Sustainable travel
Sustainable travel by bus, train and the like is not only an environmentally friendly alternative, it's also great fun. Those who choose not to travel by car or plane alone not only save CO₂, but also protect their wallet at the same time. Train and bus tickets are often much cheaper - especially with student discounts - and the travel time can be used in a relaxed way: reading, listening to music or perhaps even meeting new people?
Green Erasmus
True to the motto "Travel with the smallest ecological footprint", the DAAD promotes "green travel" through more environmentally friendly means of transportation. This includes bicycles, car pools, buses and trains.
It is important that more than 50% of the journey is made using sustainable means of transport.
In addition, the funding can be extended by additional days for the trip, as the journey by environmentally friendly means of transportation usually takes more time.
| one-way distance (according to EU COM distance calculator) | Environmentally friendly travel | Non-environmentally friendly travel |
| 10 and 99 km | 56 EUR | 28 EUR |
| 100 and 499 km | 285 EUR | 211 EUR |
| 500 and 1999 km | 417 EUR | 309 EUR |
| 2000 and 2999 km | 535 EUR | 395 EUR |
| 3000 and 3999 km | 785 EUR | 580 EUR |
| 4000 and 7999 km | 1,188 EUR | 1,188 EUR |
| 8000 km or more | 1,735 EUR | 1,735 EUR |
Every Erasmus+ application begins with the completion of an online application form. Among other things, the form asks whether "green travel" is being considered.
In the further planning of your stay, the International Office will then ask you how many days of travel and which means of transport you are planning for your trip by means of a declaration on your honor . The International Office will then calculate the corresponding funding amount. If you are traveling sustainably, you can receive funding for 1 to 3 days each for the outward and return journey (up to 6 days in total). For non-sustainable travel, a maximum of 2 travel days is possible.
This information is initially a preliminary estimate that can be changed if necessary.
The final calculation is made
- for a study abroad program during the last information event before the start of the semester abroad,
- in the case of an internship abroad , when the scholarship is approved.
By train through Europe
Depending on the university you choose, it is very easy to get there without a plane. But even if you want to travel a long distance, you should consider traveling by land. Websites such as Erasmus+ by train or Nachtzugkarte will help you plan your itinerary.
The train travel guide by the "Man in Seat 61" provides comprehensive, practical information on international rail travel, including route descriptions, ticket purchasing, train types and tips for comfortable travel across Europe and beyond.
Chronotrains shows you on an interactive map which destinations you can reach by train from a starting station within a certain time and is particularly suitable for inspiration and rough route planning.
With Interrail through Europe
Take advantage of the opportunity to plan four or six flexible travel days within six months and benefit from a 25% discount (only for people under 28 years of age). Discover Europe comfortably, sustainably and at your own pace - and make your trip a valuable part of the experience along the way.
Further links and inspiration
Green Erasmus Portal
Discover specific information on the Green Erasmus Portal about how you can act sustainably before, during and after your Erasmus stay. You will find tips on what to pack and how to equip yourself sustainably abroad. You can also try out the Green Erasmus Quiz and play simulation games to find out how you can make your everyday life as an Erasmus student more environmentally friendly.
The Erasmus Generation portal also shows many possibilities for sustainable travel and gives helpful tips for traveling on a budget.
Sustainability dossier
What can I do for more sustainability during my Erasmus semester? Students answer this question on the "studieren weltweit" blog.
Brochure "Climate-friendly travel" (DAAD)
Here is the official DAAD website for funding opportunities
