- Must visit
Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna
Leading city museum with major Italian paintings from the Middle Ages to modern times, essential for understanding Bologna's art history.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bielefeld to Bologna
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
$298
Average ticket price on Sep 18
$298
Fastest journey on Sep 18
13 h 41 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
13 h 41 m
Trains on Sep 18
1
Distance
864 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bielefeld to Bologna is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bielefeld to Bologna will cost around $298 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $298.
Fast trains
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 1 trains from Bielefeld to Bologna, including 1 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct trains cover the 864 km distance in an average of 13 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 13 h 41 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest trains will take 13 h 41 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.
5:35 AM13h41Bielefeld7:16 PMBologna$2981One-way0 transfers
- 5:35 AM13h41Bielefeld7:16 PMBologna$2981One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Bielefeld to Bologna
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Bielefeld to Bologna among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $138 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 52m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $138, while a flight costs an average of $619.
Distance: 536 miles (864 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$216 Average price | $619 Average price | $138 Average price Cheapest | $220 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
12h 30m Average total duration 12h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 52m Average total duration Fastest 2h 52m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 20h 38m Average total duration 20h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 1m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Bielefeld to Bologna is a bus with an average price of $138.
This is compared to other travel options from Bielefeld to Bologna:
A bus is $79 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bielefeld to Bologna costing on average $216.
A bus is $481 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bielefeld to Bologna costing on average $619.
The fastest way to travel from Bielefeld to Bologna is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 52m.
Other travel options to Bologna take longer:
Train takes on average 12h 0m.
Bus takes on average 20h 8m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bielefeld and Bologna including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Bielefeld to Bologna among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 1m faster (12h 0m by train vs 12h 1m by car) and roughly $4 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($216 vs $220). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Bielefeld to Bologna train times
The table below shows live departures for Bielefeld to Bologna trains for today, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
.png) | 9:20 PM Bielefeld | 18h48 | 4:08 PM Bologna | 2 transfers | |
 | 9:24 PM Bielefeld | 18h44 | 4:08 PM Bologna | 4 transfers | |
| Friday, September 18 | |||||
| 5:35 AM Bielefeld | 13h41 | 7:16 PM Bologna | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bielefeld 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.
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Bielefeld to Bologna
Germany
Italy
Trains from Bielefeld to Bologna run on average 1 times per day, taking around 12h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $134 but you can travel from only $82 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:25, the last at 21:35. The fastest train covers the 536 miles (864 km) distance in 11h 54m.
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 $82
Distance 536 miles (864 km) |
Average train duration 12h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $134 |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 11h 54m |
First train 4:25 AM |
Last train 9:35 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 35 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 $82
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Bielefeld to Bologna trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Bielefeld and Bologna from $82. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Deutsche Bahn Duration
11h 54m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$134
Deutsche Bahn frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone
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
Archaeological museum with rich Egyptian, Etruscan, Greek, and Roman collections in a central historic palace.
- Recommended
Museo Civico Medievale
Museum of Bologna's urban history using objects, rooms, and multimedia to trace the city from antiquity to today.
- Must visit
Piazza Maggiore
Bologna's main square, surrounded by landmark buildings and always lively, ideal for architecture, people-watching, and orientation.
- Must visit
Quadrilatero
Historic market quarter with narrow lanes, medieval character, and vibrant street life just behind Piazza Maggiore.
- Must visit
Portico di San Luca
Long portico route climbing toward San Luca, UNESCO-listed and perfect for a memorable urban walk with changing views.
Tagliatelle Al Ragù
Handmade egg pasta ribbons traditionally served with slow-cooked ragù. A defining Bolognese dish protected by local culinary tradition.
Tortellini In Brodo
Small ring-shaped stuffed pasta, usually filled with pork and Parmigiano Reggiano, served in rich capon or beef broth. A classic festive dish.
Lasagne Verdi Alla Bolognese
Green spinach pasta layered with ragù, béchamel, and Parmigiano. Bologna's traditional baked lasagna is richer and more refined than many versions abroad.
I Portici Restaurant
Elegant Michelin-starred restaurant serving refined Emilian cuisine in a polished, intimate space within central Bologna.
Salumeria Simoni
Traditional deli and wine bar famed for mortadella, cheeses, fresh pasta, and informal counter dining in the Quadrilatero market area.
