- Must visit
Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna
Major art museum with important Emilian paintings from the 13th to 18th centuries, including works by Giotto, Raphael, and the Carracci.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Edinburgh to Bologna
Showing times and prices for May 31
Cheapest price
$594
Average price
$594
Fastest journey
23 h 54 m
Average duration
23 h 54 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
1634 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Edinburgh to Bologna is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Edinburgh to Bologna will cost around $594 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $594.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Edinburgh to Bologna without transferring at least 4 times.
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4:00 PM23h54Edinburgh3:54 PMBologna$5941One-way4 transfers
- 4:00 PM23h54Edinburgh3:54 PMBologna$5941One-way4 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Edinburgh to Bologna
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Edinburgh to Bologna among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $132. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 11m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $132, and a train costs an average of $594.
Distance: 1015 miles (1634 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$594 Average price | $231 Average price | $212 Average price Cheapest | $465 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
25h 40m Average total duration 25h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 11m Average total duration Fastest 3h 11m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 42h 25m Average total duration 41h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 22h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Edinburgh to Bologna is a bus with an average price of $212 (€171).
This is compared to other travel options from Edinburgh to Bologna:
A bus is $18 (€15) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Edinburgh to Bologna costing on average $231 (€186).
A bus is $381 (€307) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Edinburgh to Bologna costing on average $594 (€478).
The fastest way to travel from Edinburgh to Bologna is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 11m.
Other travel options to Bologna take longer:
Train takes on average 25h 10m.
Bus takes on average 41h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Edinburgh and Bologna including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Edinburgh 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 $594 (€478) compared to roughly $465 (€374) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-129.09 (€-103.93). The journey takes 25h 10m versus 22h 11m 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.
Compare prices and tickets Edinburgh to Bologna 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Edinburgh to Bologna
United Kingdom
Italy
Trains from Edinburgh to Bologna run on average 1 times per day, taking around 25h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $594 (€478) but you can travel from only $43 (€35) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 04:25, the last at 17:56. The fastest train covers the 1015 miles (1634 km) distance in 23h 54m.
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 $43 (€35)
Distance 1015 miles (1634 km) |
Average train duration 25h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $594 (€478) |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 23h 54m |
First train 4:25 AM |
Last train 5:56 PM |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $43 (€35)
Train companies: London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) from Edinburgh to Bologna trainsLondon North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) trains will get you between Edinburgh and Bologna from $43 (€35). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
23h 54m
Cheapest Price
$594 (€478)
London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) frequency
1 a day
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.
- Recommended
MAMbo - Museo d'Arte Moderna di Bologna
Bologna’s leading modern and contemporary art museum, known for rotating exhibitions and the Morandi collection.
- Recommended
Museo Civico Archeologico
Important archaeological museum with Egyptian, Etruscan, Greek, and Roman collections in a historic central building.
- Must visit
Piazza Maggiore
Bologna’s main square and social heart, surrounded by major historic buildings and lively throughout the day.
- Must visit
Portico di San Luca
Famous covered walkway climbing toward San Luca, ideal for a scenic walk and one of Bologna’s defining urban features.
- Recommended
Quadrilatero
Historic central district of narrow lanes near Piazza Maggiore, valued for atmosphere, porticoes, and classic Bologna street life.
Tagliatelle Al Ragù
Fresh egg tagliatelle served with Bologna’s classic slow-cooked meat ragù. It is one of the city’s signature dishes and more traditional than spaghetti bolognese.
Tortellini In Brodo
Small ring-shaped pasta filled with meat and served in rich capon or beef broth. A deeply traditional Bolognese dish, especially associated with festive meals.
Lasagne Verdi Alla Bolognese
Layered pasta made with green spinach sheets, ragù, béchamel, and Parmigiano Reggiano. It is a classic Sunday and holiday dish in Bologna.
Sfoglia Rina
Well-known pasta shop and eatery specializing in fresh stuffed pasta, tagliatelle, and quick traditional lunches in a central informal space.
I Portici
Elegant fine dining restaurant in a historic setting, known for refined Emilian cuisine and tasting menus with polished service.
Trattoria Anna Maria
Historic traditional trattoria known for handmade pasta, tortellini, and classic Bolognese dishes in a warm, old-school setting.
Euro
Moderate for Italy: food and coffee are reasonable, while central hotels cost more in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for pizza, panini, or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60-120+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.20-2.50 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included or covered by coperto. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great service is appreciated; small change for taxis is enough.
Roger
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.50 EUR
- Day pass
- 6.00 EUR
To the city center
Bologna Centrale, Bologna -> Piazza Maggiore, Bologna
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- You can buy and validate tickets in the Roger app or by tapping a contactless card on enabled buses; check that your bus supports contactless payment before boarding.
- Urban tickets are time-limited and valid for 75 min on TPER services, so validate or activate them before your first ride.
FAQs: Trains from Edinburgh to Bologna
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh 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.
Train ticket prices from Edinburgh to Bologna can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $594 (€478), while the average price is around $594 (€478).
The train from Edinburgh to Bologna runs once a day and takes approximately 23h 54m.
The first train from Edinburgh to Bologna leaves at 4:25 AM.
The distance by train from Edinburgh to Bologna is 1015 miles (1634 km).
The last train from Edinburgh to Bologna leaves at 5:56 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Edinburgh to Bologna.
There is no direct train service currently available from Edinburgh to Bologna.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Edinburgh to Bologna.
The cheapest way to get from Edinburgh to Bologna is by flight, with a cost of around $43 (€35).
The train journey from Edinburgh to Bologna offers a scenic experience, with routes passing through picturesque landscapes such as the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders, the lush countryside of England, and the charming locales of France and Switzerland, including the majestic Alps, before reaching the vibrant Italian landscapes.
A day trip from Edinburgh to Bologna is not feasible since the journey takes 23h 54m and covers 1015 miles (1634 km). There is 1 trip per day available for this route.
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 Edinburgh to Bologna.
Bologna is within the Schengen Area. Passport and visa requirements depend on your nationality. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
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 Edinburgh to Bologna among Omio's users.
Currently, UK citizens do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period) for tourism or business in the Schengen Area. However, the new ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is scheduled to launch in late 2026. Once active, this digital travel authorization will be a mandatory pre-travel requirement for all UK passport holders.
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.
Most popular train connections from Edinburgh
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Bologna
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Most popular trains to and from Bologna and Edinburgh
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