- Must visit
Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna
The city’s main fine-art museum, known for major works from the Bolognese school including Giotto, Raphael, Guido Reni, and the Carracci. A strong choice for understanding Bologna’s artistic heritage.
Cheapest price
$223
Average price
$225
Fastest journey
8 h 24 m
Average duration
9 h 24 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
838 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Paris to Bologna Centrale is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Paris to Bologna Centrale will cost around $225 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $223.
It's difficult to get from Paris to Bologna Centrale without transferring at least once.
FRECCIAROSSA 1000 9281+
9947
FRECCIAROSSA 1000 9281+
9951
FRECCIAROSSA 1000 9281+
6143
FRECCIAROSSA 1000 9281+
6143
FRECCIAROSSA 1000 9281+
9947
FRECCIAROSSA 1000 9281+
9951Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Paris to Bologna Centrale among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $67. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $67, and a flight costs an average of $31.
Distance: 520 miles (838 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$180 Average price | $108 Average price Cheapest | $187 Average price | $424 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 49m Average total duration 8h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 3m Average total duration 13h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 18m Average total duration Fastest 2h 18m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 10h 45m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() 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 |
This is compared to other travel options from Paris to Bologna Centrale:
A bus is $72 (€58) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Paris to Bologna Centrale costing on average $180 (€145).
A bus is $78 (€63) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Paris to Bologna Centrale costing on average $187 (€150).
Other travel options to Bologna Centrale take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 19m.
Bus takes on average 13h 33m.
The journey is about 2h 26m faster (8h 19m by train vs 10h 45m by car) and roughly $245 (€197) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($180 (€145) vs $424 (€342)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
The table below shows live departures for Paris to Bologna Centrale trains for tomorrow, Sunday, May 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FRECCIAROSSA 1000 9281+ 9947 | 7:30 AM Paris Gare de Lyon | 9h24 | 4:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
FRECCIAROSSA 1000 9281+ 6143 | 7:30 AM Paris Gare de Lyon | 8h24 | 3:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
FRECCIAROSSA 1000 9281+ 9951 | 7:30 AM Paris Gare de Lyon | 10h24 | 5:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Paris to Bologna Centrale run on average 1 times per day, taking around 8h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $162 (€130) but you can travel from only $31 (€25) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 05:28, the last at 06:30. The fastest train covers the 520 miles (838 km) distance in 8h 4m.
Distance 520 miles (838 km) |
Average train duration 8h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $162 (€130) |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 8h 4m |
First train 5:28 AM |
Last train 6:30 AM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Discover the best of Bologna Centrale — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bologna Centrale trip today.
The city’s main fine-art museum, known for major works from the Bolognese school including Giotto, Raphael, Guido Reni, and the Carracci. A strong choice for understanding Bologna’s artistic heritage.
Bologna’s leading modern and contemporary art museum, featuring rotating exhibitions and works tied to postwar Italian art. Popular with visitors seeking a more contemporary cultural stop.
A respected archaeology museum with Egyptian, Etruscan, Greek, Roman, and local collections. Its central location near Piazza Maggiore makes it an easy and rewarding visit.
Bologna’s principal square and the heart of the historic center, surrounded by major civic and religious buildings. It is the essential starting point for most visits.
A historic central district of narrow streets known for its lively atmosphere and traditional urban character. It is highly popular for wandering and experiencing old Bologna.
The famous portico route leading toward the Sanctuary of San Luca is one of Bologna’s defining urban experiences. It is ideal for a scenic walk and very popular for photos.
Bologna’s iconic fresh egg pasta served with a slow-cooked meat ragù. It is one of the city’s most famous traditional dishes.
Small ring-shaped pasta filled with pork, mortadella, and Parmigiano Reggiano, traditionally served in rich capon or beef broth.
Green spinach pasta layered with ragù, béchamel, and Parmigiano Reggiano. A classic Sunday and festive dish in Bologna.
Well-regarded modern trattoria serving carefully prepared Emilian classics with high-quality ingredients in a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere.
Popular pasta spot known for handmade stuffed pasta and traditional Bolognese recipes in an informal, central setting.
Historic trattoria celebrated for classic Bolognese dishes such as tortellini, tagliatelle al ragù, and lasagne in a traditional setting.
Moderate for Italy: food and coffee are reasonable, while hotels near the station can cost more.
Service is often included or covered by a coperto charge. Tipping is not obligatory; round up or leave EUR 1-2 at cafes, 5-10% for very good restaurant service, and round up taxis.
Official public transport app
Bologna Centrale, Bologna -> Piazza Maggiore, Bologna
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Paris to Bologna Centrale 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 Centrale, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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