Train from Milan to Bologna

Milan may not be on every traveler’s Italian itinerary, but it’s home to a major international airport and is well-connected via high-speed rail, so it’s a great entry point for an Italy trip. That’s especially true if you’re heading from Milan to Bologna.

The fastest high-speed trains in Italy can make the 132-mile (213-km) trip from Milan to Bologna in just over an hour, giving you ample time to settle into your hotel or get some sight-seeing done.

Frequent Trains from Milan to Bologna

The Milan to Bologna route is a popular one, partly because the high-speed Alta Velocità (AV) trains go through Bologna en route from Milan to points further south, including Rome.

There are at least 67 trains departing Milano Centrale each day bound for Bologna Centrale. These trips are usually direct and are primarily Frecciarossa, the fastest AV trains, taking just over one hour to get from Milan to Bologna. A Regionale train also connects the two cities, but the journey takes more than 2 hours and 45 minutes. Tickets cost $23-35.

There are two stations in Milan connected to Bologna Centrale on the Italo network - Milano Centrale and Milano Rogoredo. The trip takes from 1-1.25 hours depending on the station from which you travel.

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

Direct Trains from Milan to Bologna

There are numerous direct trains from Milan to Bologna each day, the vast majority of which are high-speed trains. Throughout the day, there is about one train departing per hour, but during rush hours, there are a few more trains. Chances are that there will be a train that suits your schedule.

Amenities on Trains from Milan to Bologna

The top of the line AV trains are Frecciarossa, and these train 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.

Milan and Bologna Train Stations

Milan's main station, Centrale, is also a local transportation hub with buses and trams stopping outside, and a Metro (subway) stop in a lower level of the station itself. Porta Garibaldi station is a smaller station, though it also has a Metro stop and several bus lines stopping nearby.

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.