{"id":10242,"date":"2026-04-08T14:51:31","date_gmt":"2026-04-08T12:51:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/?p=10242"},"modified":"2026-04-08T16:37:12","modified_gmt":"2026-04-08T14:37:12","slug":"discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/","title":{"rendered":"DiscoverEU 2026: Your guide to travelling by train for free this summer (+ green travel tips)"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>Dreaming of watching the sunset in Lisbon, grabbing street food in Prague, or hiking in Slovenia &#8211; all in one trip? The DiscoverEU train pass might be your golden ticket. But this isn\u2019t just about travel. It\u2019s about how you travel &#8211; smarter, greener, and more meaningful. Find out how to apply and how travelling in Europe might become even greener in the future below.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"lazyblock-box-Jnjri wp-block-lazyblock-box\"><div id=\"lazyblock-id-Jnjri\" class=\"boxed\">\n  <div class=\"color-def content skew \" style=\"background-color: #008200; max-width: 100%; \">\n    <div class=\"skew-reset\">\n      \n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is DiscoverEU?<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>DiscoverEU is an EU initiative that gives 18-year-olds a free train pass to explore Europe. It\u2019s part of the Erasmus+ programme and is designed to promote sustainable travel, cultural exchange, and youth mobility. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>If you\u2019re born between 1 July 2007 and 30 June 2008, you can apply for the next round, which opens on 8 April 2026 and closes on 22 April 2026 at midday Brussels time. Successful applicants get a travel pass valid for up to 30 days, plus a discount card for culture, accommodation, and local transport\u2014all while traveling by train, the most eco-friendly way to see Europe.<br><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Free Travel: Get a free Interrail Global Pass to explore up to 33 countries by train.<\/li>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Sustainable Adventure: Traveling by train slashes your carbon footprint compared to flying.<\/li>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Cultural Perks: Access discounts on museums, hostels, and local experiences.<\/li>\n<\/div><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<style type=\"text\/css\">\n  #lazyblock-id-Jnjri .content {\n\t  color: #fff;\n\t}\n<\/style><\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-dark-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-293af7519480b3531bffe376f5972251\"><strong>How to apply to DiscoverEU: A step-by-step guide<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p class=\"has-green-dark-color has-text-color has-link-color has-medium-font-size wp-elements-2b64ae2a8826c0405d75ea90f884f403\"><strong><em>1. Check your eligibility<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>You must be 18 years old (born between 1 July 2007 and 30 June 2008).<\/li>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>You must be a citizen or legal resident of an EU Member State or a country associated with Erasmus (Iceland, Liechtenstein, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, T\u00fcrkiye)<\/li>\n<\/div><\/ul>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p class=\"has-green-dark-color has-text-color has-link-color has-medium-font-size wp-elements-1d86d6de21f77d953f5ccca9f313f541\"><strong><em>2. Mark your calendar<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Applications open: 8 April 2026, 12:00 Brussels time<\/li>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Applications close: 22 April 2026, 12:00 Brussels time<\/li>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Travel period: 1 July 2026 to 30 September 2027<\/li>\n<\/div><\/ul>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p class=\"has-green-dark-color has-text-color has-link-color has-medium-font-size wp-elements-7626058af5ef8175a4d49d20a12f3268\"><strong><em>3. Prepare your documents<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Valid ID, passport, or residence permit number.<\/li>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Be ready to answer a short quiz on the EU&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/div><\/ul>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p class=\"has-green-dark-color has-text-color has-link-color has-medium-font-size wp-elements-5d3d5a01a954291c9c8f5007a59e2160\"><strong><em>4. Apply online<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Visit the <a href=\"https:\/\/youth.europa.eu\/discovereu_en\">European Youth Portal<\/a> and click \u201cApply Now\u201d when the round opens.<\/li>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>You can apply solo or with up to 4 friends (each must apply individually using your group code)<\/li>\n<\/div><\/ul>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p class=\"has-green-dark-color has-text-color has-link-color has-medium-font-size wp-elements-6e068f3667c5ed3c558b54a8b8f03503\"><strong><em>5. Wait for results<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>If selected, you\u2019ll receive your travel pass and discount card by email.<\/li>\n<\/div><\/ul>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-dark-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-8c91c1925e4c1541d55544d4eea651d0\"><strong>Pro tips for a successful application<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>With thousands of young people applying, it\u2019s important to put your best foot forward. The DiscoverEU team uses a combination of quiz scores and, in some cases, a first-come, first-served approach if there are too many eligible applicants. That means applying early can give you an edge.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>Take the time to research the quiz topics. The questions are usually about the EU, its history, and its youth initiatives, so a quick online search can help you prepare. If you\u2019re applying with friends, make sure everyone is on the same page and submits their application on time.