Bologna to Varenna train with Regionale

Sun, Jul 19
+ Add return
Regionale
Frecciarossa
Intercity
Italo
Intercity Notte
2,000+ travel companies
Regionale
Frecciarossa
Intercity
Italo
Intercity Notte
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bologna to Varenna

Showing times and prices for Jul 19

Cheapest price

$48

Average price

$55

Fastest journey

3 h 33 m

Average duration

3 h 53 m

Trains per day

25

Distance

233 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bologna to Varenna is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Bologna to Varenna will cost around $55 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $48.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Bologna to Varenna without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Italo9972+RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 94072 · Autobus TRENORD 5290A · Regionale TRENORD 2842
    10:11 AM12h13
    Bologna Centrale
    10:24 PMVarenna-esino
    $481One-way
    3 transfers
  • Italo9974+RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 94072 · Autobus TRENORD 5290A · Regionale TRENORD 2842
    11:11 AM11h13
    Bologna Centrale
    10:24 PMVarenna-esino
    $481One-way
    3 transfers
  • Italo9974+RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 94076 · Autobus TRENORD 5292A · Regionale TRENORD 2844
    11:11 AM12h13
    Bologna Centrale
    11:24 PMVarenna-esino
    $481One-way
    3 transfers
  • Italo9986+RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 94076 · Autobus TRENORD 5292A · Regionale TRENORD 2844
    5:11 PM6h13
    Bologna Centrale
    11:24 PMVarenna-esino
    $521One-way
    3 transfers
  • Italo9924+RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 94072 · Autobus TRENORD 5290A · Regionale TRENORD 2842
    1:06 PM9h18
    Bologna Centrale
    10:24 PMVarenna-esino
    $521One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Bologna to Varenna

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bologna to Varenna among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $7. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 53m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $7, and a train costs an average of $22.

Distance: 144 miles (233 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$29

Average price

$16

Average price

Cheapest

$89

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 23m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 53m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 21m

Average total duration

4h 51m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 22m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Bologna to Varenna is a bus with an average price of $16 (€13).

This is compared to other travel options from Bologna to Varenna:

A bus is $13 (€10) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bologna to Varenna costing on average $29 (€23).

The fastest way to travel from Bologna to Varenna is by train with an average journey time of 2h 53m.

Other travel options to Varenna take longer:

Bus takes on average 4h 51m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bologna and Varenna including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Varenna among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 29m faster (2h 53m by train vs 3h 22m by car) and roughly $61 (€50) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($29 (€23) vs $89 (€73)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Bologna to Varenna train times

The table below shows live departures for Bologna to Varenna trains for today, Saturday, July 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Regionale4:28 AM Bologna
4h13
8:41 AM Varenna0 transfersDirect
Regionale5:50 AM Bologna
4h34
10:24 AM Varenna0 transfersDirect
Intercity10:05 AM Bologna
4h19
2:24 PM Varenna0 transfersDirect
Intercity2:04 PM Bologna
4h20
6:24 PM Varenna0 transfersDirect
Regionale2:33 PM Bologna
4h51
7:24 PM Varenna0 transfersDirect
Intercity3:54 PM Bologna
3h59
7:53 PM Varenna0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Bologna to Varenna by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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
Jul 19
Mon
Jul 20
Tue
Jul 21
Wed
Jul 22
Thu
Jul 23
Fri
Jul 24
Sat
Jul 25

Why should you book Bologna to Varenna trains with Omio?

Regionale as well as Frecciarossa, Intercity, Italo, Intercity Notte and more offer trains services from Bologna to Varenna.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Regionale tickets.

Why book with Omio vs Regionale?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Regionale, but also compare tickets for the likes of Frecciarossa, Intercity, Italo or Intercity Notte to find the best option for your trip from Bologna to Varenna.
  • 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 Regionale with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bologna to Varenna.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bologna to Varenna

ItalyItaly
ItalyItaly
Icon of train

Trains from Bologna to Varenna run on average 30 times per day, taking around 2h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $22 (€18) but you can travel from only $7 (€5) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:35, the last at 22:38. The fastest train covers the 144 miles (233 km) distance in 3h 38m.

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 $7 (€5)
Distance
144 miles (233 km)
Average train duration
2h 53m
Cheapest ticket price
$22 (€18)
Trains per day
30
Fastest train
3h 38m
First train
12:35 AM
Last train
10:38 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
84 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
Bus from $7 (€5)

Train companies: Regionale, Frecciarossa, Intercity, Italo, Intercity Notte from Bologna to Varenna trainsRegionale, Frecciarossa, Intercity, Italo, Intercity Notte trains will get you between Bologna and Varenna from $7 (€5). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Regionale

About
Regionale is the regional train service of national carrier Trenitalia connecting all of Italy. It is the most convinient way to travel to both big cities and the smallest villages all over the Italian country. The regional trains have different names depending on the region they serve, such as Treno Regionale Veloce (TRV) and Treno Regionale Lento (TRL). Treno Rock and Treno pop are the two new trains part of Trenitalia regionale fleet. Trenitalia Regionale offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets (economy and standard), return tickets, and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and power sockets. The most popular routes for Regionale are between Rome and Milan, Naples and Florence, and Turin and Venice.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 13m
Cheapest Price
$28 (€23)
Regionale frequency
20 a day
Luggage included
Free hand luggage allowance included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Bar service available on some trains with snacks and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most services
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
Quiet zone

