THE COMMISSION GIVES 40,000 FREE TRAVEL TICKETS - FOR CYPRIOTS, FLIGHTS WILL ALSO BE FREE - HOW TO GET THEM - Filenews 30/3
Through the Erasmus+ programme, the DiscoverEU action offers young people aged 18, who are either citizens or legal residents of a Member State of the European Union or a third country associated to Erasmus+, the opportunity to explore Europe's rich diversity through travel.
According to a statement, the Foundation for the Management of European Lifelong Learning Programmes states that young people born between July 1, 2007 and June 30, 2008, will have the opportunity to travel for 1 to 30 days across Europe, mainly through its rail system, in the period between July 1, 2026 and September 30, 2027.
DiscoverEU is an Erasmus+ action established by the European Parliament in 2018 that offers the opportunity for 18-year-olds to explore Europe's diversity, learn about its cultural heritage and history, and connect with people from across the continent.
Application Process
Those interested in participating should apply through the European Youth Portal from 8 April 2026 to 22 April 2026, where they will have to register and declare their travel plans. https://youth.europa.eu/_en
As part of the process, applicants will have to answer a short quiz that includes five multiple-choice questions on general knowledge about the European Union and other youth initiatives.
Successful candidates will be able to travel either individually or in groups of up to five people (all must be 18 years old) using the DiscoverEU travel pass, mainly for train travel.
However, to ensure equal access for all participants, the use of other means of transport, such as buses and ships, is also envisaged. Especially for cases such as Cyprus, where there is no railway connection, flights are exceptionally covered under the program, so that young men and women can travel to and from other European countries.
This ensures that those living in island or remote areas of the EU have an equal opportunity to participate.
Cultural and other experiences
Participants can create their own route or choose suggested routes focusing on sustainability, culture and architecture, as well as the New European Bauhaus initiative.
During their journey, young men and women can visit, among others: European Capitals of Culture, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Sites with the European Heritage Label, Cities that have received the Access City Award for accessibility policies.
Additional benefits
Selected participants will also receive a special discount card for youth, which offers thousands of discounts on transportation, accommodation, cultural activities, food, sports activities and services in various European countries.
The Erasmus+ National Services also organise pre-departure information sessions for selected travellers in each Programme Country with the aim of providing advice and useful information to travellers, as well as meetings of travellers from all over Europe in Cyprus, lasting from 1 to 4 days, combining travel with learning experiences.
Inclusion is a key priority of DiscoverEU. Young people with disabilities or health problems can receive additional support for their participation.
