- Must visit
Dortmunder U
A Former Brewery Tower Turned Center For Contemporary Art And Culture, Known For Exhibitions, Events, And Its Rooftop City Views.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bologna to Dortmund
Showing times and prices for Jun 18
Cheapest price
$111
Average price
$118
Fastest journey
12 h 45 m
Average duration
13 h 7 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
832 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bologna to Dortmund is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bologna to Dortmund will cost around $118 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $111.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Bologna to Dortmund without transferring at least once.
RJ 86 · ICE 5129:52 AM13h29Bologna Centrale11:21 PMDortmund Hbf$1111One-way1 transfer- RJ 86 · ICE 528 · 267379:52 AM12h45Bologna Centrale10:37 PMDortmund Hbf$1251One-way2 transfers
- RJ 86 · ICE 528 · 267379:52 AM12h45Bologna Centrale10:37 PMDortmund Hbf$1251One-way2 transfers
- RJ 86 · ICE 5129:52 AM13h29Bologna Centrale11:21 PMDortmund Hbf$1111One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Bologna to Dortmund
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bologna to Dortmund 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 40m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $61, and a train costs an average of $65.
Distance: 516 miles (832 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$178 Average price | $86 Average price Cheapest | $139 Average price |
13h 13m Average total duration 12h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 18h 5m Average total duration 17h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 40m Average total duration Fastest 1h 40m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Bologna to Dortmund is a bus with an average price of $86 (€69).
This is compared to other travel options from Bologna to Dortmund:
A bus is $53 (€43) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bologna to Dortmund costing on average $139 (€112).
A bus is $92 (€75) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bologna to Dortmund costing on average $178 (€144).
The fastest way to travel from Bologna to Dortmund is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 40m.
Other travel options to Dortmund take longer:
Train takes on average 12h 43m.
Bus takes on average 17h 35m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bologna and Dortmund including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Dortmund among Omio's users.
Live departures
Bologna to Dortmund train times
The table below shows live departures for Bologna to Dortmund trains for tomorrow, Thursday, June 18. 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 | 13h29 | 11:21 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| RJ 86 · ICE 528 · 26737 | On time 9:52 AM Bologna Centrale | 12h45 | 10:37 PM Dortmund Hbf | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bologna to Dortmund by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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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Jun 18
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Jun 24
Why should you book Bologna to Dortmund trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Italo offer trains services from Bologna to Dortmund.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bologna to Dortmund.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Italo to find the best option for your trip from Bologna to Dortmund.
- 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bologna to Dortmund.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Bologna to Dortmund.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bologna to Dortmund
Italy
Germany
Trains from Bologna to Dortmund run on average 3 times per day, taking around 12h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $65 (€52) but you can travel from only $30 (€24) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:45, the last at 21:35. The fastest train covers the 516 miles (832 km) distance in 12h 35m.
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 $30 (€24)
Distance 516 miles (832 km) |
Average train duration 12h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price $65 (€52) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 12h 35m |
First train 12:45 AM |
Last train 9:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 28 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 $30 (€24)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Italo from Bologna to Dortmund trainsDeutsche Bahn, Italo trains will get you between Bologna and Dortmund from $30 (€24). 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
12h 35m
Cheapest Price
$65 (€52)
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
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
11h 40m
Cheapest Price
$310 (€251)
Italo frequency
4 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 Dortmund
Things to do in Dortmund
Discover the best of Dortmund — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Dortmund trip today.
- Must visit
German Football Museum
An Interactive National Museum Dedicated To German Football History, Trophies, Media Installations, And Family-Friendly Exhibits Near The Main Station.
- Recommended
Museum Ostwall im Dortmunder U
The City’S Major Modern And Contemporary Art Museum, Featuring Expressionism, Fluxus, And Rotating Exhibitions Inside Dortmunder U.
- Must visit
Westfalenpark
A Large Urban Park Famous For Gardens, Seasonal Events, Open Space, And Social-Media-Friendly Views Around Florian Tower.
- Must visit
Phoenix See
A Popular Lakeside Redevelopment Area With Walking Paths, Modern Architecture, And Sunset Views, Especially Trendy With Locals And Visitors.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
The Historic Old Market Square In Central Dortmund, A Classic Meeting Point Surrounded By Important City-Center Buildings.
- Gluten-free
Pfefferpotthast
A traditional Westphalian beef stew seasoned generously with pepper, slowly cooked until tender. It is one of Dortmund’s best-known regional specialties.
- Gluten-free
Westfälischer Schinken
Air-dried and lightly smoked Westphalian ham, prized across the region for its deep flavor. It is often served with dark bread and pickles.
- Vegetarian
Salzkuchen
A Dortmund bakery classic: a small savory roll topped with salt and caraway, traditionally eaten with Mett, butter, or cheese.
