- Recommended
Museo San Carlo
Interactive museum inside the giant Saint Charles statue, explaining its engineering, history, and cultural importance above Arona.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Bologna to Arona
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bologna to Arona among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $7. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 55m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $7, and a train costs an average of $21.
Distance: 161 miles (260 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$23 Average price | $11 Average price Cheapest | $368 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 25m Average total duration Fastest 2h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 32m Average total duration 5h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 6m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Bologna to Arona is a bus with an average price of $11 (€11).
This is compared to other travel options from Bologna to Arona:
A bus is $12 (€12) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bologna to Arona costing on average $23 (€23).
The fastest way to travel from Bologna to Arona is by train with an average journey time of 2h 55m.
Other travel options to Arona take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 2m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bologna and Arona including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Arona among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 11m faster (2h 55m by train vs 3h 6m by car) and roughly $345 (€345) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($23 (€23) vs $368 (€368)). 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.
Direct services run with Italo.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Bologna to Arona by bus or train
Compare bus 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.
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Why should you book Bologna to Arona trains with Omio?
Regionale as well as Frecciarossa, Intercity, Italo and more offer trains services from Bologna to Arona.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Regionale tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Regionale?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Regionale, but also compare tickets for the likes of Frecciarossa, Intercity or Italo to find the best option for your trip from Bologna to Arona.
- 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 Regionale with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bologna to Arona.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bologna to Arona
ItalyItaly
Trains from Bologna to Arona run on average 30 times per day, taking around 2h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $21 (€21) but you can travel from only $7 (€7) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:10, the last at 23:06. The fastest train covers the 161 miles (260 km) distance in 3h 51m.
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 $7 (€7)
Distance 161 miles (260 km) |
Average train duration 2h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $21 (€21) |
Trains per day 30 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 3h 51m |
First train 4:10 AM |
Last train 11:06 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
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
Bus from $7 (€7)
Train companies: Regionale, Frecciarossa, Intercity, Italo from Bologna to Arona trainsRegionale, Frecciarossa, Intercity, Italo trains will get you between Bologna and Arona from $7 (€7). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Regionale
About
Regionale is the regional train service of national carrier Trenitalia connecting all of Italy. It is the most convinient way to travel to both big cities and the smallest villages all over the Italian country. The regional trains have different names depending on the region they serve, such as Treno Regionale Veloce (TRV) and Treno Regionale Lento (TRL). Treno Rock and Treno pop are the two new trains part of Trenitalia regionale fleet. Trenitalia Regionale offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets (economy and standard), return tickets, and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and power sockets. The most popular routes for Regionale are between Rome and Milan, Naples and Florence, and Turin and Venice.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 56m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€23)
Luggage included
Free hand luggage allowance included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Bar service available on some trains with snacks and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most services
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
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
3h 50m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€35)
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
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
4h 20m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€21)
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
Italo frequency
32 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 Arona
Things to do in Arona
Discover the best of Arona — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Arona trip today.
Museo Archeologico di Arona
Local archaeology museum presenting finds from the Lake Maggiore area and helping visitors understand Arona's ancient roots.
Spazio Arte Arona
Town art venue hosting rotating exhibitions by regional artists in a central civic setting, useful for discovering contemporary local culture.
- Must visit
Lungolago di Arona
Arona's scenic lakefront promenade, ideal for walking, views of Lake Maggiore, and easy access to the town's main attractions.
- Recommended
Piazza del Popolo
Main square facing the lake, animated by markets and events, and a useful starting point for exploring central Arona on foot.
- Recommended
Parco della Rocca Borromea
Large public park on the former fortress grounds, loved for lawns, family space, and panoramic viewpoints over the lake.
- Gluten-free
Prosciutto Crudo Ossolano
Air-dried cured ham from the Ossola valleys, prized in Piedmont and around Lake Maggiore for its delicate aroma and mountain-herb notes.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Risotto Al Vino Rosso
Traditional Novara rice cooked with local red wine, often from nearby Ghemme or Boca, giving it a deep color and rich Piedmontese flavor.
- Gluten-free
Pesce Di Lago
Freshwater lake fish from Lake Maggiore, typically perch or whitefish, grilled or baked. It is a classic local specialty tied to the lake’s fishing tradition.
