If you remember our exciting announcement from October about the EU giving away an incredible 35,500 rail passes, we’ve got even better news for you if you’re an 18-year-old born between July 1, 2006, and June 30, 2007! The DiscoverEU scheme is back with another amazing opportunity, and this time they’re handing out 36,000 free rail passes to young travelers just like you.
All that’s required from you? It’s simple! Just answer five multiple-choice questions that test your general knowledge, and outline your travel plans, including how you plan to cover your expenses. If you’re a good fit, you might just score one of these coveted passes.
Now, let’s talk about how the selection process works. Those five questions will help the EU rank applicants, and if there are more applicants than passes, it will be a first-come, first-served situation. But don’t worry—this isn’t just a solo endeavor! You can rally your friends and apply as a group leader. As the leader, you’ll complete the questions, while your buddies can tag along with a group code. It’s a fantastic way to travel together and share some unforgettable experiences.
So, what’s the eligibility criteria, aside from being in the right age bracket? You must be a legal resident of one of the 27 EU countries or live in one of the countries involved in the Erasmus program—think Iceland, Norway, Serbia, and others. One important note, though: if you’ve received a pass before, you’re unfortunately not eligible this time around.
If you’re lucky enough to snag a pass, you can use it for travel over a thrilling window of up to 30 days, from **July 1, 2025**, to **September 30, 2026**. That gives you a fantastic chance to explore up to seven travel days across Europe. Remember, your pass can be used for just one journey out of your home country and one back home. The goal here is to experience the diverse cultures that Europe has to offer!
And if you happen to live on an island, don’t worry—there’s no need to feel left out. The program also offers options for coach, ferry, and possibly even flights to include young adventurers coming from more remote areas. Special quotas for tickets are set aside for different countries, ensuring everyone gets a shot at this fantastic opportunity.
In addition to the rail pass, each lucky recipient will receive a year-long European Youth Card (EYCA), giving you access to discounts on cultural attractions, activities, local transportation, and accommodations throughout Europe. It’s a fantastic asset that opens even more doors to explore.
Now, to make the most of this experience, applicants are asked to step into the role of a ‘DiscoverEU Ambassador.’ This means sharing your journey through social media or even presenting your adventures back at school. It’s an awesome way to inspire others while having a blast yourself!
With such bright opportunities ahead, you’ve got the chance not only to travel but also to learn, explore, and share stories that could inspire countless others. The world is waiting for you—go out there and discover it!
Also, if you’re looking for some adventure ideas, check out these incredible hiking trails in Europe for 2025, as well as a recent study spotlighting Europe’s sunniest cities. Don’t forget to stay updated with all the latest travel news by signing up for our free Time Out Travel newsletter. We’ve got your back on all things travel!
Image Source: Mounir Taha / Shutterstock
