- Must visit
Museo Civico Castello Ursino
Civic museum inside Castello Ursino with medieval art, paintings, archaeology, and collections that trace Catania’s history from antiquity onward.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Bologna Centrale to Catania
Showing times and prices for Aug 18
Cheapest price
$95
Average price
$139
Fastest journey
12 h 23 m
Average duration
12 h 46 m
Trains per day
78
Distance
840 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bologna Centrale to Catania is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bologna Centrale to Catania will cost around $139 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $95.
Fast trains
Of the 78 trains that leave Bologna Centrale for Catania on Tue, Aug 18, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Aug 18 the direct trains cover the 840 km distance in an average of 12 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 12 h 23 m .
On Tue, Aug 18 the slowest trains will take 13 h 8 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.
InterCityNotte 196311:05 PM15h27Bologna Centrale2:32 PMCatania Centrale$951One-way0 transfers
9907+
Intercity 7277:57 AM13h28Bologna Centrale9:25 PMCatania Centrale$991One-way1 transfer- 8923+InterCityNotte 19595:42 PM17h15Bologna Centrale10:57 AMCatania Centrale$1011One-way1 transfer
- 8951+Intercity 7278:17 AM13h08Bologna Centrale9:25 PMCatania Centrale$1011One-way1 transfer
- 8959+InterCityNotte 19593:17 PM19h40Bologna Centrale10:57 AMCatania Centrale$1011One-way1 transfer
FRECCIAROSSA 9405+Intercity 7279:02 AM12h23Bologna Centrale9:25 PMCatania Centrale$1681One-way1 transfer- 9917+FRECCIAROSSA 9405+Intercity 7278:57 AM12h28Bologna Centrale9:25 PMCatania Centrale$1331One-way2 transfers
- 8903+FRECCIAROSSA 9405+Intercity 7278:42 AM12h43Bologna Centrale9:25 PMCatania Centrale$1321One-way2 transfers
- 8951+FRECCIAROSSA 9405+Intercity 7278:17 AM13h08Bologna Centrale9:25 PMCatania Centrale$1331One-way2 transfers
- 8951+Intercity 7278:17 AM13h08Bologna Centrale9:25 PMCatania Centrale$1011One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, flight, and train for Bologna Centrale to Catania
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bologna Centrale to Catania among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $28. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 52m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $28, and a train costs an average of $60.
Distance: 521 miles (840 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$124 Average price | $54 Average price Cheapest | $96 Average price | $99 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
13h 32m Average total duration 13h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 17h 39m Average total duration 17h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 52m Average total duration Fastest 1h 52m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 25m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Bologna Centrale to Catania is a bus with an average price of $54 (€44).
This is compared to other travel options from Bologna Centrale to Catania:
A bus is $42 (€35) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bologna Centrale to Catania costing on average $96 (€79).
A bus is $70 (€58) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bologna Centrale to Catania costing on average $124 (€102).
The fastest way to travel from Bologna Centrale to Catania is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 52m.
Other travel options to Catania take longer:
Train takes on average 13h 2m.
Bus takes on average 17h 9m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bologna Centrale and Catania including taking a bus, flight, and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna Centrale to Catania 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 $124 (€102) compared to roughly $99 (€81) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-25.05 (€-20.50). The journey takes 13h 2m versus 11h 25m 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
Bologna Centrale to Catania train times
The table below shows live departures for Bologna Centrale to Catania trains for today, Monday, August 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FRECCIAROSSA 9405+Intercity 727 | 9:02 AM Bologna Centrale | 12h23 | 9:25 PM Catania Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Intercity 584 · Intercity 591+InterCityNotte 1955 | 11:21 AM Bologna Centrale | 20h19 | 7:40 AM Catania Centrale | 2 transfers | |
Intercity 594+InterCityNotte 1959+ Regionale 5385 | 5:25 PM Bologna Centrale | 17h12 | 10:37 AM Catania Centrale | 2 transfers | |
| Intercity 594+InterCityNotte 1959 | 5:25 PM Bologna Centrale | 17h32 | 10:57 AM Catania Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| FRECCIAROSSA 8525+InterCityNotte 1955+Regionale 12953 | 5:47 PM Bologna Centrale | 13h46 | 7:33 AM Catania Centrale | 2 transfers | |
| FRECCIAROSSA 8525+InterCityNotte 1955 | 5:47 PM Bologna Centrale | 13h53 | 7:40 AM Catania Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| FRECCIAROSSA 9435+InterCityNotte 1959+Regionale 5385 | 8:02 PM Bologna Centrale | 14h35 | 10:37 AM Catania Centrale | 2 transfers | |
| FRECCIAROSSA 9435+InterCityNotte 1959 | 8:02 PM Bologna Centrale | 14h55 | 10:57 AM Catania Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Tuesday, August 18 | |||||
| InterCityNotte 770+Intercity 723 | 1:33 AM Bologna Centrale | 15h36 | 5:09 PM Catania Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| InterCityNotte 770+Intercity 723 | 1:33 AM Bologna Centrale | 15h36 | 5:09 PM Catania Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bologna Centrale to Catania by bus, flight, or train
Compare bus, flight, and train 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.
