Taking the train from Florence to Bologna
The high-speed Frecciarossa and Italo trains from Florence to Bologna take just 35m on the fastest services. Taking the train is fast, easy and affordable, making Bologna an excellent destination for a day trip from Florence. The Florence-Bologna route is very popular with tourists and locals alike, so there are plenty of services between the two cities. There are 57 direct services per day departing from Firenze Santa Maria Novella station and arriving into Bologna Centrale. Book your tickets in advance to guarantee yourself a seat on a high-speed service – we’ll send you etickets which you can print at home or keep handy on your phone for peace of mind.
Once you arrive in Bologna, you’ll be spoilt for choice over attractions to see and places to eat. Try some traditional egg pasta in a local restaurant, followed by some delicious gelato. Next, head to the Piazza Maggiore to see a Renaissance-era city square in its full splendour or visit one of the city’s many historical Basilicas. When Bologna is just 35m from Florence by train, it’s well worth a visit for a day, weekend or longer!
Ready to book trains between Florence and Bologna? Use our Journey Planner to compare train times and ticket prices. We’ll highlight the cheapest tickets and show you the different ticket options available. Not convinced? Scroll down to read more about the route from Florence to Bologna, including journey FAQs.
Florence to Bologna Centrale by train
| Journey time | From 34m |
|---|---|
| Price | From €4.75 |
| Distance | 51 miles (82 km) |
| Frequency | 76 trains per day |
| First train | 01:46 |
| Last train | 22:31 |
| Departure station | Florence |
| Arrival station | Bologna Centrale |
| Changes | Direct trains available |
| Train and bus operators | Autolinee Federico, Marino, Itabus, BlaBlaCar Bus, Trenitalia, Flixbus, Italo, Appennino, Consorzio Autolinee S.R.L. |
Frecciarossa, Italo, Trenitalia and Frecciargento trains from Florence to Bologna Centrale
Frecciarossa
Italo
Trenitalia
Frecciargento
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).
More information
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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Frecciargento "silver arrow" high-speed trains connect the main cities of the north-west, central and southern Italy at speeds of up to 155 mph (250 km/h). All Frecciargento trains are equipped with a food carriage, free WiFi, reclining seats and power sockets. There are two levels of service – First Class and Second Class. First Class travellers can enjoy reclining leather seats, welcome service with drink and a sweet or savoury snack, and a free morning newspaper.
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Cheap train tickets from Florence 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 Florence 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.
Journey details
How long does the train from Florence to Bologna Centrale take?
The average journey time by train between Florence and Bologna Centrale is 41 minutes, with around 76 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 Florence and Bologna Centrale by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Florence to Bologna Centrale is 34 minutes.
How much does the train from Florence to Bologna Centrale cost?
Train ticket prices from Florence to Bologna Centrale can start from as little as €4.75 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.
Is there a direct train from Florence to Bologna Centrale?
Yes, it is possible to travel from Florence to Bologna Centrale without having to change trains. There are 74 direct trains from Florence to Bologna Centrale each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
What time does the first train from Florence to Bologna Centrale leave?
The first train from Florence to Bologna Centrale leaves at 01:46. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Florence to Bologna Centrale leave?
The last train from Florence to Bologna Centrale leaves at 22:31. 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 Florence and Bologna Centrale by train?
Trains travelling from Florence to Bologna Centrale cover a distance of around 51 miles (82 km) during the journey.