Irish 18-year-olds will be able to avail of 140 free Inter Rail tickets as part of new scheme to get young people interested in Europe.
Dublin MEP Brian Hayes said if the pilot project proved successful it would be extended out over a seven-year period.
Around 15,000 18-year-olds across the European Union will get the chance to travel between one and four countries over a two-month summer period.
Speaking on RTÉ's Morning Ireland, Mr Hayes said the objective behind it is to encourage younger Europeans to connect with Europe.
Another aspect of the scheme will be to assist people to travel by plane to countries in Europe not connected by rail to the EU.
Flights to Ireland will be paid for under the scheme.
Anyone who is 18 can apply for the tickets online next week on the European Youth Portal. Applicants will find out at the end of the month if they are successful.
