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Madrid, Community of Madrid to Bologna, Emilia-Romagna from $62: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Madrid, Spain
to
Bologna, Italy

How to Get from Madrid to Bologna: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$62 - PlaneBest price
1320 kmDistance
4h 59m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Madrid to Bologna with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  59m
Estimated price
$62-243
Recommended
route map
Distance: 1320 km
Duration: 4h 59m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
6h  50m
Estimated price
$69-338
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
5h  47m
Estimated price
$80-232
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
19h  49m
Estimated price
$169-616
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
18h  17m
Estimated price
$239-487
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
26h  36m
Estimated price
$614-616
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
31h  58m
Estimated price
$614-615
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
16h  20m
Estimated price
$615-616

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $91 $88 $94 $108 $92 $101 $88
Fly $79 $82 $78 $105 $84 $95 $113
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Madrid to Bologna

The journey from Madrid to Bologna offers travelers a fascinating contrast between the vibrant, fast-paced energy of Spain’s capital and the charming, relaxed ambiance of Italy’s culinary haven.

Best Neighbourhoods in Bologna

Bologna's neighborhoods each offer their own distinct character and charm.

Historic Centro
• Home to iconic landmarks like Piazza Maggiore.
• Vibrant with shops, cafes, and art galleries.
Bologna University District
• Lively atmosphere filled with students and young locals.
• Rich in culture with historic university buildings.
Santo Stefano
• Known for its picturesque streets and secret courtyards.
• Offers a tranquil escape with charming local eateries.

Best Times To Visit Bologna's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your experience at Bologna’s attractions.

Piazza Maggiore
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Basilica di San Petronio
Weekday mornings offer a calm atmosphere to appreciate its grandeur.
Two Towers (Due Torri)
Opt for late afternoon visits for breathtaking views and cooler weather.

Bologna Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Bologna experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and chilly winters; the best times to visit are spring and early autumn for mild temperatures. Understanding the weather helps you pack appropriately and plan activities, whether you prefer outdoor explorations or cozy indoor experiences.

Dining Recommendation in Bologna

Indulge in the rich flavors of Tortellini in brodo at Osteria dell'Orsa, where the handmade pasta shines with local ingredients and traditions. This dining experience contrasts with Madrid’s tapas scene by focusing on hearty, comforting dishes that tell the story of Bologna's culinary heritage.

Madrid - Bologna operators

Explore transport companies operating between Madrid and Bologna, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
ryanair.com

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Bologna (BLQ)

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
588-589

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Venice (VCE)

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
2187-2188
Website
vueling.com

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Bologna (BLQ)

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
588-589

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Venice (VCE)

Average Duration
2h 27m
Estimated price
2183-2184
Website
iberia.com

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Bologna (BLQ)

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
588-589
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+34 91 232 03 20
Website
renfe.com

Train from Estación de tren de Atocha to Barcelona-Sants

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
2186-2180

Train from Barcelona-Sants to Lyon Part Dieu

Average Duration
5h 1m
Estimated price
2186-2180

Train from Lyon Part Dieu to Geneva

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
752-58

Train from Geneva to Milano Centrale

Average Duration
4h 4m
Estimated price
21370-7510

Train from Milano Centrale Station to Bologna Centrale

Average Duration
1h 4m
Estimated price
2131-2187
Contact phone
+39 06 8937 1892
Website
italotreno.it

Train from Venezia Mestre to Bologna Centrale

Average Duration
1h 22m
Estimated price
758-756
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Estación Sur de Autobuses to Milano, Autostazione Lampugnano

Average Duration
22h 55m
Estimated price
7580-652

Bus from Milano, Autostazione Lampugnano to Bologna Centrale

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
2133-2134
Contact phone
+34 910 207 007
Website
alsa.com

