- Must visit
Dortmunder U
Major center for contemporary art and culture in a landmark former brewery tower, known for exhibitions and rooftop city views.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bologna to Dortmund
Showing times and prices for Jun 16
Cheapest price
$194
Average price
$195
Fastest journey
12 h 40 m
Average duration
15 h 5 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 $195 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $194.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Bologna for Dortmund on Tue, Jun 16, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 16 the direct trains cover the 832 km distance in an average of 15 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 12 h 40 m .
On Tue, Jun 16 the slowest trains will take 17 h 29 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
7:52 AM12h40Bologna8:32 PMDortmund$1941One-way0 transfers- 12:52 PM17h29Bologna6:21 AMDortmund$1971One-way0 transfers
- 7:52 AM12h40Bologna8:32 PMDortmund$1941One-way0 transfers
- 12:52 PM17h29Bologna6:21 AMDortmund$1971One-way0 transfers
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 $60. 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 $60, and a train costs an average of $65.
Distance: 516 miles (832 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$177 Average price | $85 Average price Cheapest | $138 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 $85 (€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 $138 (€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 $177 (€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 today, Monday, June 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:52 AM Bologna | 13h51 | 9:43 PM Dortmund | 0 transfersDirect | |
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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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
$309 (€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
Deutsches Fußballmuseum
Germany’s national football museum, featuring interactive exhibits, trophies, and memorable moments from the sport’s history.
- Recommended
Museum Ostwall im Dortmunder U
Important modern and contemporary art museum with strong 20th-century collections inside the Dortmunder U.
- Must visit
Westfalenpark
Large urban park with gardens, event spaces, seasonal flowers, and one of the city’s most popular walking areas.
- Must visit
Phoenix-See
Modern lakeside district with promenades, viewpoints, and a polished waterfront atmosphere popular for walks and social media photos.
- Recommended
Rombergpark
Spacious botanical park and arboretum with old trees, themed gardens, and peaceful paths away from the city center.
- Gluten-free
Pfefferpotthast
A classic Dortmund and Westphalian beef stew, slowly cooked with onions and plenty of pepper. It is one of the city’s best-known traditional dishes.
- Vegetarian
Westfälischer Pickert
A traditional potato-based griddle cake from Westphalia, often served with butter, syrup, or cold cuts. In sweet form it can be vegetarian.
- Gluten-free
Himmel und Erde
A regional dish of mashed potatoes and apples, often served with fried onions and blood sausage. It is a classic comfort food in western Germany.
EMIL Grill & Meer
An established city-center restaurant with a more refined feel, known for grilled dishes, seafood, and stylish modern dining.
Pfefferkorn NY Steakhouse Dortmund
A long-established steakhouse in central Dortmund known for quality beef, polished service, and a classic upscale atmosphere.
Wenkers am Markt
A well-known traditional brewery restaurant on the Alter Markt serving hearty regional dishes and Dortmund beer in a lively historic setting.
Euro
Generally moderate by German standards. Budget eats are affordable, while hotels and fine dining cost more on busy weekends and during major events.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. In restaurants, round up or leave 5-10% for good service. Round up taxis. Small tips are appreciated in cafes; not expected for counter service.
VKU App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 3.60 EUR
- Day pass
- 8.90 EUR
To the city center
Dortmund Hbf, Dortmund -> Dortmund Hbf, Dortmund
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Ticket machines and the official app usually accept card payments, but some buses may require cash for onboard purchases.
- Validate whether your ticket needs activation before travel, and check the fare zone before buying a ticket.
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 $177 (€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
Bologna
Dortmund
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 Dortmund.
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 Dortmund is Dortmund Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Dortmund Hbf for your journey to Dortmund from Bologna.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
Lounge
Lost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Dining
- Subway
- Caliente
- Ong Bui Asia Fusion
- Kleimann
Hotel
- Cityhotel Dortmund
- Esplanade
- Drei Kronen
- Hotel Unique Novum
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
7 kmDining
- Óla Kalá
- Imbiss Futterluke
- Pizzeria Puzzle
- Side Döner
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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