Bologna to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn

Tue, Jul 07
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bologna to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Jul 07

Cheapest price

$195

Average price

$195

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 $195 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $195.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Bologna to Cologne without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche BahnRJ 86 · ICE 512
    9:52 AM12h13
    Bologna Centrale
    10:05 PMCologne Hbf
    $1951One-way
    1 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 $60. 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 $60, and a flight costs an average of $26.

Distance: 489 miles (787 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Bus

$200

Average price

$206

Average price

$88

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*

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

Malta Air

Most popular airline

FlixBus

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 $88 (€73).

This is compared to other travel options from Bologna to Cologne:

A bus is $112 (€92) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bologna to Cologne costing on average $200 (€165).

A bus is $118 (€97) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bologna to Cologne costing on average $206 (€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, Tuesday, July 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnRJ 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bologna to Cologne

ItalyItaly
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Bologna to Cologne run on average 2 times per day, taking around 12h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $64 (€52) but you can travel from only $26 (€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 $26 (€22)
Distance
489 miles (787 km)
Average train duration
12h 2m
Cheapest ticket price
$64 (€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 $26 (€22)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Bologna to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Bologna and Cologne from $26 (€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
$64 (€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.
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.
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.
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

Museum Ludwig

Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, especially strong in Pop Art, Picasso, and postwar European art.

  • Recommended

Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud

One of Germany’s key fine art museums, known for medieval painting, Gothic works, and major Impressionist holdings.

  • Recommended

NS-Dokumentationszentrum

Cologne’s documentation center on National Socialism, housed in the former Gestapo headquarters with preserved prison cells.

Euro

Moderate by German standards. Public transport is fair, while central hotels and dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or fast food.
Mid-range
EUR 18-30 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. Round up in cafes and taxis. In restaurants, 5-10% is common for good service; hand the tip directly when paying.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Bologna to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $64 (€52), while the average price is around $200 (€165).
The train from Bologna to Cologne takes 11h 13m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Bologna to Cologne is 489 miles (787 km).
The first train from Bologna to Cologne leaves at 12:20 AM.
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 $26 (€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

Most Bologna to Cologne trains use the Bologna Centrale to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Use this guide to compare Bologna and Cologne 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 Cologne

Which Bologna station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Bologna to Cologne 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 892021WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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.

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