Trains from Lugano to Bologna Centrale
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Travel from Lugano to Bologna Centrale by train in 2 hours 32 minutes
If you want to know more about the journey from Lugano to Bologna Centrale by train, look no further!
The average journey time from Lugano to Bologna Centrale by train is 3 hours 38 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 2 hours 32 minutes. You'll usually find 42 trains per day traveling the 251 km between these two destinations. You'll need to make 1 change along the way as there are no direct services to Bologna Centrale. As the main train operator on this route, you're likely to be traveling on a service operated by Trenitalia for all or at least part of your journey to Bologna Centrale.
Book train tickets from Lugano to Bologna Centrale in advance instead of buying them on the day and they can start from $51.29. We'll always highlight the cheapest prices when you search in our Journey Planner.
Ready to book? Start your search for cheap train tickets with us today. Keep reading for more information, including our train schedule where you can view first and last train times, as well as tips on how to find cheap train tickets.
Lugano to Bologna Centrale by train
It takes an average of 3h 38m to travel from Lugano to Bologna Centrale by train, over a distance of around 156 miles (251 km). There are normally 42 trains per day traveling from Lugano to Bologna Centrale and tickets for this journey start from $51.29 when you book in advance.
| First train | 01:26 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 21:55 | |
| Departure station | Lugano | |
| Arrival station | Bologna Centrale | |
| Journey time | From 2h 32m | |
| Distance | 156 miles (251 km) | |
| Frequency | 42 trains per day | |
| Changes | 1 change | |
| Price | From $51.29 | |
| Train and bus operators | Trenitalia, Flixbus, Onebus, Marino |
Trenitalia trains from Lugano to Bologna Centrale
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.
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Trenitalia Eurocity classes from Lugano to Bologna Centrale
Compare the different travel classes offered by Trenitalia Eurocity when traveling from Lugano to Bologna Centrale.
Second Class
From spacious armchairs to power outlets and reading lights, you’ve got everything you need to enjoy your journey in EuroCity's Second Class.
- Seat reservation
- Power outlets
- Hanger
- Reading light
- Baggage storage
- Free WiFi
- Dining car
- More legroom
First 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.
- Seat reservation
- Power outlets
- Hanger
- Reading light
- Baggage storage
- Free WiFi
- Dining car
- More legroom
Onboard services on Trenitalia Eurocity
Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Lugano to Bologna Centrale.
- You can take your bags on board Trenitalia's Eurocity trains free of charge.
- In most cases, there are no baggage size limits – you can even travel with musical instruments and sports equipment. You’ll just need to make sure that your baggage is compatible with the space available on board.
- You’ll find a Bar-Bistrò on Eurocity trains that are travelling between Italy, Switzerland and Germany.
- A minibar trolley service is also available – you can choose from a wide range of snacks and drinks.
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.
Cheap train tickets from Lugano to Bologna Centrale
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 Lugano to Bologna Centrale 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.
FAQs for Lugano to Bologna Centrale
Want to know more about your journey from Lugano to Bologna Centrale? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
How long does the train from Lugano to Bologna Centrale take?
The average journey time by train between Lugano and Bologna Centrale is 3 hours and 38 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.
What's the fastest journey time between Lugano and Bologna Centrale by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Lugano to Bologna Centrale is 2 hours and 32 minutes.
How much does the train from Lugano to Bologna Centrale cost?
Train tickets from Lugano to Bologna Centrale can start from as little as $51.29 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.
Is there a direct train from Lugano to Bologna Centrale?
No, there are no direct train services from Lugano to Bologna Centrale. Travelling from Lugano to Bologna Centrale by train will require a minimum of 1 change.
What time does the first train from Lugano to Bologna Centrale leave?
The first train from Lugano to Bologna Centrale leaves at 01:26. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Lugano to Bologna Centrale leave?
The last train from Lugano to Bologna Centrale 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.
What's the distance between Lugano and Bologna Centrale by train?
Trains travelling from Lugano to Bologna Centrale cover a distance of around 156 miles (251 km) during the journey.
* Based on European average monthly visitors to Trainline’s app and website from 1.1.2023 to 10.31.2023 vs other independent retailers.