- Must visit
Museo Nacional del Prado
Madrid’s premier art museum, famed for masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, Rubens, and Bosch. A cornerstone of the city’s Golden Triangle of Art.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bologna to Madrid
Showing times and prices for May 30
Cheapest price
$294
Average price
$294
Fastest journey
1 d 3 h 7 m
Average duration
1 d 3 h 7 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
1312 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bologna to Madrid is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bologna to Madrid will cost around $294 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $294.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Bologna to Madrid without transferring at least 3 times.
1:11 PM27h07Bologna4:18 PMMadrid$2941One-way3 transfers
- 1:11 PM27h07Bologna4:18 PMMadrid$2941One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Bologna to Madrid
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Bologna to Madrid among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $93. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 27m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.3 - 3.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $93, and a train costs an average of $294.
Distance: 815 miles (1312 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$294 Average price | $199 Average price | $185 Average price Cheapest | $480 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
27h 37m Average total duration 27h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 27m Average total duration Fastest 3h 27m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 26h 10m Average total duration 25h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 17h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 3.9 - 7.9kg CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 3.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Bologna to Madrid is a bus with an average price of $185 (€149).
This is compared to other travel options from Bologna to Madrid:
A bus is $14 (€11) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bologna to Madrid costing on average $199 (€160).
A bus is $109 (€88) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bologna to Madrid costing on average $294 (€237).
The fastest way to travel from Bologna to Madrid is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 27m.
Other travel options to Madrid take longer:
Bus takes on average 25h 40m.
Train takes on average 27h 7m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bologna and Madrid including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Madrid among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $294 (€237) compared to roughly $480 (€386) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $185 (€149). The journey takes 27h 7m versus 17h 29m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Bologna to Madrid train times
The table below shows live departures for Bologna to Madrid trains for tomorrow, Saturday, May 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:11 PM Bologna | 27h07 | 4:18 PM Madrid | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bologna to Madrid 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Bologna to Madrid
Italy
Spain
Trains from Bologna to Madrid run on average 1 times per day, taking around 27h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $294 (€237) but you can travel from only $41 (€33) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:10, the last at 17:10. The fastest train covers the 815 miles (1312 km) distance in 27h 7m.
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 $41 (€33)
Distance 815 miles (1312 km) |
Average train duration 27h 7m |
Cheapest ticket price $294 (€237) |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 27h 7m |
First train 12:10 AM |
Last train 5:10 PM |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 63 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 $41 (€33)
Train companies: Italo from Bologna to Madrid trainsItalo trains will get you between Bologna and Madrid from $41 (€33). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
27h 7m
Cheapest Price
$294 (€237)
Italo frequency
1 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 Madrid
Things to do in Madrid
Discover the best of Madrid — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Madrid trip today.
- Must visit
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
Spain’s national museum of 20th-century and contemporary art, best known for Picasso’s Guernica and strong collections by Dalí and Miró.
- Must visit
Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
A major art museum spanning Old Masters to modern works, complementing the Prado and Reina Sofía with an exceptionally broad private collection.
- Must visit
Plaza Mayor
Madrid’s grand historic square, lined with arcades and elegant façades, and a classic starting point for exploring the old center.
- Must visit
Puerta del Sol
The symbolic heart of Madrid, known for Kilometer Zero, the clock tower, and constant energy day and night.
- Must visit
Parque de El Retiro
Madrid’s most famous park, ideal for walks, boating, monuments, gardens, and popular photo spots such as the Crystal Palace area.
- Gluten-free
Cocido Madrileño
Madrid’s signature chickpea stew, served in courses with broth, vegetables, and assorted meats. It is one of the city’s most traditional comfort dishes.
Bocadillo De Calamares
A classic Madrid sandwich of fried squid rings in crusty bread, especially associated with bars around Plaza Mayor. It is simple, iconic, and widely loved.
- Gluten-free
Callos A La Madrileña
A rich stew of tripe, chorizo, and morcilla cooked with paprika. It is a historic Madrid tavern dish with bold, hearty flavors.
Sobrino De Botín
Historic restaurant founded in the eighteenth century, famous for roast meats and classic Castilian cooking in an atmospheric old setting.
Casa Lucio
Legendary traditional restaurant best known for huevos rotos, with a polished yet classic tavern feel and strong local reputation.
Chocolatería San Ginés
Iconic spot for churros con chocolate, open long hours and known for a lively, historic atmosphere near the city center.
Euro
Moderate for Western Europe. Museums and transport are reasonable, while central hotels and fine dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for tapas, menu del día, or fast food.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.80-3.50 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave EUR 1-2 in cafés; 5-10% in restaurants for very good service. Taxis are often rounded up, but tipping is not obligatory.
Tarjeta Transporte
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 1.50
- Day pass
- EUR 8.40
To the city center
Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes -> Sol, Madrid
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- On EMT buses, contactless card payment is generally available on board, but Metro and Cercanías tickets are usually bought before travel.
- If you plan several trips in one day, the Tourist Travel Pass can be better value than single tickets, especially for airport and metro use.
FAQs: Trains from Bologna to Madrid
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna to Madrid 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 Madrid, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Bologna to Madrid can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $294 (€237), while the average price is around $294 (€237).
The train from Bologna to Madrid runs once a day and takes approximately 27h 7m.
The distance by train from Bologna to Madrid is 815 miles (1312 km).
The first train from Bologna to Madrid leaves at 12:10 AM.
The last train from Bologna to Madrid leaves at 5:10 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Bologna to Madrid.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bologna to Madrid.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bologna to Madrid.
The cheapest way to get from Bologna to Madrid is by flight, with a cost of around $41 (€33).
The train journey from Bologna to Madrid offers a mix of scenic views, especially as it traverses the Italian countryside and the picturesque landscapes of southern France, providing glimpses of charming villages, rolling hills, and vineyards.
A day trip from Bologna to Madrid is not feasible as the travel duration is 27h 7m. The distance between the two cities is 815 miles (1312 km), and the frequency is 1 per day for trains.
In Madrid, you can explore Puerta del Sol, a bustling public square known for its iconic clock and vibrant atmosphere, and savor gourmet foods at Mercado de San Miguel. Discover the vibrant nightlife in the Malasaña district, enjoy a traditional flamenco show, or visit the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to Real Madrid. For cultural sights, visit the Prado Museum, the Royal Palace of Madrid, and Retiro Park. Don't miss Plaza Mayor and the lively Gran Vía for shopping and theaters.
For a well-rounded experience in Madrid, plan to spend at least 3 to 4 days. This allows time to explore major attractions like the Prado Museum, Royal Palace, Retiro Park, and enjoy the local cuisine and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Bologna to Madrid.
Since both Bologna and Madrid 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 Madrid include Toledo, Segovia, Valladolid, Ávila, Cuenca.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Madrid 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.
Spain uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, while cash may be preferred for small purchases, markets, and rural locations.
In Madrid, the main safety concerns for travelers include pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Puerta del Sol, Gran Vía, and on public transportation. Common scams involve distraction techniques, such as someone asking for signatures on petitions or offering friendship bracelets, to steal valuables. Travelers should also be cautious of unlicensed taxi drivers and always use official transport services. Staying vigilant in busy tourist spots and keeping belongings secure helps minimize risks.
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.
More options for your journey from Bologna to Madrid
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Most popular trains to and from Madrid and Bologna
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