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>Finally, start thinking about your itinerary. While you don\u2019t need to have a detailed plan when you apply, having a rough idea of where you want to go can help you hit the ground running once you\u2019re selected. Consider destinations that are easy to reach by train and offer a mix of culture, nature, and adventure.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"lazyblock-box-Qgw8y wp-block-lazyblock-box\"><div id=\"lazyblock-id-Qgw8y\" class=\"boxed pull-sidebar\">\n  <div class=\"color-def content skew \" style=\"background-color: #fa64a0; max-width: 100%; \">\n    <div class=\"skew-reset\">\n      \n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tips for a successful application<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>Apply early: If there are too many applicants, a \u201cfirst come, first served\u201d principle may apply Brush up on EU knowledge: The quiz is short but can be decisive. Plan your itinerary: Think about destinations that are less touristy and more sustainable.<br><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<style type=\"text\/css\">\n  #lazyblock-id-Qgw8y .content {\n\t  color: #000;\n\t}\n<\/style><\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-dark-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-bd488373e8940fb347f115112d7df0b4\"><strong>Discover Europe the sustainable way<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>DiscoverEU isn\u2019t just about free travel &#8211; it\u2019s about experiencing Europe in a way that\u2019s kind to the planet. You\u2019ll receive a travel pass valid for up to 30 days, plus a discount card for museums, hostels, local transport, and more. The best part? You\u2019ll be traveling by train, the most eco-friendly way to see the continent, and connecting with a community of young explorers just like you.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>As the Greens\/EFA in the European Parliament, we believe that travel should be as good for the planet as it is for the traveler. DiscoverEU is a fantastic opportunity to explore Europe in a way that aligns with our values of sustainability, inclusivity, and responsible tourism.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"lazyblock-image-1Bxell wp-block-lazyblock-image\"><div class=\"color-def  skew-bg\" style=\"background-color: #ffbe28;\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n  <figure>\n    <div class=\"image-container\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/aleks-QNTPNqFgwc0-unsplash-e1775652403154.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n      <div class=\"overlay-content\">\n        \n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <figcaption class=\"mt-1 small\"><\/figcaption>\n  <\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-dark-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-0b6f3ef35bb5652f39a589a285f7536b\"><strong><strong>Want to travel even more sustainably? Here are our green tips:<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p class=\"has-green-dark-color has-text-color has-link-color has-medium-font-size wp-elements-39c8530d8083706b337e525474068457\"><strong><em>Avoid Overtourism<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>Europe\u2019s most famous cities are often crowded with tourists, which can put a strain on local communities and the environment. With DiscoverEU, you have the freedom to explore lesser-known destinations that are just as rich in culture and history. The program even suggests routes focused on sustainability, accessibility, and local experiences, so you can discover hidden gems and support communities that benefit from tourism.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>Cities like Barcelona, Venice, and Amsterdam are struggling with too many visitors, which can:<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Push out local communities<\/li>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Damage ecosystems<\/li>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Strain infrastructure<\/li>\n<\/div><\/ul>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>So what can you do? Go off the beaten track and explore smaller cities, rural regions or lesser-known destinations. You\u2019ll often get a more authentic experience &#8211; and better prices.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>Tourism can also harm fragile environments. Where possible, choose destinations and activities that respect nature and local wildlife.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p class=\"has-green-dark-color has-text-color has-link-color has-medium-font-size wp-elements-438786848c2cdbcf7672ac54b4c4055a\"><strong><em>Embrace Slow Travel<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>Flying might seem faster, but it comes at a cost &#8211; especially for the climate. Choosing trains or other shared transport like buses or carpooling means:<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Lower emissions per passenger<\/li>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Less environmental damage<\/li>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>A more relaxed, scenic travel experience<\/li>\n<\/div><\/ul>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>We believe public policy should support this shift by:<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Expanding subsidies for train travel so it\u2019s cheaper than flying<\/li>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Offering affordable season tickets for young people<\/li>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Introducing a kerosene tax on aviation fuel to level the playing field<\/li>\n<\/div><\/ul>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>Right now, flying is often artificially cheap. That needs to change.