- 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.
Cheapest price
€8
Average price
€8
Fastest journey
45 m
Average duration
54 m
Trains per day
7
Distance
71 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Prato to Bologna is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Prato to Bologna will cost around €8 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €8.
Of the 7 trains that leave Prato for Bologna on Thu, Aug 06, 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Aug 06 the direct trains cover the 71 km distance in an average of 54 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 45 m .
On Thu, Aug 06 the slowest trains will take 56 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.










Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Prato to Bologna among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €5. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 3m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €5, and a train costs an average of €8.
Distance: 44 miles (71 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€8 Average price | €8 Average price Cheapest | €25 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 33m Average total duration Fastest 1h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 0m Average total duration 1h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 16m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Prato to Bologna:
A bus is €0.02 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Prato to Bologna costing on average €8.
Other travel options to Bologna take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 30m.
The journey is about 13m faster (1h 3m by train vs 1h 16m by car) and roughly €17 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (€8 vs €25). 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.
Direct services run with Regionale, Intercity.
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 Prato to Bologna trains for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Regionale 17804 | 6:15 AM Prato Centrale | 0h56 | 7:11 AM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17804 | 6:15 AM Prato Centrale | 1h14 | 7:29 AM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17806 | 6:45 AM Prato Centrale | 0h54 | 7:39 AM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17806 | 6:45 AM Prato Centrale | 1h10 | 7:55 AM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17808 | 7:32 AM Prato Centrale | 0h53 | 8:25 AM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17810 | 7:43 AM Prato Centrale | 0h56 | 8:39 AM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17810 | 7:43 AM Prato Centrale | 1h12 | 8:55 AM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 34083+ FRECCIAROSSA 9404 | 7:45 AM Prato Centrale | 1h13 | 8:58 AM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Regionale 34085+ FRECCIAROSSA 9512 | 8:07 AM Prato Centrale | 1h26 | 9:33 AM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Intercity 580 | 8:33 AM Prato Centrale | 1h05 | 9:38 AM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale TTPER 17814 | 8:43 AM Prato Centrale | 0h56 | 9:39 AM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale TTPER 17814 | 8:43 AM Prato Centrale | 1h12 | 9:55 AM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 34089+ FRECCIAROSSA 9516 | 9:01 AM Prato Centrale | 1h32 | 10:33 AM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Regionale 34091+ FRECCIAROSSA 9490 | 9:30 AM Prato Centrale | 1h28 | 10:58 AM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Regionale 18665+ FRECCIAROSSA 8506 | 9:42 AM Prato Centrale | 1h31 | 11:13 AM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Regionale 18665+ FRECCIAROSSA 8506+ Intercity 583 | 9:45 AM Prato Centrale | 1h28 | 11:13 AM Bologna Centrale | 2 transfers | |
Regionale 18467+ FRECCIAROSSA 9520 | 10:01 AM Prato Centrale | 1h32 | 11:33 AM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Regionale 17820 | 10:43 AM Prato Centrale | 1h12 | 11:55 AM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17820 | 10:43 AM Prato Centrale | 0h56 | 11:39 AM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 34095+ FRECCIAROSSA 9524 | 11:01 AM Prato Centrale | 1h32 | 12:33 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Regionale 17822 | 11:43 AM Prato Centrale | 1h12 | 12:55 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17822 | 11:43 AM Prato Centrale | 0h56 | 12:39 PM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 18220+ FRECCIAROSSA 8418+ Intercity 584 | 12:12 PM Prato Centrale | 1h46 | 1:58 PM Bologna Centrale | 2 transfers | |
Regionale 18673+ FRECCIAROSSA 9532 | 12:42 PM Prato Centrale | 1h51 | 2:33 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Regionale 17828 | 1:43 PM Prato Centrale | 0h56 | 2:39 PM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17828 | 1:43 PM Prato Centrale | 1h12 | 2:55 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Intercity 588 | 1:52 PM Prato Centrale | 0h55 | 2:47 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17830 | 2:13 PM Prato Centrale | 1h12 | 3:25 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17830 | 2:13 PM Prato Centrale | 0h56 | 3:09 PM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale TTPER 17850 | 2:43 PM Prato Centrale | 0h56 | 3:39 PM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale TTPER 17850 | 2:43 PM Prato Centrale | 1h12 | 3:55 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 34105+ FRECCIAROSSA 9540 | 3:01 PM Prato Centrale | 1h32 | 4:33 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Regionale 17834 | 3:40 PM Prato Centrale | 0h59 | 4:39 PM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17834 | 3:40 PM Prato Centrale | 1h15 | 4:55 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 18681+ FRECCIAROSSA 8520 | 3:42 PM Prato Centrale | 1h31 | 5:13 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Regionale 18475+ FRECCIAROSSA 9544 | 4:01 PM Prato Centrale | 1h32 | 5:33 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Regionale 17836 | 4:43 PM Prato Centrale | 0h56 | 5:39 PM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17836 | 4:43 PM Prato Centrale | 1h12 | 5:55 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Intercity 590 | 4:53 PM Prato Centrale | 1h10 | 6:03 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 34111+ FRECCIAROSSA 9588 | 5:01 PM Prato Centrale | 1h32 | 6:33 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Regionale 18849 · Regionale Veloce 4044+ FRECCIAROSSA 9588 | 5:04 PM Prato Centrale | 1h29 | 6:33 PM Bologna Centrale | 2 transfers | |
Regionale 17838 | 5:43 PM Prato Centrale | 1h12 | 6:55 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17838 | 5:43 PM Prato Centrale | 0h56 | 6:39 PM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 34115+ FRECCIAROSSA 9552 | 6:01 PM Prato Centrale | 1h32 | 7:33 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Intercity 592 | 7:01 PM Prato Centrale | 0h55 | 7:56 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17842 | 7:13 PM Prato Centrale | 1h12 | 8:25 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17842 | 7:13 PM Prato Centrale | 0h56 | 8:09 PM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Intercity 596 | 7:52 PM Prato Centrale | 0h50 | 8:42 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17844 | 8:13 PM Prato Centrale | 0h56 | 9:09 PM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17844 | 8:13 PM Prato Centrale | 1h07 | 9:20 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 18531+ FRECCIAROSSA 9328 | 8:30 PM Prato Centrale | 1h18 | 9:48 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Regionale TTPER 17856 | 9:13 PM Prato Centrale | 1h12 | 10:25 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale TTPER 17856 | 9:13 PM Prato Centrale | 0h56 | 10:09 PM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17852 | 10:49 PM Prato Centrale | 1h01 | 11:50 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17852 | 10:49 PM Prato Centrale | 0h45 | 11:34 PM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train and bus 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 Prato to Bologna run on average 39 times per day, taking around 1h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €8 but you can travel from only €5 by bus.
