Train service
Flixbus
FlixBus is a German intercity bus company offering affordable, tech-driven travel across Europe and beyond.
Train tickets
Omio
Omio connects you with over 1,000 transport providers - trains, buses, flights, and more - to simplify your travel planning.
Trainline
Trainline sells rail and coach tickets worldwide on behalf of major UK and European transport companies.
Raileurope
Rail Europe is a leading travel tech company specializing in European train bookings for over 15,000 travel professionals worldwide.
Rail pass validity
For travel by train from London to Bologna, the Interrail Global Pass is valid for EU residents and can be used for this journey, covering travel in multiple countries, including the UK for a limited number of trips. However, Interrail is not valid for travel entirely within a user's own country of residence. The Interrail One Country Pass is not valid, as it only covers travel within a single country, which would not cover this international journey from the UK to Italy. The Eurail Pass is valid for non-EU residents and can be used for travel from London to Bologna as it covers multiple countries within Europe, including these two.
Getting around
Upon arriving in Bologna by train, you will find it quite convenient to navigate the city using available local transportation options. Bologna does not have a metro system, so you can rely on its efficient bus network, operated by TPER, the main public transport company in the region. The central bus hub is near the Bologna Centrale train station, where you can get routes to various parts of the city. Tickets can be purchased at ticket machines, newsstands, or via the TPER app. Bologna does not have a tram network, but its extensive bus services effectively cover both urban and suburban areas. For shorter distances or a more personalized route, taxis are readily available at designated taxi stands or can be booked through taxi apps like IT Taxi or appTaxi. Additionally, ridesharing services such as Uber are not available in Bologna, but you may find local alternatives like RideMovi, a bike-sharing service, which is perfect for exploring the compact city center. Always check the latest information and maps for TPER buses to ensure the most accurate travel plans.
Onward connections
Bologna, centrally located in Italy, is a major railway hub providing convenient connections across the country and beyond. Domestically, the high-speed Frecciarossa and Italo trains offer frequent services to major cities such as Florence, which is about 35 minutes away, Milan taking approximately one hour, and Rome reachable in around two hours. These trains offer a fast and comfortable way to travel, with several departures daily. Connections to Venice are also efficient, with journey times of about an hour and a half.
For regional travel, the Trenitalia regional services link Bologna with nearby cities such as Modena, Parma, and Ravenna, providing a more economical option with slightly longer travel times.
Internationally, Bologna is connected to several cities through the EuroCity and other cross-border services. Destinations like Munich can be reached via a combination of Italian domestic trains and international services, with the journey taking around seven hours and involving a change in Verona. Other routes might require transfers at major hubs such as Milan or Turin for destinations like Paris, Zurich, or Vienna. These trips often involve high-speed trains within Italy followed by international train services, offering a comfortable journey with scenic views through the Alps and countryside.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Bologna is generally from late spring to early fall, specifically from May to October. May and June offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures, ideal for exploring the city’s historic architecture and open-air markets. Train travel during these months can be quite scenic, as the countryside is lush and green. September and October are also excellent times to visit, as the summer heat subsides, and the city is vibrant with students returning for the academic year, creating a lively atmosphere. These months often feature events like the Bologna Jazz Festival in October. July and August are the peak summer months and can be quite hot, though they often bring festivals and outdoor events, like the renowned La Notte Rossa, though it may also be more crowded with tourists. Prices for accommodations can be higher during peak periods, particularly in summer and during major festivals. January and February are the coldest months and tend to be quieter in terms of tourist crowds, which may lead to lower prices. Arrival by train is convenient year-round due to Bologna's central location and well-connected rail network.
Frequently asked questions
What affects the cost of a train ticket from London to Bologna?
According to EveryRail, train ticket prices on the route from London to Bologna are dynamic. Prices vary based on the time of booking. Early bookings often secure lower prices. Prices increase as the departure date approaches. Demand significantly impacts ticket costs. Higher demand periods, like holidays, elevate prices. The day of travel influences pricing. Weekends generally have higher fares than weekdays. The time of travel affects cost, with peak hours being more expensive. Class of service chosen also alters the price. Opting for flexible tickets can increase costs. Discounts and promotions occasionally reduce prices. Travel disruptions can modify original prices. Different train operators may set varying prices. Using railcards can provide price reductions.
What trains run from London to Bologna?
No direct train operates from London to Bologna. SNCF operates trains on part of the route. Flixbus operates buses on part of the route. Travelers must transfer between trains and buses for this journey.
How long does the train from London to Bologna take?
According to EveryRail, the train from London to Bologna takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
When is the best time to travel from London to Bologna?
Avoid peak tourist seasons. Midweek days are usually less crowded. Prices are often lower then. Demand increases on holidays and weekends. Early morning trains can be less busy. Consider weather conditions. Special events may affect crowds. Book in advance for better deals.
What’s the best route or train to take from London to Bologna?
No direct train services operate on this route. Travelers can create connecting journeys by combining operators that depart from the origin with operators that arrive at the destination.
What rail passes can I use to travel from London to Bologna?
According to EveryRail, no rail pass covers the route from London in Great Britain to Bologna in France.