1. Find the dataset
Start at the National Access Point of the country you are interested in and search its catalogue. The European Commission keeps a list of National Access Points, and some datasets are also harvested into the European data portal.
2. Check metadata and licence
Before using a dataset, read its metadata: owner, coverage, format, update frequency and licence. The licence tells you whether, and how, you may reuse and redistribute the data and whether you must give attribution. See metadata and licences.
3. Parse the format
4. Combine static and real-time data
Real-time updates refer to trips and stops from the timetable, so load the timetable first and match on identifiers. Keep the timetable and the real-time feed from the same producer and version where possible. See static and dynamic data.
5. Be a good data citizen
- Cache and refresh at a sensible rate, and respect rate limits.
- Give attribution as the licence requires.
- Report errors back to the data owner using the contact in the metadata.
- Plan for format versions changing over time.
6. Build and test
Use existing building blocks where you can, such as OpenTripPlanner for routing, and test against real data from more than one country. See how journey planners use the data.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need permission to use the data?
That depends on the licence in the dataset's metadata. Many datasets are open, but some have conditions.
Which format should I support first?
GTFS and GBFS are easy starting points. NeTEx and SIRI are richer and take more effort, but are the main European standards.