- Must visit
Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna
The city’s main fine-art museum, known for major works from the Bolognese school including Giotto, Raphael, Guido Reni, and the Carracci. A strong choice for understanding Bologna’s artistic heritage.
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bellinzona to Bologna Centrale among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $56. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 54m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $56, and a bus costs an average of $21.
Distance: 162 miles (261 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$67 Average price Cheapest | $74 Average price | $72 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 24m Average total duration Fastest 3h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 17h 52m Average total duration 17h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 25m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Bellinzona to Bologna Centrale:
A train is $7 (€6) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Bellinzona to Bologna Centrale costing on average $74 (€60).
Other travel options to Bologna Centrale take longer:
Bus takes on average 17h 22m.
Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.
Direct services run with Trenitalia.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare train and bus 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.
Trains from Bellinzona to Bologna Centrale run on average 19 times per day, taking around 3h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $56 (€46) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 15:14, the last at 19:14. The fastest train covers the 162 miles (261 km) distance in 4h 14m.
Distance 162 miles (261 km) |
Average train duration 3h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $56 (€46) |
Trains per day 19 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 4h 14m |
First train 3:14 PM |
Last train 7:14 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Discover the best of Bologna Centrale — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bologna Centrale trip today.
The city’s main fine-art museum, known for major works from the Bolognese school including Giotto, Raphael, Guido Reni, and the Carracci. A strong choice for understanding Bologna’s artistic heritage.
Bologna’s leading modern and contemporary art museum, featuring rotating exhibitions and works tied to postwar Italian art. Popular with visitors seeking a more contemporary cultural stop.
A respected archaeology museum with Egyptian, Etruscan, Greek, Roman, and local collections. Its central location near Piazza Maggiore makes it an easy and rewarding visit.
Bologna’s principal square and the heart of the historic center, surrounded by major civic and religious buildings. It is the essential starting point for most visits.
A historic central district of narrow streets known for its lively atmosphere and traditional urban character. It is highly popular for wandering and experiencing old Bologna.
The famous portico route leading toward the Sanctuary of San Luca is one of Bologna’s defining urban experiences. It is ideal for a scenic walk and very popular for photos.
Bologna’s iconic fresh egg pasta served with a slow-cooked meat ragù. It is one of the city’s most famous traditional dishes.
Small ring-shaped pasta filled with pork, mortadella, and Parmigiano Reggiano, traditionally served in rich capon or beef broth.
Green spinach pasta layered with ragù, béchamel, and Parmigiano Reggiano. A classic Sunday and festive dish in Bologna.
Well-regarded modern trattoria serving carefully prepared Emilian classics with high-quality ingredients in a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere.
Popular pasta spot known for handmade stuffed pasta and traditional Bolognese recipes in an informal, central setting.
Historic trattoria celebrated for classic Bolognese dishes such as tortellini, tagliatelle al ragù, and lasagne in a traditional setting.
Moderate for Italy: food and coffee are reasonable, while hotels near the station can cost more.
Service is often included or covered by a coperto charge. Tipping is not obligatory; round up or leave EUR 1-2 at cafes, 5-10% for very good restaurant service, and round up taxis.
Official public transport app
Bologna Centrale, Bologna -> Piazza Maggiore, Bologna
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bellinzona to Bologna Centrale 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 Centrale, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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