Bulgaria is closer to having a unified, digital public transport system than it may appear.

Over the past three years, a foundational layer has been taking shape — one that can enable national journey planning, multimodal mobility, and integrated ticketing.

At the centre of this effort is Tripco.

The Starting Point: A System Without Structure

Public transport in Bulgaria operates across multiple modes — bus, rail, air, and water — managed by different operators, using different formats, and often lacking standardisation.

The result:

Fragmented and inconsistent data

Limited interoperability between operators

No unified system for journey planning

Barriers to digital ticketing and multimodal services

Despite European frameworks such as NeTEx and the requirements for National Access Points (NAPs), Bulgaria still lacks a structured and accessible national transport data layer.

A Key Milestone: The First National NeTEx Dataset

Tripco reached an important milestone.

With the support of Stefan de Konink, we began working with the first standardised NeTEx dataset covering the national bus network in Bulgaria.

This was a critical step forward, but it also revealed a key challenge:

Schedules alone are not enough.

Without structure, validation, and geographic context, transport data cannot power real digital services.

Building the Missing Layers

To address this, Tripco focused on two core components:

Bulgarian Public Transport Register

A structured, NeTEx-compliant dataset of:

Routes
Timetables
Operators

It transforms fragmented schedule data — often from hundreds of Excel files — into a harmonised, machine-readable system. It is now expanding beyond bus to include rail, air, and water transport.

Bulgarian Stops Register (BSR)

A national database of transport access points, providing:

Verified stop locations
Geographic coordinates
Standardised identifiers

The BSR connects transport services to real-world locations. Without it, schedules remain abstract and unusable for journey planning.

From Data to System

Individually, these registers are valuable. Together, they form the foundation of Bulgaria’s first complete national transport scheme.

By linking stops, routes, and timetables, Tripco has created a structured framework that can support:

National journey planning
Multimodal mobility
Integrated digital ticketing

The Institutional Gap

These systems have been developed without institutional funding or formal integration, despite ongoing efforts to engage with Ministry of Transport and Communications and other public bodies.

This reflects a broader challenge:

Innovation in transport infrastructure often moves faster than institutional processes, while long-term success depends on alignment between them.

Why This Matters

Structured transport data is the basis for:

More accessible public transport
Better regional connectivity
Increased use of sustainable mobility
A modern passenger experience

In practical terms, this enables:

Planning journeys across multiple modes
Access to accurate, real-time information
Integrated digital ticketing

Looking Forward

Tripco remains committed to supporting the development of Bulgaria’s transport ecosystem.

The goal is clear:

A unified national journey planner

Seamless multimodal integration

A connected transport experience

The foundation is already in place.

The next step is collaboration.

Modern public transport systems depend on one fundamental element: reliable, structured data about where transport services start, stop, and connect. These locations-bus stops, railway stations, metro stations, and terminals-are known as transport access nodes, and they form the backbone of journey planning, passenger information systems, and multimodal mobility services.

Over the past two years, Tripco has been developing the Bulgarian Stops Register (BSR)-a structured national dataset of transport access nodes designed to support modern mobility services and align Bulgaria with European mobility data standards.

Today, the dataset includes more than 10,000 validated stops across the country, structured and maintained in accordance with NeTEx, the European standard for public transport data exchange.

Why a Stops Register Matters

Every digital mobility service relies on a consistent and clearly defined network of stops and stations. Journey planners, ticketing systems, and passenger information platforms all require reliable and uniquely identified locations where transport services operate.

Without a harmonised stops register, transport data becomes fragmented and difficult to integrate across operators, regions, and transport modes.

The Bulgarian Stops Register addresses this challenge by creating a standardised national dataset of transport access nodes. This dataset serves as the foundation for modern digital mobility services in Bulgaria.

From Fragmented Data to a Structured Dataset

When this work began, information about transport stops in Bulgaria was highly fragmented and inconsistent. Data existed across different sources and formats, often lacking standard identifiers, validation processes, or consistent structure.

Tripco began by carefully investigating the available information, identifying gaps, duplicates, and inconsistencies. Building a reliable stops register required much more than simply collecting coordinates.

The work involved:

identifying and validating stop locations
resolving duplicate or conflicting records
structuring stops into logical transport nodes
assigning consistent identifiers
aligning the dataset with the NeTEx data model

Over time, the map of transport nodes has evolved significantly as the dataset expanded and improved through continuous validation and standardisation.

A Collaborative but Challenging Process

Rather than creating data from scratch, Tripco’s work has focused on carefully reviewing, validating, updating, and standardising information that already existed so that it can be used reliably within modern digital mobility systems.

