Travels between contemplation and environmental protection. Mindscape phenomenon: by train as a lifestyle choice

Traveling by train is no longer just a way to get from one place to another, but an experience that enriches those who choose it. An enrichment so profound that it deserves its own definition, "Mindscape". This is the new travel trend registered among Italians, a change that identifies the desire to choose rail cars not only to move, but to enjoy the journey, relax and admire the world around us from a new point of view. Slowly, and with respect for the environment. A sort of meditation in motion, in short.

Greater environmental awareness

This significant cultural evolution emerged from the latest Travel Trend 2025 report by Trainline, a leading app for booking trains and buses: the survey, conducted by the research company SWG, has in fact shown how the train is the preferred means of transport for those who love comfort and breathtaking views and above all for those who live the experience with awareness. And – crucially – with a view to greater environmental protection. The data collected showed that, for 88% of those interviewed, well-being is a priority when travelling, that panoramic itineraries and night trains are increasingly in demand (+17% of bookings on Trainline) and, finally, that 42% of people who choose the train do so to reduce their pollution footprint.

A medium that is also a philosophy of life

The term “mindscape” indicates the search for a balance between “mindful” and “landscape” and defines a much more introspective and responsible way of traveling, in which the beauty of the landscape becomes a source of relaxation and inspiration. The word “mindful” recalls the awareness of the moment, while “landscape” represents the landscape that accompanies the journey: two situations that, put together, create an experience in which time slows down and every detail takes on a deeper meaning, which goes beyond the simple fact of moving from one place to another. The train is therefore not experienced only as a means of transport but as a tool to embrace a precise – and sustainable – philosophy of life.

The train, a guarantee of freedom...

In particular, the survey shows that the aspects of train travel most appreciated by the so-called "mindscapers" are the freedom to dedicate oneself to other activities during the trip (58%), the opportunity to look out the window and discover hidden corners of the landscape, which brings relaxation and peace (35%) and the sense of lightheartedness and tranquility that one feels when the tracks run (16%). Finally, 46% of those interviewed said they appreciated the fact that the train allows one to reach the heart of the city directly (a fundamental advantage for 40%), eliminating worries related to traffic and parking. In 2024, one in two Italians opted for a train trip at least once, preferring this means of transport to the plane, while 68% chose it instead of the car. Additionally, 46% of travelers demonstrate that they take environmental impact into account when planning a trip, a percentage that has increased by 5% compared to 2023. A change that is particularly evident for Generation Z, the most attentive to sustainability when it comes to mobility.

…and affordability

Last but not least, affordability: “mindscapers” are in fact very attentive to economic choices and, according to the report, convenience is one of the main advantages of rail travel for 36% of those interviewed.

A means of transport increasingly loved by young people

The survey shows that the link between train travel and vacation is strengthening for Italians: while this means of transport remains the main choice for business trips (45%), the data highlights an increase in the popularity of train travel for leisure. In the last two years, in particular, more and more Italians have chosen the train for vacation (26% in 2024 versus 22% in 2023), favoring especially city breaks in the main Italian destinations (83%); scenic train trips and trips to discover hidden villages (74%); and finally international train trips (71%), particularly appreciated by younger generations (79% - the highest percentage among the age groups, with Millennials and Gen X both at 71%).