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arevo: RACV’s Journey Planner 4+

Your all-in-one transport app, royal automobile club of victoria (racv) ltd.

• #58 in Travel
• 4.5 • 1.6K Ratings

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Description.

AREVO is the made-in-Melbourne journey planner that helps you get around town faster, smarter, more conveniently and more affordably. AREVO neatly ties together your transport options to make planning your journey as easy as possible! Including an intelligent bike map, petrol pricing, car parking and real-time public transport updates across train, tram and bus. We're proudly made in the heart of Melbourne by Victorians (RACV) for Victorians that want to use the one app to help them get from A to B in the smartest way possible! So start saving time with arevo and find that perfect car park ahead of time, discover new cycle-friendly bike routes to get to work, defeat delays with live disruption alerts on public transport or top up the tank without breaking the bank. Here are a few of our key features and reasons why arevo is the app that's more than a map! - A dedicated bike map feature which means you can ride your way. AREVO's clever new bike map allows you to choose a faster or a quieter (more cycling-friendly) route based on your preference, meaning you can have more confidence on two wheels. The bike map generates routes that update dynamically based on your location, plus you'll never get lost again with turn-by-turn navigation and easy-to-follow voiceover instructions. - Real-time train, tram and bus timetables across all the public transport options in Victoria are available with just one tap. The arevo journey planner allows you to plan trips accurately with live arrival and departure times. Discover disruptions and delays ahead of schedule so you can make smarter public transport decisions. Arevo's transport lines are colour-matched with Public Transport Victoria's (PTV) network maps for easy and convenient trip planning. Plus, the arevo transport planner features single-tap routing to your preferred train, tram or bus station. - Find today's best petrol prices so you can top up the tank without breaking the bank. Enter your postcode or suburb and find the cheapest petrol prices near you. AREVO's petrol feature allows you to select your preferred fuel type, and it'll help you decide if it's the right time to fill up. - An easy-to-use journey planner so you can make smarter transport choices when getting around Melbourne and Victoria. See estimated travel times for walking, cycling, driving and using Public Transport Victoria's (PTV) complete list of services, including bus, tram and train (and V/Line) - View live on-street parking availability plus check for pricing and restrictions in an easy-to-use, interactive map. You'll also find UbiPark's complete list of off-street parking to help you find a parking spot near your destination and at the right price. - AREVO is the map that gives you more! Register to arevo to score access to exclusive offers and discounts. By registering within arevo, you'll gain exclusive access to exclusive offers and discounts from partners like Flexicar and Lime Mobility (e-scooters and e-bikes) to discounted bike servicing with Good Cycles. So what is it like to use the arevo app? Well, just imagine having every live train, tram and bus timetable in Victoria in your pocket? Oh, and you've got an intelligent turn-by-turn bike map that lets you ride more comfortably, plus today's petrol prices and parking availability too. Sounds pretty great, right? Being locals, we love to connect with other Victorians! We're always on the lookout for ways to improve the app and make the experience even better! So connect with us by: - Liking us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arevoapp - Following us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arevoapp/ - Contacting our team directly at [email protected] Or you can find out more at: www.arevo.com.au arevo is a journey planner app from RACV.

Version 5.2.8

New arevo app users will now be prompted to register to access the Fuel Finder feature. We're testing this to better understand your needs. Don’t worry — if you’re already registered, nothing will change for you.

Ratings and Reviews

1.6K Ratings

Turn by turn is fantastic

Best bike maps out there. The quiet route makes me feel safe unlike apple or Google maps that takes you along deadly roads. The new turn by turn feature is fantastic compared to what it was before so very happy about that. Very small suggestion but if you turn off the audio it would be nice if it remembered. I usually listen to music and whenever I start me route my ears get blasted. It would be nice if I could turn off directions by audio and the app remembered that I didn’t want it on. Again very small but would be nice. Cheers legends

Developer Response ,

Hi Josh, Thank you so much for your kind words! This is exactly the type of review which keeps our team motivated and working hard to make arevo the best it can possibly be. I've passed on the feedback you've provided to development team and we'll look at adding this to our list of user recommendations. Kind regards, Andy

Game changer for cycling

The colour coded bike map is an absolute game changer when trip planning and looking for new cycling routes. I encountered a few minor glitches when using the navigation guidance, but this remains by far the best app I’ve ever used for cycling. I will be recommending it to my friends.