During this process, multiple sources were analysed, records were compared, inconsistencies were resolved, and the data was structured according to the NeTEx standard.

The Bulgarian Stops Register therefore represents an ongoing effort to organise and improve existing transport stop information, creating a foundation that can support future national mobility data infrastructure.

The Foundation for the Bulgarian Public Transport Register

The Bulgarian Stops Register is only the first step in building a national mobility data ecosystem.

Once a harmonised register of access nodes exists, it enables the development of the Bulgarian Public Transport Register, which will contain structured information about:

public transport operators
routes and service lines
timetables
service calendars

Together, these datasets form the digital infrastructure required for modern journey planning, passenger information systems, and multimodal mobility platforms.

Why Tripco Is Building This

Tripco’s goal is to improve connectivity and accessibility across Bulgaria through better use of public transport.

Reliable data infrastructure enables better journey planning, clearer information for passengers, and stronger integration between transport services. When public transport becomes easier to understand and use, it becomes a more attractive option for daily travel.

The Bulgarian Stops Register is a critical step toward building that future.

With more than 10,000 structured and validated stops, the dataset already represents the most comprehensive and standardised collection of transport access nodes in Bulgaria-and the foundation for the next generation of mobility services.

Looking Ahead

The development of the Bulgarian Stops Register marks an important step toward building modern mobility data infrastructure in Bulgaria. As the dataset continues to evolve, Tripco will continue working on the next stage: developing the Bulgarian Public Transport Register, enabling more advanced journey planning, data integration, and mobility services across the country.

Намаляването на автомобилния трафик е един от най-ефективните начини за подобряване на качеството на въздуха в градовете.

Но хората избират колата си поради удобство, предвидимост и сигурност.

Следователно решението не е само в ограниченията, а в подобряване на достъпността и ефективността на обществения транспорт.

Как Tripco ще спомогне за решаването на проблема

Tripco е национален проект за дигитална трансформация на обществения транспорт в България.

Нашата цел е:

1️⃣ Да направим обществения транспорт по-удобен от автомобила

Мултимодално планиране на маршрути
Интеграция на различни оператори
Мобилно закупуване на билети
Намаляване на несигурността и чакането

Когато пътуването с обществен транспорт стане лесно, хората реално започват да го предпочитат.

2️⃣ Да предоставим данни за по-добро управление

Tripco изгражда национален регистър на спирки и разписания и създава централизирана база данни.

Това позволява:

оптимизация на линии
анализ на натовареността
по-добро разпределение на ресурси
намаляване на празни курсове

По-ефективната транспортна система означава по-малко излишни емисии и по-ниски социални разходи.

Какво означава реално намаляване на замърсяването?

Дори 10% подобрение в качеството на въздуха би означавало:

по-малко хоспитализации
по-малко болнични
по-висока продуктивност
повече активни години живот
по-нисък натиск върху здравната система

В мащаба на София това означава стотици милиони евро потенциално спестени всяка година.

По-чист въздух, по-здрава икономика, по-добър живот

Замърсяването на въздуха в България струва скъпо – в пари, здраве и човешки потенциал.

Tripco има амбицията да бъде част от решението, като ускори прехода към по-ефективен и интегриран обществен транспорт.

Всеки преминал от автомобил към обществен транспорт означава:

по-малко емисии,
по-чист въздух,
по-здрави хора,
по-силни градове.

Именно това е зелената трансформация в действие.

След две години упорити усилия, с гордост споделяме, че София направи голяма крачка напред – градът вече отваря данните за градската мобилност за всички. Това поставя София наравно с повечето европейски страни, които вече предоставят такъв достъп, и бележи повратна точка в развитието на иновациите в градската мобилност.

Процес, поведен от Tripco, спечелен от всички!

Това постижение не е случайно. Преди две години Tripco започна разговорите с Центъра за градска мобилност (ЦГМ) за значението на отворените транспортни данни. В началото нашите официални запитвания останаха без отговор. Реалният напредък започна едва преди година, когато се срещнахме с кмета на София, Васил Терзиев, който разбра важността на темата и подкрепи инициативата.

Оттам нататък процесът беше дълъг и сложен. Зам.-кметът по дигитализация Иван Гойчев, заедно с общинския съветник Симеон Ставрев, подготвиха официалния доклад. Докладът трябваше да бъде разгледан и гласуван от Столичния общински съвет. През май 2025-та, 53 общински съветници гласуваха „за“, което отвори пътя процедурата да започне.

И ето че днес най-накрая всички имаме достъп до данните за мобилността на София.

Защо е важно?

