- Must visit
Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna
A major art museum with Italian paintings from the Middle Ages to the modern era, plus temporary exhibitions in the city centre.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Varenna to Bologna
Showing times and prices for 24 Aug
Cheapest price
£19
Average price
£21
Fastest journey
4 h 3 m
Average duration
4 h 25 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
233 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Varenna to Bologna is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Varenna to Bologna will cost around £21 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £19.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Varenna for Bologna 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 25 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 3 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 35 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.
13:354h27Varenna18:02Bologna£191One-way0 changes
19:354h03Varenna23:38Bologna£211One-way0 changes- 9:354h35Varenna14:10Bologna£211One-way0 changes
- 8:354h35Varenna13:10Bologna£211One-way0 changes
- 19:354h03Varenna23:38Bologna£211One-way0 changes
- 13:354h27Varenna18:02Bologna£191One-way0 changes
- 9:354h35Varenna14:10Bologna£211One-way0 changes
- 8:354h35Varenna13:10Bologna£211One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Varenna to Bologna
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Varenna to Bologna among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 12m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £16, and a flight costs an average of £126.
Distance: 233 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£21 Average Price Cheapest | £22 Average Price | £212 Average Price |
3h 42m Average total duration Fastest 3h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 50m Average total duration 4h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 42m Average total duration 4h 42m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Varenna to Bologna train times
The table below shows live departures for Varenna to Bologna trains for today, Sunday 23 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13:35 Varenna | 4h35 | 18:10 Bologna | 0 changesdirect | |
| 14:35 Varenna | 4h27 | 19:02 Bologna | 0 changesdirect | |
| Monday 24 August | |||||
| 8:35 Varenna | 4h35 | 13:10 Bologna | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Varenna to Bologna 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.
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Why should you book Varenna to Bologna trains with Omio?
Regionale as well as Frecciarossa, Intercity, Intercity Notte, Trenord and more offer trains services from Varenna to Bologna.
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, Intercity Notte or Trenord to find the best option for your trip from Varenna 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 Regionale with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Varenna to Bologna.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Varenna to Bologna
ItalyItaly
Trains from Varenna to Bologna run on average 30 times per day, taking around 3h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £16 but you can travel from only £11 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 22:38. The fastest train covers the 233 km distance in 4h 19m.
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 233 km |
Average train duration 3h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price £16 |
Trains per day 30 |
Fastest train 4h 19m |
First train 0:20 |
Last train 22:38 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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 £11
Train companies: Regionale, Frecciarossa, Intercity, Intercity Notte, Trenord from Varenna to Bologna trainsRegionale, Frecciarossa, Intercity, Intercity Notte, Trenord trains will get you between Varenna and Bologna 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
4h 35m
Cheapest Price
£21
Regionale frequency
17 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
2h 29m
Cheapest Price
£20
Frecciarossa frequency
8 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
4h 19m
Cheapest Price
£16
Intercity frequency
5 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
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 Duration
4h 0m
Cheapest Price
£20
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
Trenord
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 29m
Cheapest Price
£50
Trenord frequency
5 a day
Complete guide to Bologna
Things to do in Bologna
Discover the best of Bologna — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bologna trip today.
- Recommended
MAMbo - Museo d'Arte Moderna di Bologna
Bologna’s modern and contemporary art museum presents rotating exhibitions and a compact permanent collection in a converted industrial space.
- Recommended
Museo del Patrimonio Industriale
An engaging museum on Bologna’s industrial and social history, with working models, scientific instruments, and practical displays for curious visitors.
- Must visit
Piazza Maggiore
Bologna’s grand central square is the city’s social and architectural heart, framed by major civic buildings and lively throughout the day.
- Must visit
Portico di San Luca
A long porticoed walk climbing towards San Luca, combining daily local life, historic architecture, and one of Bologna’s classic walking routes.
- Recommended
Via Pescherie Vecchie
This covered market street preserves medieval character under porticoes and is ideal for a short walk between historic shops and central landmarks.
Tagliatelle al ragù
Fresh egg pasta ribbons served with slow-cooked ragù. It is Bologna’s signature pasta dish and traditionally differs from spaghetti bolognese found abroad.
