If you are looking for a practical way to find your way around places without an internet signal, MAPS.ME is one of the best free GPS apps that work offline. It allows you to download complete maps of entire cities and countries, offering routes, points of interest and detailed navigation, even without an internet connection. You can download it below
MAPS.ME: Nav GPS offline maps
What is MAPS.ME
MAPS.ME is a navigation app based on collaborative maps from the OpenStreetMap platform. It is designed to work completely offline, which is ideal for road trips, hiking, rural areas or anywhere where the internet signal is weak or non-existent. In addition to navigation, it also shows locations such as restaurants, hotels, ATMs and tourist attractions.
Main features
The app has several useful features, even in the free version. Some of the main ones are:
- Detailed offline maps: Download complete maps by city, state or country and access them whenever you want, without needing mobile data.
- Turn by turn navigation: For car, bike and walking, with step-by-step instructions.
- Points of Interest (POIs): Find pharmacies, restaurants, museums, tourist attractions and much more.
- Favorites and bookmarks: You can save important locations for easy access later.
- Location sharing: Even offline, you can mark and send map points.
- Travel itineraries: Suggestions for tours and trails in various cities around the world.
Android and iOS compatibility
MAPS.ME is available for free on both Android and iOS devices. It is lightweight, takes up little space on your phone, and works very well on simpler smartphones. The installation process is quick and does not require mandatory registration.
How to use MAPS.ME step by step
- Install the application: Access your phone’s app store (Google Play or App Store) and search for “MAPS.ME”. Download and install.
- Open the app and allow location access: This is required for the app to show your position on the map.
- Download offline maps: When you open the app, it will show your current location. Tap to download the map of the area.
- Search destinations: Use the magnifying glass to search for streets, establishments or cities.
- Plot routes: Tap the desired location and select “Route here” to start navigation.
- Save Favorite Locations: Press and hold anywhere on the map to save as a favorite.
- Use even offline: After downloading the map, you can use all these features without an internet connection.
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages:
- Completely free;
- Works without internet;
- Simple and intuitive interface;
- Maps updated regularly by the OpenStreetMap community;
- Takes up little storage space;
- Good accuracy of walking and cycling routes.
Disadvantages:
- Driving directions may not be as accurate as Google Maps;
- Some maps lack detailed coverage in very remote areas;
- It does not have real-time traffic or accident alerts (as it is offline).
Is it free or paid?
MAPS.ME is 100% free to download and use. There is no subscription or payment required to access the main features, including offline maps. It does display some unobtrusive ads, and there is an in-app purchase option to remove ads and unlock premium features, such as guided travel suggestions.
Usage tips
- Download maps before you travel: This avoids unexpected events when you are without internet.
- Use your phone's GPS in airplane mode: This helps save battery during long hikes or rides.
- Save your important points: Hotels, parking lots, gas stations, etc.
- Combine with other apps: You can use MAPS.ME offline together with translation or weather apps, also offline.
Overall app rating
On the Google Play Store, MAPS.ME has an average rating of over 4.4 stars, with over 100 million downloads. Users particularly praise the app's lightness, the reliability of offline maps, and its ease of use when traveling internationally or in remote regions. The iOS version also receives good ratings, with highlights for its navigation on trails and search for tourist attractions.
Conclusion
If you need a reliable GPS that works even without internet, MAPS.ME is an excellent choice. Lightweight, practical and free, it is ideal for those who like to travel, go hiking or simply save mobile data in their daily lives. Try it and see how easy it is to find your way around, even offline.
