024 Media Rights Holders here .

How many athletes compete in the Olympic Games Paris 2024?

Around 10,500 athletes from 206 NOCs will compete.

How often are the modern Olympic Games held?

The summer edition of the Olympic Games is normally held every four years.

Where will the 2028 and 2032 Olympic Games be held?

Los Angeles, USA, will host the next Olympic Games from 14 to 30 July 2028. Brisbane , Australia, will host the Games in 2032.

What is the difference between the Olympic Summer Games and the Olympic Winter Games?

The summer edition of the Olympic Games is a multi-sport event normally held once every four years usually in July or August.

The Olympic Winter Games are also held every four years in the winter months of the host location and the multi-sports competitions are practised on snow and ice.

Both Games are organised by the International Olympic Committee.

Which cities have hosted the Olympic Summer Games?

• 1896 Athens
• 1904 St. Louis
• 1908 London
• 1912 Stockholm
• 1920 Antwerp
• 1928 Amsterdam
• 1932 Los Angeles
• 1936 Berlin
• 1948 London
• 1952 Helsinki
• 1956 Melbourne
• 1968 Mexico City
• 1972 Munich
• 1976 Montreal
• 1980 Moscow
• 1984 Los Angeles
• 1992 Barcelona
• 1996 Atlanta
• 2000 Sydney
• 2004 Athens
• 2008 Beijing
• 2012 London
• 2016 Rio de Janeiro

What year did the Olympic Games start?

The inaugural Games took place in 1896 in Athen s, Greece.

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See Europe as the Europeans do this summer with these pro tips | Cruising Altitude

Americans are heading to Europe for vacation as much as ever these days, and that means the typical tourist spots like Venice, Paris and London are sure to be crowded this year. But, because this is Cruising Altitude, we’ll look at the aviation angle first.

First and foremost: If you’re really determined to go to Europe this summer and haven’t booked yet, stop reading now and get on it. 

“I’ve never seen a year like this … We’re at the point where there’s no more availability,” Brigitte Armand, president of Eurobound , a tour organizer that specializes in European packages, told me. “Book as quickly as possible.” 

How to get around

According to Armand, trains are generally a great way to get from place to place within Europe, but for farther-flung stops, the continent’s network of low-cost airlines offers travelers a reliable alternative.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

“Don’t think of one airline as being your network and entry point within Europe,” Laura Lindsay, public relations director at online booking platform Skyscanner told me.

She said if you’re flying to Europe from the U.S., you may well rely on a large network carrier like British Airways, KLM, or Lufthansa to get across the Atlantic and then book your intra-European flights separately.

“You’re suddenly opening up Europe in a different way if you search for different airports and multiple airlines,” Lindsay said. “It’s pretty straightforward to get around, so don’t feel put off by jumping through a few different countries or trying a few different destinations.” 

Tips for European airlines

According to Lindsay, European low-cost carriers like Ryanair, Easyjet and Wizz Air often have stricter baggage policies like American ULCCs Spirit and Frontier.

“(The) top tip would be always make sure you understand the luggage allowance that is part of your ticket,” she said. “More often than not, don’t book the basic fare without checking.”

It’s also a good idea to be flexible with your airports and dates of travel if you want to get the best deals on those shorter flights.

“You’ll get a number of places that have more than one airport,” Lindsay said, noting that Skyscanner has a tool that allows travelers to search for flights to or from nearby airports when choosing a destination. “Just getting a map out and actually looking at where exactly you want to travel and where the nearby airports are.” 

Armand added that if you take the train instead, you may need to secure a reservation in advance, particularly for some of the more tourist-heavy routes like panoramic trains in Switzerland. 

Last week's Cruising Altitude: There was no Golden Age of flying. We're in it now.

Where to go

If you really want to summer like a European, you should consider places a little more off the radar for most Americans.

“Albania is somewhere that broke through a couple of years ago as somewhere that people recognized as offering a huge value for money,” Lindsay said. “Sarajevo is reporting its busiest April on record for travelers.”

Armand said it can also be a good idea to try different parts of countries that are already popular if you want a more authentic, less crowded experience.

“We recently arranged a whole trip for some clients in the Abruzzo region of Italy,” she said. “The Abruzzo region, it’s on the Adriatic, people don’t know this region, and I think this is the first time ever we put together a package to get to that region.” 

Data from Skyscanner shows that some destinations in Europe are picking up in popularity with travelers on the continent. Here are some trends bubbling up year over year from 2023 to 2024:

◾ Ljubljana, Slovenia, saw a 188% increase in searches from Spanish travelers

◾ Tromso, Norway, saw a 130% increase in interest from Italian holidaymakers

◾ Dusseldorf, Germany, had a 122% spike in interest from Brits

According to Armand, the best last-minute availability seems to be in Eastern Europe, like Bulgaria and Poland.

“There are some good deals there perhaps, even the Czech Republic I’m finding some decent space,” she said.

So go on, get packing.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].

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From gun gear to prosthetic leg covers, volunteers boost Ukraine’s army

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Chernihiv, Ukraine – In combat, the speed of loading your assault gun’s magazine is a matter of life and death.

Sometimes, a soldier has to load the rounds in sub-zero temperatures, with wet or wounded hands. An improperly loaded magazine could jam the rifle and get its owner killed.