Tortellini in brodo
Small ring-shaped stuffed pasta served in rich capon or beef broth. A festive classic closely tied to Bolognese family cooking and winter meals.
Lasagne verdi alla bolognese
Green pasta sheets layered with ragù, béchamel and Parmigiano Reggiano. This baked dish is a traditional Sunday and holiday favourite in Bologna.
Trattoria da Me
Historic osteria known for classic Bolognese pasta and traditional meat dishes in a warm, old-world dining room near the city centre.
Ristorante I Carracci
Refined restaurant serving contemporary Italian cuisine in elegant rooms inside Palazzo Fava, suited to a special-occasion meal.
Trattoria Anna Maria
Long-standing trattoria popular for tortellini, tagliatelle al ragù and other local staples in a simple, bustling setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Italy: lodging is mid-priced, meals are reasonable, and local buses are cheap, though central hotel rates rise in peak season and during major fairs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.50-3 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Service may be included; round up or leave €1-2 in cafés, 5-10% for very good restaurant service, and round up taxi fares.
Roger
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.30
- Day pass
- €9.00
To the city centre
Bologna Centrale -> Piazza Maggiore, Bologna
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Tap a contactless card on Bologna urban buses to pay the standard fare; Tper applies a daily best fare cap of €9.00.
- Use the official Roger app to buy digital tickets and plan journeys on Tper services in Bologna.
FAQs: Varenna to Bologna train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Varenna 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 Varenna to Bologna can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £16, while the average price tends to be around £21.
The train journey from Varenna to Bologna covers a distance of 233 km and takes approximately 4h 19m. Trains run 30 per day.
The train distance from Varenna to Bologna is 233 km.
The first train from Varenna to Bologna leaves at 0:20.
The last train from Varenna to Bologna departs at 22:38.
Trains from Varenna to Bologna run approximately 30 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Varenna to Bologna.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Varenna to Bologna.
To get from Varenna to Bologna, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
Yes, there is a night train from Varenna to Bologna.
The train station in Varenna that goes to Bologna is Varenna-esino, and it arrives at Bologna Centrale.
The cheapest way to get from Varenna to Bologna is by coach, costing approximately £11.
Booking trains from Varenna 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 Varenna to Bologna offers a scenic experience, especially in its initial stages. Travellers are treated to picturesque views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains as the train departs Varenna. As the journey progresses towards Bologna, the landscape transitions to charming countryside and rolling hills, providing a delightful visual experience.
A day trip from Varenna to Bologna is not feasible as the travel time is 4h 19m. However, there are 29 train services per day available for this 233 km journey.
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 Varenna to Bologna.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Varenna and Bologna
Most Varenna to Bologna trains use the Varenna-esino to Bologna Centrale station pair, with some services arriving at Bologna S. Vitale. Use this guide to compare Varenna and Bologna train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Varenna
Arrival train stations in Bologna
Which Varenna station do trains to Bologna leave from?
Trains from Varenna to Bologna leave from Varenna-esino. The station is 1 km from Varenna city centre at Piazza Martiri della Libertà, 23828 Perledo LC, Italy.
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.
Which Bologna station do trains from Varenna arrive at?
Trains from Varenna to Bologna most often arrive at Bologna Centrale. Some services arrive at Bologna S. Vitale, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Bologna arrival station.
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.
Bologna MazziniVia Emilia Levante, 40139 Bologna BO, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Bologna Mazzini from Bologna city centre
Bologna Mazzini is 3 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 7m · £0.90 · every ~2 min
Bus15, 19, 27, 62 · 13m · £0.90 · every ~26 min
15, 19, 27, 62 · 14m · £0.90 · every ~24 min
Bologna Mazzini train station facilities and services
Bologna Mazzini has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: CA.FÉ MAZZINI, Gelateria Mazzini
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bologna Mazzini.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bologna Mazzini: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bologna Mazzini: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna Mazzini: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Camplus Mazzini, Hotel Blumen, Hotel Sant'Orsola City House.
Most popular train connections from Varenna
More options for your journey from Varenna to Bologna
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bologna and Varenna
Most popular train connections to Bologna
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