- Must visit
Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna
National art gallery showcasing Italian Renaissance art, including works by Raphael and Titian.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Barcelona to Bologna
Showing times and prices for May 16
Cheapest price
$168
Average price
$168
Fastest journey
23 h 35 m
Average duration
23 h 35 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
823 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Barcelona to Bologna is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Barcelona to Bologna will cost around $168 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $168.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Barcelona to Bologna without transferring at least 2 times.
8:14 AM23h35Barcelona7:49 AMBologna$1681One-way2 transfers
- 8:14 AM23h35Barcelona7:49 AMBologna$1681One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Barcelona to Bologna
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Barcelona to Bologna among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 1m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 0.8 - 2.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $17, and a train costs an average of $168.
Distance: 511 miles (823 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$168 Average price | $153 Average price | $71 Average price Cheapest | $55 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
24h 5m Average total duration 23h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 1m Average total duration Fastest 3h 1m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 17h 50m Average total duration 17h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 43m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 2.5 - 4.9kg CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 2.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Barcelona to Bologna is a bus with an average price of $71 (€57).
This is compared to other travel options from Barcelona to Bologna:
A bus is $82 (€67) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Barcelona to Bologna costing on average $153 (€124).
A bus is $98 (€79) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Barcelona to Bologna costing on average $168 (€136).
The fastest way to travel from Barcelona to Bologna is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 1m.
Other travel options to Bologna take longer:
Bus takes on average 17h 20m.
Train takes on average 23h 35m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Barcelona and Bologna including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Barcelona to Bologna among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $168 (€136) compared to roughly $55 (€44) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-113.55 (€-91.65). The journey takes 23h 35m versus 11h 43m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Barcelona to Bologna train times
The table below shows live departures for Barcelona to Bologna trains for tomorrow, Saturday, May 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:14 AM Barcelona | 23h35 | 7:49 AM Bologna | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Barcelona 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Barcelona to Bologna
Spain
Italy
Trains from Barcelona to Bologna run on average 1 times per day, taking around 23h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $168 (€136) but you can travel from only $17 (€14) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 18:55. The fastest train covers the 511 miles (823 km) distance in 23h 35m.
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
Bus from $17 (€14)
Distance 511 miles (823 km) |
Average train duration 23h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $168 (€136) |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 23h 35m |
First train 12:20 AM |
Last train 6:55 PM |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 56 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
Bus from $17 (€14)
Train companies: Renfe Viajeros from Barcelona to Bologna trainsRenfe Viajeros trains will get you between Barcelona and Bologna from $17 (€14). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Renfe Viajeros
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
23h 35m
Cheapest Price
$168 (€136)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Bologna
Things to do in Bologna
Discover the best of Bologna — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bologna trip today.
- Recommended
Museo Civico Archeologico
Home to collections from the Etruscan period and ancient Roman relics, this museum is located near Piazza Maggiore.
- Recommended
MAMbo - Museo d'Arte Moderna di Bologna
Modern art museum featuring contemporary exhibitions and innovative art projects.
- Must visit
Portico di San Luca
The longest portico in the world, leading from the city center to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca.
- Recommended
Quadrilatero
A historic market district full of shops, food stalls, and local charm in the center of Bologna.
- Recommended
Via dell'Indipendenza
One of Bologna's main thoroughfares, perfect for shopping and sightseeing.
Tagliatelle al Ragù
A classic Bolognese dish featuring fresh egg pasta served with a rich meat sauce made from beef and pork, often called Bolognese sauce outside Italy.
Tortellini in Brodo
Small ring-shaped pasta filled with a mix of meats, traditionally served in a flavorful broth.
- Gluten-free
Mortadella
A large Italian sausage made of finely hashed pork, flavored with spices. Often served thinly sliced as an appetizer.
Trattoria di Via Serra
Highly regarded for its farm-to-table approach, serving traditional dishes with local ingredients in a homey atmosphere.
Ristorante Da Cesari
A family-run restaurant offering authentic Bolognese cuisine in a cozy, traditional setting. Known for its homemade pastas.
Osteria dell'Orsa
A popular spot for locals and tourists, known for affordable and authentic Bolognese meals in a lively atmosphere.
Euro
While accommodation can be affordable, dining and tourist activities are moderately priced compared to other Italian cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for a simple meal or street food.
- Mid-range
- €25-40 per person at a restaurant.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person at upscale establishments.
- Coffee
- €1.50-3 for an espresso.
Tipping culture
Typically, a service charge is included. Extra tipping is optional but appreciated; round up the bill or leave small change in cafes.
TPER Bologna
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.50
- Day pass
- €6.00
To the city center
Bologna Centrale -> Piazza Maggiore
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Validate your ticket before boarding to avoid fines.
- Contactless payment is available on buses.
FAQs: Trains from Barcelona to Bologna
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Barcelona to Bologna by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Bologna, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Barcelona to Bologna can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $168 (€136), while the average price is around $168 (€136).
The train from Barcelona to Bologna runs once a day and takes approximately 23h 35m.
The first train from Barcelona to Bologna leaves at 12:20 AM.
The distance by train from Barcelona to Bologna is 511 miles (823 km).
The last train from Barcelona to Bologna leaves at 6:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Barcelona to Bologna.
There is no direct train service currently available from Barcelona to Bologna.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Barcelona to Bologna.
The cheapest way to get from Barcelona to Bologna is by bus, with a cost of around $17 (€14).
The train journey from Barcelona to Bologna offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the French Riviera and the rolling hills of northern Italy, providing travelers with glimpses of charming coastal towns and lush countryside.
A day trip from Barcelona to Bologna is not feasible as the journey takes 23h 35m and the distance is 511 miles (823 km). The frequency is 1 per day for trains.
In Bologna, you can explore Piazza Maggiore, the bustling central square surrounded by historic buildings and lively cafes. Climb the Two Towers for panoramic city views, and visit the Basilica di San Petronio, a grand church with stunning architecture. Discover the Archiginnasio of Bologna, a historic university building featuring a remarkable anatomical theater. Don't miss the Mercato di Mezzo, where you can enjoy local delicacies and fresh produce. Additionally, explore Santo Stefano, a fascinating complex known as the Seven Churches with unique architectural features.
Three days in Bologna is generally sufficient to explore its historic sites, enjoy its renowned cuisine, and experience its vibrant culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Barcelona to Bologna.
Since both Barcelona 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.
Popular day trips by train from Bologna include Florence, Venice, Rimini, Verona, Ravenna.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Barcelona to Bologna among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
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.
Most popular train connections from Barcelona
More options for your journey from Barcelona to Bologna
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bologna and Barcelona
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