- Must visit
Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen
Rotterdam’s leading art museum with Dutch masters, design, and decorative arts. A must for major exhibitions and its landmark depot nearby.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bologna to Rotterdam
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 29
Cheapest price on Aug 29
$345
Average ticket price on Aug 29
$366
Fastest journey on Aug 29
15 h 55 m
Average journey duration on Aug 29
17 h 28 m
Trains on Aug 29
3
Distance
969 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bologna to Rotterdam is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bologna to Rotterdam will cost around $366 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $345.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Bologna to Rotterdam without transferring at least 3 times.
RJ 86 · ICE 528 · S1 · IC 214369:52 AM19h05Bologna Centrale4:57 AMRotterdam Centraal$3451One-way4 transfers- RJ 86 · ICE 528 · ICE 318 · R 189819:52 AM17h23Bologna Centrale3:15 AMRotterdam Centraal$3551One-way6 transfers
- RJ 88 · ICE 622 · ICE 120 · IC 28807:45 AM15h55Bologna Centrale11:40 PMRotterdam Centraal$3971One-way3 transfers
- RJ 88 · ICE 622 · ICE 120 · IC 28807:45 AM15h55Bologna Centrale11:40 PMRotterdam Centraal$3971One-way3 transfers
- RJ 86 · ICE 528 · ICE 318 · R 189819:52 AM17h23Bologna Centrale3:15 AMRotterdam Centraal$3551One-way6 transfers
- RJ 86 · ICE 528 · S1 · IC 214369:52 AM19h05Bologna Centrale4:57 AMRotterdam Centraal$3451One-way4 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Bologna to Rotterdam
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Bologna to Rotterdam among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $146 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 13m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $146, while a flight costs an average of $409.
Distance: 602 miles (969 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$251 Average price | $409 Average price | $146 Average price Cheapest | $388 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
15h 17m Average total duration 14h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 13m Average total duration Fastest 3h 13m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 21h 16m Average total duration 20h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Bologna to Rotterdam is a bus with an average price of $146.
This is compared to other travel options from Bologna to Rotterdam:
A bus is $105 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bologna to Rotterdam costing on average $251.
A bus is $263 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bologna to Rotterdam costing on average $409.
The fastest way to travel from Bologna to Rotterdam is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 13m.
Other travel options to Rotterdam take longer:
Train takes on average 14h 47m.
Bus takes on average 20h 46m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bologna and Rotterdam including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Rotterdam 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 $251 compared to roughly $388 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $137. The journey takes 14h 47m versus 13h 9m 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 Rotterdam train times
The table below shows live departures for Bologna to Rotterdam trains for tomorrow, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RJ 88 · ICE 622 · ICE 120 · IC 2880 | On time 7:45 AM Bologna Centrale | 15h55 | 11:40 PM Rotterdam Centraal | 3 transfers | |
| RJ 86 · ICE 528 · ICE 318 · R 18981 | On time 9:52 AM Bologna Centrale | 17h23 | 3:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 6 transfers | |
| RJ 86 · ICE 528 · S1 · IC 21436 | On time 9:52 AM Bologna Centrale | 19h05 | 4:57 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 4 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bologna to Rotterdam 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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Aug 29
Aug 29
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Why should you book Bologna to Rotterdam trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Frecciarossa offer trains services from Bologna to Rotterdam.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bologna to Rotterdam.
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 Frecciarossa to find the best option for your trip from Bologna to Rotterdam.
- 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 Rotterdam.
Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Frecciarossa to find the best option for your trip from Bologna to Rotterdam.
- 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 Rotterdam.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bologna to Rotterdam
Italy
Netherlands
Trains from Bologna to Rotterdam run on average 2 times per day, taking around 14h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $162 but you can travel from only $6 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 01:07, the last at 21:45. The fastest train covers the 602 miles (969 km) distance in 14h 27m.
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 $6
Distance 602 miles (969 km) |
Average train duration 14h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $162 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 14h 27m |
First train 1:07 AM |
Last train 9:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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 $6
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Bologna to Rotterdam trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Bologna and Rotterdam from $25. 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
14h 27m
Cheapest Price
$162
Deutsche Bahn frequency
2 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
Complete guide to Rotterdam
Things to do in Rotterdam
Discover the best of Rotterdam — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Rotterdam trip today.
- Must visit
Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen
World-first publicly accessible art storage depot. Visitors see collection care, restoration, and city views from the rooftop.
- Must visit
Kunsthal Rotterdam
Contemporary art center known for ambitious international exhibitions. Best for visitors wanting Rotterdam’s cutting-edge art scene.
- Must visit
Oude Haven
Lively old harbor district with historic ships, terraces, and waterside views. Great for walks and a classic Rotterdam atmosphere.
- Must visit
Kop van Zuid
Modern waterfront area of bold architecture, hotels, and river panoramas. Essential for seeing Rotterdam’s contemporary skyline.
- Recommended
Lijnbaan
Main shopping street rebuilt after the war. Visit for striking postwar urban planning and easy access to central sights.
