DiscoverEU applications now open: Thousands of free travel passes for young Europeans up for grabs

Applications for the scheme are open until 15 October, giving eligible young Europeans the chance to explore the continent by train and other sustainable transport, with discounts on accommodation, culture and more.

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.

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.

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