Traveling by train from Naples to Bologna is quick, affordable, and offers multiple options to suit your needs. Here’s what you need to know:
- Ticket Prices: Standard class starts at $10.90 (€9.90), First Class begins at $21.90 (€19.90), and sleeper options are available for overnight trips.
- Train Options: Choose between Trenitalia‘s Frecciarossa (high-speed) and InterCity (budget-friendly) trains, or Italo’s high-speed services with three service classes.
- Discounts & Deals: Save with group discounts, age-based fares (under 30 and over 60), and advance booking promotions.
- Seat Reservations: Required for high-speed trains, costing $14 per seat.
- Booking: Tickets can be purchased online, via mobile apps, or at station counters. Rail pass users must reserve seats separately.
Quick Tip: High-speed trains are the fastest and most comfortable option, with free Wi-Fi and power outlets. Book early to snag the best deals!
Train Tickets and Classes
Standard Class Seats
Traveling in standard class on Trenitalia and Italo trains offers comfort and practicality, making it a great choice for short trips. Tickets for the Naples–Bologna route start at about $10.90 (€9.90). If you’re looking for extra perks, check out the First Class options below.
First Class Options
First class offers a quieter atmosphere, more room, and added perks for a more relaxed journey. Prices for first class on the Naples–Bologna route start at around $21.90 (€19.90).
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Seating | Spacious, comfortable seats, often leather |
| Services | Complimentary drinks and newspapers |
| Amenities | Power outlets and charging ports available |
| Ambience | Quieter carriages for a more peaceful trip |
For overnight trips, first class also includes private or double sleeper cabins for added comfort. Check out the Night Trains section for more details.
Night Trains and Budget Tickets
If you’re looking to save or need flexible booking options, here’s what to know. Booking in advance can get you economy fares starting at $21.90 for the Naples–Bologna route. However, same-day tickets, while more flexible, tend to cost more.
Standard class on overnight trains offers shared couchettes, accommodating up to six people per compartment. This is an affordable choice for long-distance travel while still providing a place to rest.
Train Companies
Trenitalia Services
Trenitalia runs both Frecciarossa high-speed trains and InterCity services along the route. Frecciarossa trains are equipped with modern features and offer different service levels, catering to those who value speed and comfort. InterCity trains, on the other hand, are a more budget-friendly option with longer travel times and the choice between first and second-class seating. This gives travelers flexibility to choose based on their priorities.
Italo Trains
Italo provides high-speed connections between Naples and Bologna, offering three service classes:
- Lounge Italo Club: Premium experience with spacious seats, catering, and personal screens.
- Prima Business Class: Extra comfort paired with complimentary snacks and drinks.
- Smart Class: Standard service featuring reclining leather seats and power outlets.
Certain classes also include Fast Track, allowing quicker access to platforms. All Italo trains come with free Wi-Fi, onboard entertainment, snack areas, and power outlets at every seat, offering a comfortable travel experience. These options align with the booking and pricing details covered in the next section.
How to Book and Costs
Where to Buy Tickets
You can purchase tickets through Trenitalia’s official website, their mobile app, or directly at station counters. If you sign up for a CartaFRECCIA account, you’ll unlock exclusive perks. Keep in mind that ticket prices fluctuate based on timing and demand.
Ticket Prices
Ticket costs vary depending on the service, class, and how far in advance you book. Booking early often means snagging lower Economy fares. Trenitalia also runs special promotions that can offer discounts on the standard base fares.
Ways to Save Money
Trenitalia provides several ways to save on travel:
- Group Discounts: The FrecciaFRIENDS program offers discounts of 20% to 50% for groups of 3–5 travelers. With the Bimbi Gratis deal, children under 15 travel for free, while adults on InterCity services can get a 40% discount.
- Age-Based Discounts: FrecciaYOUNG tickets are available for travelers under 30, with fixed prices of $19, $29, or $39. For CartaFRECCIA members over 60, FrecciaSENIOR fares start at $29.
