- Must visit
Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna
Major art museum with 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 Vatican to Bologna
Showing times and prices for Jun 02
Cheapest price
$44
Average price
$45
Fastest journey
7 h 8 m
Average duration
7 h 14 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
302 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Vatican to Bologna is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Vatican to Bologna will cost around $45 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $44.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Vatican for Bologna on Tue, Jun 02, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 02 the direct trains cover the 302 km distance in an average of 7 h 14 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 8 m .
On Tue, Jun 02 the slowest trains will take 7 h 20 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.
3:30 PM7h20Vatican10:50 PMBologna$441One-way0 transfers- 2:26 PM7h08Vatican9:34 PMBologna$451One-way0 transfers
- 2:26 PM7h08Vatican9:34 PMBologna$451One-way0 transfers
- 3:30 PM7h20Vatican10:50 PMBologna$441One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Vatican to Bologna
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Vatican to Bologna among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $14. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 3m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $14, and a flight costs an average of $87.
Distance: 187 miles (302 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$42 Average price | $20 Average price Cheapest | $184 Average price | $76 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 58m Average total duration 2h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 10m Average total duration 4h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 3m Average total duration Fastest 1h 3m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 4m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Vatican to Bologna is a bus with an average price of $20 (€16).
This is compared to other travel options from Vatican to Bologna:
A bus is $21 (€17) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Vatican to Bologna costing on average $42 (€34).
A bus is $163 (€131) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Vatican to Bologna costing on average $184 (€148).
The fastest way to travel from Vatican to Bologna is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 3m.
Other travel options to Bologna take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 28m.
Bus takes on average 4h 40m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Vatican and Bologna including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Vatican to Bologna among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 2h 36m faster (2h 28m by train vs 5h 4m by car) and roughly $35 (€28) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($42 (€34) vs $76 (€62)). 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 Italo, Frecciarossa.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Vatican to Bologna train times
The table below shows live departures for Vatican to Bologna trains for today, Monday, June 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:30 PM Vatican | 7h20 | 10:50 PM Bologna | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Vatican 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.
Tue
Jun 02
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Why should you book Vatican to Bologna trains with Omio?
Italo as well as Frecciarossa offer trains services from Vatican to Bologna.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Italo tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Italo?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Italo, but also compare tickets for the likes of Frecciarossa to find the best option for your trip from Vatican 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 Italo with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Vatican to Bologna.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Vatican to Bologna
Vatican City State
Italy
Trains from Vatican to Bologna run on average 138 times per day, taking around 2h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $27 (€22) but you can travel from only $14 (€11) by bus.
There are 38 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 187 miles (302 km) distance in 2h 8m.
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 $14 (€11)
Distance 187 miles (302 km) |
Average train duration 2h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price $27 (€22) |
Trains per day 138 |
Direct trains 38 |
Fastest train 2h 8m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:44 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 49 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 $14 (€11)
Train companies: Italo, Frecciarossa from Vatican to Bologna trainsItalo, Frecciarossa trains will get you between Vatican and Bologna from $14 (€11). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
2h 8m
Cheapest Price
$34 (€27)
Italo frequency
38 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
Frecciarossa
About
Step on board a Frecciarossa train and relax as you travel across Italy. Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa high-speed trains make around 200 connections across the country each day and are renowned for their comfort, speed, and reduced environmental impact. Reaching speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h), they connect major destinations such as Rome, Florence, Milan, Venice, and Naples quickly and efficiently. When booking your Frecciarossa journey, you can choose between four classes: Standard, Premium, Business, and Executive. While each class offers different levels of comfort, all provide free Wi-Fi access, power outlets, air conditioning, bathrooms, luggage storage, onboard entertainment, and restaurant and bar services. Ticket options include Super Economy, Economy, and Base, making it easy to find the right balance of comfort and price for your trip.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 3m
Cheapest Price
$89 (€72)
Frecciarossa frequency
85 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag and 1 suitcase per passenger
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at carriage ends, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals, bar service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in Executive class
Seat reservation
Included in Executive class, optional fee for other classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, service animals 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, 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 central building.
- Must visit
Piazza Maggiore
Bologna’s main square and social heart, surrounded by major historic buildings and lively throughout the day.
- Must visit
Portico di San Luca
Famous covered walkway climbing toward San Luca, ideal for a scenic walk and one of Bologna’s defining urban features.
- Recommended
Quadrilatero
Historic central district of narrow lanes near Piazza Maggiore, valued for atmosphere, porticoes, and classic Bologna street life.
Tagliatelle Al Ragù
Fresh egg tagliatelle served with Bologna’s classic slow-cooked meat ragù. It is one of the city’s signature dishes and more traditional than spaghetti bolognese.
Tortellini In Brodo
Small ring-shaped pasta filled with meat and served in rich capon or beef broth. A deeply traditional Bolognese dish, especially associated with festive meals.
Lasagne Verdi Alla Bolognese
Layered pasta made with green spinach sheets, ragù, béchamel, and Parmigiano Reggiano. It is a classic Sunday and holiday dish in Bologna.
Sfoglia Rina
Well-known pasta shop and eatery specializing in fresh stuffed pasta, tagliatelle, and quick traditional lunches in a central informal space.
I Portici
Elegant fine dining restaurant in a historic setting, known for refined Emilian cuisine and tasting menus with polished service.
Trattoria Anna Maria
Historic traditional trattoria known for handmade pasta, tortellini, and classic Bolognese dishes in a warm, old-school setting.
Euro
Moderate for Italy: food and coffee are reasonable, while central hotels cost more in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for pizza, panini, or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60-120+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.20-2.50 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included or covered by coperto. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great service is appreciated; small change for taxis is enough.
Roger
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.50 EUR
- Day pass
- 6.00 EUR
To the city center
Bologna Centrale, Bologna -> Piazza Maggiore, Bologna
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- You can buy and validate tickets in the Roger app or by tapping a contactless card on enabled buses; check that your bus supports contactless payment before boarding.
- Urban tickets are time-limited and valid for 75 min on TPER services, so validate or activate them before your first ride.
FAQs: Trains from Vatican to Bologna
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Vatican 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 Vatican to Bologna can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $27 (€22), while the average price is around $42 (€34).
The train from Vatican to Bologna takes 2h 8m and runs 138 per day.
The distance by train from Vatican to Bologna is 187 miles (302 km).
The first train from Vatican to Bologna leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Vatican to Bologna leaves at 11:44 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Vatican to Bologna.
Yes, there is a direct train from Vatican to Bologna. This service operates 38 times per day, provided by Italo, Frecciarossa.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Vatican to Bologna.
The train station in Vatican that goes to Bologna is Rome Termini, which connects to Bologna Centrale.
The cheapest way to get from Vatican to Bologna is by bus, with a cost of around $14 (€11).
The train journey from Vatican to Bologna offers a mix of urban and rural views, passing through picturesque Italian countryside, historic towns, and scenic landscapes, making it a visually pleasant experience.
A day trip from Vatican to Bologna is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 8m, covering a distance of 187 miles (302 km). There are 144 train trips available 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 Vatican to Bologna.
Since both Vatican 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 Vatican 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 Vatican to Bologna
Vatican
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
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
4 km
Number of platforms
2Parking
- Free parking available near the station
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- Free of charge
Hotel
- San Ruffillo House
- Hotel Il Guercino
- Hotel Porta San Mamolo
Station Plan
- The station has a simple layout with two platforms and a small waiting area.
Public transit options for Bologna San Ruffillo
- Bus: Several local bus lines available
Most popular train connections from Vatican
More options for your journey from Vatican to Bologna
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bologna and Vatican
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