Navigating public transportation can be a pain, especially in a new city. But don't stress! There are tons of apps that make getting around super easy. These apps use real-time data to show you exactly where your bus or train is, how long your trip will take, and even the best route to take. Some even let you buy tickets directly through the app!
A few of the best apps out there are Moovit, Citymapper, and Transit • Subway & Bus Times. These apps all have super clear interfaces and tons of features, like live tracking, real-time arrival times, and service alerts. Whether you're in a big city or a smaller town, these apps have got your back.
| App | Logo | Available On | Reviews | Downloads | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Moovit |  | Android, iOS | 4.6/5 | 159M+ | Live arrival information, Real-time navigation, Multimodal trip planning |
| 2. Citymapper |  | Android, iOS | 4.8/5 | 17M+ | Real-time trip comparison, Turn-by-turn navigation |
| 3. Transit • Subway & Bus Times |  | Android, iOS | 4.5/5 | 16M+ | Accurate real-time info, Trip comparisons, Service disruption alerts |
| 4. GoPass ® |  | Android | 4.7/5 | 713K+ | Mobile ticketing, Real-time trip planning, Digital GoPass Wallet |
| 5. Token Transit |  | Android, iOS | 4.1/5 | 635K+ | Easy ticket purchase, Convenient ticket storage, Quick ticket activation |
| 6. DoubleMap Bus Tracker |  | Android, iOS | 4/5 | 435K+ | Real-time GPS tracking, View specific routes, View current location |
| 7. TransLoc |  | Android, iOS | 3/5 | 380K+ | Real-time bus tracking, Trip planning, Ride-sharing |
1. Moovit
Real-time arrival information, Door-to-door navigation guidance
Cost:
Moovit Free (Free), Moovit Premium (USA) ($1.99/month)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Public Transit App |
| Downloads | Over 159 million downloads |
| Features | Moovit provides real-time information, trip planning, directions, and navigation for public transit systems worldwide. |
| Who It’s For | Anyone who relies on public transportation for daily commutes or travel |
- Tags:
- Real-time transit info
- Trip planner with alerts
- Live bus and train tracking
Moovit is a game-changer for navigating public transit, especially when you're on a tight schedule and need precise information. Users rave about its ability to calculate routes down to the second, providing real-time updates and accurate arrival times. While the app has some minor hiccups with location detection, users trust the developers to continue improving its functionality. Moovit's strengths extend beyond mere scheduling, allowing users to seamlessly blend different modes of transportation – from buses and trains to bikes and e-scooters – to find the most efficient and personalized route. Whether you're navigating a familiar city or exploring a new one, Moovit helps you unlock the full potential of urban mobility.
Pros & Cons
- Accurate public transit info
- Mixes modes of transport
- Good for international travel
- Provides various route options
- Location detection issues
- Calendar feature not reliable
- Direction arrows not functional
- Support response unsatisfactory
Why we chose it?
Moovit is my go-to for navigating Boston's public transit system. It's super easy to use, with real-time updates and directions that guide you right to your stop. Plus, it integrates with ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, so you can seamlessly combine different modes of transportation for the most convenient journey.
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2. Citymapper
Real-time transit updates, Multimodal route planning, Detailed trip information
Cost:
Free (Free), Citymapper Pro (USA) ($14.99/month)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Public Transit App |
| Downloads | Over 17 Million Downloads |
| Features | Citymapper provides real-time public transportation, walking, cycling, and scooter navigation with turn-by-turn directions, route planning, and comparisons across multiple modes. |
| Who It’s For | Commuters, travelers, and anyone looking for the most efficient and comprehensive way to navigate a city. |
- Tags:
- Real-time transit info
- Multimodal trip planning
- Step-by-step navigation
Citymapper is a highly-rated public transit app that excels at providing a comprehensive view of your city's transportation options. It seamlessly integrates buses, subways, trains, ferries, taxis, ride-sharing, car-sharing, bike-sharing, e-scooters, and walking into one easy-to-use interface. While users praise its ability to share real-time ETAs with contacts for safety, some find its lack of customization frustrating, like the inability to filter or sort results and the lack of settings to tailor the app to personal preferences. Despite these shortcomings, Citymapper remains a popular choice for navigating the complexities of public transportation, especially for those who appreciate its ability to combine different modes of transport for a truly efficient and comprehensive journey.
