- Must visit
Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna
The city’s main fine arts museum, known for 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 Messina to Bologna
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$127
Average price
$140
Fastest journey
11 h 43 m
Average duration
14 h 19 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
784 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Messina to Bologna is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Messina to Bologna will cost around $140 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $127.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Messina for Bologna on Sun, Jun 21, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 784 km distance in an average of 14 h 19 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 11 h 43 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 16 h 14 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
9:15 AM18h06Messina3:21 AMBologna$1271One-way0 transfers- 11:20 AM15h01Messina2:21 AMBologna$1291One-way0 transfers
- 11:35 PM16h14Messina3:49 PMBologna$1301One-way0 transfers
3:48 PM14h19Messina6:07 AMBologna$1321One-way0 transfers- 2:48 PM14h19Messina5:07 AMBologna$1341One-way0 transfers
8:10 PM11h43Messina7:53 AMBologna$1891One-way0 transfers- 3:48 PM14h19Messina6:07 AMBologna$1321One-way0 transfers
- 2:48 PM14h19Messina5:07 AMBologna$1341One-way0 transfers
- 11:20 AM15h01Messina2:21 AMBologna$1291One-way0 transfers
- 11:35 PM16h14Messina3:49 PMBologna$1301One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Messina to Bologna
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Messina to Bologna among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $31. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 54m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $31, and a train costs an average of $50.
Distance: 487 miles (784 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$116 Average price | $56 Average price | $43 Average price Cheapest | $268 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
12h 29m Average total duration 11h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 28m Average total duration 13h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 54m Average total duration Fastest 1h 54m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 10h 40m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.8 - 2.0kg CO2 emissions | 2.3 - 4.7kg 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 Messina to Bologna is a flight with an average price of $43 (€35).
This is compared to other travel options from Messina to Bologna:
A flight is $13 (€10) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Messina to Bologna costing on average $56 (€46).
A flight is $73 (€59) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Messina to Bologna costing on average $116 (€95).
The fastest way to travel from Messina to Bologna is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 54m.
Other travel options to Bologna take longer:
Train takes on average 11h 59m.
Bus takes on average 13h 58m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Messina and Bologna including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Messina 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 {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.
Direct services run with Intercity Notte, Intercity.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Messina to Bologna train times
The table below shows live departures for Messina to Bologna trains for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| InterCityNotte 1962 | 4:48 PM Messina Centrale | 15h50 | 8:38 AM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| InterCityNotte 1962 | 4:48 PM Messina Centrale | 15h50 | 8:38 AM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| InterCityNotte 1956+FRECCIAROSSA 9612 | 10:10 PM Messina Centrale | 11h43 | 9:53 AM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| InterCityNotte 1956+FRECCIAROSSA 9612 | 10:10 PM Messina Centrale | 11h43 | 9:53 AM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Sunday, June 21 | |||||
| 9:15 AM Messina | 18h06 | 3:21 AM Bologna | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:20 AM Messina | 15h01 | 2:21 AM Bologna | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Messina 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.
Sun
Jun 21
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Messina to Bologna
ItalyItaly
Trains from Messina to Bologna run on average 7 times per day, taking around 11h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 (€41) but you can travel from only $31 (€25) by flight.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:39. The fastest train covers the 487 miles (784 km) distance in 11h 18m.
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 $31 (€25)
Distance 487 miles (784 km) |
Average train duration 11h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $50 (€41) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 11h 18m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:39 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 42 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 $31 (€25)
Train companies: Intercity Notte, Intercity, Italo from Messina to Bologna trainsIntercity Notte, Intercity, Italo trains will get you between Messina and Bologna from $31 (€25). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Intercity Notte
About
Intercity Notte is an Italian train service operated by Trenitalia. It runs overnight services between major cities in Italy, making it a great option for travelers looking to save time and money. The Intercity Notte offers two types of trains: the Frecciarossa Notte and the Frecciargento Notte. The Frecciarossa Notte is the fastest train, with speeds of up to 300 km/h, while the Frecciargento Notte is slightly slower but still offers a comfortable journey. Both trains offer a range of onboard facilities, including comfortable seating, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. Trenitalia offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, Comfort, and Business. Standard tickets are the most affordable, while Comfort and Business tickets offer additional benefits such as priority boarding and access to the lounge. The most popular routes for Intercity Notte are Rome to Milan, Rome to Venice, and Milan to Venice. These routes offer travelers the chance to explore some of Italy's most iconic cities in a convenient and comfortable way.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
14h 19m
Cheapest Price
$70 (€58)
Intercity Notte frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
1 handbag and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats and at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full dining service and bar
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for disabled passengers
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
Intercity
About
Trenitalia Intercity is a high-speed train service operated by the Italian national railway company, Trenitalia. It operates throughout the country, with services running from early morning to late evening. The Intercity trains come in two types: the Intercity Plus, which is the fastest and most comfortable, and the Intercity, which is slightly slower but still offers a comfortable journey. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, power sockets, Wi-Fi, and a bar service. There are several ticket types available, including Standard, Super Economy, and Business. The most popular routes for Trenitalia Intercity are from Rome to Milan, Naples to Florence, and Turin to Venice.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
14h 1m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€41)
Intercity frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Italo
About
Italo is Italy’s private high-speed train service operated by Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori (NTV), connecting major cities such as Rome, Milan, Naples, Florence, Turin, Bologna, and Salerno. Its fleet includes the Italo AGV 575, capable of speeds up to 186 mph (300 km/h), and the eco-friendly Italo EVO, which reaches up to 150 mph (250 km/h). Passengers can choose from four classes — Smart, Comfort, Prima, and Club Executive — all offering modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, reclining leather seats, footrests, bathrooms, snack machines, and Italo Live entertainment with movies, music, and games. Italo offers three fare types — Low Cost, Economy, and Flex — providing different levels of price and flexibility. Popular routes include Rome–Milan, Rome–Florence, and Milan–Turin, making Italo a fast, comfortable, and convenient way to travel around Italy.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 48m
Cheapest Price
$61 (€50)
Italo frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage (max 55x35x25cm) and 1 piece of luggage (max 75x53x30cm)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack bar service available in most trains with drinks and light refreshments. Welcome service in Prima and Club Executive classes
Seat reservation
Included in Prima and Club Executive. Optional extra cost in Smart and Comfort
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility
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.
