For those who are 18 years old and dream of traveling across Europe by train, meeting new cities and discovering diverse cultures, a new opportunity to keep an eye on returns: applications are open for DiscoverEU, the European Union initiative that makes available to young Europeans over 40,000 free travel passes.
The new round of applications is open until 12:00 noon Brussels time on 15 October 2026. Eligible are boys and girls born in 2008 who meet the program’s requirements. For those selected, the pass will allow travel for a maximum of seven days within a month, in the period between 1 March 2027 and 31 May 2028.
Who can participate in DiscoverEU
To access this round of applications you must be born between January 1 and December 31, 2008, inclusive. It is also necessary to be a citizen or resident of one of the territories eligible for the program.
Participants may be citizens or residents of the European Union Member States, including the outermost regions, as well as of the EU overseas associated territories. The initiative is also open to third countries associated with the Erasmus+ program, including Iceland, Liechtenstein, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia and Turkey.
During the online application you must enter an identification document, choosing among an ID card, passport number or residence permit, in addition to accepting the declaration provided on the form.
The application also includes a quiz: in the case of a group application, it will be the group leader who must complete it.
How the travel pass for Europe works
Selected youths will receive a pass that enables travel using mostly the most environmentally friendly means of transport, with particular emphasis on trains. In specific situations other transport modes are allowed, especially for those living on islands or in remote areas.
The period during which the pass can be used runs from 1 March 2027 to 31 May 2028. Within this window, each participant may travel for a maximum of seven days in a given month.
Those who wish to travel with friends can submit a group application, and if the group is selected, they will have the opportunity to travel together.
Additionally, the pass isn’t the only advantage offered by the program: participants also receive a DiscoverEU discount card, which provides access to numerous discounts: accommodations, culture, sports, local transport and various other services.
Finally, DiscoverEU takes into account situations where travelling can be more challenging: young people with a disability or a health problem that makes travel demanding can receive assistance and support.
An itinerary through European culture, art and traditions
For those who still don’t know where to start, DiscoverEU offers a Culture Route, a pre-planned itinerary that touches several European destinations and allows you to build a journey around culture.
The stops are linked to a variety of themes: from architecture to music, from the visual arts to theatre, passing through fashion, folk art and local gastronomy.
Among the listed cities we find Cork, in Ireland, and Valletta, in Malta, both recognised as European Capitals of Culture. Another example is Lyon, in France, cited for its commitment to improving accessibility, regardless of age, abilities or mobility.
