- Must visit
Museo Regionale Interdisciplinare di Messina
Messina’s main museum preserves major Sicilian artworks, including masterpieces by Caravaggio and Antonello-linked treasures, essential for art lovers.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bologna to Messina
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 30
Cheapest price on Aug 30
$69
Average ticket price on Aug 30
$115
Fastest journey on Aug 30
13 h 40 m
Average journey duration on Aug 30
14 h 6 m
Trains on Aug 30
6
Distance
784 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bologna to Messina is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bologna to Messina will cost around $115 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $69.
Fast trains
On Sun, Aug 30, we found 6 trains from Bologna to Messina, including 6 direct services.
On Sun, Aug 30 the direct trains cover the 784 km distance in an average of 14 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 13 h 40 m .
On Sun, Aug 30 the slowest trains will take 14 h 40 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.
12:33 AM14h02Bologna2:35 PMMessina$691One-way0 transfers
9:05 PM13h40Bologna10:45 AMMessina$921One-way0 transfers- 3:25 PM14h40Bologna6:05 AMMessina$1161One-way0 transfers
- 11:01 PM15h34Bologna2:35 PMMessina$1331One-way0 transfers
- 10:05 PM14h05Bologna12:10 PMMessina$1361One-way0 transfers
- 9:05 PM13h40Bologna10:45 AMMessina$921One-way0 transfers
- 12:33 AM14h02Bologna2:35 PMMessina$691One-way0 transfers
- 11:33 PM14h02Bologna1:35 PMMessina$1451One-way0 transfers
- 10:05 PM14h05Bologna12:10 PMMessina$1361One-way0 transfers
- 3:25 PM14h40Bologna6:05 AMMessina$1161One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Bologna to Messina
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bologna to Messina among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $60 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 40m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.7kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $60, while a train costs an average of $125.
Distance: 487 miles (784 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$125 Average price | $60 Average price Cheapest | $83 Average price | $96 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
14h 27m Average total duration 13h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 4m Average total duration 14h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 40m Average total duration Fastest 1h 40m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 10h 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.8 - 2.0kg CO2 emissions | 2.3 - 4.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
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 Messina is a bus with an average price of $60 (€49).
This is compared to other travel options from Bologna to Messina:
A bus is $23 (€19) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bologna to Messina costing on average $83 (€67).
A bus is $64 (€52) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bologna to Messina costing on average $125 (€101).
The fastest way to travel from Bologna to Messina is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 40m.
Other travel options to Messina take longer:
Train takes on average 13h 57m.
Bus takes on average 14h 34m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bologna and Messina including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Messina 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 $125 (€101) compared to roughly $96 (€78) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-28.75 (€-23.30). The journey takes 13h 57m versus 10h 46m 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 Messina train times
The table below shows live departures for Bologna to Messina trains for today, Saturday, August 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intercity 594+InterCityNotte 1959 | 5:25 PM Bologna Centrale | 14h40 | 8:05 AM Messina Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Intercity 594+InterCityNotte 1959 | 5:25 PM Bologna Centrale | 14h40 | 8:05 AM Messina Centrale | 1 transfer | |
 FRECCIAROSSA 9653+InterCityNotte 1955 | 7:07 PM Bologna Centrale | 10h08 | 5:15 AM Messina Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| FRECCIAROSSA 9435+InterCityNotte 1959 | 8:02 PM Bologna Centrale | 12h03 | 8:05 AM Messina Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| InterCityNotte 1963 | 11:05 PM Bologna Centrale | 13h40 | 12:45 PM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| InterCityNotte 1963 | 11:05 PM Bologna Centrale | 13h40 | 12:45 PM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, August 30 | |||||
| 12:33 AM Bologna | 14h02 | 2:35 PM Messina | 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 Messina 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.
Sun
Aug 30
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Bologna to Messina
ItalyItaly
Trains from Bologna to Messina run on average 9 times per day, taking around 13h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $69 (€56) but you can travel from only $35 (€29) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:39. The fastest train covers the 487 miles (784 km) distance in 10h 33m.
