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Train Cologne - Bologna prices from $15.81

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Cologne to Bologna by train

The journey from Cologne to Bologna by train is 489.2 mi and takes 9 h 40 min. There are 36 connections per day, with the first departure at 1:09am and the last at 12:57am. It is possible to travel from Cologne to Bologna by train for as little as $15.81 or as much as $293.45. The best price for this journey is $15.81.

Best Price $15.81
Journey Duration 9 h 40 min
Connection per Day 36
Lowest Price $15.81
Highest Price $293.45
First Departure 1:09am
Last Departure 12:57am
Distance 489.2 mi
Departure Cologne
Arrival Bologna
Carriers DB - Regionalbahn, DB - Intercity,

Cologne to Bologna Train Times

    Dec 07
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    Dec 08
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    Dec 09
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    Dec 10
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    11°
    Dec 11
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    12°
    Dec 12
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    Dec 13
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    Dec 14
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    Dec 15
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    9°
    Dec 16
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    11°
    Dec 17
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    Dec 18
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    8°
    Dec 19
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    10°
    Dec 20
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    8°
    Dec 21
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    6°
Departure date
Thursday,Dec 07 2023
5°

Get from Cologne to Bologna with Virail

Virail's search tool will provide you with the options you need when you want to go from Cologne to Bologna. All you need to do is enter the dates of your planned journey, and let us take care of everything else. Our engine does the hard work, searching through thousands of routes offered by our trusted travel partners to show you options for traveling by train, bus, plane, or carpool. You can filter the results to suit your needs. There are a number of filtering options, including price, one-way or round trip, departure or arrival time, duration of journey, or number of connections. Soon you'll find the best choice for your journey. When you're ready, Virail will transfer you to the provider's website to complete the booking. No matter where you're going, get there with Virail.

How can I find the cheapest train tickets to get from Cologne to Bologna?

On average, a train ticket from Cologne to Bologna will cost you $131.23. However, there may be cheaper alternatives available. Virail will show you the lowest prices available for your chosen travel dates, which could be as little as $1.54. If you are trying to stick to a budget, there are several ways you can seek out lower ticket prices. For example, if your travel dates are flexible, you might find that some days of the week are cheaper than others. Traveling during peak season will usually cost more, so avoid that if you want to save money. Even the time of day can affect the price of tickets sometimes. You can also look for an indirect route, which may be cheaper than a direct connection. Often, the cheapest train tickets can be found by booking well in advance. However, be mindful that many companies do not offer refunds or exchanges on their cheapest tickets.

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Cheap tickets from Cologne to Bologna
Looking for the best deal on a train ticket for your trip? Here are 4 ways to get cheap train tickets from Cologne to Bologna.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Cologne to Bologna, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.

Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys

Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from Cologne to Bologna.

Always check special offers

Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.

Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains

If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.

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Best time to book cheap train tickets from Cologne to Bologna

The cheapest Cologne - Bologna train tickets can be found for as low as $51 if you’re lucky, or $122 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $187.

Find the best day to travel to Bologna by train

When travelling to Bologna by train, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!

Carriers on this route

Find out more about the carriers on this route.

The ÖBB Nightjet, operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB), offers overnight train travel between major European cities, providing a convenient and comfortable way to journey through the night. The Nightjet trains are equipped with sleeping cabins, couchettes, and seats, offering passengers a comfortable and convenient way to travel long distances while they sleep. The service runs throughout Austria and extends to neighboring countries such as Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and the Czech Republic.

Deutsche Bahn is the German national railway company headquartered in Berlin, Germany which operates an extensive rail network throughout Germany, including high-speed intercity trains (ICE), regional trains, and local commuter trains.

