Train from Florence to Bologna

The high-speed rail network in Italy has cut travel times drastically all over the country, making day trips possible that weren’t before. The trip from Florence to Bologna was never as bad Milan to Rome, but with high-speed trains you can now cover the 67 miles (108 km) in just over 30 minutes. 

What this means for many travelers is the ability to explore the historic city of Bologna easily from a base in Florence. The drive would take more than twice as long, so the train is absolutely the most convenient option.

Frequent Trains from Florence to Bologna

There are at least 59 trains a day leaving Firenze Santa Maria Novella station for Bologna Centrale each day, the majority of which are direct high-speed trains. The high-speed train makes the trip in 35-37 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $17-23.

There are slower trains, many of which require changing trains along the way, that would make the trip at least 1-2 hours long. The ticket prices are $14-15 for these trains. 

Firenze Santa Maria Novella and Bologna Centrale are also both served by Italo trains, which will get you from Florence to Bologna in 35 minutes.

Note that weekends and holidays typically mean less frequent service and sometimes longer travel times.

Direct Trains from Florence to Bologna

There are numerous direct high-speed trains from Florence to Bologna each day, so there should be one that suits your travel schedule.

Amenities on Trains from Florence to Bologna

The top of the line AV trains are Frecciarossa, and these train your cars are all equipped with air conditioning and power outlets in your seat for your convenience. There are both 1st class and 2nd class cars. First class passengers get a free drink and a choice of newspaper. A cafe car is available to all passengers.

Frecciargento and Frecciabianca trains offer very similar passenger experiences to the top of the line AV trains, they’re just not as fast as Frecciarossa trains. There are both 1st class and 2nd class cars. Passengers in 1st class cars get a free drink and a newspaper. Both typically have a cafe car which all passengers can use, and power outlets are in both class cars at each seat.

Florence and Bologna Train Stations

Florence's Santa Maria Novella station, the main station in the city, is close to the historic center, and is a major hub for city and regional buses, making it easy to get to and from the station if you're traveling light.

Bologna Centrale is the main station in Bologna, and one of the busiest in Italy. It’s on the outskirts of the city center near the ring road, and served by several city buses.