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
Bus from $35 (€29)
Distance 487 miles (784 km) |
Average train duration 13h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $69 (€56) |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 10h 33m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:39 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Bus from $35 (€29)
Train companies: Intercity Notte, Intercity from Bologna to Messina trainsIntercity Notte, Intercity trains will get you between Bologna and Messina from $35 (€29). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Intercity Notte
About
Intercity Notte is an Italian train service operated by Trenitalia. It runs overnight services between major cities in Italy, making it a great option for travelers looking to save time and money. The Intercity Notte offers two types of trains: the Frecciarossa Notte and the Frecciargento Notte. The Frecciarossa Notte is the fastest train, with speeds of up to 300 km/h, while the Frecciargento Notte is slightly slower but still offers a comfortable journey. Both trains offer a range of onboard facilities, including comfortable seating, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. Trenitalia offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, Comfort, and Business. Standard tickets are the most affordable, while Comfort and Business tickets offer additional benefits such as priority boarding and access to the lounge. The most popular routes for Intercity Notte are Rome to Milan, Rome to Venice, and Milan to Venice. These routes offer travelers the chance to explore some of Italy's most iconic cities in a convenient and comfortable way.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercity Notte Duration
13h 40m
Cheapest Intercity Notte Price
$106 (€86)
Luggage included
1 handbag and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats and at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full dining service and bar
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for disabled passengers
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
Intercity
About
Trenitalia Intercity is a high-speed train service operated by the Italian national railway company, Trenitalia. It operates throughout the country, with services running from early morning to late evening. The Intercity trains come in two types: the Intercity Plus, which is the fastest and most comfortable, and the Intercity, which is slightly slower but still offers a comfortable journey. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, power sockets, Wi-Fi, and a bar service. There are several ticket types available, including Standard, Super Economy, and Business. The most popular routes for Trenitalia Intercity are from Rome to Milan, Naples to Florence, and Turin to Venice.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercity Duration
14h 2m
Cheapest Intercity Price
$69 (€56)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Messina
Things to do in Messina
Discover the best of Messina — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Messina trip today.
- Recommended
Tesoro del Duomo di Messina
A church museum displaying liturgical art, silverwork, and historic objects tied to Messina Cathedral and the city’s religious heritage.
- Recommended
Monte di Pietà
A small local gallery and exhibition space used for cultural displays, suitable for visitors seeking contemporary community art in Messina.
- Must visit
Piazza Duomo
Messina’s main cathedral square is the city’s ceremonial heart, ideal for seeing the Duomo, fountain, and clock tower together.
- Must visit
Belvedere di Cristo Re
This scenic viewpoint area beside Cristo Re offers one of the best panoramas over Messina, the harbor curve, and Calabria beyond.
- Recommended
Piazza del Duomo e Fontana di Orione
This central piazza is dominated by Orion Fountain and elegant facades, making it one of the city’s most photogenic public spaces.
Pasta 'Ncasciata
A layered baked pasta timbale with ragù, eggplant, cheese, and sometimes meatballs. A festive Sicilian classic closely tied to family Sunday meals.
Arancino
A crisp fried rice ball, usually filled with ragù, peas, and cheese. A beloved Sicilian street food found in bars and bakeries across Messina.
- Vegetarian
Granita Con Brioche
Soft sweet brioche served with granita, especially for breakfast. In Messina it is a warm-weather ritual and a signature part of Sicilian café culture.
I Ruggeri Boutique Restaurant
Refined Michelin-starred dining with creative Sicilian seafood and tasting menus in an elegant setting inside Hotel Messenion.
Pasticceria Irrera 1910
Historic pastry café famed for granita, brioche, gelato, and Sicilian breakfast classics. A traditional stop with a strong local reputation.
Ristorante Kajiki
Well-known seafood restaurant serving swordfish, shellfish, and classic Sicilian fish dishes in a polished but welcoming atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Italy. Rooms and meals are often cheaper than in Rome or Milan, while local buses and ferries stay reasonably priced for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or casual bites.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €1.20-2.50 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or modest. Round up or leave €1-2 at cafes, 5-10% in restaurants for good service, and round up taxi fares.
