I need some help understanding the differences between bus and subways where I will be traveling (Turin, Genoa and Milan). When I google map a destination I often will get a variety of options. I believe the "M" represents the metro/subway? And the routes that incorporate a number inside a box represents a bus?
I am also confused because some directions give me multiples options for buses if I am reading the directions correctly just at different times yet going in the same direction. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
Posted by
798 posts
The different options are just that. You are given different routes and pickup times because Google doesn't know when you want to leave from a particular spot.
Yes that is typically how they're numbered. The metro lines are given a number and a color. You just need to board on the correct side so you travel in the desired direction. Look for the name of the last stop in your desired direction of travel and that is what the various signs will direct you to. But if you make a mistake, you get off and ride back. No worries, everyone has done it.
Google will direct you to an autobus stop and you can just wait for the number of your desired bus. Again, make sure it's going in the desired direction as you might be across the street or next to the stop you want. Stops will have signage to identify details.
It can be confusing at first but it's relatively easy to figure out once you hop on. And typically people will help you if you have a question about whether this bus is for ____. Even the driver is often helpful as long as you don't bug them while they are driving.
Don't forget to validate your bus ticket by sticking it in the little box at the entrance.
Posted by
San Diego, California, USA
1898 posts
CityMapper is a great app for finding your way around cities when you are there. I have heard about it but I used it for the first time in Paris and was amazed at the level of detail. If you're worried about navigating in a new city an app like this can really help. Google maps does an okay job usually at buses routes and times but if you're concerned this could be the extra help you're looking for.
Since you know the cities you'll be in I'd just do some research on the transit options in each one - tickets, day or week passes - and how they interact. Sometimes you can mix buses and metros on the same ticket for a set amount of time. But every city is different so just boost your confidence with some light reading before you go.
Have a great trip,
=Tod
Posted by
Washington DC
30109 posts
One advantage of using CityMapper where it is available is that you'll be looking at the same user interface in all those cities. While I don't necessarily love the CityMapper UI, I've used it enough now to have become fairly familiar with it.