- Must visit
Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna
The city’s main fine arts museum, known for important Emilian paintings from the 13th to 18th centuries, including works by Giotto, Raphael and the Carracci.
Cheapest price
$10
Average price
$10
Fastest journey
56 m
Average duration
56 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 $10 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $10.
Of the 7 trains that leave Prato for Bologna on Sat, Jun 20, 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 71 km distance in an average of 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 56 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 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 $6. 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 $6, and a train costs an average of $10.
Distance: 44 miles (71 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$10 Average price | $10 Average price Cheapest | $31 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 (€0.02) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Prato to Bologna costing on average $10 (€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 $21 (€17) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($10 (€8) vs $31 (€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, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Regionale 17806 | 6:45 AM Prato Centrale | 1h10 | 7:55 AM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17806 | 6:45 AM Prato Centrale | 0h54 | 7:39 AM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17808 | 7:32 AM Prato Centrale | 0h53 | 8:25 AM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17810 | 7:43 AM Prato Centrale | 1h12 | 8:55 AM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17810 | 7:43 AM Prato Centrale | 0h56 | 8:39 AM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 18503+ FRECCIAROSSA 8502 | 7:47 AM Prato Centrale | 1h26 | 9:13 AM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Regionale 18463+ 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 18465+ FRECCIAROSSA 9516 | 9:01 AM Prato Centrale | 1h32 | 10:33 AM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Regionale 18507+ 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 18467+ FRECCIAROSSA 9520 | 10:01 AM Prato Centrale | 1h32 | 11:33 AM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Regionale 18509+ FRECCIAROSSA 9308 | 10:30 AM Prato Centrale | 1h18 | 11:48 AM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Regionale 18669+ FRECCIAROSSA 8508 | 10:42 AM Prato Centrale | 1h31 | 12:13 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Regionale 18489+ FRECCIAROSSA 9524 | 11:01 AM Prato Centrale | 1h32 | 12:33 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Regionale 18833 · Regionale 18952+ FRECCIAROSSA 9416 | 11:12 AM Prato Centrale | 1h46 | 12:58 PM Bologna Centrale | 2 transfers | |
Regionale 18671+ FRECCIAROSSA 8509 | 11:42 AM Prato Centrale | 1h31 | 1:13 PM Bologna Centrale | 1 transfer | |
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 | 0h56 | 3:09 PM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17830 | 2:13 PM Prato Centrale | 1h12 | 3:25 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale TTPER 17850 | 2:43 PM Prato Centrale | 1h12 | 3:55 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale TTPER 17850 | 2:43 PM Prato Centrale | 0h56 | 3:39 PM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 18491+ 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 | |
Intercity 590 | 3:52 PM Prato Centrale | 0h58 | 4:50 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
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 | |
Regionale TTPER 17846 | 5:10 PM Prato Centrale | 0h59 | 6:09 PM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale TTPER 17846 | 5:10 PM Prato Centrale | 1h15 | 6:25 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17838 | 5:43 PM Prato Centrale | 0h56 | 6:39 PM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17838 | 5:43 PM Prato Centrale | 1h12 | 6:55 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 18497+ 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 | 0h56 | 8:09 PM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17842 | 7:13 PM Prato Centrale | 1h12 | 8:25 PM Bologna Centrale | 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 | 0h56 | 10:09 PM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale TTPER 17856 | 9:13 PM Prato Centrale | 1h12 | 10:25 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17852 | 10:49 PM Prato Centrale | 0h45 | 11:34 PM Bologna San Ruffillo | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 17852 | 10:49 PM Prato Centrale | 1h01 | 11:50 PM Bologna Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 2:57 AM Prato | 1h01 | 3:58 AM Bologna | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 4:15 AM Prato | 0h56 | 5:11 AM Bologna | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
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 $10 (€8) but you can travel from only $6 (€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 $10 (€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.
The city’s main fine arts museum, known for important Emilian paintings from the 13th to 18th centuries, including works by Giotto, Raphael and the Carracci.
Bologna’s leading modern and contemporary art museum, with strong permanent collections and rotating exhibitions in a large converted industrial space.
A major archaeological museum with Etruscan, Egyptian, Greek and Roman collections, housed in a historic palace near Piazza Maggiore.
Bologna’s main square and social heart, surrounded by major civic and religious buildings, ideal for first-time visitors and people-watching.
The world-famous covered walkway leading toward the San Luca sanctuary, popular for scenic walks, photography and local tradition.
One of the city’s most elegant and photogenic squares, fronting the Santo Stefano complex and loved for its atmospheric character.
Fresh egg pasta ribbons served with Bologna’s traditional slow-cooked meat ragù. It is one of the city’s most iconic dishes and differs from the tomato-heavy versions found abroad.
Small ring-shaped pasta filled with meat and served in rich capon or beef broth. This is a classic Bolognese comfort dish, especially tied to festive family meals.
Layered baked pasta with ragù, béchamel, and Parmigiano Reggiano, often made with green spinach pasta sheets. It is a signature Emilia-Romagna Sunday dish.
Highly regarded neighborhood trattoria known for careful ingredient sourcing and excellent handmade pasta, with a cozy and authentic feel.
Well-known romantic restaurant serving refined Emilian and Bolognese cuisine in an intimate former pharmacy space with polished service.
Very popular traditional osteria known for classic Bolognese pasta dishes in a lively, casual setting close to the university area.
Moderate by Italian standards: food and coffee are reasonable, while central hotels cost more in peak season.
Service is often included or covered by coperto. Tipping is not required; round up or leave EUR 1-5 for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up.
Official public transport app
Bologna Centrale, Bologna -> Piazza Maggiore, Bologna
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.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need