- 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 on Sep 01
$138
Average ticket price on Sep 01
$165
Fastest journey on Sep 01
4 h 51 m
Average journey duration on Sep 01
4 h 51 m
Trains on Sep 01
45
Distance
385 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Bologna is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Bologna will cost around $165 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $138.
On Tue, Sep 01, we found 45 trains from Zurich to Bologna, including 2 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 01 the direct trains cover the 385 km distance in an average of 4 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 51 m .
On Tue, Sep 01 the slowest trains will take 4 h 51 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.
EuroCity 19+
Regionale Veloce TTPER 2471
EuroCity 27+
Regionale Veloce 3045 · Regionale Veloce TTPER 2485
EuroCity 151+
Regionale TTPER 2473 · Regionale TTPER 17419
EuroCity 23+
Regionale Veloce TTPER 2479
EuroCity 31+
Regionale TTPER 2465 · Regionale TTPER 17415
EuroCity 37+
FRECCIAROSSA 9559
EuroCity 31+
FRECCIAROSSA 9535
EuroCity 11+
FRECCIAROSSA 9527
EuroCity 151+
FRECCIAROSSA 9551
EuroCity 19+
FRECCIAROSSA 9547Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Bologna among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $56 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 44m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $56, while a flight costs an average of $275.
Distance: 239 miles (385 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$120 Average price | $56 Average price Cheapest | $275 Average price | $193 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 27m Average total duration 5h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 33m Average total duration 8h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 44m Average total duration Fastest 1h 44m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 5h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | 1.2 - 2.3kg 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Bologna:
A bus is $64 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Bologna costing on average $120.
A bus is $219 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Bologna costing on average $275.
Other travel options to Bologna take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 57m.
Bus takes on average 8h 3m.
Tickets start at around $120 compared to roughly $193 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $73. The journey takes 5h 57m versus 5h 36m 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 Trenitalia.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Bologna trains for today, Monday, August 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
EuroCity 153 | 10:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h30 | 5:03 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
EuroCity 153+ FRECCIAROSSA 9321 | 10:33 AM Zurich HB | 5h36 | 4:09 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 19+ Intercity 613 | 11:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h21 | 5:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 19+ 9955 | 11:33 AM Zurich HB | 7h21 | 6:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 19+ 9947 | 11:33 AM Zurich HB | 5h21 | 4:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 19+ 9951 | 11:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h21 | 5:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 19+ FRECCIAROSSA 9547 | 11:33 AM Zurich HB | 4h51 | 4:24 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 151+ Regionale TTPER 2473 · Regionale TTPER 17419 | 12:33 PM Zurich HB | 6h37 | 7:10 PM Bologna Centrale | 2 transfers | |
EuroCity 151+ 9959 | 12:33 PM Zurich HB | 7h21 | 7:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 151+ FRECCIAROSSA 9551 | 12:33 PM Zurich HB | 4h51 | 5:24 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 151+ 9951 | 12:33 PM Zurich HB | 5h21 | 5:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 151+ 9955 | 12:33 PM Zurich HB | 6h21 | 6:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 21+ Intercity 599 | 1:33 PM Zurich HB | 6h29 | 8:02 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 21+ 9959 | 1:33 PM Zurich HB | 6h21 | 7:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 21+ 9961 | 1:33 PM Zurich HB | 7h21 | 8:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 21+ FRECCIAROSSA 9555 | 1:33 PM Zurich HB | 4h51 | 6:24 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 21+ 9955 | 1:33 PM Zurich HB | 5h21 | 6:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 37 | 2:33 PM Zurich HB | 5h55 | 8:28 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
EuroCity 37+ FRECCIAROSSA 9559 | 2:33 PM Zurich HB | 4h51 | 7:24 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 23+ Regionale Veloce TTPER 2479 | 3:33 PM Zurich HB | 6h37 | 10:10 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 23+ 9963 | 3:33 PM Zurich HB | 6h21 | 9:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 23+ FRECCIAROSSA 9563 | 3:33 PM Zurich HB | 4h51 | 8:24 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 23+ 9961 | 3:33 PM Zurich HB | 5h21 | 8:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 25+ InterCityNotte 765 | 5:33 PM Zurich HB | 6h02 | 11:35 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 27+ Regionale Veloce 3045 · Regionale Veloce TTPER 2485 | 6:33 PM Zurich HB | 6h00 | 12:33 AM Bologna Centrale | 2 transfers | |
EuroCity 11+ FRECCIAROSSA 9527 | 6:33 AM Zurich HB | 4h51 | 11:24 AM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 11+ 9931 | 6:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h21 | 12:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 11+ 9927 | 6:33 AM Zurich HB | 5h21 | 11:54 AM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 11+ 9935 | 6:33 AM Zurich HB | 7h21 | 1:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 13+ 9939 | 7:33 AM Zurich HB | 7h21 | 2:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 13+ 9931 | 7:33 AM Zurich HB | 5h21 | 12:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 13+ FRECCIAROSSA 9587 | 7:33 AM Zurich HB | 4h51 | 12:24 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 13+ Intercity 609 | 7:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h23 | 1:56 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 13+ 9935 | 7:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h21 | 1:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 31+ Intercity 611 | 8:33 AM Zurich HB | 7h04 | 3:37 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 31+ 9935 | 8:33 AM Zurich HB | 5h21 | 1:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 31+ Regionale TTPER 2465 · Regionale TTPER 17415 | 8:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h37 | 3:10 PM Bologna Centrale | 2 transfers | |
EuroCity 31+ FRECCIAROSSA 9535 | 8:33 AM Zurich HB | 4h51 | 1:24 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 31+ 9939 | 8:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h21 | 2:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 31+ 8143 | 8:33 AM Zurich HB | 7h21 | 3:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 15+ 9939 | 9:33 AM Zurich HB | 5h21 | 2:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 15+ 8143 | 9:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h21 | 3:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 15+ Regionale Veloce TTPER 2467 | 9:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h37 | 4:10 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 15+ FRECCIAROSSA 9539 | 9:33 AM Zurich HB | 4h51 | 2:24 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 15+ 9947 | 9:33 AM Zurich HB | 7h21 | 4:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
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 Zurich to Bologna run on average 19 times per day, taking around 5h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $62 but you can travel from only $27 by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 20:50. The fastest train covers the 239 miles (385 km) distance in 5h 55m.
Distance 239 miles (385 km) |
Average train duration 5h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $62 |
Trains per day 19 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 5h 55m |
First train 12:20 AM |
Last train 8:50 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 21 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 Zurich 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 Zurich to Bologna trains use the Zürich HB to Bologna Centrale station pair, with some services arriving at Bologna S. Vitale. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Bologna train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Zürich HB is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
Zürich HB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Restaurant Au Premier, Brasserie Federal
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Zürich HB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Zürich HB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Zürich HB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Zürich HB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich HB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich, Hotel St. Gotthard, Central Plaza Hotel.
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 S. Vitale is 2 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
Bologna S. Vitale has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Bologna S. Vitale.
ATMs are available at Bologna S. Vitale.
Available at Bologna S. Vitale: Parking, WC.
Available at Bologna S. Vitale: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna S. Vitale: Elevators, ramps.
Bologna Mazzini is 3 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
Bologna Mazzini has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food options include: CA.FÉ MAZZINI, Gelateria Mazzini
Ticket office support is available at Bologna Mazzini.
Available at Bologna Mazzini: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bologna Mazzini: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna Mazzini: Ramps.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Camplus Mazzini, Hotel Blumen, Hotel Sant'Orsola City House.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need