The train remains a top choice for transportation among Italians, with a high adoption rate of new booking technologies for tickets. Recent studies show that 76% of Italians highly appreciate train travel, surpassing the European average of 72%. Over the past three years, three-quarters of the Italian population has traveled by train more than once, highlighting the significant role of trains in the country’s transportation landscape.
Italy’s preference for train travel is not unique, as Spain follows with 71% and the United Kingdom with 65%. The most significant change in the rail industry in the last 25 years has been the shift to online ticket purchases, with 70% of Italians now preferring to buy tickets online. Comfort during travel is the main reason Italians choose the train, followed by convenience and sustainability, which is particularly important for young people aged 18-24.
For tourism, 62% of Europeans choose trains for domestic holidays, with Italy leading the way. In fact, over half of Italy’s population (56%) opt for trains for short holidays and long weekends, higher than the European average of 46%. The use of trains for foreign holidays is also popular, with 81% of European respondents planning to use trains for trips abroad, especially among young people.
Andrea Saviane, Country Manager of Trainline in Italy commented on Italy’s leadership in train travel appreciation and online ticketing adoption. Trainline’s evolution mirrors the changes in passenger behavior and positions it as one of the most successful technology companies and the most downloaded mobility app in Italy. With this development in mind, it seems that there is no denying that trains remain an important part of Italian culture and transportation.
