Gen Z will be able to experience free Interrail travel Exploring to open the mind
The European Union is relaunching DiscoverEU, an initiative that offers eighteen-year-olds the opportunity to travel across Europe with a free rail pass. It is a truly sponsored Interrail journey, designed not only to move from one city to another, but also to live an experience that opens the mind, fosters cultural discovery, and teaches young people how to move in the world independently and responsibly.
How the free Interrail program works
The 2025 call makes 40,000 free passes available for young people born in 2007. The passes can be used for a travel period from 1 to 30 consecutive days starting from March 1st, 2026. For those living in remote or island areas, the pass may also include buses, ferries, or flights to cover initial or final transfers. The program also includes the European Youth Card, a digital card that provides discounts on local transport, accommodation, museums, and cultural events throughout Europe. The selection takes place through a quiz focused on European history and culture, assessing curiosity and knowledge. Traveling in groups is also possible: the group leader completes the quiz and the other members register using a personal code.
Why traveling matters
Obtaining a free Interrail pass is not just an economic advantage; it represents an opportunity to discover the world with a new perspective. Train travel allows young people to experience cities and towns more slowly and authentically, meet different people, and engage with new cultures, languages, and lifestyles. For Gen Z, it is a chance to grow, broaden horizons, and develop both a European and global awareness. Italy will receive 4,888 passes, a significant number that will allow many young Italians to travel and build lifelong memories.
Practical tips to prepare
To make the most out of this opportunity, here are some useful tips:
- Travel with a group: sharing the experience with friends makes everything easier and more enjoyable, as well as offering security.
- Plan your itinerary: there's no need to rush from one country to another; focusing on a few destinations allows you to better absorb local cultures, atmospheres, and histories.
- Organize additional budget: the pass covers rail transport, but food, accommodation, and activities require additional funds. The European Youth Card can help you save money.
- Prepare logistics: check your documents, health insurance, and train and accommodation reservations.
- Download the DiscoverEU app: useful for planning itineraries, obtaining a digital card, and accessing discounts throughout Europe.
- Document your journey: photos, videos, and journals transform the experience into a personal story, and those who wish to can become a “DiscoverEU Ambassador,” sharing their adventure with other young people.
Limits and challenges
Despite the great opportunity, some limits must be considered: the selection is competitive, with only 40,000 passes available across Europe. The 2025 call is restricted to those born in 2007 and some railway routes may not be included, especially in remote areas. Additional costs should also be taken into account, such as food, accommodation, and cultural activities.
Growth through experience
DiscoverEU is not just a trip, it is an opportunity to open the mind, grow, and engage with the world. For young Italians, nearly 4,900 passes are available, offering a concrete chance to explore Europe, build memories, create international friendships, and learn outside school walls.
