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Want to find out more about taking the train from Lugano to Bologna? Look no further.
You'll usually find 42 trains per day running between Lugano and Bologna, which usually take 3 hours 40 minutes to complete the 252 km journey. It can take as little as 2 hours 32 minutes on the fastest services though, if you want to get there as quickly as possible. Although there aren't any direct services on this line, it's still easy to travel to Bologna from Lugano, you'll just need to make 1 change along the way. All or part of your journey will be onboard a train operated by Trenitalia, as they are the main carrier on this route.
You can save money on train tickets from Lugano to Bologna if you book in advance, as tickets usually start from $57.13. 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 train schedules (including first and last train times), FAQs and tips on how to book cheap train tickets.
It takes an average of 3h 40m to travel from Lugano to Bologna by train, over a distance of around 157 miles (252 km). There are normally 42 trains per day traveling from Lugano to Bologna and tickets for this journey start from $57.13 when you book in advance.
First train | 00:06 | |
---|---|---|
Last train | 21:55 | |
Departure station | Lugano | |
Arrival station | Bologna | |
Journey time | From 2h 32m | |
Distance | 157 miles (252 km) | |
Frequency | 42 trains per day | |
Changes | 1 change | |
Price | From $57.13 | |
Train and bus operators |
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 Lugano 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.
The average journey time by train between Lugano and Bologna is 3 hours and 40 minutes, with around 42 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
The fastest journey time by train from Lugano to Bologna is 2 hours and 32 minutes.
Train tickets from Lugano to Bologna can start from as little as $57.13 when you book in advance and are usually more expensive when purchased on the day. Prices can also vary depending the time of day, route and class you book.
No, there are no direct train services from Lugano to Bologna. Travelling from Lugano to Bologna by train will require a minimum of 1 change.
The first train from Lugano to Bologna leaves at 00:06. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
The last train from Lugano to Bologna leaves at 21:55. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
Trains travelling from Lugano to Bologna cover a distance of around 157 miles (252 km) during the journey.
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Bologna to Lugano.