The best countries for a gap year in Europe

Dreaming of your glamorous gap year in Europe? The continent is filled with incredible countries bursting with culture, history and natural beauty, perfect for a year of discovery and adventure.

If you’re looking to take the leap but unsure of a landing spot, we’ve got the perfect guide for you. Here are some of the best European countries for a gap year in 2026.

Spain

Our number one gap year destination. Sun? Check. Amazing cities? Check. Sparkling coastlines, verdant forests, epic mountains, amazing architecture, quirky festivals and a fascinating culture.

Check.

A gap year in Spain offers an unforgettable experience. Not only does the country have so much to offer in terms of adventure and excitement, it’s also very safe and benefits from a wide selection of organisations offering tailored experiences for gap year students.

In Barcelona, the TEFL Gap Year offers the ultimate gap year package that combines adventure, learning and teaching. Not only do you have the chance to become fluent in Spanish and immerse yourself in one of the world’s best cities, but you also train to teach English and gain an Internationally recognised Trinity CertTESOL (TEFL) qualification which you can use to teach English anywhere in the world.  

Portugal

Spain’s Iberian neighbour, Portugal is another European country known for its wonderful weather, amazing history and buzzing culture. The country’s two big cities, Lisbon and Porto, combine old world charm with modern energy, offering an excellent experience for gap year students. 

There are quite a few gap year opportunities in Portugal to choose from, but they do vary quite a bit in quality and reliability. The Gap Year Portugal initiative is the best port of call for gap year students. A Portuguese national youth NGO, it organizes gap year programs in the country. 

Italy

Lovers of fashion, food and all things beautiful could do worse than a gap year in Italy. Few places on Earth can compete with the sheer depth of history and culture on offer in Italy. It’s not quite as warm and welcoming as the likes of Spain, and there are fewer quality gap year programs to choose from, but for those with a connection to the country or a love of Italian culture, it’s an ideal European gap year destination.

Florence offers incredible art and Renaissance beauty, Milan is a fashion and design powerhouse, Naples brings incredible food and natural beauty, while Rome offers epic grandeur and ancient history. A gap year in Italy gives you the chance to learn Italian and immerse yourself in one of Europe’s most fascinating cultures. 

Czech Republic

One of Europe’s most underrated gap year destinations, the  Czech Republic has a little bit of everything. Vibrant cities, friendly locals, an amazing art scene and beautiful architecture are just some of the great things about a country that remains well under the radar.

English is in demand and there are many good TEFL schools. Plus, the Czech Republic offers a specifically designed visa for English teachers, making it a great choice if you’re looking to earn while you're away. Check out TEFL Worldwide Prague if you’re interested in making the Czech Republic your gap year destination.

Spread your wings and take European gap year with TEFL Iberia

We offer a comprehensive gap year package in Spain that blends cultural immersion with personal discovery. Along with your fellow TEFL Iberia students, you’ll embark on a an unforgettable journey, tapping into abilities you never knew you had and making friends along the way.

Learn Spanish, learn to teach English and learn how to appreciate a completely different culture during an experience that shape you in more ways than one. 

A friendly and supportive learning environment will provide the cornerstone and we’ll provide expert assistance to make sure you settle into life in one of the best cities in the world! 

A life-changing adventure awaits!

Find out more about the TEFL Gap Year program