How MaaS app Citymapper helps cities manage major global events

Managing parades, strikes, marathons, carnivals, or more? You’re not alone. 2025 kicked-off the year with multiple major events that shook up transportation networks worldwide. With special routes, extra routes—or no routes—last-minute changes, incomplete timetables, or information in multiple languages—there was a lot to get organized. 

Luckily, Citymapper was on it. By combining robust algorithms, intuitive rider-facing visuals, and clear communications with the expertise of dedicated local teams, Citymapper kept cities moving during recent events and disruptions.

Read about some of 2025’s biggest events so far:

Philadelphia Super Bowl Parade

With over 20 metro stations closed, dozens of bus and trolley detours, and 1M+ fans flooding the streets, transportation was bound to be strained. But like Philly football fans, Citymapper rose to the occasion. By taking into account all metro, trolley and bus detours, offering live vehicle tracking, and displaying the special free fares, Citymapper ensured everyone got to their celebrations safely and could make informed transport decisions. 

Oh, and for a fun local touch, Citymapper added an Easter egg — a reference to a Philly football legend — to the App’s interface.

Venice Carnival 

Masks, vaporettos, and smooth travel? Citymapper was ready. The app featured special carnival routes—complete with unique icons—to help attendees easily discover temporary  services set up specifically for the occasion. The app integrated all vaporetto diversions and kept users informed of weather-related disruptions like high tides and fog, ensuring smooth travel to iconic events like the Arsenale Water Show and the Grand Canal celebrations.

Countrywide strikes in Germany

In February, Germany saw massive transit strikes across almost all major cities, shutting down metro and tram services for 24 hours. Citymapper kept commuters on track with real-time status alerts, alternative routes, and even options like bike shares and carpooling, all grouped under a "Strike-Safe" section so users knew that these modes were available.

Hoboken Station Closure

In Hoboken, New Jersey, the closure of Hoboken Station for upgrades caused major headaches as commuters sought ways to get to their jobs in Manhattan. Citymapper made sure travelers had all the alternatives at their fingertips: in-app travel alerts and all available travel options, including bus and ferry options not included in agency timetable data. Once again, passengers got seamless navigation despite the disruption!

Hong Kong Marathon

The Hong Kong marathon attracts over 70,000 runners each year. Between athletes and fans, hosting the event required precise transit coordination. Citymapper displayed all special metro and bus services to help participants and spectators reach the race and curated temporary points of interest, such as baggage drop-off points, to ensure precise routing amidst the crowds. 

Citymapper doesn’t need Duolingo, it speaks your language 

Whether you're a tourist or a local, Citymapper speaks your language. Multilingual and localized to your area, Citymapper ensures everyone has up-to-date, accurate information about transportation including any events or disruptions that are happening.

Want to help your transit system manage these types of events better? Let’s talk.

Oh and remember? Citymapper did the Paris Olympics too! Read more about it here.