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Travelling from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna by train

Looking to travel from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna by train? You've come to the right place!

On average, it takes around 12 hours 4 minutes to travel from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna by train, the fastest services can get you there in as little as 9 hours 54 minutes though. You'll usually find 16 trains per day running along the 490 miles (788 km) route between these two destinations. You’ll need to make 1 change during the journey to Bologna, as there currently aren't any direct services on this route.

Plan your trip ahead and book your train tickets in advance if you want to snap up the cheapest fares. Just start a search in our Journey Planner to view the latest prices for trains from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna.

If you’re feeling ready to book, start looking for cheap train tickets with us today. Keep reading for more information on the journey to Bologna by train, including our timetable where you can view first and last train times.

Cologne (Germany) to Bologna by train

First train

04:20

Last train

23:55

Departure station

Cologne (Germany)

Arrival station

Bologna

Journey time

From 9h 54m

Distance

490 miles (788 km)

Frequency

16 trains per day

Changes

1 change

Train and bus operators

Flixbus

FAQs about the train journey from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna

Want to know more about your journey from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How do you travel to Bologna from Cologne (Germany)?

To get to Bologna from Cologne (Germany), why not take the train? With 16 trains per day and an average journey time of 12 hours and 4 minutes, taking the train is a great way to travel. You can also catch the bus from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna. See our Journey Planner for up-to-date times and prices.

How long does it take to get from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna by train?

On average, it takes around 12 hours and 4 minutes to travel from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna by train, although you can get there in 9 hours and 54 minutes on the fastest services. With 16 trains per day running on this route, journey times may vary, so check our Journey Planner for more information.

How fast can trains travel from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna?

The fastest time a train can travel the 490 miles (788 km) from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna is 9 hours and 54 minutes.

Are there any direct trains from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna?

There are no direct trains that run between Cologne (Germany) and Bologna. You’ll need to make at least 1 change along the way.

Cologne (Germany) to Bologna train times

Check out the next trains departing from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna for Tuesday 4th February 2025. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
06:5517:0410h 9m, 5 changes
06:5517:2410h 29m, 3 changes
06:5519:1612h 21m, 1 change
07:5519:1611h 21m, 2 changes
08:5519:0410h 9m, 5 changes
08:5519:2410h 29m, 3 changes
12:5505:2416h 29m, 3 changes
16:5507:0414h 9m, 7 changes
16:5509:0416h 9m, 5 changes
16:5511:0418h 9m, 3 changes

Cheap train tickets from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna

Book in advance

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 Cologne (Germany) to Bologna by booking early.§

Be flexible with your travel times

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.

Choose a slower or connecting train

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!

Look out for special deals

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.

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