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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Bologna
Showing times and prices for 01 Jun
Cheapest price
£91
Average price
£106
Fastest journey
11 h 22 m
Average duration
11 h 49 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
787 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Bologna is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Bologna will cost around £106 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £91.
Fast trains
To travel from Cologne to Bologna you need to make at least one change.
ICE 103 · ICE 593 · RJ 878:5411h22Cologne Hbf20:16Bologna Centrale£911One-way2 changes- ICE 515 · RJ 899:5412h17Cologne Hbf22:11Bologna Centrale£911One-way1 change
- ICE 515 · RJ 899:5412h17Cologne Hbf22:11Bologna Centrale£1091One-way1 change
- ICE 529 · RJ 878:4511h31Cologne Messe/Deutz20:16Bologna Centrale£1091One-way1 change
- ICE 521 · RJ 834:2811h40Cologne Hbf16:08Bologna Centrale£1271One-way1 change
- ICE 103 · ICE 593 · RJ 878:5411h22Cologne Hbf20:16Bologna Centrale£911One-way2 changes
- ICE 529 · RJ 878:4511h31Cologne Messe/Deutz20:16Bologna Centrale£1091One-way1 change
- ICE 521 · RJ 834:2811h40Cologne Hbf16:08Bologna Centrale£1271One-way1 change
- ICE 515 · RJ 899:5412h17Cologne Hbf22:11Bologna Centrale£1091One-way1 change
- ICE 515 · RJ 899:5412h17Cologne Hbf22:11Bologna Centrale£911One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare coach, train and flight for Cologne to Bologna
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Bologna among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £48. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 46m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £48, and a flight costs an average of £16.
Distance: 787 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Coach |
|---|---|---|
£161 Average Price | £190 Average Price | £72 Average Price Cheapest |
12h 14m Average total duration 11h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 46m Average total duration Fastest 1h 46m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 16h 32m Average total duration 16h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Cologne to Bologna train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Bologna trains for tomorrow, Monday 1 June. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 521 · RJ 83 | On time 4:28 Cologne Hbf | 11h40 | 16:08 Bologna Centrale | 1 change | |
| ICE 529 · RJ 87 | On time 8:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 11h31 | 20:16 Bologna Centrale | 1 change | |
| ICE 103 · ICE 593 · RJ 87 | On time 8:54 Cologne Hbf | 11h22 | 20:16 Bologna Centrale | 2 changes | |
| ICE 515 · RJ 89 | On time 9:54 Cologne Hbf | 12h17 | 22:11 Bologna Centrale | 1 change | |
| ICE 515 · RJ 89 | On time 9:54 Cologne Hbf | 12h17 | 22:11 Bologna Centrale | 1 change |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Bologna by coach, train or flight
Compare coach, train 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 Cologne to Bologna trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Trenitalia offer trains services from Cologne to Bologna.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Bologna.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Trenitalia to find the best option for your trip from Cologne 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 Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Bologna.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Trenitalia to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Bologna.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Bologna.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Bologna
Germany
Italy
Trains from Cologne to Bologna run on average 2 times per day, taking around 11h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £38 but you can travel from only £16 by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 787 km distance in 11h 17m.
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
Flight from £16
Distance 787 km |
Average train duration 11h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price £38 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 11h 17m |
First train 0:20 |
Last train 23:30 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 63 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
Flight from £16
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Trenitalia from Cologne to Bologna trainsDeutsche Bahn, Trenitalia trains will get you between Cologne and Bologna from £16. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
11h 17m
Cheapest Price
£38
Deutsche Bahn frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone
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
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
FAQs: Cologne to Bologna train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne 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.
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne to Bologna can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £38, while the average price tends to be around £161.
The train journey from Cologne to Bologna covers a distance of 787 km and takes approximately 11h 17m. Trains run 2 per day.
The train distance from Cologne to Bologna is 787 km.
The first train from Cologne to Bologna leaves at 0:20.
The last train from Cologne to Bologna departs at 23:30.
Trains from Cologne to Bologna run approximately 2 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Bologna.
To get from Cologne to Bologna, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Cologne to Bologna.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Bologna is Cologne Hbf, and it arrives at Bologna Centrale.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Bologna is by flight, costing approximately £16.
Booking trains from Cologne to Bologna in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Cologne to Bologna offers picturesque views, especially through the Rhine Valley with its charming castles and vineyards, and the scenic landscapes of the Alps, making it a visually pleasing experience.
A day trip from Cologne to Bologna is not feasible. The journey takes 11h 17m and covers 787 km. Trains operate 3 times per day.
In Bologna, you can explore Piazza Maggiore, a lively central square surrounded by historic buildings and cafes. Climb the Two Towers for panoramic city views, and visit the Basilica di San Petronio to admire its impressive architecture and art. Discover the Archiginnasio of Bologna, a historic university building known for its stunning anatomical theatre. Don't miss the Mercato di Mezzo for local delicacies, and visit Santo Stefano, a complex of religious buildings known as the Seven Churches with unique architectural features.
Three days in Bologna is typically sufficient to explore its historic centre, savour local cuisine, and visit key attractions such as Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers, and the Basilica of San Petronio.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Bologna.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Bologna
Cologne
Bologna
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Bologna.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Köln Messe/Deutz
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
The major train station for arrivals in Bologna is Bologna Centrale. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bologna Centrale for your journey to Bologna from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi.
Lockers
- Luggage facility, open daily from 07:00 to 22:00, is located in front of binario 7 Ovest (Track 7 West).
Dining
- Burger King
- A Cafè
- VyTA Boulangerie
- Venchi
- Scambio
- Juice Bar
- KFC
- Dispensa Emilia
- Lavazza
- Mokà
- & more
Accessibility
- 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.
Hotel
- Starhotels Excelsior
- Millenn Hotel Bologna
- UNA Hotels
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 21:00
Information Desk
- Customer service center is on the ground floor and open every day from 06:30 to 23:00.
Public transport options for Bologna Centrale
- Bus lines: 21, 25, 30, 36, 61, 62, 77, BLQ
- Monorail lines: Marconi Express
- Train lines: FR, FA, FB, IC, ICN, R, Italo, ÖBB EC, EN
Most popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Bologna
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bologna and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Bologna
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