Ristorante Piccolo Lago
Refined Michelin-starred dining on Lake Maggiore, known for modern Italian cuisine, tasting menus, and elegant service in a scenic setting.
Ristorante San Carlo
Historic lakeside restaurant in central Arona serving Piedmontese and Italian classics, seafood, and local wines in a polished traditional atmosphere.
Ristorante Pizzeria Marlon
Well-regarded casual spot for pizza and Italian dishes, appreciated for reliable quality, friendly service, and an easygoing town-center setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Lake Maggiore. Hotels rise in peak season, but dining and local transit are generally reasonable versus larger Italian resort areas.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for pizza, panini, or fast food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.20-2.50 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service; small change for cafes; taxis usually rounded up.
STN Trasporti
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.50
- Day pass
- : null
To the city center
Arona Stazione -> Arona Piazza del Popolo
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy tickets before boarding where possible; many local buses do not guarantee onboard sales.
- Contactless card payment onboard is not reliably documented for Arona local buses, so carry a valid paper or mobile ticket.
FAQs: Trains from Bologna to Arona
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna to Arona 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 Arona, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Bologna to Arona can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $21 (€21), while the average price is around $23 (€23).
The train from Bologna to Arona takes 3h 51m and runs 30 per day.
The distance by train from Bologna to Arona is 161 miles (260 km).
The first train from Bologna to Arona leaves at 4:10 AM.
The last train from Bologna to Arona leaves at 11:06 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Bologna to Arona.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bologna to Arona. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Italo.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bologna to Arona.
The train station in Bologna that goes to Arona is Bologna Centrale, which connects to Arona station.
The cheapest way to get from Bologna to Arona is by bus, with a cost of around $7 (€7).
The train journey from Bologna to Arona offers picturesque views, especially as it passes through the rolling hills of Emilia-Romagna and the scenic landscapes around Lake Maggiore, making it a visually appealing trip.
A day trip from Bologna to Arona is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 51m. However, there are 33 trains per day covering the distance of 161 miles (260 km).
A visit to Arona typically lasts around 2 to 3 days, allowing enough time to explore its charming old town, enjoy Lake Maggiore's scenic beauty, and visit nearby attractions.
Yes, you can take the train from Bologna to Arona.
Since both Bologna and Arona 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 Arona include Milan, Stresa, Novara, Turin, Domodossola.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Arona 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 Arona, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides and unofficial vendors selling counterfeit tickets or excursions. Staying vigilant in busy spots and using authorized transport services can help ensure a safer visit.
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 to Arona
Most Bologna to Arona trains use the Bologna Centrale to Arona station pair. Use this guide to compare Bologna and Arona 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 Arona
Which Bologna station do trains to Arona leave from?
Trains from Bologna to Arona leave from Bologna Centrale. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Bologna city centre at Piazza delle Medaglie d'Oro, 40121 Bologna, Italy.
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.
Bologna S. Vitale40138 Bologna, Metropolitan City of Bologna, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Bologna S. Vitale from Bologna city centre
Bologna S. Vitale is 2 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus99 · 1h 3m · $4
99, 206, 211 · 1h 45m · $6 · every ~4 min
Bologna S. Vitale train station facilities and services
Bologna S. Vitale has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bologna S. Vitale.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Bologna S. Vitale.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bologna S. Vitale: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bologna S. Vitale: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna S. Vitale: Elevators, ramps.
Which Arona station do trains from Bologna arrive at?
Trains from Bologna to Arona most often arrive at Arona. Some services arrive at Milano Centrale, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Arona arrival station.
AronaPiazza della Stazione, 28041 Arona NO, Italy+39 0322 243601
City-centre transport
Getting to Arona from Arona city centre
BusSeveral local lines available
FerryConnections to other towns on Lake Maggiore
Arona train station facilities and services
Arona has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Villa Rocchetta, Ristorante Vecchia Arona
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Arona. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Arona. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Arona: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Arona: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Arona: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Concorde, Hotel Antares, Hotel Atlantic.
More options for your journey from Bologna to Arona
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Arona and Bologna
Most popular train connections to Arona
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