FRANKFURT AM MAIN to BOLOGNA train from $59 with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 01

Cheapest price on Sep 01

$267

Average ticket price on Sep 01

$267

Fastest journey on Sep 01

10 h 35 m

Average journey duration on Sep 01

10 h 35 m

Trains on Sep 01

Distance

656 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna will cost around $267 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $267.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna without transferring at least once.

ICE 529 · RJ 87
9:41 AM10h35
Frankfurt Airport long-distance station
8:16 PMBologna Centrale
$2671One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Frankfurt am Main to Bologna

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $88 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 14m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the bus is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.7 - 1.6kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $88, while a flight costs an average of $272.

Distance: 407 miles (656 km)

Compare train with

Train	Most popular Bus	Flight	Driving
$209 Average price	$88 Average price Cheapest	$272 Average price	$261 Average price (fuel + tolls)
10h 39m Average total duration 10h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	17h 3m Average total duration 16h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 14m Average total duration Fastest 2h 14m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time*	9h 39m Average total duration (door-to-door)
- CO2 emissions	0.7 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest	2.0 - 3.9kg CO2 emissions	- CO2 emissions
Most popular train company	Most popular bus company	Most popular airline	Your own car or car rental
Direct Options	Direct Options	Direct Options	Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna is a bus with an average price of $88.

This is compared to other travel options from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna:

A bus is $121 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna costing on average $209.

A bus is $184 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna costing on average $272.

The fastest way to travel from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 14m.

Other travel options to Bologna take longer:

Train takes on average 10h 9m.

Bus takes on average 16h 33m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Frankfurt am Main and Bologna including taking a train, bus, and flight.

We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Frankfurt am Main 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 $209 compared to roughly $261 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $52. The journey takes 10h 9m versus 9h 39m 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

Frankfurt am Main to Bologna train times

The table below shows live departures for Frankfurt am Main to Bologna trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers	Tickets
ICE 529 · RJ 87	On time 9:41 AM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	10h35	8:16 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 Frankfurt am Main 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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Why should you book Frankfurt am Main to Bologna trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Frankfurt am Main 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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Frankfurt am Main 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna.

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 Frankfurt am Main to Bologna.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna

Germany

Italy

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna run on average 3 times per day, taking around 10h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $67 but you can travel from only $59 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 407 miles (656 km) distance in 10h 14m.

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 $59

Distance

407 miles (656 km)

Average train duration

10h 9m

Cheapest ticket price

$67

Trains per day

Fastest train

10h 14m

First train

12:20 AM

Last train

11:30 PM

Cheapest Month

Mar

Cheapest Day

Wed

High Season

Oct - Dec

Low Season

Apr - Jun

Busiest Day

Thu

Least Busy Day

Tue

Best time to book

28 days

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $59

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Frankfurt am Main and Bologna from $59. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration

10h 14m

Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price

$67

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

Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Duration

10h 14m

Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Price

$168

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency

2 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.

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.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Museo Civico Archeologico

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

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Museo Civico Medievale

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

View on map Visit website

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 Frankfurt am Main to Bologna

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Frankfurt am Main 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 Frankfurt am Main to Bologna can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $67, while the average price is around $209.

The train from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna takes 10h 14m and runs 3 per day.

The distance by train from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna is 407 miles (656 km).

The first train from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna leaves at 12:20 AM.

The last train from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna leaves at 11:30 PM.

There is no direct train service currently available from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna.

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna.

The train station in Frankfurt am Main that goes to Bologna is Frankfurt South station, which connects to Bologna Centrale.

The cheapest way to get from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna is by bus, with a cost of around $59.

The train journey from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna offers scenic views, especially as it travels through the picturesque Rhine Valley and crosses the Alps, providing passengers with glimpses of charming villages, lush vineyards, and striking mountain landscapes.

A day trip from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna is not feasible as the journey takes 10h 14m, covering a distance of 407 miles (656 km). There are 4 train trips 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 Frankfurt am Main to Bologna.

Since both Frankfurt am Main 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Frankfurt am Main 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 Frankfurt am Main to Bologna

Most Frankfurt am Main to Bologna trains use the Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf to Bologna Centrale station pair. Use this guide to compare Frankfurt am Main and Bologna train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Frankfurt am Main

Arrival train stations in Bologna

Which Frankfurt am Main station do trains to Bologna leave from?

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna leave from Frankfurt (Main) Süd. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Frankfurt am Main city centre at Frankfurt (Main) Süd, Hedderichstraße 51, 60594 Frankfurt am Main.

Frankfurt (Main) SüdFrankfurt (Main) Süd, Hedderichstraße 51, 60594 Frankfurt am Main Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Frankfurt (Main) Süd from Frankfurt am Main city centre

Frankfurt (Main) Süd is 1 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS6, S5, S4, S3 · 5m · $1 · every ~27 min

BusN8 · 9m

M36, 30 · 14m · every ~21 min

Tram18 · 11m · $4 · every ~12 min

SubwayU8, U3, U2, U1 · 5m · $4 · every ~40 min

Frankfurt (Main) Süd train station facilities and services

Frankfurt (Main) Süd 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: Merals Imbiss, Bootshaus am Eisernen Steg, Freigut, Holbein's

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd. ATMs are available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd. Information desks are available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel am Berg, Leonardo Royal Hotel Frankfurt, Hotel Ritter, Lindner Main Plaza.

Frankfurt Flughafen FernbfFrankfurt am Main Flughafen Fernbahnhof, 60549 Frankfurt am Main, Germany+49 69 2651055 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf is 10 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainIce · 11m · $2

Trn · 12m · $4

S8, S9 · 19m · $4 · every ~5 min

BusS8e · 28m · $7

X61, 61 · 41m · every ~13 min

61, X61 · 42m · every ~13 min

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf train station facilities and services

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.