Maribor, Slovenia's second largest city, has modernised its bus transportation system, introducing new routes, additional stops and updated timetables, as well as contactless payment by bank cards.

Inspired by larger cities that have main metro lines and smaller feeder lines, Maribor streamlined its bus network and introduced changes that officials say will make public transport more user-friendly for the locals and visitors.

Starting from 31 January, the network features six primary bus routes with increased frequency: the G1-G6 lines will connect the most densely populated areas with key destinations, with buses running every 10 to 20 minutes.

They will be complemented by connecting lines (P7-P19) serving less central areas with at least a 25-minute frequency, and integrated routes (I101-I112) designed for sparsely populated regions and running at least twice a day to primarily cater to school transport.

The core network is being streamlined from 290 km to 220 km, improving efficiency while enhancing accessibility. The proportion of residents living within 300 metres of a bus stop will rise from 85% to 91%, Maribor Mayor Saša Arsenovič has announced.

Another key improvement for a city with a population of 100,000 is reduced travel times on ten lines and an increase in accessibility of high frequency lines from 39% to 69%.

Arsenovič says the new bus routes are just one element of a broader urban mobility strategy that includes the Mbajk bike-sharing system, new cycling paths, bike racks at bus stops, and Park & Ride facilities.

The name of bus stops have been updated to make them easier to recognise, including for foreign visitors. A total of 33 new stops will be added for a total of 390, ten of which have already been built, and ten new green shelters will be installed in the city centre.

New route maps will be created, displaying all forms of mobility. Each route will have a designated colour. Timetable displays have been adapted to accommodate the needs of older passengers and those with visual impairments.

"Our goal is to create a clearer, more transparent system that supports our ambition of becoming a more sustainable city. We hope that more people will choose public transport over cars," the mayor said.

Some residents have voiced grievances, mostly about less frequent services in some areas compared to the old system.