Hey Sophia, Thanks so much for the great review. We're glad the arevo app helps you find new cycling routes to ride :)

A pleasant surprise !

What surprised me the most about this app was how fast and easy it was to use and that the loading times when it searched for the best route to get to my destination. As others have mentioned the myki top up feature is a huge bonus too since we cannot use Apple Pay over here to top up and use the card on our iPhones just yet. Overall a great starting point for this one and look forward to seeing how it’s improved upon in the future 👍

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The developer, Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) Ltd , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer's privacy policy .

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Getting Around Melbourne: A Guide to Public Transportation

Marina is a freelance writer who began contributing to TripSavvy in 2019. She set off with a one-way ticket to Asia in 2017 and has been living and traveling abroad ever since.

Don’t underestimate the size of Melbourne, Australia. Travelers may only stick to Central Business District and its surrounding neighborhoods—but the city extends so much further than that, stretching around Port Phillip Bay for 3,857-square miles.

Melbourne is kind of like New York City , in a geographical sense, because a lot of Melburnians live in the outer suburbs and travel into the city for work. The daily commute isn’t ideal by car, so people in the city opt to use the Public Transport Victoria train, tram, and bus system instead. Sixteen regular service train lines run north, south, east, and west into and out of the city. It’s an impressive and efficient system for such a big city. 

Here’s what you should know about getting around Melbourne.

How to Ride the Metro Melbourne Train Lines

Most people who use public transportation in Melbourne hop on the train. There are 16 Metro train lines that jut out of the city center and into the outer suburbs. The two main stations are Flinders Street and Southern Cross. Riding the train is a convenient alternative to driving, although a train ride could take just as long (if not longer) to get you where you want to go due to frequent stops.

• Passes: First, you’ll need to buy a myki card for AU$6. It gets you onto trains, trams, and buses throughout Melbourne and regional parts of Victoria. You can purchase one at 7-Eleven stores, a ticket booth at a premium train station, or on myki machines. Next, load the card with money to get from one stop to the next. You can do this at the ticket booth or at the myki machine. 
• Fares: The lowest amount of money you can add to your myki card is AU$10. That will get you two rides as the default fare for the train is $4.50 one way. Children, seniors, and students are eligible for discounted tickets. However, keep in mind that the price for each train ride is different, depending on how far you travel and when you travel. A smart thing to do if you’re visiting for a week is to buy a seven-day myki pass for AU$44. This will save you from continually topping up your card. You can check fares using the myki fare calculator .  
• How to Ride: Once you’ve purchased and loaded a myki pass, you must tap your card onto the center of the reader as you enter the railway platform. When you get off at your desired stop, simply tap off the same way you tapped on. Metro police conduct random checks on every train to see if passengers paid for their ride. If you don’t tap on before entering the platform and an officer catches you, it could result in a hefty fine. 
• Hours of Operation: The train lines operate from 5 a.m. to midnight, Monday through Thursday. The night network runs Friday through Sunday, with trains operating every hour after 12 a.m. 
• Service Changes: It’s typical for the Metro train to have periodic service changes. Delays may happen due to construction on the tracks, public events, or disorderly conduct by passengers. In the event of a service change, there will be announcements made throughout the station and written on the monitors. Sometimes, buses replace trains between specific stops, but there is always clear signage to help you navigate your way. You can check to see if your train line is running on time using the Public Transport Victoria journey planner . 
• Transfers: Transfers are relatively easy to complete when using the Metro train. You can hop off one train and onto another without re-tapping your myki card. If you get confused about a transfer, ask a Metro train station employee (you’ll spot them in neon orange jumpers). They’re usually on the platforms during hours of operation to help passengers with their journey.  
• Accessibility: PTV train stations are accessible to people with disabilities. Ramps, designated seating, and a combination of audio and visual announcements are available at larger stops. If you have hearing difficulties, you can use the National Relay Service . For more information about accessibility and mobility aid specifications, check out the Public Transport Victoria website . 

You can use the journey planner on the PTV website or app to plan your route and find out real-time departure and arrival information.

Riding the Melbourne Metropolitan Bus Network

The public buses in Melbourne are another standard mode of transportation. There are 346 routes within Melbourne and regional Victoria, so it covers more than the train. You can get to shopping centers, hospitals, sporting venues, and other Melbourne attractions via bus. This map shows the different bus routes within Melbourne. You can use the Public Transport Victoria journey planner to help you find the specific stop you’re looking for. 

