- Must visit
Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna
The city’s main fine-art museum, known for major works from the Bolognese school including Giotto, Raphael, Guido Reni, and the Carracci. A strong choice for understanding Bologna’s artistic heritage.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale
Showing times and prices for May 27
Cheapest price
$198
Average price
$198
Fastest journey
11 h 22 m
Average duration
11 h 50 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
787 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale will cost around $198 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $198.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale without transferring at least once.
ICE 515 · RJ 899:54 AM12h17Cologne Hbf10:11 PMBologna Centrale$1981One-way1 transfer- ICE 103 · ICE 593 · RJ 878:54 AM11h22Cologne Hbf8:16 PMBologna Centrale$1981One-way2 transfers
- ICE 103 · ICE 593 · RJ 878:54 AM11h22Cologne Hbf8:16 PMBologna Centrale$1981One-way2 transfers
- ICE 515 · RJ 899:54 AM12h17Cologne Hbf10:11 PMBologna Centrale$1981One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $66. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 35m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $66, and a flight costs an average of $21.
Distance: 489 miles (787 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$151 Average price | $213 Average price | $95 Average price Cheapest | $94 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 50m Average total duration 11h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 35m Average total duration Fastest 1h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 17h 48m Average total duration 17h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 52m 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 Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale is a bus with an average price of $95 (€76).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale:
A bus is $56 (€46) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale costing on average $151 (€122).
A bus is $119 (€96) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale costing on average $213 (€172).
The fastest way to travel from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 35m.
Other travel options to Bologna Centrale take longer:
Train takes on average 11h 20m.
Bus takes on average 17h 18m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne Hbf and Bologna Centrale including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale 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 $151 (€122) compared to roughly $94 (€76) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-56.71 (€-45.78). The journey takes 11h 20m versus 10h 52m 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
Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, May 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 103 · ICE 593 · RJ 87 | On time 8:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 11h22 | 8:16 PM Bologna Centrale | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 515 · RJ 89 | On time 9:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h17 | 10:11 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale 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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May 27
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Why should you book Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH offer trains services from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale.
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 Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH to find the best option for your trip from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale.
- 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 Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale.
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 Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale
Germany
Italy
Trains from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale run on average 3 times per day, taking around 11h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $64 (€51) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 06:54, the last at 07:54. The fastest train covers the 489 miles (787 km) distance in 11h 22m.
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 $21 (€17)
Distance 489 miles (787 km) |
Average train duration 11h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $64 (€51) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 11h 22m |
First train 6:54 AM |
Last train 7:54 AM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 $21 (€17)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale trainsDeutsche Bahn, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH trains will get you between Cologne Hbf and Bologna Centrale from $21 (€17). 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
11h 22m
Cheapest Price
$64 (€51)
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
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
12h 43m
Cheapest Price
$212 (€171)
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Bologna Centrale
Things to do in Bologna Centrale
Discover the best of Bologna Centrale — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bologna Centrale trip today.
- Recommended
MAMbo - Museo d'Arte Moderna di Bologna
Bologna’s leading modern and contemporary art museum, featuring rotating exhibitions and works tied to postwar Italian art. Popular with visitors seeking a more contemporary cultural stop.
- Recommended
Museo Civico Archeologico
A respected archaeology museum with Egyptian, Etruscan, Greek, Roman, and local collections. Its central location near Piazza Maggiore makes it an easy and rewarding visit.
- Must visit
Piazza Maggiore
Bologna’s principal square and the heart of the historic center, surrounded by major civic and religious buildings. It is the essential starting point for most visits.
- Must visit
Quadrilatero
A historic central district of narrow streets known for its lively atmosphere and traditional urban character. It is highly popular for wandering and experiencing old Bologna.
- Must visit
Portico di San Luca
The famous portico route leading toward the Sanctuary of San Luca is one of Bologna’s defining urban experiences. It is ideal for a scenic walk and very popular for photos.
Tagliatelle Al Ragù
Bologna’s iconic fresh egg pasta served with a slow-cooked meat ragù. It is one of the city’s most famous traditional dishes.
Tortellini In Brodo
Small ring-shaped pasta filled with pork, mortadella, and Parmigiano Reggiano, traditionally served in rich capon or beef broth.
Lasagne Verdi Alla Bolognese
Green spinach pasta layered with ragù, béchamel, and Parmigiano Reggiano. A classic Sunday and festive dish in Bologna.
Trattoria di Via Serra
Well-regarded modern trattoria serving carefully prepared Emilian classics with high-quality ingredients in a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere.
Sfoglia Rina
Popular pasta spot known for handmade stuffed pasta and traditional Bolognese recipes in an informal, central setting.
Trattoria Anna Maria
Historic trattoria celebrated for classic Bolognese dishes such as tortellini, tagliatelle al ragù, and lasagne in a traditional setting.
Euro
Moderate for Italy: food and coffee are reasonable, while hotels near the station can cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for pizza, panini, or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.50-3 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or covered by a coperto charge. Tipping is not obligatory; round up or leave EUR 1-2 at cafes, 5-10% for very good restaurant service, and round up taxis.
Roger
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 1.50
- Day pass
- EUR 6.00
To the city center
Bologna Centrale, Bologna -> Piazza Maggiore, Bologna
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- You can buy TPER tickets in the Roger app, at ticket machines, and at authorized retailers. Validate paper tickets when boarding.
- On many Bologna buses, contactless bank card payment is available onboard. Check the validator and use the same card for inspections.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale 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 Bologna Centrale, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $64 (€51), while the average price is around $151 (€122).
The train from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale takes 11h 22m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale leaves at 6:54 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale is 489 miles (787 km).
The last train from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale leaves at 7:54 AM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale is by flight, with a cost of around $21 (€17).
The train journey from Köln Hbf to Bologna Centrale offers a scenic experience, especially as you pass through the picturesque Rhine Valley with its vineyards and castles, and later, the stunning landscapes of the Swiss Alps and northern Italy, providing travelers with beautiful views along the route.
A day trip from Köln Hbf to Bologna Centrale is not feasible as the journey takes 11h 22m and the frequency is 3 per day for trains over a distance of 489 miles (787 km).
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale.
Since both Cologne Hbf and Bologna Centrale 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 Bologna Centrale include Florence, Venice, Rimini, Milan, Ravenna.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale 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.
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.
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 Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale
Cologne
Bologna
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Bologna.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
The major train station for arrivals in Bologna is Bologna Centrale. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bologna Centrale for your journey to Bologna from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation 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
More options for your journey from Cologne Hbf to Bologna Centrale
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bologna Centrale and Cologne Hbf
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