Free Train Travel Between France and Germany for Young Citizens

Train travel is set to be one of 2023’s top travel trends—particularly for young citizens of France and Germany.

On January 22nd, the French transport minister, Clément Beaune, and his German counterpart, Volker Wissing, announced that 60,000 free train tickets will be made available to individuals under the age of 27 this summer. This initiative aims to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Élysée Treaty of friendship between the two nations.

In a joint statement, the politicians emphasized that the program has been designed to encourage travel by train between France and Germany. Beaune expressed his hope that this initiative will promote not only the discovery of both countries but also increased train usage.

“It is a concrete initiative, consistent with our climate ambitions, which will enable many young French and Germans to travel—and, we hope, dream,” Beaune remarked.

Details of the Initiative

While exact details are still forthcoming, it is confirmed that the tickets will be exclusively available to young French and German citizens under 27 and valid solely for rail journeys between the two countries. Reports indicate that the ticket allocation will be split evenly between both nations, likely determined through a lottery system. Furthermore, this may be a one-time initiative, but depending on its success, it could become an annual event.

Additional Mobility Initiatives

During the same announcement, two additional commitments were made to enhance mobility between France and Germany. In 2024, a direct high-speed train line connecting Paris and Berlin will be inaugurated. Furthermore, a night train service linking the two capitals is set to commence by the end of this year.

Exploring Summer Train Travel in France and Germany

What might summer travel look like for those eligible for free train tickets? A German-based photo artist and train travel enthusiast provides valuable insights.

“The train is an excellent way to explore Germany and France, as both countries feature fast trains connecting major cities and a dense network of regional lines in rural areas,” she remarked.

For those visiting France, taking advantage of the exceptional TGV network is highly recommended. The first journey likely would be the TGV link from Strasbourg to Paris, which takes less than two and a half hours.

For scenic adventures, the Intercités regional train traveling from Bordeaux to Arles is highly suggested. “From Toulouse onwards, the tracks trace the Canal du Midi, a remarkable engineering feat of the 17th century that first connected the Mediterranean to the Atlantic Ocean. Later, between Narbonne and Montpellier, the train hugs the coast, showcasing stunning natural landscapes,” she added.

After exploring Arles and the windswept Camargue wetlands, you can reach Marseille easily. “If you wish to decrease time spent on the train, returning to Paris is also feasible through the night train that commences in Nice,” she advises.

For those heading to Germany, it’s suggested to begin adventures in Munich. “From the vibrant Bavarian capital, trains to rural and breathtaking alpine landscapes are easily accessible. The train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen travels through the so-called ‘Blue Land’, a marshland that has inspired artists with its unique light and atmosphere,” she noted.

Moreover, Berlin is just four and a half hours from Munich on the high-speed ICE (InterCity Express) line. “Traveling to the northernmost island of Germany, Sylt, is also achievable by train, thanks to the Hindenburgdamm, a causeway featuring a railway line,” she added.

Other Free Rail Travel Opportunities in Europe

The EU offers a free rail travel initiative for 18-year-olds known as the Discover EU scheme. Open to EU citizens born between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2004, applications commenced in October, and tickets were quickly reserved. Consequently, a second round of applications will likely occur in spring through the Discover EU website.

Simultaneously, individuals can seek discounted rail passes through the Interrail scheme, allowing unlimited travel across participating European train networks. Although passes can be pricier, discounts are generally available for passengers under 27. Non-European citizens can apply for a comparable Eurail pass.

In response to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis in Europe, some nations have initiated discounted transportation schemes to alleviate financial stresses on residents and travelers. For instance, in Spain, numerous passengers traveling on long- and medium-distance trains and coaches can take advantage of free travel as part of a cost-of-living transit scheme.