- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for Pop Art, Picasso works, and a strong international collection.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf
Showing times and prices for Jun 19
Cheapest price
$312
Average price
$312
Fastest journey
11 h 20 m
Average duration
11 h 58 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
787 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf 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 Cologne Hbf will cost around $312 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $312.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf without transferring at least once.
RJ 86 · ICE 5129:52 AM12h13Bologna Centrale10:05 PMCologne Hbf$3121One-way1 transfer- RJ 88 · ICE 5147:45 AM12h20Bologna Centrale8:05 PMCologne Hbf$3121One-way1 transfer
- RJ 88 · ICE 594 · ICE 1047:45 AM11h20Bologna Centrale7:05 PMCologne Hbf$3121One-way2 transfers
- RJ 88 · ICE 594 · ICE 1047:45 AM11h20Bologna Centrale7:05 PMCologne Hbf$3121One-way2 transfers
- RJ 86 · ICE 5129:52 AM12h13Bologna Centrale10:05 PMCologne Hbf$3121One-way1 transfer
- RJ 88 · ICE 5147:45 AM12h20Bologna Centrale8:05 PMCologne Hbf$3121One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $61. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 38m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $61, and a flight costs an average of $27.
Distance: 489 miles (787 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$207 Average price | $243 Average price | $93 Average price Cheapest | $199 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 4m Average total duration 8h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 38m Average total duration Fastest 1h 38m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 20h 53m Average total duration 20h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 22m 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 Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf is a bus with an average price of $93 (€76).
This is compared to other travel options from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf:
A bus is $114 (€93) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf costing on average $207 (€170).
A bus is $150 (€123) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf costing on average $243 (€199).
The fastest way to travel from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 38m.
Other travel options to Cologne Hbf take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 34m.
Bus takes on average 20h 23m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bologna Centrale and Cologne Hbf including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 1h 48m sooner (8h 34m by train vs 10h 22m by car). Tickets start at around $207 (€170) compared to roughly $199 (€163) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf train times
The table below shows live departures for Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf trains for tomorrow, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RJ 88 · ICE 514 | On time 7:45 AM Bologna Centrale | 12h20 | 8:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| RJ 88 · ICE 594 · ICE 104 | On time 7:45 AM Bologna Centrale | 11h20 | 7:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| RJ 86 · ICE 512 | On time 9:52 AM Bologna Centrale | 12h13 | 10:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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 Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf trains with Omio?
Trenitalia as well as Deutsche Bahn or Frecciarossa offer trains services from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf.
Why book with Omio vs Trenitalia?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Trenitalia, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn or Frecciarossa to find the best option for your trip from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf.
- 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 Trenitalia with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn or Frecciarossa to find the best option for your trip from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf
Italy
Germany
Trains from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf run on average 2 times per day, taking around 8h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $152 (€125) but you can travel from only $27 (€22) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 07:52, the last at 07:52. The fastest train covers the 489 miles (787 km) distance in 11h 13m.
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 $27 (€22)
Distance 489 miles (787 km) |
Average train duration 8h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price $152 (€125) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 11h 13m |
First train 7:52 AM |
Last train 7:52 AM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 $27 (€22)
Train companies: Trenitalia, Deutsche Bahn, Frecciarossa from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf trainsTrenitalia, Deutsche Bahn, Frecciarossa trains will get you between Bologna Centrale and Cologne Hbf from $27 (€22). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Trenitalia
About
Trenitalia is not only Italy's national railroad company but also the country's largest train operator. Trenitalia’s fleet of trains ncludes the high-speed Frecciarossa, Frecciargento and Frecciabianca trains as well as intercity, regional and night trains. Bathrooms and WiFi access are standard on long-distance routes. In most cases, the trains also provide barrier-free access. Trenitalia offers different tickets, which vary in price and flexibility: Base, Economy, Super Economy and Ordinaria. You can even use Trenitalia discount cards on Omio. Make sure to look out for the latest offers from Trenitalia on Omio to score special deals!
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per passenger included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, and spaces between seat backs
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car on high-speed trains, trolley service with snacks and beverages, vending machines on some trains
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation, costs extra except on high-speed trains where it's mandatory and included
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
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 Duration
11h 13m
Cheapest Price
$152 (€125)
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
Frecciarossa
About
Step on board a Frecciarossa train and relax as you travel across Italy. Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa high-speed trains make around 200 connections across the country each day and are renowned for their comfort, speed, and reduced environmental impact. Reaching speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h), they connect major destinations such as Rome, Florence, Milan, Venice, and Naples quickly and efficiently. When booking your Frecciarossa journey, you can choose between four classes: Standard, Premium, Business, and Executive. While each class offers different levels of comfort, all provide free Wi-Fi access, power outlets, air conditioning, bathrooms, luggage storage, onboard entertainment, and restaurant and bar services. Ticket options include Super Economy, Economy, and Base, making it easy to find the right balance of comfort and price for your trip.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 47m
Cheapest Price
$311 (€255)
Frecciarossa frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag and 1 suitcase per passenger
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at carriage ends, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals, bar service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in Executive class
Seat reservation
Included in Executive class, optional fee for other classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, service animals free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Cologne
Things to do in Cologne
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
- Must visit
Römisch-Germanisches Museum
Cologne’s key archaeological museum for Roman heritage, famous for mosaics and finds from the city’s ancient past. Parts of the collection may be presented in temporary locations during building works
- Recommended
Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud
Leading fine arts museum with important medieval, Baroque, and 19th-century paintings, offering one of Cologne’s strongest classic art collections.
