Navigating public transport can sometimes be challenging if you have a vision impairment but there are several apps that can help make it more accessible and convenient for you.
These apps utilise various features such as audio instructions, real-time navigation, real-time updates, and accessible route planning – empowering you to more confidently navigate public transport systems and reach your destinations more efficiently. Below we list some of the best apps for navigating public transport.
Did you know that there are many other tools and devices available that can help you navigate your needs with vision impairment?
Guide Dogs is committed to integrating technology into our service delivery and promoting excellence in accessibility and usability. Our staff undergo comprehensive training in technology and accessibility in collaboration with industry leaders like Apple. We foster knowledge of technology and create content through our Technology Champions, comprising Vision Rehabilitation Specialists and Habilitation Specialists. We review this content periodically to ensure that it is up to date and includes new features and changes with operating systems. We work with our partners to ensure accessibility is at the centre of the design. To find out more, there is more information in our accessibility policy.
Whilst Guide Dogs may be able to suggest various third-party websites and third-party applications which may be able to assist you, those are not endorsed by Guide Dogs. Guide Dogs have no control over those third parties and cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of information and support they can provide or the suitability and quality of any products or services they provide.

Google Maps is a widely-used app offering comprehensive mapping and navigation, using satellite imagery, authoritative mapping data, and user contributions. Available on iOS, Android, and as a website, it includes street view, traffic, public transport, and indoor maps.
Google Maps can be particularly helpful when used alongside other apps like Lazarillo, a popular app specifically designed for people with sight loss or WeWalk, a smart cane that integrates with mobile apps to provide enhanced navigation support, as Google Maps is able to switch between these apps seamlessly.
Apple Maps is a widely used navigation app available on Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs. While it is not specifically designed for people with vision impairment, it does offer some features that can assist in navigating public transport, such as:
While Apple Maps offers some good accessibility features, it's worth noting that the experience may vary depending on your preferences and needs. Some users may find third-party apps like Lazarillo or WeWalk, as mentioned earlier, to be better tailored specifically for the needs of individuals with vision impairments.
Moovit, a popular journey-planning app and website, assists in navigating public transport with detailed step-by-step directions for iOS and Android users. The app offers a range of features including:
While generally user-friendly, some vision-impaired users reported minor accessibility issues with VoiceOver support, which can be toggled for optimal usability.
Trainline is a popular online website and mobile app (iOS and Android) for train travel information, booking, and ticketing. It covers journeys across the UK and Europe, offering accessible planning with route options, train availability, and travel times. E-tickets and mobile tickets are available for convenience.
The website aims to be as accessible as possible, by entering your departure and destination locations, and date of travel Trainline provides options for available trains, connections, and travel times so you can plan your route. You’re also able to find out about any delays and which platform your train is expected at ahead of time.
However, as a third-party service, Trainline charges booking fees. The platform aims to simplify train travel with comprehensive information and ticketing options.
Available on both iOS and Android platforms, Citymapper is another popular website and app for planning and navigating routes in cities around the world and offers a range of features including:
Citymapper offers other useful features, including estimated costs for different travel options, bike-sharing information, and even the availability of rideshare services like Uber and Lyft within the app and is a popular choice for its comprehensive and user-friendly approach to planning and navigating public transport within cities.

First Bus is another well-known app and website that focuses on planning and navigating bus journeys in many cities and towns across the UK. It offers a range of features such as:
First Bus has an accessibility statement on its website, outlining its commitment to providing accessible services and information. While First Bus strives to provide an accessible experience, it's important to note that the accessibility features and experiences may vary depending on the specific region or city where the bus services operate. So, it’s worth reviewing the accessibility information provided by First Bus for your specific area or contacting the local bus company directly for more detailed accessibility information.
Traveline Scotland is an app specifically designed to assist in finding bus stop information, tracking bus routes, and checking departure times in Scotland. It offers a range of features when using the bus system in Scotland such as:
UK Bus Checker is a national app designed to help check bus times and track buses at various bus stops across the UK. It offers:
While specific accessibility features may vary depending on the bus operators and regions, the app provides information on wheelchair accessibility, accessible bus stops, and any other relevant accessibility features that may be available on specific bus routes or services.
Trainpal is a mobile app that focuses on providing a convenient way to book train tickets and plan your train journeys. It offers several features including:
GoodMaps aims to provide accessible and accurate navigation for individuals with vision impairments. The app uses Bluetooth beacons and other technologies to provide step-by-step audio instructions to guide you to your desired destinations, including:
We have featured these apps and websites due to their accessibility features such as: accessible routes, audio instructions, and other features including comprehensive and up-to-date information on public transport routes, schedules, and real-time updates.
The majority of apps featured have a user-friendly interface that makes them easy to navigate and interact with and also seamlessly integrate with other assistive technologies, such as screen readers or voice assistants.
Your choice will depend on your preferences, accessibility needs, and the specific features and functionality each app offers.
There a huge number of Apps to choose from for helping to navigate public transport, as well as other useful apps that you can use on your smartphone to help you with tasks in everyday life. Here are a couple of additional apps worth mentioning to support with indoor navigation:
It's important to note that the specific functionality and availability of Good Maps may vary based on the region and the level of integration with local maps and services.