The public bus takes the myki card as a bus pass, so make sure it’s loaded with money before you get on the bus. Fares are the same as the train. Note that riding the bus will take significantly longer than the train. Traffic, stop lights, and stops will add an extra 10–20 minutes to your journey. 

Airport-Specific Shuttles

Melbourne has a fast, frequent, and cheap airport shuttle called the SkyBus . It’s a big red bus with WiFi onboard and plenty of seating. From Melbourne Tullamarine Airport, there are six SkyBus services: Melbourne City Express, Southbank Docklands Express, St Kilda Express, Peninsula Express, Western Express, and Airport Bus Eastside. The Melbourne City Express bus, for instance, departs every 10 minutes and transfers passengers directly from the airport to Southern Cross Station (and vice versa). It takes about 30–40 minutes and costs AU$19.75 one way.

Melbourne city trams are convenient for traveling to a specific destination within the city and the surrounding neighborhoods. The best part? It’s free within Melbourne CBD . Outside of this free tram zone, the tram takes the myki card, with fares the same as the train. Keep in mind that you cannot purchase a myki card on a tram or at a tram stop. 

Use the Metropolitan tram network map to help you get to where you want to go. Locate the area where you want to go, then check the route number and destination on the front of the tram.  

Taking the ferry in Melbourne is a great way to get on the water and travel across the peninsula. From Melbourne CBD, you can take a one-hour cruise to Williamstown, an outer suburb known for being the city's first seaport. It costs AU$24 one way and departs at various times, depending on the season. There’s also a 90-minute cruise from the city to Portarlington , a historic little town on the Bellarine Peninsula. This costs AU$16 for an adult one-way ticket.

Melbourne sits along the Yarra River, where you can hop on a water taxi to shuttle to different stops along the waterway. It operates seven days a week and departs every 15 minutes from 9 a.m. to midnight. It’s a popular way to get around during the summer, so it’s recommended to book a water taxi ticket in advance.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Apps

If you’re in a hurry, taxis and ride-hailing services are available throughout Melbourne. Local cabs, such as 13cabs , are white cars with bright orange writing on the sides. Ride-railing services such as Uber, DiDi, and Ola operate all over the city, including the surrounding suburbs. It’s a common and quick way to get around.

Car Rentals 

Renting a car to use within Melbourne CBD may not be the best idea. The city is dense with traffic, parking can get pricey, and the town has something called “ hook turns ,” which, if you’re not familiar with, are very tricky to navigate.

On the other hand, if you want to explore the Great Ocean Road or other outer suburb attractions, it might be a good idea to rent a car for the freedom to explore. Melbourne has car rental companies such as Budget, Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis. You can rent a car from the airport or within the city. Don’t forget, Aussies drive on the left side of the road! 

Tips for Getting Around Melbourne

Getting around Melbourne isn’t very difficult. The city has an impressive amount of public transportation options with informative signs and friendly employees to help you navigate your way around.

• Be wary of rush hour: Traveling during rush hour can be a bit of a headache. Peak traffic on public transportation and the roads is Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. During this time, the roads leading into and out of the city will be jam-packed with people traveling to and from work. If you’re traveling by train, be attentive towards the express services.
• Melbourne CBD is very walkable: Melbourne CBD is easy to walk around because the streets are set up like a grid. If you’re following a map, it’s very straightforward, and sometimes quicker to walk than take the tram. 
• If given the option, choose the train over the bus: The train is a bit more reliable without the traffic and quicker without so many stops. 
• Download the Public Transport Victoria app: This will help with planning your journey throughout the city and the surrounding suburbs. It is available on both Google Play and the Apple Store .

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Travel Planner

Melbourne's public transport system

Is your head spinning just thinking about exploring Melbourne's public transport system? If so, don't sweat it – you're not alone! The city's complicated web of bus, train, and tram routes can be overwhelming, and staying up-to-date with service changes can be a full-time job.

But fear not – we've got your back! In this in-depth guide, we'll show you how to juggle the ins and outs of Melbourne's public transit system, giving you the confidence and know-how to whip around town with ease. From maps and timetables to top tips to keep you on track, let's dive in and explore Melbourne's public transport system.