Bus from Estación Sur de Autobuses to Milano, Autostazione Lampugnano

Average Duration
23h 45m
Estimated price
587-21330

Bus from Aeropuerto Madrid Barajas T4 to Genova

Average Duration
21h 25m
Estimated price
7580-21390

Madrid to Bologna: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Madrid and Bologna offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an exciting road trip from Madrid to Bologna, spanning a distance of 1074 miles. The journey offers breathtaking views as you traverse through the picturesque landscapes of Spain and Italy. 💶 Prices for the road trip from Madrid to Bologna range from €285 to €423, offering travelers flexibility in choosing their preferred budget and route. Be sure to plan your stops wisely to experience the diverse cultures and cuisines along the way. ⏰ Allow approximately 16 hours and 20 minutes for the scenic drive from Madrid to Bologna, ensuring a leisurely pace to enjoy the charm of the European countryside. Ready your playlist and camera for a memorable adventure on the open road.
Average price
€286 - €424
🚄 Traveling from Madrid to Bologna by train involves multiple transfers, starting from Estación de tren de Atocha in Madrid and passing through Barcelona-Sants, Lyon Part Dieu, Geneve, and Milano Centrale Station. The journey lasts approximately 18 hours and 17 minutes. 💸 Ticket prices for the train journey from Madrid to Bologna can range from €225 to €472, depending on the class of service and booking availability. Travelers should plan ahead and compare prices to find the best deal for their trip.
Departure Point
Estación de tren de Atocha station
Arrival Point
Bologna Centrale station
🛫 Experience a quick and convenient journey from Madrid Airport to Bologna Airport with a direct flight lasting 2 hours and 20 minutes. Choose from airlines such as Ryanair, Vueling Airlines, and Iberia for this route. 🌍 Cover the distance of 4 hours and 59 minutes by plane to immerse yourself in the vibrant city of Bologna from the exciting hub of Madrid. Enjoy the comfort and speed of air travel between these two fascinating European destinations. 💸 Find flight tickets ranging from €60 to €224 for the Madrid to Bologna route, offering flexibility in price points to suit your travel budget. 🇮🇹
Departure Point
Madrid Airport
Arrival Point
Bologna Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight with Ryanair, Vueling, or Iberia and check their websites for any special deals or baggage policies before your journey; Ryanair and Vueling often charge additional fees for checked luggage, so it's best to know your options in advance. (Ryanair: ryanair.com, Vueling: vueling.com, Iberia: (iberia.com)
• Upon arrival at Bologna Airport (BLQ), prepare for a straightforward navigation experience; the airport is compact, and after baggage claim, follow the clear signs to the taxi stand located just outside the arrivals hall, as finding your taxi is quick and efficient.
• Expect to pay approximately €20-€30 for a taxi from Bologna Airport to the city center, which usually takes around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic; alternatively, check for the Aerobus service which is a cost-effective option at around €6 and offers regular connections to the heart of the city. (Airport Transport: (bologna-airport.it)
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Madrid to Bologna, you can take a bus service operated by FlixBus departing from Estación Sur de Autobuses and arriving in Bologna after a journey including transfers that takes approximately 26 hours and 36 minutes. 💰 Ticket prices for the bus between Madrid and Bologna can range from €131 to €221, offering travelers an affordable option for those looking to explore Italy from Spain by road. Experience the picturesque views and convenience of bus travel on this transcontinental journey.
Departure Point
Estación Sur de Autobuses station
Arrival Point
Bologna Centrale station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Madrid to Bologna.

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The distance between Madrid and Bologna is approximately 820 miles. By train, it takes around 15 hours and 23 minutes to travel from Madrid to Bologna. Alternatively, you can fly to Florence from Madrid, which takes approximately 4 hours and 58 minutes, and then take a train to Bologna, which takes an additional 55 minutes. Another option is to fly directly from Madrid to Bologna, which takes around 5 hours and 55 minutes. Driving from Madrid to Bologna can take about 16 hours and 20 minutes, while taking a bus can take approximately 26 hours and 6 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Madrid to Bologna is by flying. It takes approximately 4 hours and 58 minutes to reach Bologna from Madrid by plane. The cost ranges from €50 to €228 depending on the airline and booking time. Taking a flight is both the quickest and cheapest way to travel between these two cities.
The prices of a train ticket between Madrid and Bologna range from €112 to €265. On the other hand, the prices of a bus ticket between Bologna and Madrid vary from €127 to €193. It is important to check for any discounts or promotional offers that may be available to find the best deal for your travel arrangements.
To travel from Madrid to Bologna without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 1074 miles, and it takes around 16 hours and 20 minutes to complete the journey. However, it is worth noting that the cost of driving can vary depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls, with prices ranging from €282 to €419.
To travel from Madrid to Bologna without a car, the best option is to take a train or a flight. The train journey takes approximately 15 hours and 23 minutes and costs €109-€273. Alternatively, you can fly which takes about 4 hours and 58 minutes with prices ranging from €50-€228. Another option is to take a bus, which takes longer at 26 hours and 6 minutes, with prices between €127-€200. Overall, both the train and flight options provide quicker and more convenient travel experiences compared to the bus.
There is no direct train or bus link between Madrid and Bologna. However, you can reach Bologna from Madrid by taking a train through Barcelona, Lyon, and Milan, which takes approximately 15 hours and 23 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Madrid to Milan and then transfer to another bus to Bologna, which takes around 26 hours and 6 minutes.
The flight between Madrid and Bologna typically takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes. The prices for this flight can range from €54 to €222, depending on factors such as the airline and the time of booking. It is advisable to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal.
There are a variety of accommodation options available near Bologna. With over 1342 hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices for hotels in Bologna start at €53 per night, providing travelers with a range of affordable options. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget accommodations, or something in between, Bologna offers plenty of choices for those seeking a place to stay.