DiscoverEU offers 36,000 free train passes to young Europeans in a bold move to inspire cultural exchange and independent travel across the continent. The European Commission has launched a new round of applications, giving thousands of 18-year-olds the opportunity to travel for free and experience Europe like never before.
This round of DiscoverEU is open to young people born between 1 July 2006 and 30 June 2007. Applicants must be legal residents of the European Union or countries associated with the Erasmus+ programme, including Iceland, Liechtenstein, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, and Türkiye. Applications close on Wednesday, 16 April 2025, at 12:00 CEST.
Successful applicants will receive a travel pass valid for up to 30 days of train travel between 1 July 2025 and 30 September 2026. The initiative is designed to help young people explore different cultures, meet new people, and gain a deeper understanding of Europe’s rich diversity. Whether it’s visiting iconic landmarks, trying regional cuisines, or exploring nature reserves, DiscoverEU aims to spark curiosity and broaden horizons.
To apply, candidates must go to the European Youth Portal and complete a short quiz about the European Union. Travel passes will be awarded to top-ranked applicants based on their quiz performance, until all 36,000 tickets have been distributed.
Participants can build their own itineraries or choose from curated routes, including the Green Route and the New European Bauhaus Route. The Green Route focuses on sustainable cities and environmentally friendly travel, highlighting European Green Capitals and Leaf cities, as well as national parks and nature preserves. Meanwhile, the Bauhaus Route celebrates innovation, creativity, and modern urban design across Europe.
Along their journey, travelers will receive a special discount card providing access to thousands of deals across 36 countries. These offers include discounted admission to museums, public transport, accommodation, food, and even activities like sports and cultural events.
DiscoverEU has placed strong emphasis on accessibility. Special support is available for participants with disabilities, health conditions, or those facing social or economic barriers. Additional arrangements are offered to applicants from remote areas, islands, or outermost regions to ensure fair access to the program.
Since its launch in 2018, DiscoverEU has become one of the most popular youth initiatives within the European Union. Now part of the Erasmus+ programme for 2021–2027, it has already helped over 355,000 young people discover Europe through travel. The program not only promotes mobility and inclusion, but also supports the EU’s goals of sustainability and community building among the next generation.
Participants are encouraged to join the official #DiscoverEU Facebook group, which already has more than 106,000 members. This online community allows travelers to share stories, tips, and travel inspiration before, during, and after their journey.
For 18-year-olds dreaming of cobblestone streets, panoramic train rides, and unforgettable cultural experiences, this could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see Europe up close—without spending a euro on transportation.
Applications are now open. Europe is waiting.