Достъпът до тези набори от данни – в GTFS за статична информация и GTFS-RT за данни в реално време – е основата за създаване на съвременни транспортни решения. С отворени данни разработчици, иноватори и граждани могат да изграждат по-умни инструменти за планиране на пътувания, решения за билетиране и услуги, които улесняват придвижването в града.

Напред

В Tripco сме истински оптимисти. Това постижение доказва, че с постоянство, сътрудничество и добра институционална воля, нещата могат да се променят към по-добро. Благодарни сме на всички, които допринесоха за този процес – без вас това нямаше да се случи.

А нашата работа не спира дотук. София, ако имате нужда от помощ при конвертирането на данните си в NeTEx или SIRI за пълно съответствие с делегираните изисквания на ЕС, свържете се с нас – ние от Tripco сме тук, за да помогнем!

After two years of persistent effort, we are proud to share that Sofia has finally taken a major step forward – the city is now opening its public transport mobility data to everyone. This puts Sofia on the same page as most European countries that already provide such access, and marks a turning point for innovation in urban mobility.

A process led by Tripco, won by all!

This achievement is not accidental. Two years ago, Tripco initiated the conversation with the Center for Urban Mobility (ЦГМ) about the importance of open transport data. At first, our official requests went unanswered. Real progress began only a year ago, when we met with the Mayor of Sofia, Vasil Terziev, who recognized the importance of the matter and gave his support.

Following that, the process was lengthy and complex. Deputy Mayor for Digitalization, Ivan Goychev, together with City Councillor Simeon Stavrev, prepared the official report. This report had to be reviewed and voted on by the City Council. In May, 53 councillors voted in favor(complete support), opening the way for the procedure to finally move forward.

And now, at last, everyone has access to Sofia’s mobility data.

Why It Matters

Access to these datasets – in GTFS for static information and GTFS-RT for real-time updates – is the foundation for developing modern transport solutions. With open data, developers, innovators, and citizens can build smarter journey planning tools, ticketing solutions, and services that improve how we all move across the city.

Looking Ahead

At Tripco, we feel truly optimistic. This milestone proves that with persistence, collaboration, and good institutional will, things can change for the better. We are grateful to everyone who contributed to this process – without you, this would not have happened.

And our work does not stop here. Sofia, if you need help converting your data into NeTEx or SIRI formats to achieve full compliance with EU delegated regulations, get in touch – we’re here to help.

Standardizing Transport Data: Bulgaria’s Path to Smarter Mobility

As Bulgaria moves towards more connected and efficient public transport systems, data standardization plays a vital role. For our cities, regions, and national platforms to provide accurate, real-time information and integrate with European-level services, we must adopt internationally recognized data formats.

This is not just a technical evolution—it’s a regulatory and strategic necessity.

Under EU Delegated Regulation 2017/1926, member states are required to make static and dynamic travel data available in standardized formats to enable multimodal travel information services across Europe.

Understanding Transport Data: Static and Dynamic

To understand the importance of these standards, it helps to first know what kinds of data are involved:

Static data includes planned information that doesn’t change frequently: timetables, routes, stop locations, and fares.
Dynamic data refers to live updates: vehicle positions, delays, service alerts, and real-time arrivals.

Both are crucial for passenger information systems, journey planning apps, and overall transport coordination.

The Most Widely Used Transport Data Standards

NeTEx (Network Timetable Exchange)

Developed under the European Committee for Standardization (CEN), NeTEx is an advanced XML-based format for exchanging static public transport information. It supports complex transport networks, fare systems, and multilingual services. NeTEx is the officially recommended standard by the EU for the publication of static data in National Access Points.

SIRI (Service Interface for Real-time Information)

Also developed by CEN, SIRI handles dynamic data exchange: vehicle monitoring, disruption notifications, estimated arrival times, and connection management. It enables real-time passenger information systems to communicate seamlessly across platforms and agencies.

These two standards are comprehensive and highly flexible, making them ideal for use at national and international levels. For Bulgaria, adopting NeTEx and SIRI is the most effective way to meet EU regulatory requirements and modernize transport services.

GTFS & GTFS-realtime (GTFS-RT)

The General Transit Feed Specification (GTFS) was created by Google and TriMet (Portland, Oregon) and is widely used worldwide, especially in North and South America. GTFS supports static data such as routes, stops, and schedules, while GTFS-RT adds real-time updates like delays and vehicle positions.

These formats are simple and well-supported by many journey planning tools, including Google Maps. However, they have limitations in handling complex networks or regulatory requirements, which is why Europe has moved toward NeTEx and SIRI for official implementations.

