Frankfurt am Main to Bologna train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Wed, Jun 03
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna

Showing times and prices for Jun 03

Cheapest price

$173

Average price

$196

Fastest journey

10 h 14 m

Average duration

10 h 29 m

Trains per day

5

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 $196 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $173.

Fast trains

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

  • Deutsche BahnICE 529 · RJ 87
    9:41 AM10h35
    Frankfurt Airport long-distance station
    8:16 PMBologna Centrale
    $1731One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 103 · ICE 593 · RJ 87
    9:51 AM10h25
    Frankfurt Airport long-distance station
    8:16 PMBologna Centrale
    $1731One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 529 · RJ 87
    9:57 AM10h19
    Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
    8:16 PMBologna Centrale
    $1731One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 575 · ICE 565 · RJ 89
    11:20 AM10h51
    Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
    10:11 PMBologna Centrale
    $1731One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 623 · RJ 89
    11:57 AM10h14
    Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
    10:11 PMBologna Centrale
    $2871One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

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

Omio recommends booking the train 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 prices starting from $51. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 11m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 0.7 - 1.6kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $51, and a flight costs an average of $168.

Distance: 407 miles (656 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$233

Average price

$79

Average price

Cheapest

$350

Average price

$260

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

10h 46m

Average total duration

10h 16m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

16h 35m

Average total duration

16h 5m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 11m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 11m

Onboard

+

3h 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

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Lufthansa

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 $79 (€63).

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

A bus is $154 (€125) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna costing on average $233 (€188).

A bus is $272 (€220) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna costing on average $350 (€283).

The fastest way to travel from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 11m.

Other travel options to Bologna take longer:

Train takes on average 10h 16m.

Bus takes on average 16h 5m.

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 train 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 $233 (€188) compared to roughly $260 (€210) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $27 (€22). The journey takes 10h 16m 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 today, Tuesday, June 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 529 · RJ 87
On time
9:41 AM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station
10h35
8:16 PM Bologna Centrale
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · ICE 593 · RJ 87
Delayed
7:55 AM 9:51 AMFrankfurt Airport long-distance station
10h25
8:16 PM Bologna Centrale
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 529 · RJ 87
Delayed
8:02 AM 9:57 AMFrankfurt (Main) Hbf
10h19
8:16 PM Bologna Centrale
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 623 · RJ 89
On time
11:57 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
10h14
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 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.

Tue
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
Thu
Jun 04
Fri
Jun 05
Sat
Jun 06
Sun
Jun 07
Mon
Jun 08
Tue
Jun 09
Wed
Jun 10
Thu
Jun 11
Fri
Jun 12
Sat
Jun 13
Sun
Jun 14
Mon
Jun 15
Tue
Jun 16
Wed
Jun 17
Thu
Jun 18
Fri
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22

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.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna?

The best time to book your train from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna is 70 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Frankfurt am Main to Bologna route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna

GermanyGermany
ItalyItaly
Icon of train

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna run on average 3 times per day, taking around 10h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $71 (€57) but you can travel from only $51 (€41) 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 5m.

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 $51 (€41)
Distance
407 miles (656 km)
Average train duration
10h 16m
Cheapest ticket price
$71 (€57)
Trains per day
3
Fastest train
10h 5m
First train
12:20 AM
Last train
11:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
28 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 $51 (€41)

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 $51 (€41). 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
10h 5m
Cheapest Price
$71 (€57)
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 14m
Cheapest Price
$168 (€136)
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

Major state gallery with important Emilian paintings from the 13th to 18th centuries, including works by Giotto, Raffaello, and the Carracci.

  • 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 palazzo near Piazza Maggiore.

Euro

Moderate for Italy: budget eats are reasonable, while central hotels and fine dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 8-15 for pizza, panini, or street food.
Mid-range
EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
EUR 1.20-2.50 for espresso or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is often included or covered by coperto. Tipping is not required; round up or leave EUR 1-5 for good service. Taxis can be rounded up.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $71 (€57), while the average price is around $233 (€188).
The train from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna takes 10h 5m 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 $51 (€41).
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 5m, 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 train 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

Frankfurt am Main
Bologna
The major train station for departures in Frankfurt am Main is Frankfurt (Main) Süd. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Frankfurt (Main) Süd for your trip from Frankfurt am Main to Bologna.
Frankfurt (Main) SüdWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Merals Imbiss
  • Bootshaus am Eisernen Steg
  • Freigut
  • Holbein's
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel am Berg
  • Leonardo Royal Hotel Frankfurt
  • Hotel Ritter
  • Lindner Main Plaza
Frankfurt Flughafen FernbfWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
ShowerShower
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
10 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
4
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 24/7, accessible via Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 parking areas.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Käfer's
  • McDonald's
  • Asia Snack Box
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps.
WC
WC
  • €1
Hotel
Hotel
  • Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel
  • Hilton Frankfurt Airport
  • Hilton Garden Inn Frankfurt Airport
Shower
Shower
  • Cost €6
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for long-distance and regional trains
  • Hall 2: connection to Terminal 1 of the airport
  • Hall 3: connection to Terminal 2 of the airport
Public transit options for Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf
  • S-Bahn: Lines S8, S9
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Long-distance buses: Available at the airport
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 07:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 09:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Luggage lockers are located in the main hall.
Dining
Dining
  • asiagourmet
  • Burger King
  • Ciao Bella
  • Coffee Fellows
  • Crepes de France Express
  • dean&david
  • Starbucks
  • Uddin's Sky Sportsbar
  • McDonald's
  • Dunkin Donuts
  • & many more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Step-free access and step markings. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Cristall
  • Grand Hotel Empire
  • Hotel Carlton
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located opposite Platforms 12 and 13.
HomeTrainsTrains in ItalyTrain Times to BolognaFrankfurt am Main to Bologna train

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone