- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Bologna
Showing times and prices for Jul 18
Cheapest price
$103
Average price
$161
Fastest journey
4 h 51 m
Average duration
4 h 51 m
Trains per day
46
Distance
385 km
Cheap tickets
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 $161 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $103.
Fast trains
Of the 46 trains that leave Zurich for Bologna on Sat, Jul 18, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jul 18 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 Sat, Jul 18 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 27+
Regionale Veloce 3045 · Regionale Veloce TTPER 24856:33 PM6h00Zurich HB12:33 AMBologna Centrale$1031One-way2 transfers- EuroCity 21+
Intercity 5991:33 PM6h29Zurich HB8:02 PMBologna Centrale$1161One-way1 transfer - EuroCity 21+
99631:33 PM8h21Zurich HB9:54 PMBologna Centrale$1241One-way1 transfer - EuroCity 21+99591:33 PM6h21Zurich HB7:54 PMBologna Centrale$1311One-way1 transfer
- EuroCity 372:33 PM5h55Zurich HB8:28 PMBologna Centrale$1331One-way0 transfers
- EuroCity 301+
FRECCIAROSSA 95358:33 AM4h51Zurich HB1:24 PMBologna Centrale$2721One-way1 transfer - EuroCity 37+FRECCIAROSSA 95592:33 PM4h51Zurich HB7:24 PMBologna Centrale$1481One-way1 transfer
- EuroCity 21+FRECCIAROSSA 95551:33 PM4h51Zurich HB6:24 PMBologna Centrale$1371One-way1 transfer
- EuroCity 15+FRECCIAROSSA 95399:33 AM4h51Zurich HB2:24 PMBologna Centrale$1801One-way1 transfer
- EuroCity 151+FRECCIAROSSA 955112:33 PM4h51Zurich HB5:24 PMBologna Centrale$1691One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich to Bologna
Omio 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 prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 53m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $24, and a flight costs an average of $138.
Distance: 239 miles (385 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$141 Average price | $48 Average price Cheapest | $335 Average price | $190 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 0m Average total duration 5h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 43m Average total duration 8h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 53m Average total duration Fastest 1h 53m Onboard + 3h 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Zurich to Bologna is a bus with an average price of $48 (€39).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Bologna:
A bus is $94 (€77) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Bologna costing on average $141 (€116).
A bus is $287 (€235) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Bologna costing on average $335 (€274).
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Bologna is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 53m.
Other travel options to Bologna take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 30m.
Bus takes on average 8h 13m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Bologna including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Bologna among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 6m faster (5h 30m by train vs 5h 36m by car) and roughly $49 (€40) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($141 (€116) vs $190 (€156)). 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 Trenitalia.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Zurich to Bologna train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Bologna trains for today, Friday, July 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FRECCIAROSSA 9527+EuroCity 11 | 6:33 AM Zurich HB | 4h51 | 11:24 AM 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 11+9931 | 6:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h21 | 12:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 13+Intercity 609 | 7:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h23 | 1:56 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 13+9939 | 7:33 AM Zurich HB | 7h21 | 2:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 13+9935 | 7:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h21 | 1:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 13+9931 | 7:33 AM Zurich HB | 5h21 | 12:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| FRECCIAROSSA 9539+EuroCity 15 | 9:33 AM Zurich HB | 4h51 | 2:24 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 153 | 10:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h30 | 5:03 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FRECCIAROSSA 9321+EuroCity 153 | 10:33 AM Zurich HB | 5h36 | 4:09 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 19+9951 | 11:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h21 | 5:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 19+Regionale Veloce TTPER 2471 | 11:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h37 | 6:10 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| FRECCIAROSSA 9547+EuroCity 19 | 11:33 AM Zurich HB | 4h51 | 4:24 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 19+9993 | 11:33 AM Zurich HB | 7h16 | 6:49 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 19+9947 | 11:33 AM Zurich HB | 5h21 | 4:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| FRECCIAROSSA 9555+EuroCity 21 | 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 21+9997 | 1:33 PM Zurich HB | 6h16 | 7:49 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 21+Intercity 599 | 1:33 PM Zurich HB | 6h29 | 8:02 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 21+9993 | 1:33 PM Zurich HB | 5h16 | 6:49 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 37 | 2:33 PM Zurich HB | 5h55 | 8:28 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FRECCIAROSSA 9559+EuroCity 37 | 2:33 PM Zurich HB | 4h51 | 7:24 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| FRECCIAROSSA 9563+EuroCity 123 | 3:33 PM Zurich HB | 4h51 | 8:24 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 123+Regionale Veloce TTPER 2479 | 3:33 PM Zurich HB | 6h37 | 10:10 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 123+9963 | 3:33 PM Zurich HB | 6h21 | 9:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 123+9961 | 3:33 PM Zurich HB | 5h21 | 8:54 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| FRECCIAROSSA 9573+EuroCity 25 | 5:33 PM Zurich HB | 5h01 | 10:34 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 | |
| FRECCIAROSSA 9561+EuroCity 27 | 6:33 PM Zurich HB | 6h04 | 12:37 AM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Bologna by train, bus, or flight
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Why should you book Zurich to Bologna trains with Omio?