Overview of Melbourne's Public Transport System

Melbourne is recognized as one of the most liveable cities in the world and it has a great public transport system to match. It offers plenty of options, covering all regions of metropolitan Melbourne and Victoria, ranging from metro lines and trams to buses, regional trains and even taxis. With many affordable ticketing options available, exploring what Melbourne’s public transport system has to offer is an exciting journey.

The strength of the public transport system lies in its integration and diversity. As seamless travel is a major priority, there are several initiatives being undertaken. These include improved timetables, a wide range of fare types, detailed station maps and other features such as park and ride facilities and Wi-Fi access on some routes. Additionally, efforts have been made to ensure greater accessibility for everyone, with improved services for people with disabilities and special needs.

Having said that, the public transport system does have some drawbacks. Trains can be overcrowded during peak hours and breakdowns are not unheard of. The issue of safety also arises for people who use late night services or walk/cycle to stations in more isolated areas. Additionally, bus services – especially in rural areas – can be unreliable due to traffic congestion or other factors.

Overall, Melbourne's public transport system is comprehensive and generally reliable. If used wisely, it can provide convenient journeys that are affordable too – helping you get where you need to go without worrying about parking headaches or expensive car maintenance costs. In the next section we will dive into greater depth by looking at specific metro lines and train rides around Melbourne city and further afield.

Metro lines and Trams & The Train Rides

Once you have an overall understanding of the public transport system in Melbourne, you can start exploring the individual components which help make this extensive network possible. Metro lines and trams represent two of the key elements of Melbourne's public transport system and provide something to look out for when discovering this dazzling city.

The metro lines are great for travelling within the city, as they stop at all major locations and points of interest. Whether it's a trip to the iconic Queen Victoria Market or a quick ride over to Luna Park, a metro line will often be the most convenient option. It is also important to note that Melbourne takes pride in having the largest urban tramway network in the world and taking a ride on one of these trams is always an interesting experience. The trams travel all around Melbourne’s centre and suburbs, and journeys are usually quite fast and comfortable - although there tends to be a risk of overcrowding during peak times.

The train rides can also give insight into wonderful places and friendly spots outside of Melbourne’s main central business district. Regional train rides offer passengers breathtaking views ranging from striking coastal sites to valley vistas set against rolling hills. Furthermore, if you are looking for more distant adventures, interstate trains depart daily from Southern Cross Station to destinations all around Australia’s eastern coast, such as Sydney and Brisbane.

Riding around with these various methods of transport provides good opportunities to find hidden gems scattered throughout the Greater Melbourne area, while giving yourself some much needed breathing room after a day in one of the busiest cities in Australia. So whether you choose to opt for metro lines, trams or trains, be sure to take an adventure and explore what diverse wonders await! With this kind of knowledge under your belt it may be time move onto evaluating different fare payment options and planning your next journey through Melbourne's public transport system!

Different Options for Using Public Transport in Melbourne

When deciding which mode of transport to use when exploring Melbourne, there are several different options available. Metro lines are an efficient way to travel around the city with quick and direct routes, while trams and trains provide a scenic journey through Melbourne. Some may debate which is better or more cost-effective, but both offer viable solutions for commuters.

Metros can often be quicker and direct routes, hopping from one popular destination to another without unnecessary stops making them ideal for busy commuters who have somewhere specific to go in a timely manner. Trains however, provide a picturesque journey around the city, letting passengers observe the diverse sights that Melbourne has to offer. Often cheaper than metros and involving fewer transfers, they provide an enjoyable experience as well as transportation.

In order to get the most out of exploring Melbourne's public transport system, its important to research all the different modes of transport available so that commuters can make an informed decision on which is the best option for travelling throughout the city. From accessing further destinations by bus and purchasing tickets, paying attention to details like these can help visitors discover all that Melbourne’s public transport infrastructure has to offer.

Buses and Destinations & Tickets

Buses are often the most convenient way to get around Melbourne for short distances, especially in suburban areas. Some bus routes have express services that run during peak hours and travel to popular destinations such as the airport or shopping centers quickly.

When it comes to buying tickets for buses, or any public transport in Melbourne, there are 2 main options. The first is Myki cards, a prepaid card that has to be charged with funds before travelling. Myki cards can be bought from newsagents, 7-Eleven stores and selected train stations. Alternatively, customers can purchase single-use paper tickets which are valid for up to 2 hours of travel and cost more than a Myki fare for the same journey.

