I got myself an ESP32 with an integrated e-ink display. This little project shows when the next bus to the city leaves, and the current time. I get the live bus data from Skyss through the Entur integration in Home Assistant. Might have to get a few more of these to tinker with.
I can recommend PlatformIO or Arduino. Or MicroPython, CircuitPython ... if you're into that or the learning curve for C proves to be too steep. ESPhome is really great for connecting to HomeAssistant or doing some standard IoT stuff and getting results without too much coding.
The ESP32 are really versatile and a good choice to get your fingers dirty with (in my opinion).