Published on
November 7, 2025
Iceland joins Germany, Switzerland, Portugal, Italy, Luxembourg, Romania, and several other countries in celebrating four decades of the Schengen Agreement, a milestone that highlights the success of unrestricted travel across Europe. This celebration is further marked by the launch of the DiscoverEU initiative, which provides 18-year-olds with free travel passes, encouraging young Europeans to explore the continent. This effort not only commemorates the Schengen Area’s legacy but also boosts tourism by promoting cultural exchange and youth mobility across Europe.
The year 2025 marks a remarkable milestone in European history as the Schengen Agreement celebrates its 40th anniversary. This iconic treaty, which brought forth an era of borderless travel, has become a cornerstone of European unity, allowing millions to move freely across countries without facing internal checks. To commemorate this achievement, the European Commission has launched a groundbreaking initiative—DiscoverEU, a program that offers free travel passes to 18-year-olds from across the continent. Countries like Iceland, Germany, Switzerland, Portugal, Italy, Luxembourg, Romania, and several others are celebrating not just the anniversary, but a new era of cultural exchange, mobility, and economic growth through tourism.
The Schengen Agreement: A Landmark in European History
In June of 1985, the Schengen Agreement was signed by five European nations, creating a path for unrestricted travel between them. What began as a regional pact has since evolved into a profound symbol of cooperation and integration. Today, 29 countries, spanning across both EU and non-EU states, form the Schengen Area, facilitating the free movement of over 430 million people.
The anniversary of this agreement is more than a celebration of free movement; it is a testament to the values of unity, solidarity, and shared purpose that define Europe. The Schengen Area has not only removed physical barriers between nations but also fostered stronger political, cultural, and social bonds. As this milestone unfolds, the European Commission has turned the spotlight on DiscoverEU—a program designed to extend these benefits to the next generation.
DiscoverEU: Empowering the Youth with Free Travel Passes
DiscoverEU isn’t just about providing free travel—it’s about creating opportunities for young people to explore Europe, its cultures, histories, and traditions. Launched under the Erasmus+ programme, the initiative offers 18-year-olds a chance to travel across Europe for up to 30 days. With options to travel by train, bus, ferry, and even flights for those living in more remote regions, DiscoverEU aims to connect young people with the diverse landscapes and cultures of the continent.
The excitement around DiscoverEU lies in its simplicity and inclusivity. Eligible participants—18-year-olds from EU member states and associated countries—can apply for a free travel pass, opening the door to endless possibilities. The application process is streamlined: submit an online form, verify your identity, and answer a few questions on EU history, culture, and sustainability.
By targeting this young demographic, DiscoverEU creates a unique opportunity for individuals who may not otherwise have the means to travel. The program champions cultural immersion, allowing young travelers to experience firsthand the rich tapestry of European culture that spans from the ancient ruins of Rome to the bustling markets of Prague. With over 500,000 young Europeans already benefiting from the program, DiscoverEU has become one of the most successful EU initiatives in recent years.
A Boon for European Tourism
The launch of DiscoverEU also represents a significant boost for European tourism, a sector that has seen dynamic growth in recent years. The program offers more than just the chance for young people to travel—it strengthens tourism infrastructure across the continent, from trains to youth hostels and local attractions. With a focus on eco-friendly modes of transport like rail, DiscoverEU also contributes to the EU’s broader sustainability efforts. Rail travel, in particular, plays a crucial role in reducing Europe’s carbon footprint and promoting green tourism.
For countries such as Germany, Italy, Portugal, and Iceland—each a prominent player in the tourism industry—the DiscoverEU initiative acts as a catalyst for attracting more young visitors. These countries are not only celebrating the anniversary of the Schengen Area but also positioning themselves as vibrant destinations for the youth of tomorrow. As rail travel booms, destinations off the beaten track stand to benefit, bringing a wave of fresh faces eager to explore their cultural landmarks and natural wonders.
