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  3. Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central Train

Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central train times

Find complete train schedules from Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central, highlighting the fastest travel time of 11h 48m. With 1 daily departures, the first train departs at 04:20 and the last at 04:20. Get real-time updates on Trenitalia and Italo train times, prices, delays, and cancellations to ensure a seamless journey.

Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central train journey information

Find detailed DB train schedules from Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central, including first and last departure times, stops, distance, journey time, train companies, and price options. Check train times and prices for a smooth journey.

First train
04:20
Last train
04:20
Departure station
Arrival station
Bologna Central
Distance
489 miles (787km)
Journey time
11h 48m
Price
From £99.99
Train operators
Deutsche Bahn

Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central train travel guide

Travelling from Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central with Deutsche Bahn (DB) trains is both efficient and comfortable. The average travel time is 11h 48m, and you can enjoy affordable ICE train tickets or regional train tickets.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

1. How long is the train journey from Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central?

The average travel time from Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central by train is 11h 48m. For those in search of the fastest route, the quickest journey takes 11h 48m. For detailed train information, accurate timings, and schedules, visit TrainPal and plan your trip smoothly.

2. Are there direct trains from Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central?

Yes, you can take a direct train from Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central. Using TrainPal, you can check detailed information on stops, schedules, departure and arrival stations, and train types, including high-speed ICE and regional trains. Look into ticket choices like Sparpreis, Super Sparpreis, and Flexpreis for the most economical fares.

3. What is the price of a train ticket from Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central?

The lowest price for a train ticket from Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central is £99.99, with the average cost being around £160.70*. Ticket prices can change based on booking time, train service, and available discounts. Therefore, check the latest prices for the best discounts. Enjoy cost-effective and flexible travel choices.

4. How often do trains run from Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central?

With a daily frequency of 1 trains, the route from Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central offers frequent service. This ensures that you can enjoy convenient and efficient departures throughout the day, providing flexibility in your travel plans. Be sure to check the latest timetable for the most accurate and up-to-date train timings and availability.

Onboard services

Onboard services

1. Can I bring my bike on the Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central train?

Yes, you can carry your bike on the train from Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central. Remember to book your bike ticket and reserve a space in advance to ensure an effortless journey.

Key Points:

  • Train Types: Bikes are allowed on local transport (Interregio-Express, Regional-Express, Regionalbahn, and S-Bahn) as well as long-distance transport (Intercity, Eurocity, ICE 4, ICE 3 neo, and ICE T).
  • Advance Booking: Book your bike ticket, reserve a space, and avoid peak times.
  • Pricing:Long-distance bike tickets start at €7.50, while local transport bike day tickets range from €6 to €6.50.
  • Check Local Regulations:Specific regulations for bike transport vary by region.
  • Properly Park Bike:Place your bike in the designated area as required.
Travelling by train and bike is both green and convenient.

2. Is Wi-Fi available on the ICE train from Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central?

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 Good to know

Good to know

1. Can I buy last-minute train tickets from Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central

In Germany, last-minute train tickets from Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central are available for purchase online, at ticket machines, and station counters. Nonetheless, it is highly recommended to book your train tickets in advance for better availability and pricing. It is not mandatory, but especially during peak travel periods, booking in advance can guarantee better seat availability and typically lower prices. Make your travel arrangements stress-free by booking early and enjoying the benefits of planning ahead.

2. What are the peak travel times for trains from Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central

In Germany, the peak times for train travel from Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central are generally during weekday rush hours, roughly from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Moreover, weekends, particularly Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons, along with holidays and school vacations, often experience increased demand. Booking tickets ahead of time during these periods is recommended to ensure a seat and potentially get better prices.

3. How early should I arrive at the station for my train from Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central

For a stress-free travel experience, it is typically advised to arrive at the train station at least 20-30 minutes before your scheduled departure. This gives you plenty of time to find your platform, navigate through any crowds, and address any last-minute concerns like finding your seat or getting snacks. If you are unfamiliar with the station or it is quite large, arriving even earlier is a good idea to ensure a smooth start to your journey.

4. Can I use a regional day pass for the Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central train?

Yes, regional day passes are valid on DB trains in Germany, but they are confined to regional trains within the specified region. Passes like the Bayern-Ticket or Niedersachsen-Ticket offer unlimited travel for a day on regional trains (such as RE, RB, and IRE) and some local public transportation, including buses, trams, and S-Bahn trains. However, they do not apply to long-distance trains like ICE, IC, or EC. Make sure to check the exact terms and conditions of the regional day pass to ensure it applies to your intended travel routes.

5. Can I use a Eurail pass on the Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central route?

Yes, a Eurail Pass can be used on DB trains in Germany. The pass is applicable on most DB services, such as InterCity Express (ICE), InterCity (IC), and EuroCity (EC) trains. However, for some high-speed or night trains, a seat reservation may be needed in advance, which might incur an additional fee. Verify the specific train requirements and arrange the necessary seat reservations to ensure a seamless travel experience.

6. Do I need a passport or visa to travel from Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central by train?

Domestic Travel Within Germany:
  • Passport: You don't need a passport to travel on DB trains within Germany. However, it is recommended to bring a valid ID, such as an ID card or driving licence, especially if your flight tickets require proof of identity.
  • Visa: If you have legal residency in Germany, you can travel on DB trains within Germany without a visa.
International Travel:
  • Passport: If you are using DB trains for international journeys, like traveling to neighbouring countries, you will require a valid passport or other acceptable travel documents.
  • Visa:
    • 1) Schengen Area: Travelling to or from a Schengen Area country usually doesn't require separate visas for each Schengen Zone country if you hold a valid Schengen visa or come from a visa-exempt nation.
    • 2) Non-Schengen Countries: When travelling to or from a non-Schengen country, you might require a visa based on that country's specific entry requirements.

Check the specific entry and travel regulations for your nationality and intended destinations. Contact the embassies or consulates for the most precise and latest information.

Find cheap Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central ticket prices

Sparpreis tickets

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Saver Fare

Super Sparpreis tickets

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Super Saver Fare

Flexpreis tickets

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Flexible Fare
 Find cheap Cologne Central Station to Bologna Central ticket prices

Exchange and cancellation

Instant ticket cancellation

  • Purchased your DB train ticket through TrainPal?You can cancel it for free within 3 hours of purchase and up to the day before its validity starts. Enjoy a full refund without any trouble!
  • Exchange and cancellation

    How to buy cheap DB train tickets

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    Use TrainPal

    Find affordable train tickets with TrainPal. We list second and first-class prices, and our journey planner secures the best deals. Use discount codes for extra savings.

    Super Saver from €17.99

    Super Saver tickets begin at €17.99 for second class and €23.99 for first class.

    Book early for ICE trains

    Secure lower prices by booking German long-distance train tickets (IC, ICE, EC) early; prices increase closer to travel.

    Regional Day Ticket

    Regional Day Ticket (Quer-durchs-Land-Ticket) offers unlimited regional travel in Germany for one day, from €46.

    IC and ICE overnight trains

    Explore Germany and neighbouring countries on IC and ICE overnight trains with super saver fares starting at €17.99 and saver fares from €21.99.

    Group travel for 6+ people

    Group of six or more? DB offers super saver fares from €8.90, and European fares from €13.90 per person.

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    * The lowest price is based on historical data to predict the cheapest fare over the next 7 days, but actual prices may vary.