Tue
Aug 18
Aug 18
Wed
Aug 19
Aug 19
Thu
Aug 20
Aug 20
Fri
Aug 21
Aug 21
Sat
Aug 22
Aug 22
Sun
Aug 23
Aug 23
Mon
Aug 24
Aug 24
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bologna Centrale to Catania
ItalyItaly
Trains from Bologna Centrale to Catania run on average 8 times per day, taking around 13h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $60 (€49) but you can travel from only $19 (€15) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:33, the last at 23:33. The fastest train covers the 521 miles (840 km) distance in 11h 48m.
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 $19 (€15)
Distance 521 miles (840 km) |
Average train duration 13h 2m |
Cheapest ticket price $60 (€49) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 11h 48m |
First train 12:33 AM |
Last train 11:33 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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 $19 (€15)
Train companies: Intercity Notte, Intercity, Italo from Bologna Centrale to Catania trainsIntercity Notte, Intercity, Italo trains will get you between Bologna Centrale and Catania from $19 (€15). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Intercity Notte
About
Intercity Notte is an Italian train service operated by Trenitalia. It runs overnight services between major cities in Italy, making it a great option for travelers looking to save time and money. The Intercity Notte offers two types of trains: the Frecciarossa Notte and the Frecciargento Notte. The Frecciarossa Notte is the fastest train, with speeds of up to 300 km/h, while the Frecciargento Notte is slightly slower but still offers a comfortable journey. Both trains offer a range of onboard facilities, including comfortable seating, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. Trenitalia offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, Comfort, and Business. Standard tickets are the most affordable, while Comfort and Business tickets offer additional benefits such as priority boarding and access to the lounge. The most popular routes for Intercity Notte are Rome to Milan, Rome to Venice, and Milan to Venice. These routes offer travelers the chance to explore some of Italy's most iconic cities in a convenient and comfortable way.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
15h 27m
Cheapest Price
$74 (€61)
Intercity Notte frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
1 handbag and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats and at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full dining service and bar
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for disabled passengers
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
Intercity
About
Trenitalia Intercity is a high-speed train service operated by the Italian national railway company, Trenitalia. It operates throughout the country, with services running from early morning to late evening. The Intercity trains come in two types: the Intercity Plus, which is the fastest and most comfortable, and the Intercity, which is slightly slower but still offers a comfortable journey. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, power sockets, Wi-Fi, and a bar service. There are several ticket types available, including Standard, Super Economy, and Business. The most popular routes for Trenitalia Intercity are from Rome to Milan, Naples to Florence, and Turin to Venice.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
15h 36m
Cheapest Price
$60 (€49)
Intercity frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Italo
About
Italo is Italy’s private high-speed train service operated by Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori (NTV), connecting major cities such as Rome, Milan, Naples, Florence, Turin, Bologna, and Salerno. Its fleet includes the Italo AGV 575, capable of speeds up to 186 mph (300 km/h), and the eco-friendly Italo EVO, which reaches up to 150 mph (250 km/h). Passengers can choose from four classes — Smart, Comfort, Prima, and Club Executive — all offering modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, reclining leather seats, footrests, bathrooms, snack machines, and Italo Live entertainment with movies, music, and games. Italo offers three fare types — Low Cost, Economy, and Flex — providing different levels of price and flexibility. Popular routes include Rome–Milan, Rome–Florence, and Milan–Turin, making Italo a fast, comfortable, and convenient way to travel around Italy.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
13h 8m
Cheapest Price
$150 (€123)
Italo frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage (max 55x35x25cm) and 1 piece of luggage (max 75x53x30cm)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack bar service available in most trains with drinks and light refreshments. Welcome service in Prima and Club Executive classes
Seat reservation
Included in Prima and Club Executive. Optional extra cost in Smart and Comfort
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Catania
Things to do in Catania
Discover the best of Catania — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Catania trip today.
- Recommended
Museo Casa Natale di Vincenzo Bellini
Museum in Bellini’s birthplace with manuscripts, portraits, period furnishings, and exhibits dedicated to the celebrated Catanian composer’s life.
