DiscoverEU: A Complete Guide to Traveling Free in Europe at 18

DiscoverEU has established itself as one of the most attractive European initiatives for young people who want to explore Europe in a unique and sustainable way . If you are 18 or will be turning 18 soon and are looking for an experience that combines adventure, learning, and the opportunity to connect with other young people from different countries, this project could be perfect for you. The program, created within the Erasmus+ framework and directly supported by the European Commission, offers the chance to travel around Europe mostly free of charge, promoting values ​​of inclusion and environmental awareness.

This article breaks down in detail what DiscoverEU is, how it was created, its requirements, how it works, its benefits, and practical tips drawn from various official and informational sources. Here you'll find comprehensive help to decide if you can and want to take advantage of this European opportunity. Click on the official links if you want to access additional information or submit applications.

What is DiscoverEU?

The DiscoverEU action is a branch of the renowned Erasmus+ program specifically for 18-year-olds residing in a European Union member state or Erasmus+ partner countries (such as Iceland, Liechtenstein, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, or Turkey). Its main objective is to promote the cultural and geographical exploration of Europe , allowing participants to discover European history, heritage, and diversity through travel primarily by train, with other environmentally friendly modes of transport available for those living on islands or in remote areas.

Participants selected by DiscoverEU receive a travel voucher , typically equivalent to a one-week Interrail Global Pass (valued at approximately €251), which generally allows them to travel for 1 to 30 days across much of Europe. It's not just about moving between destinations, but about experiencing intercultural connection, gaining independence, opening themselves up to new realities, and, ultimately, "finding themselves while traveling through Europe."

Origin and history of DiscoverEU

DiscoverEU was born from a campaign launched by Vincent-Immanuel Herr and Martin Speer , who promoted the idea that every young European should be able to take a major trip across the continent upon turning 18. The proposal, which gained momentum from 2017 onwards, received the support of the European Commission and, after an initial pilot phase in 2018 with 15.000 free Interrail passes distributed, the initiative was formalized as a key action within Erasmus+.

Over time, the program has been refined. In its early editions, it only included the train pass, while progressively new elements have been added, such as DiscoverEU discount cards for culture and accommodation, pre-trip information sessions, additional support for young people with fewer opportunities or inclusion needs, and the possibility of combining trips with friends and other program beneficiaries.

What does DiscoverEU offer?

• Free travel voucherThe jewel of the program. It allows young people to explore Europe by train (or other means in exceptional cases) for a period of between 1 and 30 days, normally within 12 months after the announcement of the selected participants.
• European Youth Card DiscoverEUWith it you can access exclusive discounts in accommodation, cultural and sporting activities, local transport and gastronomy in many countries of the continent.
• Personalized support and assistanceIf you have a disability or a specific health condition, the program provides support and adaptation measures so that no one is left out.
• Opportunity to travel in a groupYou can participate alone or with up to four friends (provided they meet the same eligibility requirements), or find partners through the official DiscoverEU group on Facebook.
• DiscoverEU Ambassador NetworkBy being selected, you become part of an international community that shares experiences, recommends routes, and motivates other young people to take advantage of the opportunity.
• Preliminary meetings and talksNational Erasmus+ Agencies usually organize information sessions beforehand, both online and in person, to answer questions and prepare travelers, as well as providing access to Meet-ups between young people from all over Europe.

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Requirements to participate in DiscoverEU

Participating is very simple, but it is important to meet specific conditions to access this experience:

• Having 18 years in the Making completed on the first day of the travel period stipulated in the call for applications. For example, for the next round, those born between January 1 and December 31, 2008, are eligible to participate.
• Possess the citizenship or legal residence from any of the EU member states, outermost regions, EU overseas countries and territories or third countries associated with Erasmus+ (Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, North Macedonia, Serbia, Turkey).
• Complete and submit the online application form providing personal data and information from your identity document, passport or residence card.
• Accept the conditions and sworn statement from the application form.

If you submit your application as a group (you can add up to four friends), the other members must register their application with the code provided by the group leader and meet the same criteria.

Calls for applications, deadlines and selection process

DiscoverEU opens two application rounds each year: one in spring and one in autumn. During these periods, you can apply online. The next round is scheduled for October 1-15, 2026, and is open to those born in 2008, with the travel period planned between March 2027 and May 2028.

