- 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, prices and bookable tickets for 27 Sept
Cheapest price on 27 Sept
£24
Average ticket price on 27 Sept
£40
Fastest journey on 27 Sept
3 h 34 m
Average journey duration on 27 Sept
4 h 37 m
Trains on 27 Sept
2
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 £40 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £24.
Fast trains
On Sun 27 Sept, we found 2 trains from Bologna to Locarno, including 2 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 272 km distance in an average of 4 h 37 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 34 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.
13:505h40Bologna19:30Locarno£241One-way0 changes
16:563h34Bologna20:30Locarno£561One-way0 changes
- 16:563h34Bologna20:30Locarno£561One-way0 changes
- 13:505h40Bologna19:30Locarno£241One-way0 changes
Live departures
Bologna to Locarno train times
The table below shows live departures for Bologna to Locarno trains for tomorrow, Sunday 27 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13:50 Bologna | 5h40 | 19:30 Locarno | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bologna to Locarno by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach 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.
Sun
27 Sept
27 Sept
Mon
28 Sept
28 Sept
Tue
29 Sept
29 Sept
Wed
30 Sept
30 Sept
Thu
01 Oct
01 Oct
Fri
02 Oct
02 Oct
Sat
03 Oct
03 Oct
Why should you book Bologna to Locarno trains with Omio?
Intercity as well as Frecciarossa, SBB, Regionale, Trenitalia and more offer trains services from Bologna to Locarno.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Intercity tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Intercity?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Intercity, but also compare tickets for the likes of Frecciarossa, SBB, Regionale or Trenitalia 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 Intercity with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight 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 25 times per day, taking around 7h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £22 but you can travel from only £10 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:56, the last at 18:28. The fastest train covers the 272 km distance in 2h 50m.
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 £10
Distance 272 km |
Average train duration 7h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price £22 |
Trains per day 25 |
Fastest train 2h 50m |
First train 4:56 |
Last train 18:28 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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 £10
Train companies: Trenitalia, Regionale, Frecciarossa, Intercity Notte, SBB, Intercity from Bologna to Locarno trainsTrenitalia, Regionale, Frecciarossa, Intercity Notte, SBB, Intercity trains will get you between Bologna and Locarno from £10. 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 Trenitalia Duration
6h 34m
Cheapest Trenitalia Price
£38
Trenitalia frequency
34 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
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 Regionale Duration
2h 50m
Cheapest Regionale Price
£22
Regionale frequency
8 a day
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
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 Frecciarossa Duration
3h 1m
Cheapest Frecciarossa Price
£54
Frecciarossa frequency
4 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
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
Average Intercity Notte Duration
3h 56m
Cheapest Intercity Notte Price
£26
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
SBB
About
SBB is Switzerland’s national railway company, operating a wide range of train services including InterCity, InterRegio, RegioExpress, Regio, S-Bahn, and international InterCityExpress connections. InterCity trains reach speeds of up to 200 km/h for fast travel between major cities, while Regio trains provide slower, more frequent local services. Ticket options include Standard and First Class, as well as passes and discounts such as the Swiss Travel Pass, Half-Fare Card, and Super Saver tickets. Onboard amenities may feature Wi-Fi, power outlets, and restaurant cars. Popular routes include Zurich–Geneva, Basel–Bern, and Geneva–Lausanne.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SBB Duration
7h 53m
Cheapest SBB Price
£67
SBB frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
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 cars on long-distance trains, bistro service available. First class receives at-seat service
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for fee, included in 1st class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require half-price ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Intercity
About
Trenitalia Intercity is a high-speed train service operated by the Italian national railway company, Trenitalia. It operates throughout the country, with services running from early morning to late evening. The Intercity trains come in two types: the Intercity Plus, which is the fastest and most comfortable, and the Intercity, which is slightly slower but still offers a comfortable journey. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, power sockets, Wi-Fi, and a bar service. There are several ticket types available, including Standard, Super Economy, and Business. The most popular routes for Trenitalia Intercity are from Rome to Milan, Naples to Florence, and Turin to Venice.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercity Duration
4h 11m
Cheapest Intercity Price
£35
Intercity frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
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 £54.
The train journey from Bologna to Locarno covers a distance of 272 km and takes approximately 2h 50m. Trains run 25 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 25 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.
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 Locarno station.
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.
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 Locarno 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.
Which Locarno station do trains from Bologna arrive at?
Trains from Bologna to Locarno most often arrive at Locarno. Some services arrive at Pino-Tronzano, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Locarno arrival station.
LocarnoPiazza Stazione, 6600 Locarno, Switzerland+41 91 751 82 90
City-centre transport
Getting to Locarno from Locarno city centre
Bus1, 311, 312, 316, 3, 4, 7 · 4m · £2 · every ~38 min
Locarno train station facilities and services
Locarno has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Ristorante Sensi, Osteria Chiara
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Locarno. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Locarno. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Locarno: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Locarno: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Locarno: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Ibis Locarno, Hotel Belvedere Locarno, Hotel Garni Muralto.
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.