- Recommended
MAMbo - Museo d'Arte Moderna di Bologna
Bologna’s leading modern and contemporary art museum, with strong permanent collections and rotating exhibitions in a large converted industrial space.
- Recommended
Museo Civico Archeologico
A major archaeological museum with Etruscan, Egyptian, Greek and Roman collections, housed in a historic palace near Piazza Maggiore.
- Must visit
Piazza Maggiore
Bologna’s main square and social heart, surrounded by major civic and religious buildings, ideal for first-time visitors and people-watching.
- Must visit
Portico di San Luca
The world-famous covered walkway leading toward the San Luca sanctuary, popular for scenic walks, photography and local tradition.
- Must visit
Piazza Santo Stefano
One of the city’s most elegant and photogenic squares, fronting the Santo Stefano complex and loved for its atmospheric character.
Tagliatelle Al Ragù
Fresh egg pasta ribbons served with Bologna’s traditional slow-cooked meat ragù. It is one of the city’s most iconic dishes and differs from the tomato-heavy versions found abroad.
Tortellini In Brodo
Small ring-shaped pasta filled with meat and served in rich capon or beef broth. This is a classic Bolognese comfort dish, especially tied to festive family meals.
Lasagne Alla Bolognese
Layered baked pasta with ragù, béchamel, and Parmigiano Reggiano, often made with green spinach pasta sheets. It is a signature Emilia-Romagna Sunday dish.
Trattoria Di Via Serra
Highly regarded neighborhood trattoria known for careful ingredient sourcing and excellent handmade pasta, with a cozy and authentic feel.
Drogheria Della Rosa
Well-known romantic restaurant serving refined Emilian and Bolognese cuisine in an intimate former pharmacy space with polished service.
Osteria Dell'Orsa
Very popular traditional osteria known for classic Bolognese pasta dishes in a lively, casual setting close to the university area.
Euro
Moderate by Italian standards: food and coffee are reasonable, while central hotels cost more in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for pizza, panini, or street food.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person for a casual restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.30-2.50 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 are usually rounded up.
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
- Single urban tickets on TPER are time-limited and can be bought in the Roger app, at ticket machines, or authorized retailers. Validate paper tickets when boarding.
- On many Bologna buses, contactless card payment is available onboard. Use the same card consistently if fare capping or checks apply.
FAQs: Trains from Messina to Bologna
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Messina 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 Messina to Bologna can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $50 (€41), while the average price is around $116 (€95).
The train from Messina to Bologna takes 11h 18m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Messina to Bologna leaves at 12:01 AM.
The distance by train from Messina to Bologna is 487 miles (784 km).
The last train from Messina to Bologna leaves at 11:39 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Messina to Bologna.
Yes, there is a direct train from Messina to Bologna. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Intercity Notte, Intercity.
Yes, there is a night train from Messina to Bologna.
The train station in Messina that goes to Bologna is Messina Centrale, which connects to Bologna Centrale.
The cheapest way to get from Messina to Bologna is by flight, with a cost of around $31 (€25).
The train journey from Messina to Bologna offers scenic views, particularly as it travels along the coastline of Sicily and through the picturesque landscapes of Calabria and Campania, showcasing both coastal and inland Italian scenery.
A day trip from Messina to Bologna is not feasible as the journey takes 11h 18m and the distance is 487 miles (784 km). However, there are 6 trains per day between these cities.
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 Messina to Bologna.
Since both Messina 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 Messina 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.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Italy Pass and Interrail Italy Pass are valid on most trains operated by Trenitalia and Italo within Italy, including regional, intercity, and high-speed trains, though some restrictions and seat reservation fees may apply.
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 Messina to Bologna
Messina
Bologna
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information 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
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
4 km
Number of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available near the station with several spaces for short-term and long-term parking
Dining
- Ristorante Il Patio
- Trattoria Bonora
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms
WC
- €1
Hotel
- Flyon Hotel
- Hotel Bologna Airport
- Hotel Del Borgo
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and platforms
- Hall 2: waiting area and restrooms
Public transit options for Bologna Borgo Panigale
- Bus: Several lines available connecting to Bologna city center
- Taxi services available
Bologna, Aeroporto
information
Most popular train connections from Messina
More options for your journey from Messina to Bologna
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bologna and Messina
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