- Recommended
Museo dei Saperi e delle Mirabilia Siciliane
University museum combining displays on Etna, volcanology, zoology, and science, ideal for understanding the natural setting around Catania.
- Must visit
Piazza del Duomo
Catania’s main square and Baroque showpiece, framed by the cathedral, Elephant Fountain, and historic palaces, making it the city’s essential starting point.
- Must visit
Via dei Crociferi
Elegant Baroque street lined with churches and palaces, often considered one of Sicily’s most beautiful urban ensembles for a short historic walk.
- Must visit
La Pescheria
Lively historic fish market area behind Piazza Duomo, famous for its sensory atmosphere, street life, and authentic glimpse of everyday Catania.
Arancino
Crisp fried rice ball filled with ragù, peas and cheese. A Sicilian street food staple, especially iconic in Catania bakeries and bars.
- Vegetarian
Pasta Alla Norma
Pasta alla Norma combines pasta with fried eggplant, tomato sauce, salted ricotta and basil. It is Catania’s signature dish, named after Bellini’s opera.
- Gluten-free
Carne Di Cavallo
Fresh horse meat, often grilled as polpette or steaks. It is a long-standing Catania specialty, especially around the city’s traditional meat stalls.
Pasticceria Savia
Historic pastry and café stop famous for granita, cannoli and Sicilian breakfast. A classic casual venue with strong local identity.
Me Cumpari Turiddu
Refined Sicilian dining in central Catania, serving seasonal local ingredients and polished regional recipes in an elegant setting.
Osteria Antica Marina
Historic seafood restaurant by the fish market, known for ultra-fresh catch and classic Catania dishes in a lively traditional setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Italy: stays and dining are usually cheaper than Rome or Milan, while tourist areas and summer rates raise hotel and restaurant prices. Local buses stay low-cost.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for street food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €1.50-3 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or modest. Round up or leave 5-10% at restaurants for good service, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes if served at table.
FAQs: Trains from Bologna Centrale to Catania
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna Centrale to Catania 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 Catania, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Bologna Centrale to Catania can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $60 (€49), while the average price is around $124 (€102).
The train from Bologna Centrale to Catania takes 11h 48m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Bologna Centrale to Catania is 521 miles (840 km).
The first train from Bologna Centrale to Catania leaves at 12:33 AM.
The last train from Bologna Centrale to Catania leaves at 11:33 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Bologna Centrale to Catania.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bologna Centrale to Catania.
Yes, there is a night train from Bologna Centrale to Catania.
The cheapest way to get from Bologna Centrale to Catania is by flight, with a cost of around $19 (€15).
The train journey from Bologna Centrale to Catania offers scenic views, especially as it traverses the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany and the dramatic coastal stretches of Calabria and Sicily, providing glimpses of rolling hills, seaside vistas, and charming Italian towns.
A day trip from Bologna Centrale to Catania is not feasible as the journey takes 11h 48m and covers a distance of 521 miles (840 km). There are 9 train trips available per day.
In Catania, visitors can explore Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano, with guided tours and hiking trails. Experience the vibrant atmosphere at La Pescheria, the daily fish market offering fresh seafood and local delicacies. Relax at Giardino Bellini, Catania's oldest urban park with beautiful gardens. Visit Aci Castello, a picturesque coastal town featuring a medieval castle overlooking the sea. Enjoy Catania's Street Food Tour, savoring traditional Sicilian dishes. Key sights include Piazza del Duomo with the Elephant Fountain and Cathedral of Sant'Agata, Teatro Massimo Bellini, Castello Ursino, Via Etnea for shopping, and the Monastero dei Benedettini, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Three to four days in Catania allows you to explore the city’s historical sites, enjoy its vibrant markets, and take day trips to nearby attractions like Mount Etna and the stunning coastline.
Yes, you can take the train from Bologna Centrale to Catania.
Since both Bologna Centrale and Catania 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 Catania include Taormina, Syracuse, Messina, Milazzo, Letojanni.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna Centrale to Catania 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.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Italy Pass and Interrail Italy Pass are valid on most trains operated by Trenitalia and Italo within Italy, including regional, intercity, and high-speed trains, though some restrictions and seat reservation fees may apply.
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 Catania, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to use official taxis, avoid unlicensed guides, and keep valuables secure to minimize risks.
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 Bologna Centrale to Catania
Most Bologna Centrale to Catania trains use the Bologna Centrale to Catania Centrale station pair. Use this guide to compare Bologna Centrale and Catania train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bologna
Arrival train stations in Catania
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 Bologna Centrale
More options for your journey from Bologna Centrale to Catania
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Catania and Bologna Centrale
Most popular train connections to Catania
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
