- Recommended
Museo civico e archeologico
Main local museum inside the Visconti castle, with archaeology and city history collections in a strong medieval setting.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Bologna to Locarno
Showing times and prices for 13 Aug
Cheapest price
£22
Average price
£22
Fastest journey
5 h 40 m
Average duration
5 h 40 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
272 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bologna to Locarno is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bologna to Locarno will cost around £22 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £22.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Bologna for Locarno every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 272 km distance in an average of 5 h 40 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 40 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 h 40 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.
12:505h40Bologna18:30Locarno£221One-way0 changes
- 12:505h40Bologna18:30Locarno£221One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Bologna to Locarno
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bologna to Locarno among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £11. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £11, and a train costs an average of £22.
Distance: 272 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£26 Average Price | £19 Average Price Cheapest |
4h 48m Average total duration Fastest 4h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 10m Average total duration 4h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Compare prices and tickets Bologna to Locarno by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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.
Thu
13 Aug
13 Aug
Fri
14 Aug
14 Aug
Sat
15 Aug
15 Aug
Sun
16 Aug
16 Aug
Mon
17 Aug
17 Aug
Tue
18 Aug
18 Aug
Wed
19 Aug
19 Aug
Why should you book Bologna to Locarno trains with Omio?
Regionale as well as Intercity Notte, Frecciarossa, Italo and more offer trains services from Bologna to Locarno.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Regionale tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Regionale?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Regionale, but also compare tickets for the likes of Intercity Notte, Frecciarossa or Italo to find the best option for your trip from Bologna to Locarno.
- 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 Regionale with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bologna to Locarno.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bologna to Locarno
Italy
Switzerland
Trains from Bologna to Locarno run on average 9 times per day, taking around 4h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £22 but you can travel from only £11 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:56, the last at 18:28. The fastest train covers the 272 km distance in 3h 34m.
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
Coach from £11
Distance 272 km |
Average train duration 4h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price £22 |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 3h 34m |
First train 4:56 |
Last train 18:28 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
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
Coach from £11
Train companies: Regionale, Intercity Notte, Frecciarossa, Italo from Bologna to Locarno trainsRegionale, Intercity Notte, Frecciarossa, Italo trains will get you between Bologna and Locarno from £11. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Regionale
About
Regionale is the regional train service of national carrier Trenitalia connecting all of Italy. It is the most convinient way to travel to both big cities and the smallest villages all over the Italian country. The regional trains have different names depending on the region they serve, such as Treno Regionale Veloce (TRV) and Treno Regionale Lento (TRL). Treno Rock and Treno pop are the two new trains part of Trenitalia regionale fleet. Trenitalia Regionale offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets (economy and standard), return tickets, and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and power sockets. The most popular routes for Regionale are between Rome and Milan, Naples and Florence, and Turin and Venice.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 40m
Cheapest Price
£22
Luggage included
Free hand luggage allowance included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Bar service available on some trains with snacks and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most services
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
Quiet zone
Intercity Notte
About
Intercity Notte is an Italian train service operated by Trenitalia. It runs overnight services between major cities in Italy, making it a great option for travelers looking to save time and money. The Intercity Notte offers two types of trains: the Frecciarossa Notte and the Frecciargento Notte. The Frecciarossa Notte is the fastest train, with speeds of up to 300 km/h, while the Frecciargento Notte is slightly slower but still offers a comfortable journey. Both trains offer a range of onboard facilities, including comfortable seating, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. Trenitalia offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, Comfort, and Business. Standard tickets are the most affordable, while Comfort and Business tickets offer additional benefits such as priority boarding and access to the lounge. The most popular routes for Intercity Notte are Rome to Milan, Rome to Venice, and Milan to Venice. These routes offer travelers the chance to explore some of Italy's most iconic cities in a convenient and comfortable way.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Intercity Notte frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 handbag and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats and at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full dining service and bar
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for disabled passengers
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs 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
3h 34m
Cheapest Price
£56
Frecciarossa frequency
2 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
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
3h 27m
Cheapest Price
£51
Italo frequency
15 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
Complete guide to Locarno
Things to do in Locarno
Discover the best of Locarno — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Locarno trip today.
- Recommended
Museo Casa Rusca
Museum on the lakeside devoted to modern art in the Casa Rusca. It hosts changing exhibitions and is a strong stop for culture lovers.
- Recommended
Fondazione Ghisla Art Collection
Contemporary art space in a restored industrial building at Muralto station area. Visit for ambitious temporary exhibitions and architecture.
- Must visit
Piazza Grande
Locarno’s main square, framed by arcades and historic buildings. It is the city’s social heart and a base for events, markets and strolls.
- Recommended
Lungolago Giuseppe Motta
Elegant lakeside promenade with palms, flowerbeds and open views across Lago Maggiore. Ideal for a relaxed walk near the centre.