Pros & Cons
- Share location ETA with contacts
- Accurate bus times and updates
- Combines bus and subway routes
- Offers bike-to-transit directions
- Lacks ride type selection for trips
- No in-route modification or stop changes
- Limited customization and filter options
Why we chose it?
Citymapper is my go-to for navigating Boston's public transit. It's incredibly helpful for planning trips, and I love that it integrates all the different transportation options, including the T, buses, ferries, and even ride-sharing services. It even shows me the real-time status of trains, so I can avoid delays and get to my destination on time!
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3. Transit • Subway & Bus Times
Real-time bus and train tracking, Accurate next departure times
Cost:
Free (Free), Transit Pro (Annual) ($19.99/year)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Maps & Navigation |
| Downloads | Over 15 million downloads |
| Features | Transit is a public transit app that provides real-time information, trip planning, service disruption alerts, and tracking for buses, trains, and subways. |
| Who It’s For | People who use public transportation in over 300 cities around the world. |
Transit • Subway & Bus Times is a public transit app that's been hailed as a "killer app" by the Wall Street Journal and praised for its convenience by users. The app boasts features that go beyond basic route planning, offering real-time tracking with clear notifications of upcoming stops and wait times for buses. One user, who switched from Google Maps, found the app's ability to provide precise updates on their journey – like a "two stops away" alert – to be invaluable. While the app isn't perfect, users appreciate its free access and overall reliability compared to other paid options, highlighting the value of accurate information for public transit riders.
Pros & Cons
- Provides real-time bus tracking
- Offers accurate arrival time estimates
- Free to use with no subscription fees
- User-friendly interface and easy navigation
- GPS location of buses can be inaccurate
- Sometimes shows wrong bus numbers for arriving buses
- No way to report incorrect bus information
Why we chose it?
Transit is my go-to app for navigating Boston's public transportation system. It's super accurate, so I can always trust the real-time arrival times and service alerts. And with its easy-to-use trip planner, I can quickly find the best route, whether it's by bus, subway, or even a combination of both. Transit truly makes getting around Boston a breeze!
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4. GoPass ®
Buy passes, store, use, Real-time trip planning, Track your ride status
Download:
Application information
| Category | Public Transit App |
| Downloads | Over 700,000 downloads |
| Features | GoPass offers mobile ticketing, real-time trip planning with navigation, digital wallet for payments, cash to mobile option, and route/stop/pass type personalization. |
| Who It’s For | GoPass is designed for anyone who uses public transportation in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and other supported cities. |
- Tags:
- Mobile Ticketing
- Real-Time Trip Planning
- Digital GoPass Wallet
GoPass is a public transit app that aims to simplify your commuting experience, offering mobile ticketing, real-time trip planning, and a digital wallet for convenient payments. While the app has made strides in functionality, some users have expressed concerns about its reliability. Issues like requiring constant internet access for basic features, including viewing tickets, lead to awkward situations when connectivity is unavailable. Additionally, the trip planner has been criticized for its inaccurate walking instructions and limitations for longer journeys. While GoPass demonstrates potential, it still requires improvements in offline functionality and trip planning accuracy to truly become a seamless and dependable public transit companion.. GoPass ®
Pros & Cons
- Convenient way to pay for transit
- Provides real-time bus and train schedules
- Offers trip planning and navigation features
- Improved app stability and functionality over time
- Requires internet connection for use
- Glitchy walking instructions and trip planner
- Limited trip planning for long distances
Why we chose it?