GBFS – General Bikeshare Feed Specification

Created by the North American Bikeshare Association and now maintained by MobilityData, GBFS is used for sharing dynamic data from micromobility services—such as bike or scooter availability and dock statuses. It plays a key role in integrating micromobility into broader MaaS (Mobility as a Service) platforms.

Tripco is Leading the Way in Bulgaria

At Tripco, we believe that smart mobility starts with smart data. That’s why we’ve invested in the tools, know-how, and infrastructure to support the conversion and publication of public transport data in NeTEx and SIRI formats. We’re ready to help Bulgarian authorities and operators align with EU regulations and unlock the full potential of modern transport systems.

By embracing standardization, we’re not only ensuring compliance—we’re building a more transparent, accessible, and efficient future for mobility in Bulgaria.

Bulgaria, known for its rich history and stunning landscapes, is now embarking on a journey towards smart urbanization, with a particular focus on revolutionizing transportation and mobility. In this article, we’ll explore the innovative steps Bulgaria is taking to transform its cities into smart, efficient, and eco-friendly urban centers.

1. Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS)

Bulgaria has been actively implementing Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) to enhance the efficiency and safety of its transportation networks. These systems leverage advanced technologies like real-time traffic monitoring, smart traffic lights, and integrated public transport solutions. By optimizing traffic flow, reducing congestion, and improving road safety, Bulgaria is making its cities more accessible and convenient for residents and visitors.

2. Sustainable Mobility Initiatives

The pursuit of sustainable mobility is a key focus in Bulgaria’s smart city journey. Cities like Sofia and Plovdiv are investing in eco-friendly public transportation options, including electric buses and trams. Additionally, bike-sharing programs and pedestrian-friendly zones are becoming increasingly prevalent, encouraging greener and healthier commuting alternatives.

3. Data-Driven Decision Making

Data plays a crucial role in the development of smart cities. Bulgaria is harnessing data analytics to make informed decisions regarding transportation and mobility. By collecting and analyzing data from various sources, such as traffic sensors and GPS systems, city planners can optimize routes, reduce emissions, and improve overall transportation efficiency.

4. Smart Parking Solutions

Parking woes are common in many urban areas, but Bulgaria is addressing this issue with smart parking solutions. These systems enable drivers to locate available parking spaces through mobile apps or digital signage. By reducing the time spent searching for parking spots, smart parking solutions contribute to decreased traffic congestion and emissions.

5. Challenges and Opportunities

While Bulgaria has made significant strides in embracing smart city technologies, challenges remain. Issues such as limited funding, public awareness, and data privacy concerns need to be addressed. However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation and collaboration among government, businesses, and citizens to create smarter, more sustainable cities.

In conclusion, Bulgaria is on a transformative journey towards smart cities that prioritize efficient and sustainable transportation and mobility solutions. By embracing Intelligent Transport Systems, promoting sustainable commuting options, and leveraging data-driven insights, Bulgaria is paving the way for a more accessible, eco-friendly, and connected urban future.

As the country continues to invest in smart city initiatives, it’s positioning itself as a leader in the region, setting an example for how cities can thrive in the digital age while preserving their unique cultural heritage. Bulgaria’s commitment to innovation and sustainability promises a brighter, smarter future for its cities and citizens alike.

Title: Smart Cities in Bulgaria: Revolutionizing Transportation and Mobility

1. Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS)

2. Sustainable Mobility Initiatives

3. Data-Driven Decision Making

4. Smart Parking Solutions

5. Challenges and Opportunities

In our ever-changing world, urban development is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Smart cities are emerging as the future of urban living, where technology, sustainability, and visionary thinking converge to create urban environments that are efficient, eco-friendly, and user-centric. In this article, we’ll delve into the concept of smart cities and introduce you to five pioneering examples from around the world.

What Are Smart Cities?

Smart cities are urban areas that leverage cutting-edge technology and data-driven solutions to enhance the quality of life for their residents while optimizing resource usage and infrastructure. These cities are characterized by their ability to address complex urban challenges, including traffic congestion, pollution, energy consumption, and more, through innovation and connectivity.

Now, let’s meet five remarkable smart cities that are setting new standards for urban living:

1. NEOM: A Glimpse into the ‘New Future’

NEOM, located on the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia, derives its name from the Greek prefix “neo” (meaning ‘new’) and the Arabic word “Mustaqbal” (meaning ‘future’). Conceived by His Royal Highness Mohammed bin Salman, NEOM is a visionary project that aims to redefine urban living. It focuses on sustainability, technology, and innovation, with plans to become a global hub for business, tourism, and recreation. NEOM is set to be a city where cutting-edge technology coexists harmoniously with natural beauty.