Frecciarossa

About
Step on board a Frecciarossa train and relax as you travel across Italy. Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa high-speed trains make around 200 connections across the country each day and are renowned for their comfort, speed, and reduced environmental impact. Reaching speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h), they connect major destinations such as Rome, Florence, Milan, Venice, and Naples quickly and efficiently. When booking your Frecciarossa journey, you can choose between four classes: Standard, Premium, Business, and Executive. While each class offers different levels of comfort, all provide free Wi-Fi access, power outlets, air conditioning, bathrooms, luggage storage, onboard entertainment, and restaurant and bar services. Ticket options include Super Economy, Economy, and Base, making it easy to find the right balance of comfort and price for your trip.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 15m
Cheapest Price
$76 (€62)
Frecciarossa frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag and 1 suitcase per passenger
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at carriage ends, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals, bar service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in Executive class
Seat reservation
Included in Executive class, optional fee for other classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, service animals 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 Duration
3h 38m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€18)
Intercity frequency
4 a day
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

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
2h 13m
Cheapest Price
$67 (€55)
Italo frequency
6 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

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
Intercity Notte frequency
1 a day
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

Complete guide to Varenna

Things to do in Varenna

Discover the best of Varenna — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Varenna trip today.

  • Recommended

Casa Museo di Villa Monastero

House museum within Villa Monastero presenting period interiors, collections, and the villa's history. A strong cultural complement to the celebrated gardens.

  • Recommended

Museo di Villa Monastero

Historic villa interiors with decorative rooms and art displays inside one of Lake Como's most famous residences. Ideal for architecture and heritage enthusiasts.

  • Recommended

Giardini di Villa Cipressi

Botanical and decorative heritage experience in the Villa Cipressi complex, where landscaped terraces and historic structures create an open-air cultural visit.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Lake Como: stays and lakefront dining cost more than inland towns, but ferries and simple meals remain manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
€10-15 for pizza, panini, or simple lunch.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€50-90 per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€1.50-3 for espresso or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is often included or covered by coperto. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service; small change for cafes; taxis are usually rounded up.

FAQs: Trains from Bologna to Varenna

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna to Varenna 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 Varenna, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Bologna to Varenna can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $22 (€18), while the average price is around $29 (€23).
The train from Bologna to Varenna takes 3h 38m and runs 30 per day.
The distance by train from Bologna to Varenna is 144 miles (233 km).
The first train from Bologna to Varenna leaves at 12:35 AM.
The last train from Bologna to Varenna leaves at 10:38 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Bologna to Varenna.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bologna to Varenna.
Yes, there is a night train from Bologna to Varenna.
The train station in Bologna that goes to Varenna is Bologna Centrale, which connects to Varenna-esino.
The cheapest way to get from Bologna to Varenna is by bus, with a cost of around $7 (€5).
The train journey from Bologna to Varenna is considered scenic, particularly as it approaches the Lake Como region, offering views of the picturesque lake and surrounding mountains.
A day trip from Bologna to Varenna is not feasible as the travel duration is 3h 38m. However, trains run frequently with 27 trips per day over a distance of 144 miles (233 km).
In Varenna, you can explore charming streets with local shops and cafes, take a boat tour on Lake Como for stunning views, and visit the Civic Museum of Ornithology and Natural Sciences. Enjoy a wine tasting at a local vineyard or join a cooking class to learn traditional Italian dishes. Key sights include Villa Monastero with its botanical gardens, Castello di Vezio with medieval charm and falconry displays, and the Romanesque Church of San Giorgio. Don't miss the short river Fiumelatte with its milky waters, and the scenic Passeggiata degli Innamorati for leisurely lakeside walks.
For a fulfilling experience in Varenna, plan to stay 2 to 3 days to explore its charming streets, visit Villa Monastero, and enjoy the scenic views of Lake Como.
Yes, you can take the train from Bologna to Varenna.
Since both Bologna and Varenna 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 Varenna include Milan, Bergamo, Lecco, Como, Tirano.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Varenna 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 Varenna, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas such as ferry docks and popular walking paths. It's also advisable to avoid unofficial taxi services and only use licensed providers. While the town is generally safe, staying vigilant around busy tourist spots helps prevent common scams like overpriced dining or souvenir shops.
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 Varenna

Most Bologna to Varenna trains use the Bologna Centrale to Varenna-esino station pair. Use this guide to compare Bologna and Varenna 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 Varenna

Which Bologna station do trains to Varenna leave from?

Trains from Bologna to Varenna 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 892021WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 S. Vitale40138 Bologna, Metropolitan City of Bologna, ItalyParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Bologna S. Vitale from Bologna city centre

Bologna S. Vitale is 2 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus99 · 1h 3m · $5
99, 206, 211 · 1h 45m · $7 · every ~4 min

Bologna S. Vitale train station facilities and services

Bologna S. Vitale has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Bologna S. Vitale.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Bologna S. Vitale.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bologna S. Vitale: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Bologna S. Vitale: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna S. Vitale: Elevators, ramps.

More options for your journey from Bologna to Varenna

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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