Boosting Unity: DiscoverEU as a Cultural Exchange Platform
Beyond its immediate impact on tourism, DiscoverEU serves as a powerful cultural exchange tool. By allowing young people to travel across borders and experience different cultures, the program fosters a sense of shared European identity. This deeper connection between young Europeans is essential in an era where divisions and nationalistic sentiments threaten to erode the unity built over decades.
In cities like Lisbon, Berlin, and Zurich, DiscoverEU participants can interact with locals, experience diverse lifestyles, and develop a broader perspective on the world around them. These experiences help bridge cultural gaps, offering young people the opportunity to form friendships and connections that transcend borders. In an increasingly globalized world, such experiences are invaluable for shaping a generation of European citizens who are not just aware of their differences but who actively embrace them.
Inclusivity and Accessibility: A Program for All
One of the standout features of DiscoverEU is its commitment to inclusivity. The program has been designed to ensure that travel is accessible to everyone, regardless of background or circumstance. Alongside offering the travel pass, DiscoverEU participants also receive a discount card, providing reductions on accommodations, local transport, museums, and more. This makes the experience even more affordable, ensuring that financial barriers are minimized for those who wish to take part.
Moreover, the program goes the extra mile by ensuring accessibility for young travelers with disabilities. With dedicated support services and guidance available, DiscoverEU guarantees that all winners—regardless of their needs—can embark on this journey of discovery and connection.
Celebrating Unity: The Role of Schengen in the Future
As Europe commemorates 40 years of the Schengen Agreement, the launch of DiscoverEU represents more than just a travel initiative. It’s a reaffirmation of the commitment to a united Europe, one where borders are not barriers but gateways to greater collaboration and understanding. By empowering young Europeans to explore their continent freely, the program is strengthening the very foundation of the Schengen Area.
The future of DiscoverEU looks promising, with plans for expansion and continued investment in youth mobility. As the program grows, more young Europeans will have the opportunity to explore new destinations, engage with their peers from different cultures, and contribute to a stronger, more united Europe.
Participating Countries at a Glance
As DiscoverEU gains momentum, it’s important to recognize the countries that are playing a pivotal role in this celebration of freedom and unity. Here’s a table of some of the key countries participating in the DiscoverEU initiative, alongside their Schengen Area membership status:CountryRegionAustriaEUBelgiumEUBulgariaEUCroatiaEUCzech RepublicEUDenmarkEUEstoniaEUFinlandEUFranceEUGermanyEUGreeceEUHungaryEUItalyEULatviaEULithuaniaEULuxembourgEUMaltaEUNetherlandsEUPolandEUPortugalEURomaniaEUSlovakiaEUSloveniaEUSpainEUSwedenEUIcelandNon‑EULiechtensteinNon‑EUNorwayNon‑EUSwitzerlandNon‑EU
The Path Forward: A Future of Shared Travel
As the European Union continues to thrive, the 40th anniversary of the Schengen Agreement serves as a reminder of the importance of free movement and cultural exchange. DiscoverEU has created a unique pathway for young Europeans to connect with each other, learn about their continent’s diverse cultures, and build lifelong memories.
The launch of this initiative marks a significant step forward in the EU’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, sustainable, and culturally united Europe. For the young travelers taking part, it’s more than just a free ticket—it’s an invitation to become part of something greater, to explore new horizons, and to contribute to the European project of unity and shared destiny.
Iceland joins Germany, Switzerland, Portugal, Italy, Luxembourg, Romania, and other countries in celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Schengen Agreement by launching the DiscoverEU initiative. This program offers free travel passes to 18-year-olds, boosting tourism and encouraging cultural exchange across Europe.
As DiscoverEU takes off, the future of European travel has never looked brighter. With railways connecting distant cities and cultures, the next generation of travelers is about to embark on a journey of discovery that will shape the future of Europe for decades to come.
