Split, Croatia (Photo: Envato)
With less than three months until Pesach, we at TJT are hearing the same question from travelers again and again. Where should we go this year? More and more, Europe is emerging as a popular choice.
We’ve seen a steady rise in interest around Passover programs in Europe, and it’s easy to see why. Europe has really become one of the most exciting areas for Passover programs, and it’s easy to see why. There are now around 50 programs spread throughout the continent, offering a wide range of styles, budgets, and experiences. The classics continue to lead the way, especially Greece, which now has close to 20 different programs, along with strong options in France, Italy, and Spain.
At the same time, the map keeps expanding. In recent years, we’ve seen programs open in places like Albania, Croatia, Montenegro, the UK, Cyprus, Georgia, and Portugal, giving travelers fresh alternatives beyond the usual destinations. New for this year, Malta joins the lineup, adding even more variety for people who want something a little different for Pesach.
What we love about this trend at TJT is the flexibility it gives travelers. You can choose a beachfront resort, a historic European city, or a quieter off-the-radar destination, all while enjoying a fully kosher holiday experience. Europe is no longer a niche option for Passover. It’s quickly becoming one of the most diverse and appealing ways to spend the chag.
The Rise of European Passover Programs
The Passover program industry started in the U.S., and it’s still thriving. Programs in the U.S. and Mexico remain incredibly popular, with many selling out months in advance. These destinations are favorites for good reason. They’re convenient, familiar, and offer a wide range of options. Many families return year after year to the same programs, enjoying the ease of all-inclusive amenities, strong kids programming, and the sense of community that develops when you see the same faces each Pesach.
So why are more travelers starting to look toward Europe? It’s not because U.S. and Mexico programs are falling short. If anything, they set the bar when it comes to food, entertainment, and programming. Europe simply offers a different kind of experience, one that blends the Pesach atmosphere with the excitement of travel and discovery.
Yes, traveling farther can mean longer flights and some jet lag, and that’s not for everyone. But for many people, if they’re already going away for the holiday, it becomes an opportunity to explore somewhere new at the same time. Over the past few years, Europe has grown into a major player in the Passover market. Destinations like Greece and Italy continue to stand out for their beautiful resorts, pleasant spring weather, and rich cultural experiences. If Greece is on your radar, you can browse our Passover programs in Greece to see current listings and available options.
European programs often appeal to travelers who want Pesach to feel like more than just a hotel stay. They offer the chance to explore historic cities, enjoy Mediterranean coastlines, and connect with Jewish communities across different countries. For many travelers, it’s not just a vacation. It’s a meaningful and memorable experience.
Lefkada, Greece (Photo: Envato)
Why Travelers Love European Programs
1. Explore New Places
If you’re already taking time off work and the kids are off from school, why not turn Pesach into a real adventure? Going away with a Passover program in Europe gives you the best of both worlds. You get to explore a new destination while still having all the structure and support that makes the holiday easy.
Europe offers an incredible variety in a relatively small area. You can explore historic old towns, walk along scenic waterfronts, enjoy beautiful spring weather, and experience cultures that feel very different from home, all without spending your entire vacation in transit. Every destination has its own personality, whether you’re drawn to architecture, food, nature, or simply wandering and discovering something unexpected. Travelers drawn to scenic coastlines, lake regions, and even spring skiing often look to Passover programs in Italy, while others prioritize quieter or more off-the-radar destinations.
What’s especially exciting is how much variety the European market now offers beyond the traditional destinations. Each year brings new locations into the mix, giving travelers fresh options that feel less crowded and more exploratory, while still offering the consistency and reliability of a well-run Passover program.
And of course, one of the biggest advantages is that the logistics are handled for you. There’s no stress about kosher food, minyanim, or Pesach preparations. You can simply show up, settle in, and focus on enjoying the holiday, spending time together, and actually experiencing the destination. It’s a really nice balance between tradition, comfort, and discovery.
2. Budget-Friendly Options
Another big draw for Europe is value. While there are certainly luxury programs, there are also many more moderately priced options compared to the U.S. market. Beach resorts, countryside hotels, and smaller boutique properties often come in at price points that are hard to find stateside, especially once you factor in the full holiday package.
Flights are an added cost, of course, and with less than three months until Pesach, prices may already be higher. That said, there are still opportunities to find reasonable fares, especially if you’re flexible with dates or departure airports. When you look at the overall value including accommodations, all meals, holiday programming, and activities, many travelers find Europe to be surprisingly cost-effective. If you’re curious how pricing actually compares, we’ve broken down real starting prices across many European and international programs in our Passover program pricing guide, which gives a helpful snapshot of what different types of programs typically cost.
European programs may not always offer the massive buffets or nonstop entertainment you see in some large U.S. resorts, but the food quality, atmosphere, and overall experience tend to be excellent and feel more personal. For many travelers, that balance of quality and value is exactly what makes Europe so appealing.
3. Meet New People
One of the things people often tell us after coming back from a European program is how much they enjoyed the mix of guests. You’ll typically find Americans, Israelis, and Europeans all celebrating together, which creates a really dynamic and interesting atmosphere. Conversations at the table, during tours, or by the pool often turn into friendships that continue long after Pesach is over.
For many travelers, that international flavor becomes part of the experience itself. It’s a chance to see how other Jewish communities celebrate, exchange perspectives, and feel part of something bigger than just one hotel or one country.
4. A Convenient Middle Ground
Europe can also be a practical meeting point for families spread between the U.S. and Israel. Instead of one side carrying the full burden of a very long flight, Europe often feels like a reasonable middle ground where travel times are more balanced.
Add in the wide range of destinations and program styles, and it becomes easier to find something that works for everyone. Some family members may want a relaxed resort setting, others want sightseeing and culture, and others just want quality time together. Europe makes it possible to combine all of that into one Pesach experience.
Portofino, Italy (Photo: Envato)
Things to Keep in Mind
Language and Programming
One of the most important questions to ask is whether programming is offered in English. Some European programs are run primarily for local communities, so it’s worth confirming what language kids’ activities, lectures, tours, and announcements are conducted in. If English programming is important for your family, this is something you’ll want to clarify early.
Know the Crowd
Every program has its own personality, and some naturally attract specific communities or styles of observance. For example, some programs may have separate swimming times or lean toward a more right-wing crowd. If that fits what you’re looking for, great. If not, it’s always smart to ask direct questions so you understand the atmosphere and whether it’s a good fit for your family.
Entertainment and Amenities
European programs generally focus on quality, atmosphere, and experience, but the scale may feel different from some large U.S. resorts. You may not always see massive all-day buffets or nonstop entertainment schedules. Instead, many programs emphasize good food, thoughtful programming, and a more relaxed pace. Think about what matters most to you and your family when choosing a program so expectations are aligned.
Final Thoughts
Passover programs in Europe continue to grow in popularity, and for good reason. From historic cities and coastal resorts to newer destinations that feel fresh and less crowded, there’s a wide range of experiences available for all types of travelers.
With Pesach coming up soon, many programs are already filling, and new listings continue to be added as operators finalize their plans. At TJT, we’re seeing close to 50 programs across Europe, spanning everything from luxury resorts to more budget-friendly options. It’s one of the most diverse European lineups we’ve ever had.
If Europe is on your radar for an upcoming Pesach, take some time to explore the full range of options in our guide to Passover programs in Europe. If you’re still comparing destinations, you can also browse our Passover programs page for a complete guide to programs around the world, making it easy to see what’s available across different regions and travel styles.