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Each fare is the lowest adult economy ticket fare found by our customers on Trainline. Fares booked further in advance than the dates displayed may be cheaper. Prices are updated daily, subject to change and indicative of price last update. Limited availability. Discount cards and coach journeys excluded, prices exclusive of booking fee.

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How to travel from Milan Central Station to Bologna by train

Want to find out more about taking the train from Milan Central Station to Bologna? Look no further.

There are around 40 trains per day running between Milan Central Station and Bologna, which usually take 1 hour 13 minutes to complete the 125 miles (201 km) journey. It can take as little as 1 hour 4 minutes on the fastest services though, if you want to get there as quickly as possible. As soon as you board the train, you'll be able to make yourself comfortable and enjoy the journey as there are direct services available. Hop on a train operated by either Frecciarossa or Trenitalia to reach your destination in no time. These train companies are the main operators of services on this route and run modern comfortable trains to make your journey as relaxing as possible.

You can save money on train tickets from Milan Central Station to Bologna if you book in advance, as tickets usually start from £8.63. Use our Journey Planner at the top of the page to compare ticket prices and get the cheapest fares.

Want to book your train tickets now? Just start a search with us today. If you want to find out more about the journey, read on for timetables (including first and last train times), FAQs and tips on how to book cheap train tickets.

Milan Central Station to Bologna by train

It takes an average of 1h 13m to travel from Milan Central Station to Bologna by train, over a distance of around 125 miles (201 km). There are normally 40 trains per day travelling from Milan Central Station to Bologna and tickets for this journey start from £8.63 when you book in advance.

First train

05:10

Last train

21:50

Departure station

Milan Central Station

Arrival station

Bologna

Journey time

From 1h 4m

Distance

125 miles (201 km)

Frequency

40 trains per day

Changes

Direct trains available

Price

From £8.63

Train and bus operators

Autolinee Federico, Marino, Itabus, BlaBlaCar Bus, Trenitalia, Flixbus, Italo, Simet Bus S.P.A.

FAQs about the train journey from Milan Central Station to Bologna

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

How do you get to Bologna from Milan Central Station?

To travel to Bologna from Milan Central Station, you can take the train - on average, the journey takes around 1 hour and 13 minutes, though the fastest trains can take 1 hour and 4 minutes. Use our Journey Planner to get more information.

How long is the train ride from Milan Central Station to Bologna?

Trains from Milan Central Station to Bologna take an average of 1 hour and 13 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 1 hour and 4 minutes. You'll usually find 40 trains per day on this route, so use our Journey Planner to check specific dates as times may vary.

How much does it cost to get from Milan Central Station to Bologna by train?

Train tickets from Milan Central Station to Bologna can start from £8.63 when booked in advance, but they’re usually more expensive if bought on the day of travel. Prices may also vary depending on the time of day, route, and class you choose.

Can I get a high-speed train from Milan Central Station to Bologna?

Yes, you can get a high-speed train from Milan Central Station to Bologna in as little as 1 hour and 4 minutes on the fastest services. High-speed trains from Frecciarossa and Italo offer a range of classes and onboard services - take a look to see what suits you best!

Milan Central Station to Bologna train times

Check out the next trains departing from Milan Central Station to Bologna for Tuesday 31st December 2024. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
11:1012:241h 14m, direct
12:0013:041h 4m, direct
12:1013:241h 14m, direct
12:3513:421h 7m, direct
12:4013:541h 14m, direct
13:1014:241h 14m, direct
13:3014:341h 4m, direct
13:3514:421h 7m, direct
13:4014:541h 14m, direct
14:0015:041h 4m, direct

Trenitalia offers from Milan Central Station to Bologna

Frecciarossa, Italo, Trenitalia and Intercity trains from Milan Central Station to Bologna

You can travel from Milan Central Station to Bologna on Frecciarossa, Italo, Trenitalia and Intercity trains. When you search for times and tickets, we might also show you some other options with multiple connections or operators if they’re available.

Frecciarossa trains are Trenitalia's flagship high-speed trains, capable of reaching speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h). The "red arrow" trains are distinguished by their comfort, their ultra-modern design and their reduced impact on the environment. All Frecciarossa trains are equipped with a food carriage, free WiFi connection and 4 levels of service – Standard, Premium (with drinks and welcome snacks served on arrival, as well as a morning newspaper), Business (with drinks and snacks, morning newspaper and larger seats) and Executive (with Fast Track, access to FrecciaClub lounges in selected stations, and gourmet meals served to your seat). You can now also travel with Frecciarossa between Milan and Paris via Turin, Modane and Chambéry. The new Frecciarossa trains have 4 levels of service – Standard, Business, Executive and Meeting Room – and two types of carriage: Silence Area, for those who want to travel in total tranquillity, and Allegro Area, for those who want to chat with their fellow passengers.