Eurocity is a cross-border train service that connects major cities in Europe. It is a joint venture between national railway companies in different countries, such as Deutsche Bahn in Germany, SNCF in France, and SBB in Switzerland. Eurocity trains offer comfortable and convenient travel options for passengers, with amenities such as air conditioning, dining cars, and Wi-Fi. The service operates on a regular schedule and provides connections between cities such as Paris, Berlin, Milan, and Vienna. Eurocity trains are a popular choice for travelers who want to explore multiple destinations in Europe without the hassle of driving or flying.

EuroNight is a type of international overnight train service that operates in Europe. It is operated by various national railway companies and offers comfortable sleeping accommodations, dining cars, and other amenities for passengers traveling long distances. EuroNight trains typically run between major cities in different countries, such as Paris and Berlin or Vienna and Budapest. They are often a popular choice for travelers who want to save time and money by combining transportation and accommodation costs. However, in recent years, many EuroNight routes have been discontinued or replaced by high-speed trains, as the demand for overnight travel has decreased.

Frecciarossa, operated by Trenitalia, the national railway company, is a renowned high-speed train service in Italy. FRECCIAROSSA trains, reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h, connect major cities including Rome, Milan, Naples, Florence, and Turin.

HLB Hessenbahn is a German railway company that operates regional passenger trains in the state of Hesse. The company was founded in 2005 and is a subsidiary of HLB Basis AG. HLB Hessenbahn operates on several lines in the region, including the Frankfurt-Königstein Railway, the Taunus Railway, and the Main-Lahn Railway. The company also operates the Frankfurt Airport Express, which provides direct connections between Frankfurt Airport and several cities in the region. HLB Hessenbahn is committed to providing safe, reliable, and environmentally friendly transportation services to its passengers.

National Express is a British multinational public transport company that operates bus, and rail services in the UK, Europe, North Africa, and North America. The company was founded in 1972 and has its headquarters in Birmingham, UK. National Express operates a fleet of over 1,600 buses, serving over 900 destinations across the UK. The company also operates rail services in the UK, including the East Anglia franchise.

Swiss Federal Railways, or SBB, is the country's railroad organization. All around Switzerland, SBB offers passenger rail services with connections to nations including Germany, Austria, Italy, and France. SBB provides a range of train services, including high-speed trains, regional trains, and international trains, and offers different classes of service, from standard seating to luxurious sleeper cabins.

Ticket types and facilities from Cologne to Bologna

Compare the different ticket types and the facilities provided by EuroCity, Frecciarossa and Nightjet when traveling from Cologne to Bologna.

Second Class

With Deutsche Bahn's Eurocity trains, a second-class ticket guarantees you a more affordable journey. Throughout your trip, you can access basic facilities like electrical outlets, air conditioning, and a bar carriage.

WiFi
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

First Class

If you wish to elevate your travel experience in a quieter place with additional services such as adjustable seats, more legroom, catering service, and seat selection, you can opt for the first-class tickets on Deutsche Bahn's Eurocity trains.

WiFi
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

Standard

Standard is the basic level of service and includes a comfortable seat and access to basic onboard services. Coaches 5-8 are for the Standard level with seats covered in gray eco-leather.

WiFi
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

Premium

Premium service includes a wider seat, more legroom, and access to additional amenities such as a welcome drink and a choice of newspapers. Coach 4 on the Frecciarossa 1000 train is reserved for the Premium level.

WiFi
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

Executive

Executive is the highest level of service and includes all of the amenities of the Business level, as well as a personal entertainment system, and gourmet meals served by a dedicated onboard chef.

WiFi
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

Business

Business service is designed for business travelers and includes all of the amenities of the Premium level, as well as access to a dedicated Business Lounge and priority boarding. Coaches 2 and 3 of Frecciarossa 1000 are reserved for the Business level of service.

WiFi
Quiet zone
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

Seated carriage

These tickets are ideal for shorter journeys during the day, featuring comfortable seats in air-conditioned carriages.

Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

Couchette

These tickets provide a more affordable option for overnight travel, with bunk beds in shared compartments that can accommodate up to 6 passengers.

Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

Sleeper cabin

These are the most comfortable Nightjet tickets, featuring single, double, or triple compartments with beds, blankets, and pillows for a good night's sleep.

Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

Second Class

Deutshce Bahn's second class ensures a comfortable journey with standard seating arrangements with free Wi-Fi, power socket, and. Second class passengers can buy food and drinks from the bar/bistro car or restaurant car.

WiFi
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

First Class

First Class travel with Deutsche Bahn provides a luxurious experience with comfortable seats and many amenities such as spacious seating with personalized on-seat service and exclusive lounge access at major stations. First-class passengers can have their orders delivered to their seats, but if you do not want to wait, you can also dine in the restaurant car or buy food and drinks from the bar/bistro car.

WiFi
Quiet zone
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

Second Class

On SBB Intercity trains, in addition to basic amenities for Second Class ticket, there's a Family Zone specially designed to offer comfort for families with children. If you get hungry during the journey, you can enjoy tasty meals in the restaurant carriage.

WiFi
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

First Class

In the First Class of SBB Intercity, you can benefit from personal power socket, more comfortable seats, and larger luggage space. Some IC trains also offer quiet zones and business areas.

WiFi
Quiet zone
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

Facility Description

Find out more about the carriers on this route.

Power sockets
DB's EC trains feature recently updated coaches equipped with power sockets.
WiFi
Deutsche Bahn is progressively adding free WiFi to their EC trains.
Luggage
On DB Eurocity trains, you can bring any amount of luggage without restrictions. Store small bags either in the overhead racks or beneath your seats. For bigger luggage items, use the racks found in the compartments or close to the exterior doors.
Accessibility
The Mobility Service assists with boarding, disembarking, and train transitions. Additionally, the staff is ready to address any inquiries or provide support to ensure a smooth journey.
Food and drink
On EC trains, dine in the onboard restaurant or grab a quick bite from the bistro. First Class passengers receive complimentary meals at their seat. DB provides diverse, locally-sourced food options, including vegetarian and vegan choices.
Air conditioning
DB's EC trains now boast modernized carriages with air conditioning.
WiFi
On Frecciarossa trains, free WiFi is available. Use their Portale FRECCE service to watch movies, TV, and catch up on news. It also provides travel updates and additional booking options.
Quiet zone
Seek serenity? Frecciarossa offers designated quiet zones for Business Class to ensure a peaceful journey, free from distractions.
Power sockets
No matter the model – be it ETR 500, ETR 600, ETR 700, or ETR 1000 – every seat comes with its power socket to keep your devices charged.
Luggage
On Frecciarossa trains, you won't face any restrictions on the amount of luggage you can bring on board. You can easily stow small bags and items in overhead racks or under your seat, while larger suitcases can be placed in the luggage racks situated in the compartments or close to the exterior doors.
Accessibility
Special assistance is a call away for those who require it. Dial the toll-free 800 90 60 60 from Italian landlines or the international number +3902323232 from any phone, including from abroad.
Food and drink
Satiate your hunger at the FrecciaBistrò, stationed at the train's center. Or, for added convenience, order directly to your seat through the Portale FRECCE's EasyBistrò. Premium and Business Class travelers receive complimentary snacks and drinks, while Executive Class passengers delight in gourmet meals curated by chef Carlo Cracc.
Air conditioning
No matter the weather outside, stay comfortably cool with onboard air-conditioning.
Bicycle
Folding bikes are allowed as hand luggage, while non-folding bikes need to be disassembled and placed in travel cases shown to the conductor or platform staff before boarding, and stowed in a specific part of the train.
WiFi
Wifi service is currently unavailable on Nighthet.
Quiet zone
Private compartments are available on ÖBB Nightjets. In couchette cars, 1-6 persons (1-3 adults; max. 5 children up to the age of 14) can travel at a low fixed rate. Moreover, for everyone's comfort, there's a quiet time enforced from 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. Main lights in sleeper and couchette sections should be off during this period.
Power sockets
Apart from standard outlets, the new Nightjet offers USB charging and inductive charging stations.