- Recommended
Parco delle Camelie
Headland and park area with one of Locarno’s best lake panoramas. Popular for sunset walks, photography and a quieter atmosphere.
- Gluten-free
Polenta ticinese
Polenta from Ticino maize, often served creamy or set, traditionally paired with braised meat or cheese. It is a staple of local alpine and rural cooking.
- Gluten-free
Brasato al Merlot
Slow-cooked beef braised in Merlot, the signature red wine of Ticino. It reflects the canton’s strong wine culture and hearty home-style cuisine.
- Gluten-free
Carne secca
Air-dried beef from the southern Alps, sliced thin and served as an antipasto. It is prized for its intense flavour and mountain preservation tradition.
Ristorante Eden Roc Ascona
Refined lakeside dining in Ascona near Locarno, known for polished seasonal cuisine, seafood and an elegant setting for a special meal.
Grotto Broggini
Traditional grotto-style venue above Locarno serving Ticino classics, local wine and hearty dishes in a rustic hillside atmosphere.
Ristorante Sensi
Well-known pizzeria and Italian restaurant in central Locarno, popular for reliable pizzas, pasta and a lively casual atmosphere.
Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)
Locarno is expensive versus many European towns: hotels, dining and local transport cost more, though supermarkets and simple lunches help control spending.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for a simple meal or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 70+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- CHF 3.50-5 for a coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up bills or leave 5-10% for excellent service. Round up small taxi fares and leave small change in cafés if service is good.
SBB Mobile
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.40
- Day pass
- CHF 6.80
To the city centre
Locarno FART -> Piazza Grande, Locarno
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Buy your ticket before boarding; Swiss public transport generally requires a valid ticket before departure.
- SBB Mobile supports ticket purchase and EasyRide. On many regional buses and trains, contactless bank card payment is not the primary fare method, so buy in the app or at a machine first.
FAQs: Bologna to Locarno train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna to Locarno 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 Locarno, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Bologna to Locarno can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £22, while the average price tends to be around £26.
The train journey from Bologna to Locarno covers a distance of 272 km and takes approximately 3h 34m. Trains run 9 per day.
The train distance from Bologna to Locarno is 272 km.
The first train from Bologna to Locarno leaves at 4:56.
The last train from Bologna to Locarno departs at 18:28.
Trains from Bologna to Locarno run approximately 9 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Bologna to Locarno.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Bologna to Locarno.
To get from Bologna to Locarno, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
Yes, there is a night train from Bologna to Locarno.
The train station in Bologna that goes to Locarno is Bologna Centrale, and it arrives at Pino-Tronzano.
The cheapest way to get from Bologna to Locarno is by coach, costing approximately £11.
Booking trains from Bologna to Locarno in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, the train journey from Bologna to Locarno is scenic, as it traverses the picturesque landscapes of northern Italy and southern Switzerland, offering views of rolling hills, charming villages, and the majestic Swiss Alps.
A day trip from Bologna to Locarno is not feasible due to the travel time of 3h 34m. However, there are 10 trains per day covering the distance of 272 km.
For a fulfilling experience in Locarno, spending 2 to 3 days allows you to explore its main attractions, enjoy the scenic beauty, and partake in local activities.
Yes, you can take the train from Bologna to Locarno.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Bologna and Locarno
Most Bologna to Locarno trains use the Bologna Centrale to Pino-Tronzano station pair. Use this guide to compare Bologna and Locarno train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bologna
Arrival train stations in Locarno
Which Bologna station do trains to Locarno leave from?
Trains from Bologna to Locarno leave from Bologna Centrale. The station is 1 km from Bologna city centre at Piazza delle Medaglie d'Oro, 40121 Bologna, Italy.
Bologna CentralePiazza delle Medaglie d'Oro, 40121 Bologna, Italy+39 892021
City-centre transport
Getting to Bologna Centrale from Bologna city centre
Bologna Centrale is 1 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus11, 181, 21, 30, 38, 445, C, 61, 62, 81, 87, 91, N4, 92, N3 · 4m · £0.90 · every ~39 min
21, 30, 11, C, 62, N4, N3 · 6m · £0.90 · every ~36 min
Bologna Centrale train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Burger King, A Cafè, VyTA Boulangerie, Venchi, Scambio, Juice Bar, KFC, Dispensa Emilia, Lavazza, Mokà, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. . ATMs are aTM is located in the main hall.
Tickets and information
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 and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage facility, open daily from 07:00 to 22:00, is located in front of binario 7 Ovest (Track 7 West).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bologna Centrale: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bologna Centrale: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
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.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Starhotels Excelsior, Millenn Hotel Bologna, UNA Hotels.
Most popular train connections from Bologna
More options for your journey from Bologna to Locarno
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Locarno and Bologna
Most popular train connections to Locarno
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
