- Must visit
Villa Monastero
Historic villa museum with furnished rooms, lakefront gardens and exhibitions that reveal centuries of life on Lake Como.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bologna to Varenna
Showing times and prices for 03 Aug
Cheapest price
£21
Average price
£21
Fastest journey
4 h 13 m
Average duration
4 h 30 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
233 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bologna to Varenna is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bologna to Varenna will cost around £21 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £21.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Bologna for Varenna every day 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 233 km distance in an average of 4 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 13 m .
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.
14:044h20Bologna18:24Varenna£211One-way0 changes
6:504h34Bologna11:24Varenna£211One-way0 changes- 14:334h51Bologna19:24Varenna£211One-way0 changes
- 4:284h13Bologna8:41Varenna£221One-way0 changes
- 4:284h13Bologna8:41Varenna£221One-way0 changes
- 14:044h20Bologna18:24Varenna£211One-way0 changes
- 6:504h34Bologna11:24Varenna£211One-way0 changes
- 14:334h51Bologna19:24Varenna£211One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Bologna to Varenna
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bologna to Varenna among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £5. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 53m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £5, and a train costs an average of £16.
Distance: 233 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£21 Average Price | £12 Average Price Cheapest |
3h 23m Average total duration Fastest 2h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 21m Average total duration 4h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Bologna to Varenna train times
The table below shows live departures for Bologna to Varenna trains for tomorrow, Monday 3 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:28 Bologna | 4h13 | 8:41 Varenna | 0 changesdirect | |
| 6:50 Bologna | 4h34 | 11:24 Varenna | 0 changesdirect | |
| 14:04 Bologna | 4h20 | 18:24 Varenna | 0 changesdirect | |
| 14:33 Bologna | 4h51 | 19:24 Varenna | 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 Varenna 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.
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03 Aug
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Why should you book Bologna to Varenna trains with Omio?
Regionale as well as Frecciarossa, Intercity, Italo, Intercity Notte and more offer trains services from Bologna to Varenna.
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 Frecciarossa, Intercity, Italo or Intercity Notte to find the best option for your trip from Bologna to Varenna.
- 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 Varenna.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bologna to Varenna
ItalyItaly
Trains from Bologna to Varenna run on average 30 times per day, taking around 2h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £16 but you can travel from only £5 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 00:35, the last at 22:38. The fastest train covers the 233 km distance in 3h 38m.
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 £5
Distance 233 km |
Average train duration 2h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price £16 |
Trains per day 30 |
Fastest train 3h 38m |
First train 0:35 |
Last train 22:38 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 84 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
Coach from £5
Train companies: Regionale, Frecciarossa, Intercity, Italo, Intercity Notte from Bologna to Varenna trainsRegionale, Frecciarossa, Intercity, Italo, Intercity Notte trains will get you between Bologna and Varenna from £5. 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
4h 13m
Cheapest Price
£21
Regionale frequency
20 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 Duration
10h 15m
Cheapest Price
£56
Frecciarossa frequency
6 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
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 Duration
3h 38m
Cheapest Price
£16
Intercity frequency
4 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
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
2h 13m
Cheapest Price
£49
Italo frequency
6 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
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
Complete guide to Varenna
Things to do in Varenna
Discover the best of Varenna — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Varenna trip today.
- Recommended
Villa Cipressi
Elegant villa museum with period interiors and botanical gardens, popular for refined architecture and broad lake views.
- Recommended
Museo del Castello di Vezio
Castle site with display spaces and historic remains, combining medieval architecture with cultural exhibits and panoramic terraces.
- Must visit
Passeggiata degli Innamorati
Lakeside promenade on a suspended walkway, famous for close water views and one of Varenna’s most photographed strolls.
- Must visit
Giardini di Villa Monastero
Green lakefront garden at Villa Monastero with exotic plants, statues and superb views along a long waterside path.
- Recommended
Giardini di Villa Cipressi
Terraced botanical gardens around a historic villa, admired for elegant planting, steps and excellent lake panoramas.
- Vegetarian
Pizzoccheri
Buckwheat pasta ribbons from nearby Valtellina, traditionally dressed with potatoes, cabbage, butter and Casera cheese. A hallmark mountain dish of the Lake Como area.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Polenta uncia
Polenta enriched with local cheese and butter until soft and creamy. A classic Lombard comfort dish served across the lake and mountain villages.
- Gluten-free
Bresaola della Valtellina
Air-dried beef from Valtellina, sliced thin and usually served with olive oil, lemon and rocket. It is a prized Alpine speciality popular around Lake Como.
