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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bologna to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Jun 19
Cheapest price
€18
Average price
€18
Fastest journey
3 h 58 m
Average duration
3 h 58 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
163 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bologna to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bologna to Cologne will cost around €18 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €18.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Bologna for Cologne on Fri, Jun 19, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 19 the direct trains cover the 163 km distance in an average of 3 h 58 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 58 m .
On Fri, Jun 19 the slowest trains will take 3 h 58 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.
5:50 PM3h58Bologna9:48 PMCologne€181One-way0 transfers
- 5:50 PM3h58Bologna9:48 PMCologne€181One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Bologna to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bologna to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €7. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 48m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €7, and a train costs an average of €18.
Distance: 163 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€18 Average price | €8 Average price Cheapest |
3h 18m Average total duration Fastest 2h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 45m Average total duration 3h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Compare prices and tickets Bologna to Cologne by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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 Bologna to Cologne trains with Omio?
Frecciarossa as well as Regionale, Italo, Intercity Notte and more offer trains services from Bologna to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bologna to Cologne.
Why book with Omio vs Frecciarossa?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Frecciarossa, but also compare tickets for the likes of Regionale, Italo or Intercity Notte to find the best option for your trip from Bologna to Cologne.
- 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 Frecciarossa with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bologna to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Raileurope?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bologna to Cologne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bologna to Cologne
ItalyItaly
Trains from Bologna to Cologne run on average 26 times per day, taking around 2h 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €18 but you can travel from only €7 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 20:36. The fastest train covers the 163 km distance in 3h 58m.
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
Bus from €7
Distance 163 km |
Average train duration 2h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price €18 |
Trains per day 26 |
Fastest train 3h 58m |
First train 12:20 AM |
Last train 8:36 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 21 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
Bus from €7
Train companies: Frecciarossa, Regionale, Italo, Intercity Notte from Bologna to Cologne trainsFrecciarossa, Regionale, Italo, Intercity Notte trains will get you between Bologna and Cologne from €7. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 22m
Cheapest Price
€271
Frecciarossa frequency
13 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
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
3h 58m
Cheapest Price
€18
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
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
20h 7m
Cheapest Price
€415
Italo frequency
1 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
FAQs: Trains from Bologna to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna to Cologne 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 Cologne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap train tickets from Bologna to Cologne can start from as little as €18 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Bologna to Cologne is €18; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by train from Bologna to Cologne is 3h 58m to travel the 163 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest train from Bologna to Cologne leaves at 12:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest train from Bologna to Cologne leaves at 8:36 PM.
There are 26 trains a day from Bologna to Cologne which require at least one change with Frecciarossa, Regionale, Italo, Intercity Notte. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.
Yes, there's a high-speed train to Cologne. Take the fast train with Frecciarossa, Italo from Bologna to Cologne.
When taking a train from Bologna to Cologne, you can count on Frecciarossa, Regionale, Italo, Intercity Notte for the best way to get you to Cologne. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Bologna and Cologne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
Yes, you can take a night train from Bologna to Cologne with Intercity Notte. Find all the info regarding night trains in Europe.
A trip to Cologne from Bologna is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 58m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Bologna to Cologne is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bologna and Cologne including taking a train and bus.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Bologna to Cologne
Bologna
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Bologna is Bologna Centrale. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bologna Centrale for your trip from Bologna to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information 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 transit 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
The major train station for arrivals in Cologne is Cologne. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cologne for your journey to Cologne from Bologna.
Cologne
Amenities at train station
Accessibilityinformation
Most popular train connections from Bologna
More options for your journey from Bologna to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Bologna
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