Young people across Europe have been invited to apply for free travel passes as the latest round of the DiscoverEU programme officially launches. The initiative is open to 18-year-olds who are citizens or residents of the European Union, Overseas Countries and Territories associated with the EU, or third countries associated with the Erasmus+ programme, including Iceland and Türkiye.
To qualify for the scheme, applicants must have been born between 1 January 2008 and 31 December 2008. Successful candidates will receive a travel pass designed for environmentally friendly transport, with a primary focus on rail travel. Those selected will be able to travel for up to seven days within a one-month period, with the travel window occurring anytime between 1 March 2027 and 31 May 2028. The programme also accommodates group travel, allowing friends to submit a joint application for the chance to receive passes together.
Participants can choose to follow the DiscoverEU Culture Route, a curated itinerary that includes stops focused on architecture, music, fine art, theatre, fashion, folk art, and local food. Several featured cities have received official recognition from the European Commission, such as Cork in Ireland and Valletta in Malta, both of which have been named European Capitals of Culture. Other destinations, including Lyon in France, are highlighted for their commitment to improving accessibility for all visitors, regardless of age, ability, or mobility. Beyond these pre-planned routes, young travellers are encouraged to use the programme as a starting point to design their own unique journeys and explore the specific European destinations that interest them most.