Deciding which option is better depends on an individual's needs. Myki cards might offer cheaper fares but require a setup fee and payments topped up every now and then. Paper tickets might require more money but also allow people who don't usually use public transport to access buses without committing to a prepaid card.

Having explored the different options available when using buses in Melbourne, it is now important to know how to find which routes are accessible and how they should be used effectively.

Directions to Accessible Routes and Services

Now that we have discussed buses and destinations, as well as ticket types, let’s turn to directions on how to access the accessible routes and services. Navigating Melbourne’s public transportation system can be especially challenging for those with mobility issues, so it is important to spotlight directions to accessible routes below. There are several options available:

1) Online Trip Planner- Melbourne has an online trip planner. You can use the planner to choose the most accessible route for your trip, including those that offer wheelchair access or audio descriptions. The website also provides detailed information about points of interest along the way, popular destinations, and fare costs for each route.

2) Accessibility Focused Apps- The “MyAccess Victoria” app provides easy-to-follow guidance for users with disabilities as they plan out their trips around the city. It features comprehensive accessibility maps of bus stops and train stations, making it easier to find the best route tailored to each user's specific needs.

3) Scheduled Tours- For those who require further assistance in navigating public transport, organized tours may be a good alternative. Organizations such as Melbourne Accessible Tourism provide scheduled tours that guide visitors through gentle explorations of Melbourne’s top attractions while helping them learn efficient ways to use public transit. This can be a great way for travelers with disabilities or mobility issues to take full advantage of all that Melbourne has to offer!

These resources provide invaluable assistance when planning trips throughout the city and make it easier than ever for all passengers—regardless of ability—to explore Melbourne’s vibrant neighborhoods with ease. From here, we will delve into journey planning and gain an understanding of some of the differences between routes, so stay tuned and ready to investigate further!

Journey Planning & Route Differences

Journey planning and route differences are essential components to consider when exploring Melbourne’s public transport system. Through comprehensive journey planning, travelers can track the fastest route using various modes of transport and save time. For users with limited mobility, understanding available routes and services is especially important when planning a journey.

When it comes to planning a trip, there are several services that can help travelers determine their best route. The Public Transport Victoria website provides timetables, service updates, interactive maps and access to the Journey Planner tool which can help travelers create custom routes based on origin, destination and departure times. In addition, the TripView App allows users to plan trips by train, tram and buses from any location in the city.

Another factor to consider when navigating Melbourne’s public transport system is understanding different routes and how they may affect traveling times. Generally speaking, travelling via express trains or premium trams may reduce commuting times however they can be expensive if not qualified for a concession fare. On the other hand, alternative routes may be slower yet more cost effective for travelers on a budget.

Ultimately, journey planning and route differences need to be carefully considered depending on individual preferences and needs. It’s important to compare all options before deciding on a particular route as this can often make a huge difference in terms of economy or speed. Taking into account available services will also help ensure an easier journey for those with special requirements such as those with restricted mobility or specific access requirements.

How reliable is Melbourne's public transportation system?

Melbourne's public transportation system is generally considered quite reliable. Schedules are regularly updated, and buses and trains typically arrive on time. Furthermore, Melbourne has invested significant capital into their public transportation infrastructure over time, as well as high levels of service such as increased frequency during peak hours and timely maintenance management to ensure a safe and reliable experience. All in all, Melbourne's public transportation system operates efficiently and allows for a comfortable commute around the city. Whether to or from a hotel in Melbourne or to  the airport to catch a flight, the system has you covered.

How much does it cost to use Melbourne's public transportation?

Using Melbourne's public transportation typically costs between $4.20-$7.30 for an adult one-way ticket, depending on the zone one is travelling in and the type of ticket purchased. For regular commuters, a myki card can be used to get around Melbourne at discounted rates. myki cards are available from many outlets across Melbourne, including railway stations, authorized retailers and self-service machines. Additionally, concession fares can be paid by students or seniors with valid ID cards. These fares cost $2.60-$3.90, depending on the zones and again, the type of ticket purchased.

What form of transportation is available in Melbourne?

Melbourne boasts an extensive and reliable public transport system. The public transport options available in Melbourne include trams, buses, trains, ferries, and regional V/Line services.

Trams are considered to be the iconic form of Melbourne's transport system, with more than 500 kilometres of track running through the city. They are a popular way of getting around, connecting many of the inner suburbs and city centre.