Trattoria Da Me
Historic trattoria known for classic Bolognese pasta, cured meats, and traditional dining rooms with a warm, old-city atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Italy: stays and dining are cheaper than Rome or Milan, while transit is affordable and tourist-center prices stay manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.50-3 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. Service may be included. Round up or leave €1-2 at cafes, 5-10% in restaurants for great service, and round up taxi fares.
FAQs: Trains from Bielefeld to Bologna
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bielefeld 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 Bielefeld to Bologna can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $134, while the average price is around $216.
The train from Bielefeld to Bologna runs once a day and takes approximately 11h 54m.
The first train from Bielefeld to Bologna leaves at 4:25 AM.
The distance by train from Bielefeld to Bologna is 536 miles (864 km).
The last train from Bielefeld to Bologna leaves at 9:35 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bielefeld to Bologna.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bielefeld to Bologna.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bielefeld to Bologna.
The train station in Bielefeld that goes to Bologna is Bielefeld Hbf, which connects to Bologna Centrale.
The cheapest way to get from Bielefeld to Bologna is by bus, with a cost of around $82.
The train journey from Bielefeld to Bologna offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley and the rolling hills of southern Germany and northern Italy, providing travelers with beautiful countryside vistas.
A day trip from Bielefeld to Bologna is not feasible as the journey takes 11h 54m and covers 536 miles (864 km). There are 2 train trips available per day.
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 Bielefeld to Bologna.
Since both Bielefeld 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Bielefeld 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Bielefeld to Bologna
Most Bielefeld to Bologna trains use the Bielefeld Hbf to Bologna Centrale station pair. Use this guide to compare Bielefeld and Bologna train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bielefeld
Arrival train stations in Bologna
Which Bielefeld station do trains to Bologna leave from?
Trains from Bielefeld to Bologna leave from Bielefeld Hbf. The station is from Bielefeld city centre at Bielefeld Hbf, Am Bahnhof 1b, 33602 Bielefeld.
Bielefeld HbfBielefeld Hbf, Am Bahnhof 1b, 33602 Bielefeld
City-centre transport
Getting to Bielefeld Hbf from Bielefeld city centre
Bus351, 350 · 3m · every ~4 min
Tram4, 3, 2, 1 · 3m · $2 · every ~32 min
2, 1, 3, 4 · 4m · $2 · every ~21 min
Bielefeld Hbf train station facilities and services
Bielefeld Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: McDonald's, Mexims, Entrada, Lokma
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bielefeld Hbf. ATMs are available at Bielefeld Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bielefeld Hbf. Information desks are available at Bielefeld Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Bielefeld Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bielefeld Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bielefeld Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bielefeld Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Wali, Altstadt Hotel Bielefeld, Hotel Stadt Bremen, Bielefelder Hof.
Which Bologna station do trains from Bielefeld arrive at?
Trains from Bielefeld to Bologna arrive at Bologna Centrale. Bologna Centrale is 0 miles (1 km) from Bologna city centre.
Bologna CentralePiazza delle Medaglie d'Oro, 40121 Bologna, Italy+39 892021
City-centre transport
Getting to Bologna Centrale from Bologna city centre
Bologna Centrale is 1 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus11, 181, 21, 30, 38, 445, C, 61, 62, 81, 87, 91, N4, 92, N3 · 4m · $1 · every ~39 min
21, 30, 11, C, 62, N4, N3 · 6m · $1 · every ~36 min
Bologna Centrale train station facilities and services
Bologna Centrale has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Burger King, A Cafè, VyTA Boulangerie, Venchi, Scambio, Juice Bar, KFC, Dispensa Emilia, Lavazza, Mokà, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. . ATMs are aTM is located in the main hall.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 21:00. Information desks are customer service center is on the ground floor and open every day from 06:30 to 23:00.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage facility, open daily from 07:00 to 22:00, is located in front of binario 7 Ovest (Track 7 West).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bologna Centrale: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bologna Centrale: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna Centrale: Accessible facilities including barrier-free restrooms, elevators and ramps. Sala Blu mobility assistance available from 07:45 to 22:30 with advanced one-hour notice.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Starhotels Excelsior, Millenn Hotel Bologna, UNA Hotels.
Most popular train connections from Bielefeld
More options for your journey from Bielefeld to Bologna
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bologna and Bielefeld
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