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Want to travel from Zürich to Bologna by train? Start your journey with us.
The train from Zürich to Bologna usually takes 5 hours 24 minutes on average to travel 387 km, although the quickest services can take as little as 4 hours 29 minutes. You can expect to find 25 trains per day running on this popular route. Good news! There are direct trains available to Bologna, so you can just make yourself comfortable as soon as you board the train and just enjoy the journey. Trenitalia are the main train operator on this route and will whisk you to Bologna in no time.
To help you get the best train deals, we'll highlight the cheapest train ticket prices from Zürich to Bologna in our Journey Planner. Just remember, the sooner you book your tickets, the more you'll save, as advance tickets start from $75.94.
Keep reading for more information about the train journey to Bologna, including FAQs, timetables with first and last train times and tips on booking cheap train tickets. If you're ready to book, just start a search for tickets with us today.
First train | 6:05 am | |
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Last train | 11:05 pm | |
Departure station | Zürich | |
Arrival station | Bologna | |
Journey time | From 4h 29m | |
Distance | 241 miles (387 km) | |
Frequency | 25 trains per day | |
Changes | Direct trains available | |
Price | From $75.94 | |
Train and bus operators | Trenitalia, Flixbus, Marino, Onebus |
Trenitalia is the national railway company of Italy, with a fleet including high-speed trains (Frecciarossa, Frecciargento and Frecciabianca), Intercity and Intercity night trains and regional trains. Trenitalia offers discounts and special promotions on selected routes, two types of discounted tickets for young people under 30 and people over 60.
From spacious armchairs to power outlets and reading lights, you’ve got everything you need to enjoy your journey in EuroCity's Second Class.
Start your journey by train and continue by bus to reach your destination. Enjoy some of the most beautiful Italian views on modern and comfortable buses.
Free WiFi is available on Eurocity Giruno trains.
Kids under 4 can travel for free if they're accompanied by an adult and don't occupy a seat.
Not all Eurocity trains allow you to take your bike on board – you’ll need to check in advance if you can travel with your bike. If that’s the case, you’ll need to buy a ticket and book your bike space before departure at the ticket office.
Guide and assistance dogs can travel for free and don't need a ticket.
All of Trenitalia’s Eurocity trains offer dedicated spaces to passengers with disabilities.
A quiet area (or Area Silenzio) is available on all Eurocity Giruno trains.
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Zürich to Bologna by booking early.§
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.