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Trains from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna Centrale

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  1. Home
  2. Train times
  3. Cologne (Germany) to Bologna Centrale

Travel by train from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna Centrale

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

Generally, the train from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna Centrale takes around 11 hours 31 minutes, but can take just 6 hours 48 minutes on the fastest services. There are up to 25 trains per day from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna Centrale.

Direct trains are available on this route.

Booking early is one of the most effective ways to save money.

Start your search for train tickets from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna Centrale in our Journey Planner.

Trains to Bologna Centrale from Cologne (Germany)

First train

03:21

Last train

23:54

Departure stationCologne (Germany)
Arrival stationBologna Centrale
Journey time

From 6h 48m

Distance

489 miles (787 km)

Frequency

25 trains per day

Changes

Direct trains available

Train and bus operators

Flixbus

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna Centrale?

Want to know more about your journey from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna Centrale? 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 Centrale from Cologne (Germany)?

To travel to Bologna Centrale from Cologne (Germany), you can take the train - on average, the journey takes around 11 hours and 31 minutes, though the fastest trains can take 6 hours and 48 minutes. Use our Journey Planner to get more information.

How long is the train ride from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna Centrale?

Trains from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna Centrale take an average of 11 hours and 31 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 6 hours and 48 minutes. You'll usually find 25 trains per day on this route, so use our Journey Planner to check specific dates as times may vary.

What is the quickest journey time between Cologne (Germany) and Bologna Centrale by train?

The quickest journey time between Cologne (Germany) and Bologna Centrale by train is 6 hours and 48 minutes.

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

Yes, there are direct trains running from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna Centrale, you’ll usually find around 3 per day travelling on this route.

What are the train times from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna Centrale?

Check out the next trains departing from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna Centrale for Tuesday 18th August 2026. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
07:5418:2410h 30m, 3 changes
07:5419:2811h 34m, 2 changes
08:5419:0910h 15m, 5 changes
08:5419:2410h 30m, 3 changes
09:5421:1111h 17m, 2 changes
12:2219:166h 54m, direct
14:2321:116h 48m, direct
10:5422:3511h 41m, 4 changes
11:5423:0611h 12m, 3 changes
15:5406:2414h 30m, 3 changes

How do I find cheap train tickets from Cologne (Germany) to Bologna Centrale?

If you’re planning a trip to Europe soon, our Trainline team of experts have put together some tips to help you find cheap tickets. Booking on the day in Europe is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or travel class.

1. Be flexible with your travel times

If you can, consider travelling outside of 'peak hours' (generally between 06:00 - 10:00 and 15:00 - 19:00 on weekdays) as many train companies increase their ticket prices during these commuter times.

2. Buy a rail pass

If you're visiting multiple locations on your trip, buying a rail pass can be cheaper than buying individual tickets. We're official retailers of Interrail Passes that are valid for travel within one country or multiple countries across Europe.

3. Choose a slower or connecting train

On some busier routes, you might have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have some extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare.

4. Look out for train ticket sales and discounts

Many train companies in Europe will often run sales on tickets throughout the year or offer discounts to senior/youth/group travellers, so keep an eye out!

5. Take a night train

Save on accommodation and use the night to travel by sleeper train to your next destination.

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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