Il Cavatappi
Romantic lakeside restaurant focusing on seafood, risotto and polished Italian cooking, popular for sunset meals by the water.
Ristorante La Contrada
Elegant dining room with lake views, serving refined Italian dishes, seafood and regional specialities in a polished hotel setting.
Ristorante La Vista
Traditional lakefront restaurant known for Lake Como fish, pasta and a relaxed terrace setting in the heart of Varenna.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Lake Como. Hotels and lakefront dining are pricier than inland towns, but ferries and simple meals remain manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for a simple meal or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €1.50-3 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or rounded in. Restaurants: round up or leave 5-10% for good service. Cafés: small change. Taxis: round up the fare.
Trenord
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €7.40
- Day pass
- €15.50
To the city centre
Varenna-Esino -> Piazza San Giorgio, Varenna
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Buy rail tickets in the official Trenord app before boarding; the operator publishes Varenna-Esino fares there and on its website.
- Lake Como ferry operator Navigazione Laghi applies a €1.00 surcharge for tickets bought or validated on board, so buy before boarding when possible.
FAQs: Bologna to Varenna train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna to Varenna 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 Varenna, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Bologna to Varenna can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £16, while the average price tends to be around £21.
The train journey from Bologna to Varenna covers a distance of 233 km and takes approximately 3h 38m. Trains run 30 per day.
The train distance from Bologna to Varenna is 233 km.
The first train from Bologna to Varenna leaves at 0:35.
The last train from Bologna to Varenna departs at 22:38.
Trains from Bologna to Varenna run approximately 30 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Bologna to Varenna.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Bologna to Varenna.
To get from Bologna to Varenna, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
Yes, there is a night train from Bologna to Varenna.
The train station in Bologna that goes to Varenna is Bologna Centrale, and it arrives at Varenna-esino.
The cheapest way to get from Bologna to Varenna is by coach, costing approximately £5.
Booking trains from Bologna to Varenna 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 Varenna is quite scenic. Travellers can enjoy picturesque views of the Italian countryside, rolling hills, and charming small towns. As the train approaches Varenna, the stunning landscape of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains enhances the scenic experience.
A day trip from Bologna to Varenna is not feasible as the one-way travel time is 3h 38m. However, there are 27 trains available per day, making it convenient for longer visits. The distance between the two destinations is 233 km.
In Varenna, you can explore the charming streets filled with local shops and cafes, and take a boat tour on Lake Como for breathtaking views. Visit the Civic Museum of Ornithology and Natural Sciences for insights into local wildlife or enjoy wine tasting at a nearby vineyard. Learn to cook traditional Italian dishes in a cooking class. Discover Villa Monastero with its botanical gardens and museum, or Castello di Vezio for stunning views and falconry displays. The Church of San Giorgio offers a serene atmosphere with notable frescoes. Enjoy the milky-white waters of Fiumelatte and take a leisurely walk along the scenic Passeggiata degli Innamorati.
Two to three days in Varenna are ideal to explore its charming streets, visit Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi, and enjoy the scenic views of Lake Como.
Yes, you can take the train from Bologna to Varenna.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Bologna and Varenna
Most Bologna to Varenna trains use the Bologna Centrale to Varenna-esino station pair. Use this guide to compare Bologna and Varenna 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 Varenna
Which Bologna station do trains to Varenna leave from?
Trains from Bologna to Varenna 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.
Bologna S. Vitale40138 Bologna, Metropolitan City of Bologna, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Bologna S. Vitale from Bologna city centre
Bologna S. Vitale is 2 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus99 · 1h 3m · £4
99, 206, 211 · 1h 45m · £5 · every ~4 min
Bologna S. Vitale train station facilities and services
Bologna S. Vitale has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bologna S. Vitale.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Bologna S. Vitale.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bologna S. Vitale: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bologna S. Vitale: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna S. Vitale: Elevators, ramps.
Which Varenna station do trains from Bologna arrive at?
Trains from Bologna to Varenna arrive at Varenna-esino. Varenna-esino is 1 km from Varenna city centre.
Varenna-esinoPiazza Martiri della Libertà, 23828 Perledo LC, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Varenna-esino from Varenna city centre
BusLocal bus services connect the station to nearby towns
FerryFerry services available to other towns on Lake Como
Varenna-esino train station facilities and services
Varenna-esino has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Varenna-esino.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Varenna-esino. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Varenna-esino: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Varenna-esino: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Varenna-esino: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Olivedo, Albergo Milano, Hotel du Lac.
Most popular train connections from Bologna
More options for your journey from Bologna to Varenna
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Varenna and Bologna
Most popular train connections to Varenna
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