ATM MovUp
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1,50
- Day pass
- €2,80
To the city center
Messina Centrale -> Piazza Duomo, Messina
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy tickets in advance or use the ATM MovUp app for buses and trams; validate paper tickets when boarding.
- Contactless bank card payment is not reliably documented for onboard payment, so use the app or a pre-purchased ticket.
FAQs: Trains from Bologna to Messina
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna to Messina 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 Messina, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Bologna to Messina can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $69 (€56), while the average price is around $125 (€101).
The train from Bologna to Messina takes 10h 33m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Bologna to Messina is 487 miles (784 km).
The first train from Bologna to Messina leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Bologna to Messina leaves at 11:39 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bologna to Messina.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bologna to Messina. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Intercity Notte.
Yes, there is a night train from Bologna to Messina.
The train station in Bologna that goes to Messina is Bologna Centrale, which connects to Messina Centrale.
The cheapest way to get from Bologna to Messina is by bus, with a cost of around $35 (€29).
The train journey from Bologna to Messina offers scenic views, particularly as it travels through the rolling hills of Tuscany, the rugged Apennine Mountains, and along sections of the Tyrrhenian coastline, providing picturesque landscapes and glimpses of charming Italian villages.
A day trip from Bologna to Messina is not feasible as the journey takes 10h 33m. The distance is 487 miles (784 km) and the frequency is 7 per day for trains.
In Messina, you can visit the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, a unique Norman-Arab style church, and explore the vibrant Piazza del Duomo, which offers access to landmarks like the Messina Cathedral and the Renaissance Fountain of Orion. Enjoy scenic views and boat tours at the Strait of Messina, and don't miss the daily show at the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock. Discover local Sicilian products at the markets, stroll along the waterfront, and visit the Regional Museum of Messina. For panoramic city views, head to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Montalto.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Messina allows visitors to explore its main attractions, such as the Cathedral of Messina, the Regional Museum, and enjoy the local cuisine and nearby beaches.
Yes, you can take the train from Bologna to Messina.
Since both Bologna and Messina 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 Messina include Taormina, Catania, Milazzo, Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto, Capo d'Orlando.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Messina 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.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Italy Pass and Interrail Italy Pass are valid on most trains operated by Trenitalia and Italo within Italy, including regional, intercity, and high-speed trains, though some restrictions and seat reservation fees may apply.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Messina, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and near transportation hubs. It's advisable to avoid unlicensed taxi services and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. When using public transport, keep belongings secure, and always verify prices beforehand to avoid overcharging scams. Staying alert in busy tourist spots 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 Messina
Most Bologna to Messina trains use the Bologna Centrale to Messina Centrale station pair. Use this guide to compare Bologna and Messina 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 Messina
Which Bologna station do trains to Messina leave from?
Trains from Bologna to Messina 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.
Bologna Corticella40128 Bologna, Metropolitan City of Bologna, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Bologna Corticella from Bologna city centre
Bologna Corticella is 6 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus27, 441, 445, 504, N1, 97, 98 · 8m · $2 · every ~9 min
27, 441, 504, 97, 98 · 15m · $2 · every ~8 min
445, 97, 98 · 20m · $2 · every ~8 min
Bologna Corticella train station facilities and services
Bologna Corticella has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bologna Corticella.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Bologna Corticella.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bologna Corticella: Parking, Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at Bologna Corticella: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna Corticella.
Bologna, AeroportoBologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ), Via del Triumvirato, 84, 40132 Bologna BO, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Bologna, Aeroporto from Bologna city centre
Bologna, Aeroporto is 5 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
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Bologna, Aeroporto train station facilities and services
Bologna, Aeroporto has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Multiple options on site
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free wifi throughout the station. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bologna, Aeroporto.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bologna, Aeroporto: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna, Aeroporto: Fully accessible for disabled individuals.
More options for your journey from Bologna to Messina
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Messina and Bologna
Most popular train connections to Messina
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