CologneBologna
Fri, Jul 17, 1 adult
Fri, Jul 17
+ Add return
Fri, Jul 17
+ Add return

Cheapest, Fastest
Deutsche Bahn
ICE 105 • ICE 595 • RJ 89
10:54AM11h17m10:11PM
Cologne Hbf
Bologna Centrale
$1101One-way

The cheapest and fastest trainsfrom Cologne to BolognaShowing times and prices for Jul 16

Cheapest price

$110

Average price

$110

Fastest journey

11h 17m

Average duration

11h 17m

Trains per day

1

Distance

195 km

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Prices include taxes and may change depending on availability. Any additional fees can be reviewed before payment. The total price will be finalized once the purchase is completed.

Cologne to Bologna train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Cologne to Bologna

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Bologna among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $65. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 46m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $65, and a flight costs an average of $22.

Distance: 489 miles (787 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Bus
Driving

$215

Average price

$255

Average price

$96

Average price

Cheapest

$89

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

12h 14m

Average total duration

11h 44m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 46m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 46m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

16h 32m

Average total duration

16h 2m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

11h 3m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

Malta Air

Most popular airline

FlixBus

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 to Bologna is a bus with an average price of $96 (€79).

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

A bus is $119 (€98) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Bologna costing on average $215 (€176).

A bus is $159 (€130) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Bologna costing on average $255 (€209).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Bologna is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 46m.

Other travel options to Bologna take longer:

Train takes on average 11h 44m.

Bus takes on average 16h 2m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Bologna including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Bologna 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 $215 (€176) compared to roughly $89 (€73) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-126.77 (€-103.79). The journey takes 11h 44m versus 11h 3m 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 to Bologna train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Bologna trains for today, Thursday, July 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 105 · ICE 595 · RJ 89
Delayed
9:04 AM 10:54 AMCologne Hbf
11h17
10:11 PM Bologna Centrale
2 transfers
Friday, July 17
Deutsche Bahn6:54 AM Cologne
11h22
6:16 PM Bologna0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:54 AM Cologne
11h22
7:16 PM Bologna0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Bologna 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.

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Why should you book Cologne to Bologna trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Trenitalia offer trains services from Cologne to Bologna.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Bologna.

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 Trenitalia to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Bologna.
  • 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Bologna.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Trenitalia to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Bologna.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Bologna.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Bologna

GermanyGermany
ItalyItaly
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Bologna run on average 2 times per day, taking around 11h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $51 (€42) but you can travel from only $22 (€18) by flight.

The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 489 miles (787 km) distance in 11h 17m.

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 $22 (€18)
Distance
489 miles (787 km)
Average train duration
11h 44m
Cheapest ticket price
$51 (€42)
Trains per day
2
Fastest train
11h 17m
First train
12:20 AM
Last train
11:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
63 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $22 (€18)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Trenitalia from Cologne to Bologna trainsDeutsche Bahn, Trenitalia trains will get you between Cologne and Bologna from $22 (€18). 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 17m
Cheapest Price
$51 (€42)
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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone

Trenitalia

About
Trenitalia is not only Italy's national railroad company but also the country's largest train operator. Trenitalia’s fleet of trains ncludes the high-speed Frecciarossa, Frecciargento and Frecciabianca trains as well as intercity, regional and night trains. Bathrooms and WiFi access are standard on long-distance routes. In most cases, the trains also provide barrier-free access. Trenitalia offers different tickets, which vary in price and flexibility: Base, Economy, Super Economy and Ordinaria. You can even use Trenitalia discount cards on Omio. Make sure to look out for the latest offers from Trenitalia on Omio to score special deals!
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per passenger included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, and spaces between seat backs
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car on high-speed trains, trolley service with snacks and beverages, vending machines on some trains
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation, costs extra except on high-speed trains where it's mandatory and included
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Bologna

Things to do in Bologna

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

  • Must visit

Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna

Leading city museum with major Italian paintings from the Middle Ages to modern times, essential for understanding Bologna's art history.

  • Recommended

Museo Civico Archeologico

Archaeological museum with rich Egyptian, Etruscan, Greek, and Roman collections in a central historic palace.

  • Recommended

Museo Civico Medievale

Museum of Bologna's urban history using objects, rooms, and multimedia to trace the city from antiquity to today.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Italy: stays and dining are cheaper than Rome or Milan, while transit is affordable and tourist-center prices stay manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or street food.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€1.50-3 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is optional. Service may be included. Round up or leave €1-2 at cafes, 5-10% in restaurants for great service, and round up taxi fares.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Bologna

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Bologna can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $51 (€42), while the average price is around $215 (€176).
The train from Cologne to Bologna takes 11h 17m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Bologna leaves at 12:20 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Bologna is 489 miles (787 km).
The last train from Cologne to Bologna leaves at 11:30 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Bologna.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Bologna.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Bologna is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Bologna Centrale.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Bologna is by flight, with a cost of around $22 (€18).
The train journey from Cologne to Bologna offers scenic views, especially through the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley and the mountainous regions of Switzerland and Northern Italy, providing a visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Cologne to Bologna is not feasible as the journey duration is 11h 17m. Trains operate 3 times per day.
In Bologna, you can explore Piazza Maggiore, the bustling central square surrounded by historic buildings and lively cafes. Climb the Two Towers for panoramic city views, and visit the Basilica di San Petronio, a grand church with stunning architecture. Discover the Archiginnasio of Bologna, a historic university building featuring a remarkable anatomical theater. Don't miss the Mercato di Mezzo, where you can enjoy local delicacies and fresh produce. Additionally, explore Santo Stefano, a fascinating complex known as the Seven Churches with unique architectural features.
Three days in Bologna is generally sufficient to explore its historic sites, enjoy its renowned cuisine, and experience its vibrant culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Bologna.
Since both Cologne and Bologna 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 include Florence, Venice, Rimini, Verona, Ravenna.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Bologna 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.
In Bologna, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors or unofficial taxi drivers offering overpriced rides can also occur. It's advisable 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 Cologne to Bologna

Most Cologne to Bologna trains use the Köln Hbf to Bologna Centrale station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Bologna train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Cologne
Arrival train stations in Bologna

Which Cologne station do trains to Bologna leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Bologna leave from Köln Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cologne city centre at Trankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany.
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre

Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb26 · 16m · $9 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · $6 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · $6 · every ~14 min

Köln Hbf train station facilities and services

Köln Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.

Köln/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre

Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRe · 17m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $5
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $6

Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services

Köln/Bonn Flughafen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

Köln Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre

Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb26 · 12m · $4 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · $2 · every ~52 min

Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services

Köln Messe/Deutz has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.

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