Thousands of young people will have the chance to explore Europe for free with DiscoverEU. The European Commission has opened applications for a new DiscoverEU round, offering nearly 36,000 travel passes to 18-year-olds across Europe.
Successful candidates can travel across Europe by train for up to 30 days between 1 July 2025 and 30 September 2026, experiencing new countries, cultures, and adventures. Applicants must be born between 1 July 2006 and 30 June 2007 and reside in the EU or countries associated with the Erasmus+ programme, including Iceland, Liechtenstein, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, and Turkey. Applications close on Wednesday, 16 April at 12:00 CEST.
Candidates must apply via the European Youth Portal and complete a short quiz about the EU. Passes will be awarded to top-ranked candidates until all tickets are distributed.
Travellers can design their own European journey or choose from suggested routes. They might follow the New European Bauhaus Route, highlighting vibrant, sustainable cities, or select the Green Route, leading to some of the most sustainable and nature-friendly destinations across the continent. This route features award-winning Green Capitals and Green Leaf cities, beautiful parks, and nature reserves. Along the way, they can use a discount card packed with thousands of offers on transport, museums, food, accommodation, sports, and more across 36 countries.
DiscoverEU ensures this experience is accessible to all. Special support is available for participants with disabilities, health conditions, or fewer opportunities. Additional arrangements are also offered to those living in remote areas, islands, or outermost regions.
Launched in 2018 and integrated into the 2021–2027 Erasmus+ programme, DiscoverEU has already awarded over 355,000 travel passes. All participants are invited to join the #DiscoverEU official group, with over 106,000 members sharing experiences and tips.