Participation is free and can be requested individually or as a group. After completing the form, you will need to answer a short selection questionnaire about your general knowledge of the European Union and European culture (only the group leader needs to do this if it is a group application). If you are selected, you will receive an email with your travel voucher, instructions, and, if applicable, your DiscoverEU card.

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Peculiarities of the DiscoverEU travel voucher

• Pass typeThere are two main options: the flexible option (chosen by 95% of participants), which allows you to choose which days you travel within a one-month period (you have a maximum number of travel days), and the fixed voucher option, in which you determine the dates in advance and cannot modify them, limited to traveling to only two countries.
• Ticket reservationSome European trains require seat reservations, which may incur a small additional cost. It's important to plan ahead to avoid missing out, especially on popular routes.
• Bond conditionsThe pass is registered to a specific person and is integrated into the official DiscoverEU app, where the European Youth Card will also be available. Only the cardholder can activate it, and it is valid for one year.
• Travel timeParticipants can enjoy up to 30 days of travel within the timeframes established by the round.

Extra benefits of DiscoverEU

• DiscoverEU discount cardSince 2022, a card has been included that offers discounts on public transport, culture, accommodation and food, making it easier to save money during the trip.
• Educational activities and meet-upsIt's not just about traveling, but about being part of a learning cycle. The Erasmus+ National Agencies in each country organize training activities, pre-departure meetings, information sessions, and, of course, Meet-ups—international gatherings between DiscoverEUers to foster coexistence and cultural exchange.
• DiscoverEU community on social mediaThere is an official Facebook group where you can contact other participants, discover recommended routes and, if you're up for it, even share travel expenses.
• Support for inclusionThe program has specific funding to eliminate barriers to participation, offering support to young people with fewer economic opportunities, specific needs or functional diversity.
• DiscoverEU AmbassadorsAt the end of the trip, participants can automatically become ambassadors, sharing their experience on social media, in schools, and in local communities.

Practical tips for getting the most out of DiscoverEU

• Plan your routes well.Check train timetables, remember to book popular routes in advance, and study European maps to get the most out of your pass.
• Always carry your documents. (ID, passport and DiscoverEU ticket in the app) and, although there are no border controls in much of the Schengen continent, make sure you comply with the requirements in each country.
• Check out the official DiscoverEU app to obtain detailed information, access the youth card and resolve doubts, as well as to register for Meet-ups and other training activities.
• Take advantage of discountsWhether it's for local transport, activities, sightseeing, or dining, some destinations can be much cheaper than you think thanks to the DiscoverEU card!
• Travel light and with an open mind.The goal is to learn, meet people, and have fun. Every trip brings surprises, anecdotes, and great friendships.
• Connect with other DiscoverEUers through the official Facebook group to share expenses, routes and tips.
• Remember inclusionIf you have a disability or health problem, check for additional support and seek assistance from the program's agencies and resources.

What does DiscoverEU cover and what does it not cover?

The DiscoverEU voucher includes the train ticket (or alternative means of transport where necessary), as well as access to a discount card. Except in specific cases, it does not cover:

• Accommodation costs (although you can benefit from significant discounts at partner hostels and hotels)
• Urban travel or transport within cities (excluding applicable discounts)
• Meals and other everyday expenses, although there are also discounts designed to reduce these costs.
• Sometimes, costs arising from train reservations (depending on the railway company)
• Travel insurance: although highly recommended, you will need to arrange it yourself; many travel agencies can help you choose the best insurance for your trip.

Reviews and previous experiences

Like any European initiative, DiscoverEU is not without its critics and suggestions for improvement. Some young people have pointed out limitations in the quality of certain free trains , difficulties in booking seats on high-demand routes, and the need for more support to cover daily expenses during the journey. In some cases, problems with reservations can lead to being stranded at the station if one is not prepared. Since the 2022 edition, the program has increased discounts and logistical support to avoid these issues.

The experiences gathered are mostly positive: for many, DiscoverEU represents the first great international adventure , the ideal opportunity to gain autonomy, expand the network of friends and grow personally, while promoting the European spirit and sustainable mobility.