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If you’re 18 years old, living in an EU or Erasmus+ country, and are keen to explore Europe, you may be able to do just that – for no cost.
Applications are now open for the European Union’s DiscoverEU scheme, which offers more than 40,000 free travel passes for young Europeans. The application process will close at midday Brussels time (CET) on 15 October 2026 and you can apply at youth.europa.eu.
Here’s everything you need to know about the DiscoverEU programme.
Thousands of passes for free travel will be awarded
If you were born between 1 January 2008 and 31 December 2008, and are a citizen or resident of the EU, Overseas Countries and Territories associated with the EU or third countries associated with the Erasmus+ programme, including Iceland and Türkiye, you’re able to apply to the scheme
If selected, you’ll receive a travel pass for the most environmentally friendly means of transport, including trains.
You’ll be able to travel for up to seven days within a one-month period, any time between 1 March 2027 and 31 May 2028.
Lucky passholders will also receive a DiscoverEU discount card, which will offer numerous discounts on accommodation, culture, sports, local transport, and other services, making trips significantly more affordable.
If you’re keen to travel with friends, that’s doable, too. If a group submits the application together, they may all be given the chance to travel for free.
Where could your journey take you?
The DiscoverEU Culture Route is a pre-planned itinerary covering destinations across Europe, with stops for everything from architecture, music and fine art to theatre, fashion, folk art and local food.
Some of the cities featured have received European Commission recognition, including Cork in Ireland and Valletta in Malta, both named European Capitals of Culture.
Others, such as Lyon in France, have been recognised for their efforts to improve accessibility for everyone, regardless of age, ability or mobility.
Young travellers can also use DiscoverEU as a starting point for planning their own routes and exploring destinations that interest them.