There are 18 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:20, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 44 miles (71 km) distance in 45m.
Distance 44 miles (71 km) |
Average train duration 1h 3m |
Cheapest ticket price €8 |
Trains per day 39 |
Direct trains 18 |
Fastest train 45m |
First train 1:20 AM |
Last train 11:44 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 35 days |
Discover the best of Bologna — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bologna trip today.
Leading city museum with major Italian paintings from the Middle Ages to modern times, essential for understanding Bologna's art history.
Archaeological museum with rich Egyptian, Etruscan, Greek, and Roman collections in a central historic palace.
Museum of Bologna's urban history using objects, rooms, and multimedia to trace the city from antiquity to today.
Bologna's main square, surrounded by landmark buildings and always lively, ideal for architecture, people-watching, and orientation.
Historic market quarter with narrow lanes, medieval character, and vibrant street life just behind Piazza Maggiore.
Long portico route climbing toward San Luca, UNESCO-listed and perfect for a memorable urban walk with changing views.
Handmade egg pasta ribbons traditionally served with slow-cooked ragù. A defining Bolognese dish protected by local culinary tradition.
Small ring-shaped stuffed pasta, usually filled with pork and Parmigiano Reggiano, served in rich capon or beef broth. A classic festive dish.
Green spinach pasta layered with ragù, béchamel, and Parmigiano. Bologna's traditional baked lasagna is richer and more refined than many versions abroad.
Elegant Michelin-starred restaurant serving refined Emilian cuisine in a polished, intimate space within central Bologna.
Traditional deli and wine bar famed for mortadella, cheeses, fresh pasta, and informal counter dining in the Quadrilatero market area.
Historic trattoria known for classic Bolognese pasta, cured meats, and traditional dining rooms with a warm, old-city atmosphere.
Moderate for Italy: stays and dining are cheaper than Rome or Milan, while transit is affordable and tourist-center prices stay manageable.
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.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Prato 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.

Most Prato to Bologna trains use the Prato Centrale to Bologna Centrale station pair, with some services arriving at Bologna San Ruffillo. Use this guide to compare Prato and Bologna train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Prato Centrale is 1 km from Prato city centre. Public transport options include:
Prato Centrale has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Ristorante Il Mercato, Osteria Su Santa Trinita
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Prato Centrale. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Prato Centrale. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Prato Centrale: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Prato Centrale: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Prato Centrale: Ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel President, Art Hotel Museo, Wall Art Hotel.
Prato Porta Al Serraglio has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food options include: Ristorante Il Mercato, Osteria Su Santa Trinita
Ticket office support is available at Prato Porta Al Serraglio.
Available at Prato Porta Al Serraglio: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Prato Porta Al Serraglio: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Prato Porta Al Serraglio: Ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel San Marco, Hotel Flora, Hotel Giardino.
Prato Borgonuovo is 1 km from Prato city centre. Public transport options include:
Prato Borgonuovo has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Prato Borgonuovo.
Available at Prato Borgonuovo: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Prato Borgonuovo: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Prato Borgonuovo: Elevators, ramps.
Bologna Centrale is 1 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
Bologna Centrale has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Burger King, A Cafè, VyTA Boulangerie, Venchi, Scambio, Juice Bar, KFC, Dispensa Emilia, Lavazza, Mokà, & more
Free Wi-Fi. . ATMs are aTM is located in the main hall.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 21:00. Information desks are customer service center is on the ground floor and open every day from 06:30 to 23:00.
Luggage storage is luggage facility, open daily from 07:00 to 22:00, is located in front of binario 7 Ovest (Track 7 West).
Available at Bologna Centrale: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bologna Centrale: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna Centrale: 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.
Nearby hotels include Starhotels Excelsior, Millenn Hotel Bologna, UNA Hotels.
Bologna San Ruffillo is 4 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
Bologna San Ruffillo has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Bologna San Ruffillo.
Available at Bologna San Ruffillo: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bologna San Ruffillo: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna San Ruffillo: Ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include San Ruffillo House, Hotel Il Guercino, Hotel Porta San Mamolo.
Bologna, Aeroporto is 5 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
Bologna, Aeroporto has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Multiple options on site
Free wifi throughout the station. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Bologna, Aeroporto.
Available at Bologna, Aeroporto: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna, Aeroporto: Fully accessible for disabled individuals.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need