I absolutely love GoPass! It's a lifesaver for navigating Boston's public transit. The app lets me buy passes, track my routes, and even find real-time information about delays, all in one place. GoPass is super easy to use and way more convenient than buying paper tickets. Plus, the ability to load cash onto my digital GoPass Wallet is a game-changer for those times when I forget my credit card. I highly recommend GoPass to anyone who relies on public transportation in Boston!
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5. Token Transit
Buy passes directly on your phone, Ride without cash or physical tickets
Download:
Application information
| Category | Public Transit App |
| Downloads | Over 634,000 downloads |
| Features | Token Transit enables users to purchase transit passes, activate tickets, and track their rides, all within a convenient mobile app. |
| Who It’s For | Commuters and travelers seeking a streamlined and user-friendly way to manage their public transit needs. |
- Tags:
- Easy mobile ticketing
- Quick and convenient
- Multiple transit agencies
Token Transit is a public transit app that promises a seamless and convenient way to buy and use passes on your phone. While users rave about its ease of use and the elimination of physical passes, some have experienced frustrating glitches. Some users report the app unexpectedly hijacking their phone's volume controls, while others have encountered issues with passes not validating properly. Although these hiccups can be infuriating, the app's potential for ease and convenience remains a tempting proposition for commuters.
Pros & Cons
- Convenient for buying passes
- Eliminates need for physical passes
- Can be used on multiple devices
- Saves time when boarding transit
- Inconsistent performance
- Can cause phone volume issues
- Not reliable for frequent use
Why we chose it?
Token Transit is my go-to for navigating Boston's public transportation! I love that it lets me buy passes directly through the app, so I don't have to worry about carrying cash or figuring out complicated fare structures. Plus, it seamlessly integrates with my phone's wallet, making it super convenient to activate my ticket right before I board.
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6. DoubleMap Bus Tracker
Real-time bus location tracking, Route and stop information display
Download:
Application information
| Category | Public Transit App |
| Downloads | Over 434,000 downloads |
| Features | DoubleMap lets you track buses in real-time, view routes and stops, see your location, and get alerts about delays and rerouting. |
| Who It’s For | Anyone who uses public transportation to get around, especially those in cities with supported bus and shuttle systems. |
- Tags:
- Real-time bus tracking
- GPS-based location
- Route and stop information
DoubleMap Bus Tracker is a public transit app that has the potential to revolutionize your commute. Users rave about its ability to track buses in real time, saving them countless hours and eliminating the anxiety of missing a ride. The app provides regular updates and accurate locations, allowing you to make informed decisions about your travel plans. While some users have reported issues with route switching and app functionality, the overall consensus is that DoubleMap is a valuable tool for anyone who relies on public transportation.
Pros & Cons
- Real-time bus tracking
- Saves time and effort
- Reliable information updates
- Supports various transit types
- Android app instability
- Difficult route switching
- Limited search options
Why we chose it?
I've been using DoubleMap for years, and it's my go-to for navigating Boston's public transit! I love that it shows me exactly where my bus is in real-time, so I never have to wait at a stop wondering if it's coming. Plus, the app's super user-friendly and includes all the key routes and schedules I need, making getting around the city a breeze.
7. TransLoc
Real-time bus arrival predictions, Trip planner with multiple options
Download:
Application information
| Category | Public Transit App |
| Downloads | Over 379,000 downloads |
| Features | TransLoc offers real-time bus arrival information, trip planning, ride-sharing options, and access to scheduled and estimated arrival times. |
| Who It’s For | People who rely on public transportation to get around and need a comprehensive app for managing their trips. |
- Tags:
- Real-time Tracking
- Trip planning
- Ride Sharing
TransLoc is a public transit app that aims to streamline your commutes by providing real-time bus arrival information and even allowing you to request rides. While the app offers some helpful features like text notifications when your bus is en route, it has been criticized for its clunky user interface and inconsistent performance. Users have expressed frustration with the app's limitations, such as the inability to view requested rides across multiple devices and the lack of options to update personal information. The app has also been plagued by long wait times due to insufficient drivers, making it difficult to rely on the app's estimated arrival times. Despite these shortcomings, TransLoc shows promise as a public transit app, particularly for its friendly drivers and its recent addition of a route-planning feature.