- Must visit
Rheinauhafen
Revitalized waterfront district with striking modern architecture, promenades, and photogenic Rhine views, popular on social media.
- Must visit
Kölner Rheinboulevard
Wide riverside steps and promenade on the right bank, famous for postcard views back toward the cathedral skyline.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
Historic Old Town square lined with traditional facades and lively public life, ideal for absorbing the classic Cologne atmosphere.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Kölsch
The city’s signature top-fermented beer, traditionally served in small cylindrical glasses. It is central to Cologne’s brewing culture and best enjoyed in a classic brauhaus.
- Vegetarian
Halve Hahn
A classic Cologne snack of rye roll, Gouda cheese, mustard, onions, and pickles. Despite the name, it contains no chicken and is a staple in local beer halls.
- Gluten-free
Himmel Un Ääd
A traditional Rhineland dish of mashed potatoes and apple sauce, often served with black pudding and fried onions. The name means 'Heaven and Earth.'
Peters Brauhaus
Established traditional brewery restaurant in the old town, popular for authentic Cologne specialties, Kölsch, and rustic historic atmosphere.
Brauhaus Sion
Well-known central brauhaus serving Sion Kölsch and dependable local dishes. A solid choice for visitors wanting a classic Cologne beer hall experience.
Haxenhaus zum Rheingarten
A long-established restaurant by the Rhine, especially known for pork knuckle and hearty German fare in a traditional, tourist-friendly setting.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Budget eats are easy to find, but hotels and central dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or fast food.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service. Round up taxis. Small tips are optional in cafes and bars.
KVB-App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.70
- Day pass
- EUR 9.00
To the city center
Köln Hbf, Köln -> Köln Dom, Köln
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Ticket validation is generally not required for VRS/KVB digital tickets, but carry your ticket before boarding and keep it ready for inspection.
- On many KVB buses, card payment may be available at ticket machines, but not always onboard; buying in the KVB-App is the safest option.
FAQs: Trains from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf 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 Cologne Hbf, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $152 (€125), while the average price is around $207 (€170).
The train from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf takes 11h 13m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf leaves at 7:52 AM.
The distance by train from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf is 489 miles (787 km).
The last train from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf leaves at 7:52 AM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf is by flight, with a cost of around $27 (€22).
The train journey from Bologna Centrale to Köln Hbf offers scenic views, particularly through the picturesque landscapes of the Italian countryside, the Swiss Alps, and the Rhine Valley in Germany.
A day trip from Bologna Centrale to Köln Hbf is not feasible as the journey takes 11h 13m. There are 2 trains per day for this route.
Yes, you can take the train from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf.
Since both Bologna Centrale and Cologne Hbf 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 Cologne Hbf include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Venlo.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf 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.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
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 Cologne Hbf
Bologna
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Bologna is Bologna Centrale. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bologna Centrale for your trip from Bologna to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi.
Lockers
- Luggage facility, open daily from 07:00 to 22:00, is located in front of binario 7 Ovest (Track 7 West)
Dining
- Burger King
- A Cafè
- VyTA Boulangerie
- Venchi
- Scambio
- Juice Bar
- KFC
- Dispensa Emilia
- Lavazza
- Mokà
- & more
Accessibility
- 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
Hotel
- Starhotels Excelsior
- Millenn Hotel Bologna
- UNA Hotels
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 21:00
Information Desk
- Customer service center is on the ground floor and open every day from 06:30 to 23:00
Public transit options for Bologna Centrale
- Bus lines: 21, 25, 30, 36, 61, 62, 77, BLQ
- Monorail lines: Marconi Express
- Train lines: FR, FA, FB, IC, ICN, R, Italo, ÖBB EC, EN
The major train station for arrivals in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your journey to Cologne from Bologna.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
Lounge
Lost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected]
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5
Most popular train connections from Bologna Centrale
More options for your journey from Bologna Centrale to Cologne Hbf
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne Hbf and Bologna Centrale
Most popular train connections to Cologne Hbf
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