Italo is a high-speed train operator that runs services between many of the major cities across Italy. All Italo trains are modern, air conditioned, and have free WiFi available for all travellers. There are four comfort classes, or "ambiances", as Italo like to call them – Smart (the cheapest price), Comfort (with wider seats and extra legroom), Prima (with a welcome selection of food and drink, fast track boarding and extra space), and Executive Club (with all Prima services, extra-wide seats, access to Italo Club lounges and personal entertainment screens at your seat).

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.

PhotoChris0693, under licence CC3.0

Trenitalia's Intercity trains run on standard lines outside the high-speed network, offering more than 90 trains a day that guarantee long and medium distance connections, ensuring wide coverage of the rail network. All Intercity trains are modern and comfortable with plenty of seats, retractable tables, power sockets, air conditioning, courtesy lights and plenty of luggage space. Intercity Night trains allow you to travel overnight in cabins with beds, berths or seating.

Frecciarossa, Italo, Intercity and Intercity Notte (night trains) classes from Milan Central Station to Bologna

Compare the different travel classes offered by Frecciarossa, Italo, Intercity and Intercity Notte (night trains) when travelling from Milan Central Station to Bologna.

Onboard services on Frecciarossa, Italo, Intercity and Intercity Notte (night trains)

Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Milan Central Station to Bologna.

LuggageLuggageLuggage
  • You can take your bags on board Frecciarossa trains free of charge.
  • In most cases, there are no luggage size limits. You’ll need to make sure that your luggage is compatible with the space available on board.
RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink
  • You can go to the FrecciaBistrò café-bar counter located in the middle part of the train to get snacks, main courses, and drinks.
  • You can also order your favourite meal from the comfort of your seat – go to the entertainment portal called Portale FRECCE and use the EasyBistrò service or ask a member of staff.
  • If you travel in Premium or Business Class, you’ll get a free snack and drink. If you travel in Executive Class, you’ll get a complimentary meal by the renowned TV chef Carlo Cracco.
WiFiWiFiEntertainment
  • You’ll find free WiFi on all Frecciarossa trains. Connect to their entertainment portal called Portale FRECCE and choose from a wide selection of movies, TV series, live news, eBooks, games, music, and podcasts.
  • You can also use Portale FRECCE to get the latest updates on your journey, as well as book other services that will help you reach your destination.
ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children
  • Children under 4 can travel for free if a seat is not assigned to them. If they do have a seat, they can get 50% off Base tickets (Frecciarossa’s standard fare).
  • Children aged 4-14 also get 50% off.
  • Bimbi Gratis offer: You can also get free travel for children under 15 plus 40% off Base tickets for adults, if you’re travelling in a family group of 2 to 5 people (including at least one adult and one child). 
ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes
  • You can travel with your bike for free on all Frecciarossa trains provided it’s not larger than 80 x 110 x 45cm.
  • Your bike must be disassembled or folded and stored in a bag in one of the dedicated luggage racks.
PetPetPets
  • Small pets can travel on all Frecciarossa trains free of charge if they’re placed in a carrier or cage of max dimensions of 70 x 30 x 50cm.
  • Bigger dogs are allowed on all trains if they have a half-price Standard ticket, they’re kept on a leash and equipped with a muzzle. You can’t travel with bigger dogs in Executive and Premium Class, in quiet carriages and in restaurant carriages.
  • Guide and assistance dogs are allowed on all trains at no additional cost.
WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

If you need to request special assistance, you can call: the toll-free number 800 90 60 60, which can be reached from a landline in Italy, or the national number +3902323232 which can be reached from a landline or mobile, even from abroad (international calling charges may apply).

InfoInfoOther

Air-conditioning is available on board. You can also charge your devices thanks to the power sockets you can find at your seat.

LuggageLuggageLuggage
  • You can take your bags on board Italo trains free of charge.
  • If you have a small bag or backpack, you can place it under your seat. If you’re travelling with a larger bag, you can place it on the luggage racks above your seat.
  • In most cases, there are no luggage size limits. However, if you travel in Italo Smart, your bags must not be larger than 75 x 53 x 30cm.
RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink

While there’s no bar or restaurant carriage on Italo trains, you can use the vending machines on board to get snacks and drinks during your journey.

