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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bologna to Cologne
Showing times and prices for May 23
Cheapest price
$173
Average price
$173
Fastest journey
12 h 13 m
Average duration
12 h 13 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
787 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bologna to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bologna to Cologne will cost around $173 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $173.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Bologna to Cologne without transferring at least once.
RJ 86 · ICE 5129:52 AM12h13Bologna Centrale10:05 PMCologne Hbf$1731One-way1 transfer
- RJ 86 · ICE 5129:52 AM12h13Bologna Centrale10:05 PMCologne Hbf$1731One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Bologna to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Bologna to Cologne 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 50m. 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
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
$203 Average price | $209 Average price | $90 Average price Cheapest |
12h 32m Average total duration 12h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 50m Average total duration Fastest 1h 50m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 20h 17m Average total duration 19h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Bologna to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $90 (€73).
This is compared to other travel options from Bologna to Cologne:
A bus is $114 (€92) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bologna to Cologne costing on average $203 (€165).
A bus is $120 (€97) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bologna to Cologne costing on average $209 (€169).
The fastest way to travel from Bologna to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 50m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 12h 2m.
Bus takes on average 19h 47m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bologna and Cologne including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Cologne among Omio's users.
Live departures
Bologna to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Bologna to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Saturday, May 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 to Cologne 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 to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Bologna to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bologna to Cologne.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- 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 Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bologna to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Bologna to Cologne.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Bologna to Cologne?
The best time to book your train from Bologna to Cologne is 70 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Bologna to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Bologna to Cologne per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Bologna to Cologne.
Trains
from $76Buses
from $76Flights
from $223Journey information
Overview: Train from Bologna to Cologne
Italy
Germany
Trains from Bologna to Cologne run on average 2 times per day, taking around 12h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $65 (€52) but you can travel from only $27 (€22) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 23:55. 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 12h 2m |
Cheapest ticket price $65 (€52) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 11h 13m |
First train 12:20 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 42 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
Flight from $27 (€22)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Bologna to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Bologna and Cologne from $27 (€22). 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 Duration
11h 13m
Cheapest Price
$65 (€52)
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
FAQs: Trains from Bologna to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna to Cologne 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, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Bologna to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $65 (€52), while the average price is around $203 (€165).
The train from Bologna to Cologne takes 11h 13m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Bologna to Cologne leaves at 12:20 AM.
The distance by train from Bologna to Cologne is 489 miles (787 km).
The last train from Bologna to Cologne leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bologna to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bologna to Cologne.
The train station in Bologna that goes to Cologne is Bologna Centrale, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Bologna to Cologne is by flight, with a cost of around $27 (€22).
The train journey from Bologna to Cologne offers varied scenery, including the picturesque landscapes of Northern Italy, the rolling hills and vineyards of the Rhine Valley, and charming German towns, providing a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from Bologna to Cologne is not feasible since the journey takes 11h 13m each way. Trains run 3 times per day for this 489 miles (787 km) journey.
In Cologne, you can explore the Cologne Chocolate Museum to learn about chocolate history and production, enjoy a scenic Rhine River Cruise, and visit the Botanical Gardens Flora for stunning floral displays. Discover trendy boutiques and vibrant street art in the Belgian Quarter, or attend a concert at the renowned Cologne Philharmonic Hall. Don't miss the iconic Cologne Cathedral, the modern art collection at Museum Ludwig, and the love lock-adorned Hohenzollern Bridge. Wander through the charming Old Town (Altstadt) and visit the diverse Cologne Zoo.
Three days are generally recommended to explore Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, Old Town, and museums.
Yes, you can take the train from Bologna to Cologne.
Since both Bologna and Cologne 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 include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Bonn.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Cologne 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.
In Cologne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, the main shopping streets, and during events such as Carnival. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals. Public transportation is generally safe, but vigilance is recommended during late hours.
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 Cologne
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.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
More options for your journey from Bologna to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Bologna
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