The European Commission is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Schengen Area by offering 40,000 young Europeans the chance to explore the continent through DiscoverEU, part of the

Erasmus+ programme.

From today until 13 November 2025 at noon CET, young people born between 1 January and 31 December 2007 can apply for a free travel pass via the European Youth Portal by completing a short EU-themed quiz. Successful applicants will be able to travel across 36 European countries for up to 30 days between 1 March 2026 and 31 May 2027.

Each ticket includes not only free rail travel but also a discount card covering public transport, accommodation, culture, food, and recreational activities.

Travellers can design their own routes or follow curated ones such as the New European Bauhaus Route, highlighting sustainable and inclusive cities, or the DiscoverEU Green Route, which showcases environmentally friendly destinations like Europe’s Green Capitals and Climate-Neutral Cities.

Participants with disabilities or health conditions will receive tailored support, including the option to travel with a companion, ensuring the initiative remains open and inclusive.

A journey that builds connection and independence

Launched in 2018 at the initiative of the European Parliament, DiscoverEU became part of Erasmus+ in 2021. Since then, over 1.6 million young people have applied, and 391,000 have received travel passes.

According to recent surveys, 63% of participants said it was their first time travelling abroad by train, while many also travelled without parents for the first time—an experience that boosted their confidence and independence. Two-thirds said they would not have been able to afford such a trip without DiscoverEU.

Young travellers are encouraged to become DiscoverEU Ambassadors and share their experiences within the programme’s growing community. The #DiscoverEU Official Group now counts more than 110,000 members, connecting participants across Europe.