- Vegetarian
Stroopwafels
Crisp, syrup-filled waffles from nearby Gouda. Popular across Rotterdam markets and cafés, they are a classic Dutch sweet snack best eaten fresh and warm.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Patat Met Mayonaise
Hand-cut fries with rich mayonnaise or other sauces. A beloved Dutch street food found at snack bars and markets throughout Rotterdam.
- Vegetarian
Poffertjes
Small fluffy pancakes served with butter and powdered sugar. Traditional at Dutch pancake houses and a nostalgic treat for many locals.
FG Restaurant
Refined two-Michelin-star dining by François Geurds, known for creative tasting menus and polished modern luxury.
Amarone
Stylish Michelin-star restaurant with seasonal tasting menus, elegant plating, and an intimate fine dining atmosphere.
De Ballentent
Popular casual spot famed for oversized Dutch meatballs, beer, and no-frills local character near the Maas.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe: hotels can be pricey, but dining and local transit are usually manageable for most city breaks.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% at restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Small change is fine in cafes.
RET
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €4.50
- Day pass
- €9.50
To the city center
Rotterdam Centraal -> Markthal, Rotterdam
- Distance
- 1.3 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- You can check in and out on RET trams, buses, and metro with a contactless bank card, phone, or OVpay-enabled wearable.
- At Rotterdam Centraal, follow Metro signs for RET services; NS trains use separate fares and tickets.
FAQs: Trains from Bologna to Rotterdam
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna to Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Bologna to Rotterdam can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $162, while the average price is around $251.
The train from Bologna to Rotterdam takes 14h 27m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Bologna to Rotterdam leaves at 1:07 AM.
The distance by train from Bologna to Rotterdam is 602 miles (969 km).
The last train from Bologna to Rotterdam leaves at 9:45 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bologna to Rotterdam.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bologna to Rotterdam.
The train station in Bologna that goes to Rotterdam is Bologna Centrale, which connects to Rotterdam Centraal.
The cheapest way to get from Bologna to Rotterdam is by flight, with a cost of around $25.
The train journey from Bologna to Rotterdam offers scenic views, especially through the Italian and Swiss countryside, with picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and charming villages, as well as glimpses of the Alps.
A day trip from Bologna to Rotterdam is not feasible due to a travel duration of 14h 27m. The journey covers a distance of 602 miles (969 km) and there is only 1 train per day.
In Rotterdam, visitors can explore the renowned Rotterdam Zoo, enjoy the Spido Harbor Tour for unique views of the port and skyline, and wander through the historic Delfshaven neighborhood. For a vibrant city experience, head to Witte de Withstraat for art galleries, trendy bars, and restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts will love Kralingse Bos for walking and cycling. Notable sights include the iconic Erasmus Bridge, the modern Markthal food market, the innovative Cube Houses, the art-rich Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, and the Euromast observation tower for panoramic city views.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Rotterdam allows visitors to explore its modern architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and key attractions such as the Markthal, Cube Houses, and the port area comfortably.
Yes, you can take the train from Bologna to Rotterdam.
Since both Bologna and Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam include Brussels, Amsterdam, Antwerp, The Hague, Eindhoven.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Rotterdam 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.
The currency used in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Travelers generally find it more convenient to use cards, as most places accept debit and credit cards, though having some cash on hand is useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Rotterdam, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and unofficial taxi services can also occur. It is advised to use licensed taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid common safety issues.
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 Rotterdam
Most Bologna to Rotterdam trains use the Bologna Centrale to Rotterdam Centraal station pair. Use this guide to compare Bologna and Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam
Which Bologna station do trains to Rotterdam leave from?
Trains from Bologna to Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam station do trains from Bologna arrive at?
Trains from Bologna to Rotterdam arrive at Rotterdam Centraal. Rotterdam Centraal is 0 miles (1 km) from Rotterdam city centre.
Rotterdam CentraalStationsplein 1, 3013 AJ Rotterdam, Netherlands+31 302357822
City-centre transport
Getting to Rotterdam Centraal from Rotterdam city centre
BusStopbus ipv trein · 9m
4 · 10m · $2
Rotterdam Centraal train station facilities and services
Rotterdam Centraal 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: Smullers, Albert Heijn to go, Starbucks, La Place, Julia's, Ekmekci, LEON, The Doner Company, StationsHuiskamer, De Broodzaak, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are aTM machines are located outside the north side entrance and south side entrance.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 00:00 - 24:00. Information desks are located inside the central hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located at the north side of the station, next to the escalator to Platform 15. A small safe costs €6.00 and a large safe costs €9.00 for 24 hours.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rotterdam Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rotterdam Centraal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam Centraal: Escalators, elevators, wheelchair access, personalized mobility assistance.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Rotterdam Marriott Hotel, Layin’ Rotterdam Central, Hostel Ani & Haakien.
More options for your journey from Bologna to Rotterdam
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Rotterdam and Bologna
Most popular train connections to Rotterdam
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