Switzerland dominates Europe’s rail travel statistics, showcasing its commitment to efficient public transportation systems. Ahead of a critical vote on road expansion, LITRA released its annual report detailing European train travel trends and achievements. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Rail Travel Leader
Swiss Rail © Folco Banfi | Dreamstime.com

Why Switzerland Is the Rail Travel Leader

In 2023, Swiss residents averaged 68 train journeys, covering an impressive 2,466 kilometers each. This marked a 13% increase in trips and a 12% rise in distances compared to 2022, emphasizing the growing reliance on rail travel. Although impressive, these figures fall slightly short of Switzerland’s 2019 record of 2,505 kilometers per capita.

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Neighboring Austria ranked second in per capita train travel distance, achieving only 64% of Switzerland’s total. France followed with similar statistics, while Sweden and Germany rounded out the top five. Conversely, the United Kingdom trailed significantly, with per capita travel at merely 36% of Switzerland’s performance. Greece registered the lowest train usage in Europe, at just 65 kilometers per person.

Global Recognition for the Rail Travel Leader

Switzerland also led in train journeys per capita, with its 68 trips far exceeding Luxembourg’s second-place average of 43. Austria, Denmark, and Germany followed closely, while the UK lagged at 24 trips per capita. France’s ninth-place ranking, with just 18 trips, highlights the contrasting travel patterns enabled by its high-speed rail system.

Globally, only Japan surpasses Switzerland’s unparalleled dedication to rail travel, cementing its status as a model for efficient transportation worldwide.

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