Luggage
When travelling on an ÖBB Nightjet train, you're allowed to check only one suitcase and one piece of hand luggage. Ensure your luggage is stored in a manner that doesn't inconvenience or obstruct others. Remember the guidelines for luggage storage: Easily stowable items should go in the overhead racks, while bulkier luggage should be placed under the seat or in designated luggage racks. Always keep passageways, doors, and escape routes clear for everyone's safety.
Accessibility
Certain routes offer coaches with wheelchair-friendly compartments and nearby restrooms, accommodating a passenger with a wheelchair and a companion.
Food and drink
Day coach travelers can buy snacks and drinks from onboard staff. Couchette ticket holders get mineral water and a Viennese breakfast. Sleeper cabin passengers enjoy a welcome drink, evening snack, mineral water, and a customized breakfast. Specific dietary requests for Nightjet meals should be emailed at least 72 hours before departure.
Air conditioning
Every compartment in sleeper, couchette, and seating carriages has individual air conditioning controls.
Bicycle
On Nightjets connecting Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, bikes are welcome with a specific ticket and reservation. ÖBB Nightjet also allows items like pushchairs and musical instruments. Use the ÖBB service to transport bikes within Austria. Folding bikes are free if they're within 110 cm x 80 cm x 40 cm. Ensure e-bike batteries are charged, and note bikes can't be on buses during rail interruptions.
WiFi
On ICE trains, enjoy free WiFi and access the ICE portal for movies, TV shows, audiobooks, games, and reading material.
Quiet zone
Seek tranquillity on ICE Frankfurt in Coach 21 (second class) and Coach 28/29 (first class). On ICE 104/105 Basel, it's Coach 31 (second class) and Coach 38/39 (first class).
Power sockets
Stay charged with a power socket available for every two seats on the train.
Luggage
On ICE-trains, you can bring any amount of luggage without restrictions. Store small bags either in the overhead racks or beneath your seats. For bigger luggage items, use the racks found in the compartments or close to the exterior doors.
Accessibility
For assistance in boarding, changing trains, or other queries, reach out to DB’s Mobility Service. The staff is always ready to assist and ensure a smooth journey.
Food and drink
With ICE, choose between a full menu at the onboard restaurant or quick snacks at the bistro. For First Class passengers, complimentary food and drinks are served directly to your seat. DB's diverse menu, updated quarterly, features local and vegetarian/vegan options.
Air conditioning
ICE trains not only offer air conditioning but are also innovating with eco-friendly systems that both cool and heat using natural refrigerants.
Bicycle
On Deutsche Bahn trains, make sure it's disassembled and snugly packed in a case or cover with your name labeled on it, and you can bring it on board for free. You're also allowed one regular and one hand luggage item. Just ensure your bike doesn't get in the way of other travelers or block aisles. Note: Special bikes aren't permitted, but if you're an international traveler, there's no need to worry about peak-time restrictions.
WiFi
Deutsche Bahn is rolling out free WiFi on their IC trains, with some already offering the service.
Power sockets
All seats in both classes have power sockets on DB IC trains.
Luggage
On IC trains, you can bring any amount of luggage without restrictions. Store small bags either in the overhead racks or beneath your seats. For bigger luggage items, use the racks found in the compartments or close to the exterior doors.
Accessibility
Deutsche Bahn's Mobility Service provides assistance for boarding, disembarking, and train transfers. Staff are on hand to address questions and ensure a smooth trip.
Food and drink
On the DB IC trains, there's a restaurant for meals or a bistro for snacks. You can eat at the bistro or in your seat. First Class passengers get free food at their seat. The menu changes but always has local food, including vegetarian and vegan choices.
Air conditioning
Intercity trains have air-conditioned sections.
Bicycle
For IC trains, a ticket and reservation are required for bicycles, with the reservation cost included. Bikes are typically stored in second class carriages, though your seat may be elsewhere.
Services on board DB - Regionalbahn, DB - Intercity and National Express from Cologne to Bologna
Compare services on board when travelling from Cologne to Bologna by train.
Facilities DB - Regionalbahn DB - Intercity National Express ÖBB - Interregio (IR) DB - EuroCity Express (ECE) DB - InterCity Express (ICE) Frecciarossa DB - Regional Express Nightjet SBB EuroNight Deutsche Bahn HLB Hessenbahn DB - InterCityNight EuroCity
Quiet zone
WiFi
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle
Sleeper