Buses cover a wider area than trams, servicing more suburbs as well as providing easier access for those living in outer suburbs or visiting more remote places throughout Melbourne. They generally operate on longer routes and at higher frequencies during peak times.

The metropolitan train network consists of 16 lines that span across 274 stations throughout Melbourne. The suburban railway is divided into two zones – zone 1 covers the CBD and most inner-city suburbs while zone 2 covers parts of the outer suburbs.

In addition to these primary forms of public transport, Melbourne also has ferries operating along the Yarra River. There are also long-distance services operated by V/Line Regional Railways which take people out of Melbourne to places such as Geelong or Bairnsdale.

Overall, there is no shortage of options when looking for transport in Melbourne; whatever your journey is you are sure to find the right form for it.

melbourne transport map

A comprehensive public transport map for Greater Melbourne and Geelong.

View the Night Network Map here .

Download a PDF copy of the map here .

About the map

This is a comprehensive map showing all public transport routes in Greater Melbourne and Geelong including buses, trains and trams.

It is by far the largest and hardest map project that I've ever done.

All up, it took me 14 months and hundreds of hours to put together this project in the first place. I am also keeping this up to date regularly.

Why this map?

While PTV does publish local maps for particular areas showing all public transport modes, there is no publicly available equivalent to cover the whole city.

Given that trips are not exclusive to any single mode, I thought that coming up with a map to fill this gap might be useful.

There are also several issues with the PTV local area maps that make them annoying to use for many purposes. These include:

• Inconsistent terminus/interchange labelling - some only lable those that terminate (e.g. Caroline Springs) and others list all routes that go through (e.g. Box Hill)
• Major interchanges are very hard to understand - this mainly because they have to cram every single route's exact geography into a tiny space
• Frequency/service span not shown - this makes it hard to work out the best route without having to trawl through timetables or journey planners
• Terminus bubbles list routes reading top to bottom rather than left to right - this might not matter for some people, but it's always made it difficult for me to read given that English is a language written from left to right
• Geographic maps have greatly limited space - this then creates inconsistencies - e.g. forced to abbreviate 'Deer Park' to 'Deer Pk' on PTV map
• Every route is drawn individually - drawing each route separately is useful if you know the route that you need to take. But if you don't know the route but know roughly where to get to and from, this just makes it confusing.
• Separate colours for each route - this means that the palette runs out in areas with a high-density of routes and separate routes have to double up with the same colour (e.g. Hoppers Crossing - dark blue reused which could lead people to think that the 181/498 route is a through route). This, again, makes maps difficult to read (e.g. area around Knox).

As I always say, this is by no means arguing that the PTV maps are useless or that my map is perfect. Both styles of map have advantages and disadvantages. Each is more useful for particular journeys and passengers than others. All that I aim to do with this project is introduce another option for people to use if they wish.

Making the map

This was a long and sometimes painful exercise. The sheer scale of the project meant that any task that might take a couple of hours on a smaller map ended up taking days or weeks to complete on this one.

Before I began, I spent a while thinking about how to organise the map and establish some design rules. In the end, there were quite a few that I tried to stick to as much as possible. But the most important rule for a map like this is to create a clear visual hierarchy .

What this means that is that a user can glance at a map from afar and at least vaguely see where the most important features of the map are located and how they relate to the rest of the elements.

In the case of this map, this consists of major interchanges and railway lines. These are the busiest and often the best-serviced parts of the public transport network, so it's important to highlight them above, say, the route 609 bus (which the PTV map visually treats equally with the Ringwood Line). This is done with line thickness, directness and colour palette.

The first parts of the map that I drew were the railways and CBD so that the rest of the map was built around these key anchors. Then it was areas with grid-like tram and bus routes. These were actually some of the hardest areas to design.

With meandering routes, there is a lot more flexibility to 'iron out' random curves or kinks and make them connect to the rest of the network more logically. A straight route, like the route 246 bus, is virtually impossible to take away from its straight north-south direction.

This freedom from strict geography means a lot of space can be saved and efficiences created. It also allows 'nudges' to be built into the design that aren't possible or are much hard with a geographic map. For example, the bus routes at Laverton Station are slightly offset to suggest to the viewer that they are not through routes.

