Zurich to Bologna train with Trenitalia

Tue, Jun 02
+ Add return
Trenitalia
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Trenitalia
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Bologna

Showing times and prices for Jun 02

Cheapest price

$141

Average price

$171

Fastest journey

4 h 51 m

Average duration

4 h 51 m

Trains per day

22

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 $171 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $141.

Fast trains

Of the 22 trains that leave Zurich 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 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, Jun 02 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.

  • TrenitaliaEuroCity 27+RegionaleRegionale Veloce 3045 · Regionale Veloce TTPER 2485
    6:33 PM6h00
    Zurich HB
    12:33 AMBologna Centrale
    $1411One-way
    2 transfers
  • TrenitaliaEuroCity 23+RegionaleRegionale Veloce TTPER 2479
    3:33 PM6h37
    Zurich HB
    10:10 PMBologna Centrale
    $1411One-way
    1 transfer
  • TrenitaliaEuroCity 15+RegionaleRegionale Veloce TTPER 2467
    9:33 AM6h37
    Zurich HB
    4:10 PMBologna Centrale
    $1411One-way
    1 transfer
  • TrenitaliaEuroCity 31+RegionaleRegionale TTPER 2465 · Regionale TTPER 17415
    8:33 AM6h37
    Zurich HB
    3:10 PMBologna Centrale
    $1411One-way
    2 transfers
  • TrenitaliaEuroCity 153
    10:33 AM6h30
    Zurich HB
    5:03 PMBologna Centrale
    $1521One-way
    0 transfers

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 $25. 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 $25, and a flight costs an average of $140.

Distance: 239 miles (385 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$143

Average price

$48

Average price

Cheapest

$339

Average price

$193

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

Trenitalia

Most popular train company

Itabus

Most popular bus company

Helvetic Airways

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 $95 (€77) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Bologna costing on average $143 (€116).

A bus is $291 (€235) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Bologna costing on average $339 (€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 ($143 (€116) vs $193 (€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 tomorrow, Tuesday, June 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
TrenitaliaEuroCity 11+FrecciarossaFRECCIAROSSA 95276:33 AM Zurich HB
4h51
11:24 AM Bologna Centrale1 transfer
TrenitaliaEuroCity 13+FrecciarossaFRECCIAROSSA 95877:33 AM Zurich HB
4h51
12:24 PM Bologna Centrale1 transfer
TrenitaliaEuroCity 13+IntercityIntercity 6097:33 AM Zurich HB
6h23
1:56 PM Bologna Centrale1 transfer
TrenitaliaEuroCity 31+RegionaleRegionale TTPER 2465 · Regionale TTPER 174158:33 AM Zurich HB
6h37
3:10 PM Bologna Centrale2 transfers
TrenitaliaEuroCity 31+FrecciarossaFRECCIAROSSA 95358:33 AM Zurich HB
4h51
1:24 PM Bologna Centrale1 transfer
TrenitaliaEuroCity 31+RegionaleRegionale 160578:33 AM Zurich HB
6h51
3:24 PM Bologna Centrale1 transfer
TrenitaliaEuroCity 15+RegionaleRegionale Veloce TTPER 24679:33 AM Zurich HB
6h37
4:10 PM Bologna Centrale1 transfer
TrenitaliaEuroCity 15+FrecciarossaFRECCIAROSSA 95399:33 AM Zurich HB
4h51
2:24 PM Bologna Centrale1 transfer
TrenitaliaEuroCity 15310:33 AM Zurich HB
6h30
5:03 PM Bologna Centrale0 transfersDirect
TrenitaliaEuroCity 153+FrecciarossaFRECCIAROSSA 932110:33 AM Zurich HB
5h36
4:09 PM Bologna Centrale1 transfer
TrenitaliaEuroCity 19+IntercityIntercity 61311:33 AM Zurich HB
6h21
5:54 PM Bologna Centrale1 transfer
TrenitaliaEuroCity 19+FrecciarossaFRECCIAROSSA 954711:33 AM Zurich HB
4h51
4:24 PM Bologna Centrale1 transfer
TrenitaliaEuroCity 151+FrecciarossaFRECCIAROSSA 955112:33 PM Zurich HB
4h51
5:24 PM Bologna Centrale1 transfer
TrenitaliaEuroCity 21+IntercityIntercity 5991:33 PM Zurich HB
6h29
8:02 PM Bologna Centrale1 transfer
TrenitaliaEuroCity 21+FrecciarossaFRECCIAROSSA 95551:33 PM Zurich HB
4h51
6:24 PM Bologna Centrale1 transfer
TrenitaliaEuroCity 372:33 PM Zurich HB
5h55
8:28 PM Bologna Centrale0 transfersDirect
TrenitaliaEuroCity 37+FrecciarossaFRECCIAROSSA 95592:33 PM Zurich HB
4h51
7:24 PM Bologna Centrale1 transfer
TrenitaliaEuroCity 23+RegionaleRegionale Veloce TTPER 24793:33 PM Zurich HB
6h37
10:10 PM Bologna Centrale1 transfer
TrenitaliaEuroCity 23+FrecciarossaFRECCIAROSSA 95633:33 PM Zurich HB
4h51
8:24 PM Bologna Centrale1 transfer
TrenitaliaEuroCity 25+FrecciarossaFRECCIAROSSA 95735:33 PM Zurich HB
5h01
10:34 PM Bologna Centrale1 transfer
TrenitaliaEuroCity 25+Intercity NotteInterCityNotte 7655:33 PM Zurich HB
6h02
11:35 PM Bologna Centrale1 transfer
TrenitaliaEuroCity 27+RegionaleRegionale Veloce 3045 · Regionale Veloce TTPER 24856:33 PM Zurich HB
6h00
12:33 AM Bologna Centrale2 transfers

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

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.

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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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Zurich to Bologna

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
ItalyItaly
Icon of train

Trains from Zurich to Bologna run on average 18 times per day, taking around 5h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $80 (€65) but you can travel from only $25 (€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 $25 (€20)
Distance
239 miles (385 km)
Average train duration
5h 30m
Cheapest ticket price
$80 (€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 $25 (€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 $25 (€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
$80 (€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
$247 (€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.

  • Must visit

Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna

Major state gallery with important Emilian paintings from the 13th to 18th centuries, including works by Giotto, Raffaello, and the Carracci.

  • 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 palazzo near Piazza Maggiore.

Euro

Moderate for Italy: budget eats are reasonable, while central hotels and fine dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 8-15 for pizza, panini, or street food.
Mid-range
EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
EUR 1.20-2.50 for espresso or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is often included or covered by coperto. Tipping is not required; round up or leave EUR 1-5 for good service. Taxis can be rounded up.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Bologna can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $80 (€65), while the average price is around $143 (€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 $25 (€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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Zurich to Bologna

Zurich
Bologna
The major train station for departures in Zurich is Zürich HB. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Zürich HB for your trip from Zurich to Bologna.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
ShowerShower
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
26
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 24/7. Access via Gessnerallee and Sihlquai.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Au Premier
  • Brasserie Federal
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • CHF 2
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich
  • Hotel St. Gotthard
  • Central Plaza Hotel
Shower
Shower
  • Cost CHF 12
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 1,300 places, mostly covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 3-18 for long-distance trains
  • Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms 21-24
  • Hall 3: underground S-Bahn platforms 41-44
Public transit options for Zürich HB
  • Tram: Lines 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 13, 14
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • S-Bahn: Lines S2, S3, S5, S6, S7, S8, S9, S11, S12, S15, S16, S24

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