OpenTripPlanner

Self-Hosted

Open-source multi-modal trip planner for transit, biking, walking, and driving

Overview

OpenTripPlanner is a free, open-source platform that generates itineraries across transit (buses, trains, subways), biking, walking, and driving. It integrates GTFS transit data, supports real-time updates, and offers APIs for custom applications. Deployable via Docker or Java, it’s used by cities to build local trip planners with accessibility options, fare calculation, and multi-region support. Self-hosting ensures data control, ideal for organizations needing tailored transit solutions without third-party dependencies.

Self-Hosting Resources

Find Official Image on Docker Hub View Source & Docs

Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml. ⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.

docker-compose.template.yml TEMPLATE


version: '3'
services:
  opentripplanner:
    image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
    container_name: opentripplanner
    ports:
      - "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
    volumes:
      - ./data:/app/data
    restart: unless-stopped

Key Features

Multi-modal trip planning (transit, bike, walk, drive)
GTFS data integration + real-time transit updates
REST API for custom application development
Accessibility and fare calculation tools

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is OpenTripPlanner hard to install and set up?

Basic deployment via Docker is straightforward, but integrating local GTFS transit data and configuring real-time feeds requires technical expertise (e.g., understanding transit data formats). Official documentation helps, but advanced customization (like building a frontend) may need Java or API skills.

? Can OpenTripPlanner replace Google Maps for transit planning?

Yes, for self-hosted or custom use cases. Unlike Google Maps, OTP lets you own your data and tailor itineraries (e.g., prioritize biking or accessibility). However, it lacks Google’s global UI polish and broad coverage out of the box.

? Is OpenTripPlanner completely free to use?

Yes—OTP is open-source under the Apache 2.0 license, so it’s free to download, modify, and deploy. No licensing fees apply, though hosting costs (server/cloud) may incur if you self-host.

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Tool Info

Pricing Free/Open Source

Category Maps and Global Positioning System (GPS)

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Privacy-focused (self-hosted data control)
⊕ No subscription or licensing fees
⊕ Highly customizable with local transit data
⊕ Supports real-time transit information

Cons

⊖ Requires technical setup (GTFS data integration, server config)
⊖ Steeper learning curve for advanced customization
⊖ Java-based deployment may need JVM knowledge
⊖ Limited default UI (often requires frontend development)