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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cologne to Bologna
Showing times and prices for Apr 20
Cheapest price
$79
Average price
$103
Fastest journey
15 h 15 m
Average duration
17 h 10 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
787 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cologne to Bologna is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Bologna will cost around $103 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $79.
Fast buses
Of the 6 buses that leave Cologne for Bologna on Mon, Apr 20, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Apr 20 the direct buses cover the 787 km distance in an average of 17 h 10 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 15 h 15 m .
On Mon, Apr 20 the slowest buses will take 19 h 10 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
FlixBus7:55 PM15h15Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)11:10 AMBologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre)$791One-way0 transfers- FlixBus · FlixBus11:05 PM19h10Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)6:15 PMBologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre)$891One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus1:35 PM17h55Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)7:30 AMBologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre)$901One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus11:35 AM16h50Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)4:25 AMBologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre)$921One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus4:50 AM16h40Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)9:30 PMBologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre)$1121One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus7:55 PM15h15Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)11:10 AMBologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre)$791One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus4:50 AM16h40Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)9:30 PMBologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre)$1121One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus11:35 AM16h50Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)4:25 AMBologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre)$921One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus1:35 PM17h55Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)7:30 AMBologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre)$901One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus11:05 PM19h10Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)6:15 PMBologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre)$891One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Bologna
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Bologna among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $57. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 47m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $57, and a flight costs an average of $25.
Distance: 489 miles (787 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train |
|---|---|---|
$91 Average price Cheapest | $262 Average price | $206 Average price |
16h 14m Average total duration 15h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 47m Average total duration Fastest 1h 47m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 12h 15m Average total duration 11h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular train company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Cologne to Bologna Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 02:35AM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 17h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $232 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:50AM | Arrival Time 11:25PM | Duration 18h35 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $80 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:01AM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 21h44 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $106 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:35AM | Arrival Time 04:25AM | Duration 16h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $83 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 11:55AM | Arrival Time 02:55PM | Duration 27h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $132 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:35PM | Arrival Time 07:30AM | Duration 17h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $80 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:35PM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 18h25 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $83 |
Operator RegioJet a.s. | Departure Time 07:40PM | Arrival Time 09:15AM | Duration 37h35 | Departure days Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $140 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:55PM | Arrival Time 11:10AM | Duration 15h15 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:05PM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 19h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $86 |
Live departures
Cologne to Bologna bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Bologna buses for today, Sunday, April 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 2:35 AM Köln, ZOB | 17h30 | 8:05 PM Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 4:50 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 16h40 | 9:30 PM Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:35 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 16h50 | 4:25 AM Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre) | 1 transfer | |
 50429 · 4787 | 11:55 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 27h00 | 2:55 PM Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:35 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 17h55 | 7:30 AM Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre) | 1 transfer | |
 (Amsterdam -> Prague) · (Prague -> Vienna) · (Prague -> Rome) | 7:40 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 37h35 | 9:15 AM Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre) | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus | 7:55 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 15h15 | 11:10 AM Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:05 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 19h10 | 6:15 PM Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Bologna by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Cologne to Bologna buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Cologne to Bologna.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Bologna.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Bologna.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Bologna.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cologne to Bologna
Germany
Italy
Buses from Cologne to Bologna run on average 6 times per day, taking around 15h 44m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $57 (€45) but you can travel from only $25 (€20) by flight.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 01:00, the last at 23:30. The fastest bus covers the 489 miles (787 km) distance in 15h 15m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $25 (€20)
Distance 489 miles (787 km) |
Average bus duration 15h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $57 (€45) |
Buses per day 6 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 15h 15m |
First bus 1:00 AM |
Last bus 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 14 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $25 (€20)
Bus providers: FlixBus from Cologne to BolognaYou can travel by bus between Cologne to Bologna with FlixBus for as low as $25 (€20). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
15h 15m
Cheapest Price
$57 (€45)
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
FAQs: Bus from Cologne to Bologna
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Bologna by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Bologna, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cologne to Bologna can start from as little as $57 (€45) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cologne to Bologna is $91 (€73) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Cologne to Bologna is 15h 15m to travel the 489 miles (787 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Cologne to Bologna leaves at 1:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cologne to Bologna leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Cologne to Bologna with . Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Cologne to Bologna, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Bologna. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cologne and Bologna and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Cologne , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen), Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2), Leverkusen, Bf Mitte, Köln, ZOB, Düsseldorf, ZOB am Hbf . When arriving in Bologna , you can end your journey in bus stations like Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen), which is located around 13 away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre), located 1 away from the city centre.
A trip to Bologna from Cologne is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 15h 15m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cologne to Bologna is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Bologna including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cologne to Bologna:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cologne to Bologna for bus company FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Bologna are:
- Piazza Maggiore, a central square surrounded by historic buildings and a hub for local events
- Two Towers, iconic medieval towers offering panoramic views of the city
- Basilica di San Petronio, a grand Gothic church known for its unfinished facade and impressive interior
- Archiginnasio of Bologna, a historic university building with a stunning anatomical theater and library
- Santo Stefano, a complex of religious buildings known as the Seven Churches with unique architectural features.
The best things to do in Bologna include:
- Piazza Maggiore, the central square surrounded by historic buildings and lively cafes
- Two Towers, iconic medieval towers offering panoramic views of the city
- Basilica di San Petronio, a grand church with impressive architecture and art
- Archiginnasio of Bologna, a historic university building with a stunning anatomical theater
- Mercato di Mezzo, a bustling market offering local delicacies and fresh produce.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cologne to Bologna depends on the bus companies:
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Cologne to Bologna.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cologne to Bologna:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Cologne to Bologna:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Cologne to Bologna. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cologne to Bologna with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cologne to Bologna with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cologne to Bologna with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since both Cologne and Bologna are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Bologna among Omio's users.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Bologna, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors or unofficial taxi drivers offering overpriced rides can also occur. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid common safety issues.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Cologne to Bologna
Cologne
Bologna
The major bus station for departures in Cologne is Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) for your trip from Cologne to Bologna.
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
ATM
Accessibility
WCinformation
Distance to city center
13 km
Car connection
KennedystraßeWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 00:00-23:59
Distance to city center
13 kmCar connection
KennedystrasseWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Taxis
- Available outside Terminal 2 arrivals area.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)
- Bus: SB60 Train: S13, S19
Köln, ZOB
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Distance to city center
1 kmCar connection
Breslauer PlatzWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafeteria im ZOB (in the station)
- McDonald's (0.2 km)
- Vapiano (0.5 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Köln, ZOB
- Bus: 132, 133, 250 Metro: U5, U18 Train: S6, S11, S12
The major bus station for arrivals in Bologna is Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre) for your trip to Bologna from Cologne.
Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre)
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 05:30-23:00
Distance to city center
1 kmCar connection
Piazza XX SettembreWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafeteria Autostazione (in the station)
- Trattoria del Rosso (0.5 km)
- Osteria Broccaindosso (0.7 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre)
- Bus: 11, 21, 25, 30 Train: Bologna Centrale
Most popular bus connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Bologna
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Bologna and Cologne
Most popular bus connections to Bologna
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