- Frequent Traveler Options: The Smart Carnet program offers discounts on multi-journey passes – save 10% on a 5-journey carnet, 20% on a 10-journey carnet, and 30% on a 15-journey carnet. Additionally, past promotions like FrecciaDAYS have provided up to 60% off base fares for mid-week travel booked at least 21 days in advance.
Times and Routes
Daily Schedule
Trains operate from early morning until late evening. Frecciarossa high-speed trains cover the journey faster compared to InterCity services. During peak hours, departures are more frequent, while weekends see fewer options.
Route Options
Departure times impact the available routes. Trains between Naples and Bologna often pass through major cities like Rome and Florence:
- Direct High-Speed Route: This route connects Naples Centrale to Bologna Centrale through Rome and Florence, offering a quicker and more efficient option.
- InterCity Route: Similar to the high-speed route but with longer travel times and stops at key hubs along the way.
- Regional Connection Option: Requires one or more train changes, typically at cities like Rome or Florence. Travel time depends on the connection schedules.
Some parts of the journey feature scenic landscapes. For busy travel times, make sure to check updated schedules to plan your trip effectively.
How to Use Italy’s High-Speed Trains
Extra Costs and Rules
When planning your train journey, there are additional fees and rules to consider beyond the base ticket price and any promotions.
Seat Booking Rules
A seat reservation is required for certain trains. Traveling without one could lead to fines.
| Train Type | Reservation Required | Reservation Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Frecciarossa | Yes | $14 per seat |
| Frecciabianca | Yes | $14 per seat |
| InterCity (IC) | Yes | $11 per seat |
Changes and Refunds
Ticket modification and refund policies depend on the fare type. Flexible fares generally have lower fees for changes, while discounted tickets come with stricter conditions. Always check the specific terms of your fare when purchasing.
Rail Pass Bookings
If you’re traveling with a rail pass between Naples and Bologna, you’ll need to make a separate seat reservation. For premium services, early reservations are highly recommended. Key details to keep in mind:
- You can reserve seats up to 60 days in advance.
- On high-speed trains like Frecciarossa and Frecciabianca, reservations typically cost $14.
- Not reserving a seat may result in fines or even confiscation of your rail pass.
To avoid issues, make your seat reservations as early as possible, especially during busy travel periods. A rail pass alone does not guarantee a seat on these services.
Using Interrail Passes
Let’s break down some of the key details about extra costs for Interrail users.
Covered Trains
If you’re traveling with an Interrail Pass, you can access major train services on this route, including high-speed options. However, keep in mind that reservations are mandatory for Eurocity Brenner (ECB) and New Railjet trains when traveling within Italy.
Pass Holder Fees
Starting in April 2024, traveling on Eurocity Brenner or New Railjet services will require both a supplement and a reservation fee. Here’s a quick overview of the costs:
| Class | Reservation Fee | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First Class | $16.50 | Fee includes the required supplement |
| Second Class | $14.30 | Fee includes the required supplement |
| On-board Booking | +$5.50 | Extra charge if you book on the train |
"A supplement for Eurocity Brenner (ECB) / New Railjet (from April 2024) is mandatory if travelling to/from/within Italy" [2]
A few booking tips to keep in mind:
- When booking Eurail/Interrail reservations, there’s an additional $2.20 fee per passenger per train [2].
- Reservation fees can vary, especially if you book through travel agencies, and they’re subject to change [2].
Quick Facts
Here’s a snapshot of the Naples–Bologna train journey:
- Direct high-speed trains connect Naples and Bologna, offering reliable travel times.
- Choose from Standard, First Class, or sleeper options for your journey.
- Operated by Trenitalia (Frecciarossa, InterCity) and Italo services.
- Save up to 60% with advance booking discounts.
- Seat reservations are required for high-speed services.
- Rail passes are accepted but come with additional reservation fees.
- Trains run frequently, from early morning to late evening.
- High-speed services offer the shortest travel times.
- Discounts are available for groups and different age groups.
- Kids under 15 travel free with eligible adult tickets.
- Tickets can be booked via the website, app, or at station counters.
- Flexible fare options allow for last-minute changes.
These details make planning your trip quick and easy.