Emil Grill & Meer
An established seafood-focused restaurant with a polished setting and strong reputation for quality ingredients and refined preparation.
Pfefferkorn NY Steakhouse Dortmund
A well-known central steakhouse with a classic atmosphere, strong service, and substantial meat-focused dishes. Good for a more upscale meal.
Wenkers am Markt
A long-established brewery restaurant near the market square, known for hearty regional food and Dortmund beer in a lively traditional setting.
Euro
Moderate by German standards: public transport and casual food are reasonable, while hotels and fine dining cost more during trade fairs and football weekends.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-14 for kebab, bakery, or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. In restaurants, round up or leave about 5-10% for good service. Round up in taxis. Small tips are appreciated in bars; no tip is expected for counter service.
DSW21 App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.40
- Day pass
- EUR 7.10
To the city center
Dortmund Hbf, Dortmund -> Dortmund City Center, Dortmund
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Check tickets in the DSW21 App before boarding for the easiest local travel planning and purchase.
- On many VRR buses and trams, card payment is available at ticket machines, but carrying a backup payment method is wise.
FAQs: Trains from Bologna to Dortmund
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna to Dortmund 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 Dortmund, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Bologna to Dortmund can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $65 (€52), while the average price is around $178 (€144).
The train from Bologna to Dortmund takes 12h 35m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Bologna to Dortmund leaves at 12:45 AM.
The distance by train from Bologna to Dortmund is 516 miles (832 km).
The last train from Bologna to Dortmund leaves at 9:35 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bologna to Dortmund.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bologna to Dortmund.
The train station in Bologna that goes to Dortmund is Bologna Centrale, which connects to Dortmund Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Bologna to Dortmund is by flight, with a cost of around $30 (€24).
The train journey from Bologna to Dortmund is moderately scenic, offering views of the Italian countryside, the Alps, and parts of Germany's Rhineland region.
A day trip from Bologna to Dortmund is not feasible as the journey takes 12h 35m and covers a distance of 516 miles (832 km). Trains run 3 times per day.
In Dortmund, you can explore the vibrant Kreuzviertel district for trendy cafes and boutiques, attend concerts at the Westfalenhallen, and discover industrial heritage at the Zollern Colliery museum. Enjoy a stroll along Phoenix See or visit the Botanischer Garten Rombergpark for its serene landscapes. Key sights include Westfalenpark with its iconic Florianturm, the cultural Dortmund U-Tower, Signal Iduna Park, the Dortmund Zoo, and the German Football Museum.
Two to three days are ideal to explore Dortmund's key attractions, such as the Zollern Colliery, Dortmund U-Tower, and Westfalenpark, while also enjoying local cuisine and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Bologna to Dortmund.
Since both Bologna and Dortmund 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 Dortmund include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Enschede, Münster, Essen.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Dortmund 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 Dortmund, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and individuals offering unsolicited help with ticket machines or currency exchange, which can lead to overcharging. Staying alert in busy areas and using official services helps ensure a safe 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 Dortmund
Most Bologna to Dortmund trains use the Bologna Centrale to Dortmund Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Dortmund-Germania. Use this guide to compare Bologna and Dortmund 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 Dortmund
Which Bologna station do trains to Dortmund leave from?
Trains from Bologna to Dortmund 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.
Which Dortmund station do trains from Bologna arrive at?
Trains from Bologna to Dortmund most often arrive at Dortmund Hbf. Some services arrive at Bochum Hbf, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Dortmund arrival station.
Dortmund HbfDortmund Hbf, Königswall 15, 44137 Dortmund
City-centre transport
Getting to Dortmund Hbf from Dortmund city centre
BusNe13, Ne12, Ne3, 460, 453 · 3m · every ~10 min
Dortmund Hbf train station facilities and services
Dortmund Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Subway, Caliente, Ong Bui Asia Fusion, Kleimann
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Dortmund Hbf. ATMs are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Dortmund Hbf. Information desks are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Dortmund Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dortmund Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Dortmund Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Cityhotel Dortmund, Esplanade, Drei Kronen, Hotel Unique Novum.
Dortmund-GermaniaDortmund-Germania, Steinhammerstr., 44379 Dortmund
City-centre transport
Getting to Dortmund-Germania from Dortmund city centre
Dortmund-Germania is 7 km from Dortmund city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS4 · 6m · $1 · every ~7 min
S4 · 17m · $2 · every ~7 min
BusS4 · 29m · $5
Dortmund-Germania train station facilities and services
Dortmund-Germania has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Óla Kalá, Imbiss Futterluke, Pizzeria Puzzle, Side Döner
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Dortmund-Germania. ATMs are available at Dortmund-Germania.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Dortmund-Germania. Information desks are available at Dortmund-Germania.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Dortmund-Germania. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dortmund-Germania: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Dortmund-Germania: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund-Germania.
More options for your journey from Bologna to Dortmund
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Dortmund and Bologna
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