WiFiWiFiEntertainment
  • Italo trains offer free WiFi and a free entertainment portal called ItaloLive, where you can choose from a wide selection of movies, TV series, live news, eBooks, games, music, and podcasts.
  • You can also charge your devices thanks to the power sockets that are available at your seat.
ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children
  • Children aged 0-3 travel for free on Italo trains if they don’t occupy a seat. However, if an adult travels with more than one child aged 0-3, they will need to pay for a seat.
  • Children aged 2-14 get 50% off the Flex fare if they’re travelling in Italo’s Smart Class.
ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes
  • You can travel with a folding bike if it’s stored in one of the dedicated luggage racks.
  • You can travel with a traditional bike if it’s disassembled and placed in a bag that is not larger than 80 x 110 x 40cm.
PetPetPets
  • Pets under 10kg can travel for free on all Italo trains provided they’re placed in a carrier or cage.
  • Pets over 10kg will need a ticket to travel with you. They must also be kept on a leash and equipped with a muzzle.
WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

Priority seats for passengers with reduced mobility are available on Italo trains. They’re usually located next to an accessible toilet. All accessible toilets also have tactile and Braille signs.

InfoInfoOther

Air-conditioning is available on all Italo trains, as well as at-seat power sockets.

LuggageLuggageLuggage
  • You can take your bags on board Trenitalia's Intercity trains free of charge.
  • In most cases, there are no luggage size limits. You’ll need to make sure that your luggage is compatible with the space available on board.
RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink

You can get snacks and drinks from the vending machines available in coach 3. Gluten-free and lactose-free options are available too.

WiFiWiFiEntertainment

At the moment, Intercity trains do not offer an entertainment portal on board. However, you can make use of your internet data, as well as charge your devices thanks to the power sockets that are available at your seat.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children
  • Children under 4 can travel for free if a seat is not assigned to them. If they do have a seat, they can get 50% off Base tickets (standard fare).
  • Children aged 4-14 also get 50% off.
  • Bimbi Gratis offer: You can also get free travel for children under 15 plus 40% off Base tickets for adults, if you’re travelling in a family group of 2 to 5 people (including at least one adult and one child).
ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes
  • You can travel with your bike for free on all Intercity trains, provided it’s not larger than 80 x 110 x 45cm. Your bike must be disassembled or folded and stored in a bag in one of the dedicated luggage racks.
  • If you can't fold your bike, some Intercity trains allow you to take your bike on board. However, you’ll need to book a space and buy a ticket. There are 6 bike spaces in coach 3 and 2 e-bike chargers.
PetPetPets
  • Small pets can travel on all Intercity trains free of charge, if they’re placed in a carrier or cage of max dimensions of 70 x 30 x 50cm.
  • Bigger dogs are allowed on all trains if they have a ticket, they’re kept on a leash and equipped with a muzzle.
  • Guide and assistance dogs are allowed on all trains at no additional cost.
WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

If you need to request special assistance, you can call the toll-free number 800 90 60 60 which can be reached from a landline in Italy, or the national number +3902323232 which can be reached from a landline or mobile, even from abroad (international calling charges may apply).

InfoInfoOther

Air-conditioning is available on all Intercity trains.

LuggageLuggageLuggage
  • You can take your bags on board Trenitalia's Intercity Notte trains free of charge.
  • In most cases, there are no luggage size limits – you can even travel with musical instruments and sports equipment. You’ll just need to make sure that your luggage is compatible with the space available on board.
RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink

A minibar trolley service is available on all Intercity Notte trains – you can choose from a wide range of snacks and drinks. Vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free options are available too.

WiFiWiFiEntertainment

Unfortunately, free WiFi is not available on Intercity Notte trains.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children
  • Children under 4 can travel for free if a seat is not assigned to them. If they do have a seat, they can get 50% off Base tickets (standard fare).
  • Children aged 4-14 also get 50% off, or 30% off if they’re travelling in the Comfort couchette or Deluxe cabin Relax.
ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes
  • You can take your folding bike with you if it’s stored in one of the dedicated luggage spaces.
  • If you have a traditional bike, you’ll need to disassemble it and place it in a bag that is not larger than 80 x 110 x 45cm.
PetPetPets
  • Small pets are allowed on board free of charge, if they’re placed in a carrier or cage of max dimensions of 70 x 30 x 50cm. You’ll need to buy a ticket for the whole compartment.
  • Bigger dogs are allowed on board if they have a ticket – it’s usually 50% off the Base ticket (standard fare).
WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

Intercity Notte trains have a coach with designated spaces for 2 passengers with a wheelchair and 2 companions. You’ll find a wheelchair symbol outside the coach.

InfoInfoOther

Depending on the class you’ll be travelling in, you’ll get to enjoy additional perks, including a wake-up service, breakfast, bedding and more.

Cheap train tickets from Milan Central Station to Bologna

The price of train tickets from Milan Central Station to Bologna starts at £8.63 one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. Booking on the day is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or class.

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 Milan Central Station 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.

§Some train companies may not offer any Advance ticket types or cheaper deals for early bookings. On rare occasions, train companies may choose to release special offers closer to the date on last-minute or late-release tickets. This is dependent on the individual train operating company you travel with.

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