Cologne to Bologna CO2 Emissions by Train

Ecology
Train
4.6kg
Bus
30.4kg
Flight
1,214.9kg
Car
117.2kg
What are the CO2 emissions from Cologne to Bologna by train? The CO2 emissions from taking the train between Cologne and Bologna are 4.6kg.
How much CO2 do I save by taking the train between Cologne and Bologna? By taking the train between Cologne and Bologna you will save 1,210.3kg CO2 emissions compared to a flight, 25.8kg compared to a bus and 112.6kg compared to a car.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a train ticket from Cologne to Bologna?
A train ticket from Cologne to Bologna is $157.38. However the price varies depending on how early you buy, and if it's peak time to travel. Occasionally you can find them for as cheap as $15.81.
What's the cheapest train ticket from Cologne to Bologna?
The cheapest ticket you can get from Cologne to Bologna is $15.81. We recommend booking as early as possible and off-peak hours to get the cheapest ticket possible. Off-peak times are usually from 09:30 to 16:00, and after 19:00.
What's the distance between Cologne and Bologna by train?
Cologne to Bologna is 489.2 mi.
How long does the train between Cologne and Bologna take?
Cologne to Bologna is on average 13 h 29 min. However the fastest option will get you there in 9 h 40 min.
Which companies operate from Cologne to Bologna?
The train journey from Cologne to Bologna is covered by 17 operator(s). On Virail you can find these carriers that provide services on this route: DB - Regionalbahn, DB - Intercity, National Express, ÖBB - Interregio (IR), DB - EuroCity Express (ECE), DB - InterCity Express (ICE), Frecciarossa, DB - Regional Express, Nightjet, SBB, Eurocity Brenner, EuroNight, Regionale Veloce, Deutsche Bahn, HLB Hessenbahn, DB - InterCityNight, EuroCity.
How many train connections per day go from Cologne to Bologna?
Cologne to Bologna has 36 connection(s) per day on average.
What time does the first train from Cologne to Bologna leave?
The earliest train from Cologne to Bologna departs at 1:09am. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
What time does the last train from Cologne to Bologna depart?
The latest train from Cologne to Bologna departs at 12:57am. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
Should I book my ticket from Cologne to Bologna in advance?
If you can, we recommend booking your ticket as early as possible to ensure you get better savings. The cheapest train ticket we have found is $15.81 but this may be subject to change depending on the day of travel, hour you wish to depart and how far in advance you book.
From which stations can I leave from Cologne to Bologna?
There are 5 station(s) that you can depart from Cologne to go to Bologna. You can go from Koeln-muelheim, Koeln/bonn Flughafen, Koeln Hbf, Koeln-deutz Gl.11-12 and Cologne Mülheim and you can arrive at Bologna Borgo Panigale, Bologna Main Station and Bologna Centrale.
What's the fastest journey time between Cologne to Bologna by train?
The fastest journey time by train between Cologne and Bologna is 9 h 40 min.
Is there a direct train from Cologne to Bologna?
Yes, there is a direct train between Cologne and Bologna.
What are the CO2 emissions for Cologne to Bologna by train?
The train journey from Cologne to Bologna creates 4.6kg of CO2 emissions.

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