Trenitalia as well as Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) offer trains services from Zurich to Bologna.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Bologna.
Why book with Omio vs Trenitalia?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Trenitalia, but also compare tickets for the likes of Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) to find the best option for your trip from Zurich 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 Trenitalia with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zurich to Bologna.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Zurich to Bologna.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Zurich to Bologna?
The best time to book your train from Zurich to Bologna is 56 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Zurich to Bologna route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Zurich to Bologna per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Zurich to Bologna.
Trains
from $82Buses
from $46Flights
from $198Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Bologna
Switzerland
Italy
Trains from Zurich to Bologna run on average 18 times per day, taking around 5h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $79 (€65) but you can travel from only $24 (€20) 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 4h 51m.
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 $24 (€20)
Distance 239 miles (385 km) |
Average train duration 5h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $79 (€65) |
Trains per day 18 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 4h 51m |
First train 12:20 AM |
Last train 8:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 77 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 $24 (€20)
Train companies: Trenitalia, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Zurich to Bologna trainsTrenitalia, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Zurich and Bologna from $24 (€20). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Trenitalia
About
Trenitalia is not only Italy's national railroad company but also the country's largest train operator. Trenitalia’s fleet of trains ncludes the high-speed Frecciarossa, Frecciargento and Frecciabianca trains as well as intercity, regional and night trains. Bathrooms and WiFi access are standard on long-distance routes. In most cases, the trains also provide barrier-free access. Trenitalia offers different tickets, which vary in price and flexibility: Base, Economy, Super Economy and Ordinaria. You can even use Trenitalia discount cards on Omio. Make sure to look out for the latest offers from Trenitalia on Omio to score special deals!
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 55m
Cheapest Price
$79 (€65)
Trenitalia frequency
18 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per passenger included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, and spaces between seat backs
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car on high-speed trains, trolley service with snacks and beverages, vending machines on some trains
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation, costs extra except on high-speed trains where it's mandatory and included
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 49m
Cheapest Price
$244 (€200)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
10 a day
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
Museo Civico Archeologico
Archaeological museum with rich Egyptian, Etruscan, Greek, and Roman collections in a central historic palace.
- Recommended
Museo Civico Medievale
Museum of Bologna's urban history using objects, rooms, and multimedia to trace the city from antiquity to today.
- Must visit
Piazza Maggiore
Bologna's main square, surrounded by landmark buildings and always lively, ideal for architecture, people-watching, and orientation.
- Must visit
Quadrilatero
Historic market quarter with narrow lanes, medieval character, and vibrant street life just behind Piazza Maggiore.
- Must visit
Portico di San Luca
Long portico route climbing toward San Luca, UNESCO-listed and perfect for a memorable urban walk with changing views.
Tagliatelle Al Ragù
Handmade egg pasta ribbons traditionally served with slow-cooked ragù. A defining Bolognese dish protected by local culinary tradition.
Tortellini In Brodo
Small ring-shaped stuffed pasta, usually filled with pork and Parmigiano Reggiano, served in rich capon or beef broth. A classic festive dish.
Lasagne Verdi Alla Bolognese
Green spinach pasta layered with ragù, béchamel, and Parmigiano. Bologna's traditional baked lasagna is richer and more refined than many versions abroad.
I Portici Restaurant
Elegant Michelin-starred restaurant serving refined Emilian cuisine in a polished, intimate space within central Bologna.
Salumeria Simoni
Traditional deli and wine bar famed for mortadella, cheeses, fresh pasta, and informal counter dining in the Quadrilatero market area.
Trattoria Da Me
Historic trattoria known for classic Bolognese pasta, cured meats, and traditional dining rooms with a warm, old-city atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Italy: stays and dining are cheaper than Rome or Milan, while transit is affordable and tourist-center prices stay manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.50-3 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
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.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Bologna
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.
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Bologna can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $79 (€65), while the average price is around $141 (€116).
The train from Zurich to Bologna takes 4h 51m and runs 18 per day.
The distance by train from Zurich to Bologna is 239 miles (385 km).
The first train from Zurich to Bologna leaves at 12:20 AM.
The last train from Zurich to Bologna leaves at 8:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Zurich to Bologna.
Yes, there is a direct train from Zurich to Bologna. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Trenitalia.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Bologna.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Bologna is Zurich HB, which connects to Bologna Centrale.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Bologna is by bus, with a cost of around $24 (€20).
The train journey from Zurich to Bologna is scenic, offering views of the Swiss Alps, picturesque lakes, and charming Swiss and Italian countryside landscapes.
A day trip from Zurich to Bologna is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 51m. The distance is 239 miles (385 km), with 17 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 Zurich to Bologna.
Since both Zurich 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 Zurich 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.
More options for your journey from Zurich to Bologna
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bologna and Zurich
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