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>Instead of rushing through as many cities as possible, consider spending more time in fewer places. Slow travel allows you to immerse yourself in local culture, reduce your carbon footprint, and create deeper connections with the people and places you visit. It\u2019s also a great way to save money, as you\u2019ll spend less on transport and more on experiences.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p class=\"has-green-dark-color has-text-color has-link-color has-medium-font-size wp-elements-7295e16152635a7a0749153c736aef34\"><strong><em>Act sustainably<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>Small changes can make a big difference. Pack a refillable water bottle, reusable cutlery, and a tote bag to avoid single-use plastics. Choose eco-friendly accommodations, eat at local restaurants, and support small businesses. By traveling responsibly, you\u2019ll leave a positive impact on the places you visit.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Greens\/EFA proposals for more sustainable travel<\/h2>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>DiscoverEU is a step in the right direction, but we believe more can be done to make sustainable travel accessible to everyone. At Greens\/EFA, we\u2019re advocating for policies that support low-carbon mobility and responsible tourism.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>We\u2019re calling for subsidies to make train travel more affordable, cheap season tickets to encourage frequent use of public transport, and a kerosene tax to reflect the true environmental cost of flying. We also want to see greater investment in rail infrastructure, so that trains are faster, more reliable, and more widely available across Europe.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>Our vision is a future where everyone can explore the world without harming the planet. By supporting policies that prioritise sustainability, we can ensure that programs like DiscoverEU continue to grow and inspire the next generation of travelers.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>Individual choices matter\u2014but systemic change matters more. To make sustainable travel the norm, not the exception, we\u2019re pushing for:<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p class=\"has-green-dark-color has-text-color has-link-color has-medium-font-size wp-elements-1a00c2c4058030b3bd817e6ddfa0dd70\"><strong><em>Cheaper and Better Trains<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>Train travel should be:<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Affordable<\/li>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Reliable<\/li>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Accessible across Europe<\/li>\n<\/div><\/ul>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p class=\"has-green-dark-color has-text-color has-link-color has-medium-font-size wp-elements-18db442229af678900c798854d43e377\"><strong><em>Fair Pricing Between Planes and Trains<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>Right now, aviation benefits from tax exemptions. That\u2019s why we support:<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>A kerosene tax on aviation fuel<\/li>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<li>Ending unfair subsidies for airlines<\/li>\n<\/div><\/ul>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p class=\"has-green-dark-color has-text-color has-link-color has-medium-font-size wp-elements-e30c4a9e93185897984d986999791020\"><strong><em>Youth Mobility Support<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>Young people should be able to explore Europe regardless of income. That\u2019s why programmes like DiscoverEU must be expanded.<br><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"lazyblock-image-Z159ztq wp-block-lazyblock-image\"><div class=\"color-def  skew-bg\" style=\"background-color: #EC6733;\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n  <figure>\n    <div class=\"image-container\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Bikes-at-trains-station-e1775652256641.jpg\" alt=\"Bikes at train station\">\n      <div class=\"overlay-content\">\n        \n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <figcaption class=\"mt-1 small\"><\/figcaption>\n  <\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"lazyblock-box-Z14LaYJ wp-block-lazyblock-box\"><div id=\"lazyblock-id-Z14LaYJ\" class=\"boxed pull-sidebar\">\n  <div class=\"color-def content skew \" style=\"background-color: #ba5aed; max-width: 100%; \">\n    <div class=\"skew-reset\">\n      \n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Stay Informed with the Greens\/EFA newsletter<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<p>Want more tips on sustainable travel, EU policies, and how to make a difference? Sign up for our newsletter and be the first to know about opportunities like DiscoverEU, green travel guides, and ways to get involved in shaping a sustainable future.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<link href='https:\/\/actionnetwork.org\/css\/style-embed-whitelabel-v3.css' rel='stylesheet' type='text\/css' \/><script src='https:\/\/actionnetwork.org\/widgets\/v6\/form\/stay-informed-26?format=js&#038;source=widget'><\/script><div id='can-form-area-stay-informed-26' style='width: 100%'><!-- this div is the target for our HTML insertion --><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"boxed\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<style type=\"text\/css\">\n  #lazyblock-id-Z14LaYJ .content {\n\t  color: #fff;\n\t}\n<\/style><\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n\n<\/div><div class=\"boxed\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The EU\u2019s proposed relaxation of cosmetics safety rules could expose you and your family to dangerous chemicals &#8211; here is how we can stop them.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":10261,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"mp_greens_extranet_document_id":10745,"mp_greens_extranet_translation_id":0,"mp_greens_extranet_lang":"en","footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-10242","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-allgemein"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v25.