2. Telosa City: Ushering in a Reformed Version of Capitalism

Telosa City, conceptualized by billionaire Marc Lore and designed by the Bjarke Ingels Group, is a utopian vision that revolves around ‘equitism,’ a new model for a fair society. This city is designed as a 15-minute city, where workplaces, schools, and basic services are within a 15-minute commute. Fossil fuel vehicles are banned, promoting walkability and sustainable mobility. Telosa’s futuristic Equitism Tower will house water storage, aeroponic farms, and a photovoltaic roof, making it a symbol of innovation.

3. Masdar City: A Pioneering Sustainable Oasis

Located in Abu Dhabi, Masdar City is a sustainable urban community that exemplifies green living. Despite facing challenges and delays, Masdar City continues to thrive as a clean-tech hub, hosting educational institutions, businesses, and organizations dedicated to renewable energy. The city’s commitment to sustainability makes it a beacon of innovation in the Middle East.

4. Songdo International Business District: South Korea’s Green Marvel

Songdo International Business District in South Korea is a blend of modernity and sustainability. It features LEED-certified buildings and a strong focus on green growth. By integrating computers into houses, streets, and offices through a wide area network, Songdo demonstrates a commitment to technological advancement and eco-friendliness.

5. Singapore: The Smart Nation

Singapore, often referred to as a “Smart Nation,” is a prime example of a city-state that has embraced technology to enhance urban living. It utilizes smart grids, autonomous vehicles, and data analytics to improve public services, transportation, and environmental sustainability. Singapore’s commitment to innovation has earned it a reputation as one of the world’s leading smart cities.

These smart cities serve as inspiring examples of what the future holds for urban living. They demonstrate that the key to sustainable, efficient, and user-centric cities lies in the seamless integration of technology, sustainability, and visionary thinking. As we continue to explore the world of smart cities, we’ll delve deeper into their transformative transport and mobility solutions in upcoming articles.

Stay tuned for the next articles in this captivating series, where we’ll unravel the secrets behind the transport innovations powering these cities of the future. The journey to redefine urban living has just begun, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Public transportation plays a vital role in the daily lives of millions of people in Bulgaria. As cities grow and urbanization continues, the need for efficient, reliable, and sustainable public transport becomes increasingly important. To address the challenges and enhance the public transport experience for Bulgarians, here are 10 ways to improve the country’s public transportation system:

1. Integrated Ticketing System: Implementing an integrated ticketing system that allows passengers to use a single ticket for various modes of transportation (bus, tram, metro) and across different regions would simplify travel and encourage greater use of public transport.

2. Real-Time Information: Provide real-time updates on the arrival times of buses, trams, and trains through mobile apps and digital displays at stops. This would minimize waiting times and enhance the overall commuting experience.

3. Infrastructure Upgrades: Invest in upgrading and expanding public transport infrastructure, including dedicated bus lanes, modernized terminals, and comfortable waiting areas. Upgraded infrastructure can lead to improved efficiency and passenger satisfaction.

4. Accessibility Improvements: Ensure that public transport is accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities and the elderly. Installing ramps, elevators, and clear signage can make public transport more inclusive.

5. Environmental Sustainability: Introduce eco-friendly vehicles and technologies to reduce emissions and minimize the environmental impact of public transport. Electric buses, for example, can contribute to cleaner air and a healthier environment.

6. Customer Engagement: Engage with the public to gather feedback and insights on their needs and preferences. Surveys, town hall meetings, and digital platforms can help transportation authorities understand and address passenger concerns.

7. Safety and Security Measures: Enhance safety and security on public transport through increased surveillance, well-lit stations, and the presence of staff or security personnel. This would help passengers feel safer during their journeys.

8. Affordable Pricing: Offer affordable fare options to make public transport an attractive choice for all income groups. Subsidies, discounts for students and seniors, and flexible pricing plans can encourage greater ridership.

9. Public Awareness Campaigns: Educate the public about the benefits of using public transport, including reduced traffic congestion, cost savings, and environmental conservation. Public awareness campaigns can shift attitudes and behaviours.

10. Collaboration with Innovators: Collaborate with technology and innovation experts to develop smart solutions for public transport challenges. From route optimization algorithms to smart payment systems, innovation can significantly enhance the efficiency of public transport.

In conclusion, improving public transport in Bulgaria requires a holistic approach that addresses infrastructure, technology, accessibility, and affordability. By implementing these 10 strategies, Bulgaria can create a public transportation system that meets the needs of its citizens, reduces congestion, and contributes to a sustainable and vibrant urban environment.