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What are the train times from Messina to Bologna?

Get from Messina to Bologna in as little as 10 hours 58 minutes on the fastest trains, so you can make the most of your time.

The average train journey from Messina to Bologna takes around 13 hours 35 minutes. There are around 8 trains that operate on this route daily.

There are direct trains running on this popular route from Messina to Bologna every day.

Trains on this route are operated by Trenitalia.

Booking in advance often results in cheaper ticket prices.

With our Journey Planner, you can check live train times, compare prices and check routes.

Trains to Bologna from Messina

First train

00:35

Last train

22:40

Departure stationMessina
Arrival stationBologna
Journey time

From 10h 58m

Distance

487 miles (784 km)

Frequency

8 trains per day

Changes

Direct trains available

Train and bus operators

Flixbus, Itabus, Treni Turistici Italiani, Trenitalia

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Messina to Bologna?

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

How do you travel to Bologna from Messina?

To get to Bologna from Messina, why not take the train? With 8 trains per day and an average journey time of 13 hours and 35 minutes, taking the train is a great way to travel. See our Journey Planner for up-to-date times and prices.

How long does it take to get from Messina to Bologna by train?

On average, it takes around 13 hours and 35 minutes to travel from Messina to Bologna by train, although you can get there in 10 hours and 58 minutes on the fastest services. With 8 trains per day running on this route, journey times may vary, so check our Journey Planner for more information.

How fast can trains travel from Messina to Bologna?

The fastest time a train can travel the 487 miles (784 km) from Messina to Bologna is 10 hours and 58 minutes.

Are there any direct trains from Messina to Bologna?

Yes, there are direct trains that run between Messina and Bologna. You'll usually find 1 travelling on this route each day.

What are the train times from Messina to Bologna?

Check out the next trains departing from Messina to Bologna for Monday 31st August 2026. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
23:3513:4714h 12m, 1 change
06:4017:3810h 58m, 2 changes
08:3021:5013h 20m, 2 changes
12:2003:2115h 1m, 1 change
13:4003:2113h 41m, 2 changes
15:4806:0714h 19m, direct
16:3006:0713h 37m, 1 change
21:4011:1513h 35m, 2 changes

Trenitalia trains from Messina to Bologna

You can travel from Messina to Bologna on Trenitalia 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.

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.

What Intercity Notte (night trains) classes are there from Messina to Bologna?

Compare the different travel classes offered by Intercity Notte (night trains) when travelling from Messina to Bologna.

What are the onboard services on Intercity Notte (night trains)?

Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Messina to Bologna.

LuggageLuggageWhat luggage limits are there?
  • 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.
RestaurantRestaurantWhat food and drink is available?

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.

WiFiWiFiWhat onboard entertainment is available?

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

ChildPassengerChildPassengerWhat facilities are there for travel 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.
ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeCan I bring a bike on board?
  • 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.
PetPetCan I bring pets on board?
  • 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).
WheelchairWheelchairWhat special assistance is available?

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.

InfoInfoWhat else do I need to know?

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.

How do I find cheap train tickets from Messina to Bologna?

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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