Pros & Cons
- Provides real-time bus arrival
- Offers ride request feature
- Convenient text notifications
- Friendly drivers
- Inconsistent wait times
- Poorly designed user interface
- Limited route viewing options
Why we chose it?
TransLoc is my go-to app for navigating Boston's public transit system. It's incredibly user-friendly, providing real-time arrival predictions for buses and trains, so I can always plan my trips with confidence. What I love most is its integration with the MBTA, giving me access to all the information I need, from route schedules to service disruptions, all in one place.
8. Transit Now
Real-time bus tracking, Offline static schedules, Service alerts & updates
Cost:
Free (Free), Transit Now Pro ($1.99/month)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Public Transit App |
| Downloads | Over 273 thousand downloads |
| Features | Transit Now offers real-time bus tracking, customizable stop lists, offline schedules, arrival time alerts, and service alerts to keep you informed about delays, detours, and closures. |
| Who It’s For | Commuters who rely on public transportation and want to stay up-to-date on bus schedules and service disruptions. |
- Tags:
- Real-time Tracking
- Lightning Fast
- Offline schedules
Transit Now is a public transit app that aims to take the stress out of catching your bus. While users appreciate its real-time bus tracking and ability to show the location of buses on a map, some have expressed concerns about the app's reliability. Some have reported issues with inaccurate estimations and inactive bus stops despite active services. Despite these drawbacks, many users find it to be the best public transit app available, particularly for those navigating Toronto's transit system. However, the app's user interface could be more intuitive, and some users have expressed frustration with the lack of responsiveness from support.
Pros & Cons
- Accurate bus tracking
- Shows bus locations
- Best bus tracking
- Good for on-time arrival
- Inaccurate estimations
- Inconsistent performance
- Lack of responsiveness
Why we chose it?
I'm a huge fan of Transit Now for navigating Boston's public transit! It's super fast and easy to use, and I love that it shows real-time vehicle tracking so I never miss my bus. Plus, it's got all the bells and whistles like offline schedules for those times I'm underground and service alerts to keep me in the loop.
9. CityTransit
Live bus and train tracking, Real-time arrival predictions, Personalized trip planning
Cost:
Free Plan (Free), CityTransit Pro (US) ($2.99/month)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Public Transit App |
| Downloads | Over 150,000 downloads |
| Features | CityTransit provides real-time transit information, trip planning, live tracking, schedule & service alerts, and accessibility features for an efficient and seamless travel experience. |
| Who It’s For | Ideal for commuters, tourists, and anyone navigating public transit in major cities across the US and worldwide. |
- Tags:
- Real-time Tracking
- Live Transit Info
- Seamless Trip Planning
CityTransit is a public transit app designed to help you navigate urban environments with ease. The app boasts a comprehensive list of routes and schedules for various public transportation options, including buses, trains, and subways, providing real-time information on nearby stops and departures. It's a convenient tool for planning your trips, setting reminders, and staying on top of your commute, especially for those who rely on public transit for their daily journeys. However, some users have reported missing stops and limitations in the app's functionality, particularly in navigating complex multi-stage trips.
Pros & Cons
- Provides live transit updates
- Offers trip planning features
- Sets alarms for bus departures
- Intuitive and user-friendly design
- Lacks swipe functionality on routes
- Missing stops in downtown Toronto
- No trip stage display on routes
Why we chose it?
I've tried a bunch of transit apps, but CityTransit is my absolute favorite! It's super reliable for getting accurate real-time information on Boston's T, and it's way better at navigating complex routes than other apps I've used. Plus, the clean interface makes it easy to find what I need quickly, so I can get on my way without any fuss.