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A simple and inexpensive accessory – magazine speed loaders known among gun enthusiasts as “magloaders” or “thumb savers” – pushes the magazine’s top so that the rounds are inserted with little or no pressure.

Widely available in the United States, the speed loaders were virtually unknown in Ukraine until Take Back Our History, a volunteer group in the northern city of Chernihiv, began manufacturing and supplying them to the military, free of charge.

“They could save a life,” Bohdan Sereda, a 36-year-old engineer who volunteers with the group, told Al Jazeera.

“I loaded a magazine with one without any training in 30 seconds,” he said, standing next to a buzzing 3D printer and a plastic bag with 100 completed loaders ready to be shipped to the front line.

Novice soldiers spend days or even weeks to achieve such speed.

Armed with a speed loader, one serviceman can load enough rounds for three more soldiers who can keep firing at the enemy non-stop.

The assembly line is spartan and can fit on an office table.

A 3D printer unhurriedly transforms filament, a thick, black plastic thread, into one of three parts of a speed loader that are then put together by hand.

“The servicemen say, ‘Give us more of ’em’,” Sereda’s colleague Oleksandr Antybysh, 35, also an engineer by education, told Al Jazeera.

The group is part of a wider volunteer movement that involves tens of thousands of Ukrainians and supplies the front line with almost anything needed during a war.

Schoolchildren make trench candles of tins, cardboard and wax, and weave camouflage nets to cover trenches, artillery and armoured vehicles.

Volunteer groups turn civilian drones into lethal flying machines that rain explosives on Russian troops or even fire attached firearms.

The groups raise money and buy and deliver night goggles, medical equipment and first aid kits, footwear, batteries and heaters.

They evacuate the elderly, children and pets from front-line towns or help rebuild houses damaged by shelling or during the Russian occupation.

“It took them three days to find and get insulin to me,” said Mikhail, a 67-year-old diabetic from the village of Yahidne, south of Chernihiv, which was occupied by Russian forces in March 2022.

One of more than 300 villagers forcibly herded into a school basement, he nearly died of an insulin shock after almost four weeks in the damp, rancid and suffocating darkness next to women, children and bodies of his dead neighbours.

Another volunteer group helped plaster the bullet-riddled walls, tiles and roof of his house that stands next to the forest where Russian armoured vehicles duelled with Ukrainian forces.

Volunteers sometimes switch to other, more sophisticated tasks on the go, depending on the front-line needs.

Army SOS, a group that supplied flak jackets and paper maps, ended up developing software for tablets or smartphones that let soldiers acquire and transmit coordinates for precise artillery or drone attacks.

The volunteers’ speed often cannot be matched by government agencies mired in bureaucracy and occasionally accused of corruption.

“Volunteers replenish the deficit of logistics and, to some extent, assembly capacities,” Kyiv-based analyst Aleksey Kushch told Al Jazeera.

Authorities declared that they would create The Street of Masters, a digital platform to select and support the most promising innovations by volunteer groups, but so far, it is not online, he said.

“Apparently, volunteers cover the lion’s share of needs and it’s easier to get [help from them] than to get it from government agencies,” Kateryna Klimenko, a lawyer who worked with volunteer groups, told Al Jazeera.

There are rare cases of fraud, however.

Occasionally, commanders of military units receive drones from a government agency – and find a fake “volunteer” group that raises money to “buy” it and shares the profit with the commanders, an army veteran stationed in the eastern Donetsk region told Al Jazeera on condition of anonymity.

And while the West stalls military aid for months, and Ukroboronprom, a state-run arms manufacturer, undergoes a painful transition, volunteer groups multiply and evolve.

“Ukroboronprom can’t deal with such petty things” as speed loaders, Antybysh said. “We are filling the niche Ukroboronprom can’t occupy.”

Take Back Our History began with just one 3D printer at a time when the full-scale invasion changed all walks of life in Chernihiv.

The city sits close to the border with Russia and its ally, Belarus, which lets Russian forces use its territory to invade northern Ukraine.

In the war’s first days, Russian armoured vehicles were shot down while trying to roll into Chernihiv.

But soon Russian forces nearly encircled the city and started relentless shelling that struck residential areas killing hundreds of civilians.

The bombardment also destroyed or damaged dozens of historic buildings in the 11 centuries-old city.

The Russians lifted the siege and withdrew from northern Ukraine by April 2022, but continued the shelling.

On April 17, a missile attack killed 18 civilians and wounded dozens in downtown Chernihiv.

These days, the group has enough resources and volunteers to churn out 100 speed loaders a week.

Apart from boosting the production, they have other, bigger plans.

The group has already started 3D-printing frames for drones and is tackling the adaptation of war veterans to civilian life.

After losing a leg, some veterans do not like the way their prosthetic legs – mostly, titanium rods – look under their clothes.

The group uses a scanner to create the remaining leg’s image, reverse it digitally and 3D-print a cosmetic cover that mimics the lost limb’s shape.

They can even add an image, such as a replica of a tattoo lost with the limb.

“For a veteran, this is better socialisation,” Antybysh said.

The group, which also collects funds for a rehabilitation centre for veterans, feels capable of manufacturing anything.

“Send us resources and equipment – and we’ll make tanks!” Antybysh declared.