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>DiscoverEU 2026: Your guide to travelling by train for free this summer<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"DiscoverEU is an EU initiative that gives 18-year-olds a free train pass to explore Europe. Find out how to apply and how travelling in Europe might become even greener in the future\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"DiscoverEU 2026: Your guide to travelling by train for free this summer\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"DiscoverEU is an EU initiative that gives 18-year-olds a free train pass to explore Europe. Find out how to apply and how travelling in Europe might become even greener in the future\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Greens\/EFA\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-04-08T12:51:31+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-04-08T14:37:12+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/alex-vasey-vn5tA8AsOYc-unsplash-scaled.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1920\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"2560\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Greens Efa\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Greens\/EFA\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"6 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/\",\"name\":\"DiscoverEU 2026: Your guide to travelling by train for free this summer\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/alex-vasey-vn5tA8AsOYc-unsplash-scaled.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-04-08T12:51:31+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-04-08T14:37:12+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/#\/schema\/person\/6f5d24fa3125df11bace805d34a99ee3\"},\"description\":\"DiscoverEU is an EU initiative that gives 18-year-olds a free train pass to explore Europe. Find out how to apply and how travelling in Europe might become even greener in the future\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/alex-vasey-vn5tA8AsOYc-unsplash-scaled.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/alex-vasey-vn5tA8AsOYc-unsplash-scaled.jpg\",\"width\":1920,\"height\":2560,\"caption\":\"\u00a9alex-vasey-v\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Startseite\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"DiscoverEU 2026: Your guide to travelling by train for free this summer (+ green travel tips)\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/\",\"name\":\"Greens\/EFA\",\"description\":\"\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"DiscoverEU 2026: Your guide to travelling by train for free this summer","description":"DiscoverEU is an EU initiative that gives 18-year-olds a free train pass to explore Europe. Find out how to apply and how travelling in Europe might become even greener in the future","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"DiscoverEU 2026: Your guide to travelling by train for free this summer","og_description":"DiscoverEU is an EU initiative that gives 18-year-olds a free train pass to explore Europe. Find out how to apply and how travelling in Europe might become even greener in the future","og_url":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/","og_site_name":"Greens\/EFA","article_published_time":"2026-04-08T12:51:31+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-04-08T14:37:12+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1920,"height":2560,"url":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/alex-vasey-vn5tA8AsOYc-unsplash-scaled.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Greens Efa","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Greens\/EFA","Est. reading time":"6 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/","url":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/","name":"DiscoverEU 2026: Your guide to travelling by train for free this summer","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/alex-vasey-vn5tA8AsOYc-unsplash-scaled.jpg","datePublished":"2026-04-08T12:51:31+00:00","dateModified":"2026-04-08T14:37:12+00:00","author":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/#\/schema\/person\/6f5d24fa3125df11bace805d34a99ee3"},"description":"DiscoverEU is an EU initiative that gives 18-year-olds a free train pass to explore Europe. Find out how to apply and how travelling in Europe might become even greener in the future","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/alex-vasey-vn5tA8AsOYc-unsplash-scaled.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/alex-vasey-vn5tA8AsOYc-unsplash-scaled.jpg","width":1920,"height":2560,"caption":"\u00a9alex-vasey-v"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/discovereu-2026-your-guide-to-travelling-by-train-for-free-this-summer\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Startseite","item":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"DiscoverEU 2026: Your guide to travelling by train for free this summer (+ green travel tips)"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/","name":"Greens\/EFA","description":"","potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10242","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10242"}],"version-history":[{"count":21,"href":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10242\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":10271,"href":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10242\/revisions\/10271"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/10261"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10242"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10242"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.greens-efa.eu\/opinions\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10242"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}