Finally, there were some areas that took me weeks to design on their own, just because they were so confusing. Endeavour Hills, Middle Brighton, Highpoint and South Morang just about did my head in.

Future plans

Given that routes change all the time, this map will require updates. However, I don't have the time to do this as it happens. There will probably be a time lag of at least a couple of weeks.

For the website itself, there is a roadmap for future improvements. Some of these include:

I should emphasise that this is a plan only, and I can't guarantee that all of these will be implemented soon, if at all. I want to take a break from this project for a while, as I have other maps to work on in the meantime. There may also be technological constraints that I'm not yet aware of.

If you do have any suggestions for other features or could help me get these implemented, please feel free to get in touch .

Credits and acknowledgements

Thank you to Peter Parker who reviewed an early version of the map and helped me fix errors.

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• Liupotatomelon (via Twitter)
• Michael (via email)
• Noah (via email)
• George (via email)
• Nathan (via email)
• Nancy (via email)
• kaiwhara (via Github)
• Shaun Ruigrok (via Twitter)
• Peter S (via Facebook)

Is this map free to use?

What software did you use, the route of a bus/tram/train/ferry/bike path doesn't actually look like that. is it a mistake, what is the difference between a 'major' and 'minor' interchange, which bus and tram routes are included in the square boxes, why are there two or three termini with the same name (e.g. williamstown), why are there three categories of bus routes, why are some bicycle routes not on the map, is there a map for the night network, i've found a mistake how do i get it fixed.

Yes! While the map is copyright, it is freely available for anyone to use.

However, if you wish to modify, sell or otherwise do anything with this map other than use it at face value, please contact me first .

I work with a combination of Affinity Designer and QGIS. Early in my design process, I also use old-fashioned whiteboards, paper and pencils.

This map uses Leaflet to render the slippy map.

Probably not.

This was done to accomodate connecting routes in a way that is easier to read. Other routes, like the 506, are shown pretty much exactly as they are 'on the ground'.

I have used the definition described in the other tabs to determine what constitutes a 'major' or 'minor' interchange. While it is somewhat arbitrary, there has to be a point where a line is drawn. It is important to distinguish between the two to maintain the visual hierarchy of the map - one of the main features of this project.

Only routes that terminate or originate at specific locations have been included. Services that stop at an interchange but continue through are not included on these boxes. This was done to reduce visual clutter and make it easier to follow routes from their origin and destination.

However, I changed this while doing Stage 2 of the map design (placing terminus routes and names) to showing on the map what is displayed on vehicles and timetables. This is just to avoid confusion.

Including three categories of bus route was something that I thought about for a long time.

I decided to separate the three because of a change in the map that happened midway through its design. The map began as a frequency map - thicker lines would mean higher frequency of services. However, as I continued adding the hundreds of routes, it gradually dawned on me that this would take much longer than I expected.

As a result, I had to think about how to differentiate between buses that come only a few times per day and the high-frequenty buses that carry millions of people every year. As a compromise solution, I opted to include the three categories of bus route that you can now see on this map.

A Smartbus route (orange) are those designated as such by PTV.

A 'trunk' route (brown) on this map is a combination of two or more routes that combine to form a higher frequency along a common corridor. For simplicity, I've kept this designation for routes for which PTV publishes a combined timetable (e.g. the 200/207 ).

A 'local' route (pink) on this map is all other routes. A light pink colour is used to denote routes that operate only part-time or to show part-time route deviations.

I have opted to include only major off-road trails that are signposted and designated. I will also only include routes that serve a connecting function.

The main reason for these design choices is to avoid making the map too busy. There is already a lot of information being displayed and adding every single bicycle route would make the map very difficult to read.

It is also only a secondary purpose of the map. The primary objective is to show public transport routes of Melbourne in one place. Major bike routes compliment this purpose.

Yes! As of Version 1.3, there is now a separate map to show the Night Network train, tram and bus routes that operate on Fridays, Saturdays and selected public holidays between 1am and 6am.

You can see and download the map here .

Thank you! The preferred method of letting me know is to create a new issue on the Github page .

Otherwise, you can contact me here .

If you have any suggestions, corrections or comments, please let me know here .

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You can either buy a street map from one of the many newsstands and shops in the train stations, print out a street map of Yekaterinburg, or pick up a free detailed street map from the Ekaterinburg Tourist Information Service [ dead link ] at 8 Marta St. #21, office #2, in the city centre.

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