Google Maps has long been the go-to navigation app for over a billion people worldwide, but it’s not without its flaws. Concerns about data privacy, excessive data tracking, limited offline functionality, and lack of advanced routing capabilities for businesses have driven many users to look for alternatives. As one Reddit user pointed out, “I don’t like being spied on to sell my personal data to the highest bidder.” Other users share frustrations about usability. One of the users from the Reddit community noted, “Google Maps doesn’t show many roads until you zoom in,” while another raised concerns about invasive features like tracking speed and highlighting speed limit breaches. This blog is your guide to the best Google Maps alternatives. Whether you’re seeking privacy-focused apps, tools with minimal data tracking, software offering offline maps, or simply want to break free from Google’s ecosystem, we’ll help you find options that prioritize your needs and respect your privacy. Backed by expert insights and user feedback, these alternatives offer innovative solutions to common navigation challenges. Table of Contents Why Consider Alternatives to Google Maps? How We Chose the Best Google Maps Alternatives Best Google Maps Alternative for Multi-Stop Route Planning Best Privacy-Focused Alternatives to Google Maps Best Real-Time Traffic Navigation Apps Best Offline Map Apps for Travel Best Public Transit and City Navigation Apps FAQs About Google Maps Alternatives Find Your Perfect Mapping Tool Why Consider Alternatives to Google Maps? While Google Maps remains a widely used and trusted tool, we must also be aware of potential drawbacks. Here are four key reasons to explore other mapping options: 1. Privacy concerns Google Maps’ data collection practices, including location tracking on the Google Maps Timeline, have raised significant concerns. For example, an Associated Press report revealed that Google continued tracking users’ locations even when “Location History” was turned off. This led to a $391.5 million settlement with 40 U.S. states for misleading consumers about its location data tracking. Need More Than 10 Stops? Upgrade to Upper for hundreds of stop points, advanced route optimization, and custom route options specific to your needs. Try it Free! What you might not know about Google Maps’ tracking practices Google Maps’ data collection goes beyond what’s visible. Even with “Location History” turned off, a lesser-known feature called “Web & App Activity” continues to log user locations and activities across devices. This hidden tracking often surprises users who assume they’ve opted out. Every time you use Google services like Search or Maps, timestamps are logged to create a detailed history of your movements. These records are stored and combined with existing user profiles to enhance Google’s advertising platform. 💡 Quick solution: Visit Google’s “My Activity” page to review and delete stored location data. Disable tracking features like “Web & App Activity” for enhanced privacy. 2. Lacks route optimization and customization features Google Maps limits your route planning to a maximum of 10 stops and doesn’t offer built-in route optimization for multi-stop trips. Other navigation apps, like Google Maps, provide better route optimization and allow for more customization, such as setting priority stops time windows, and managing time and distance constraints. If you need more stops and advanced optimization: Upper’s Free Route Planner allows up to 20 stops for free. If you prefer using Google Maps, Upper’s Google Maps Route Optimization Extension lets you effortlessly sequence stops and minimize travel time with just one click. 3. Offline use unreliability Google Maps’ offline maps can be unreliable, particularly in remote location services, leaving users without dependable navigation when it’s most needed. 4. Navigation issues Users often report inaccuracies in turn-by-turn directions, especially in urban areas. Additionally, Google Maps doesn’t perform well for outdoor activities like hiking or biking, where missing trails and inaccuracies can be frustrating. Google Maps Got You Stuck in a Rut? Ditch the limitations! Upper goes beyond navigation - it offers multi-stop route optimization, superior privacy, and advanced time-saving features. Try Upper How We Chose the Best Google Maps Alternatives To ensure you get the most reliable and effective alternatives to Google Maps, we followed a thorough evaluation process. Here’s what we focused on: We prioritized apps that are privacy-focused (with GDPR compliance) and offer minimal data tracking Reliable offline maps for uninterrupted navigation We looked for apps offering an advanced feature set, including route optimization, public transit details, and support for outdoor activities like hiking and biking. We even analyzed multiple sources, including user reviews, tech forums, and community discussions on platforms like Reddit and Quora. The easy-to-use interface was also an added factor we kept in mind while evaluating. By combining these criteria, we’ve curated a list of alternatives that are practical, user-friendly, and respect your privacy. Best Google Maps Alternative for Multi-Stop Route Planning 1. Upper User ratings: 4.5/5 (1.6K) Available on: Web, iOS, Android Upper is a go-to Google Maps alternative for multi-stop route planning. We know we’re a bit biased here, but hear us out. Think Google Maps, but on steroids—that’s Upper. Do you know how Google Maps caps you at 10 stops? Upper handles up to 500 in one go. That’s right, 500! This is perfect for those of you managing deliveries, sales routes, or even planning a road trip adventure. But here’s where it gets cool. Upper doesn’t just plot points on a map. Do you have time windows for deliveries? Priority stops? Special delivery instructions? Upper handles it all. It even lets you avoid tolls if you’re watching those expenses. And let’s talk about saving time. Upper turns hours of manual planning into a 5-minute breeze. Just import your addresses Hit optimize Boom – you’ve got your route Oh, and accuracy? Upper is all over it. It double-checks every address you input, catching those pesky typos or outdated info, so you’re not wasting time on wrong turns. We’ve got a web app and a mobile app, so you can take your optimized route at your convenience. Remember, Upper isn’t just about getting from A to B. It’s about efficiently getting from A to Z, saving you time, fuel, and effort. Why not give it a shot? We offer a free trial, no strings attached. Usability: Incredibly user-friendly with an intuitive interface that transforms complex route planning into a 5-minute task Accuracy: Unparalleled precision with address verification and route optimization, setting a new standard in navigation accuracy Downsides: It offers powerful features but comes with a subscription fee (with a free trial to test it out). Why Settle for Less When You Can Have More? Google Maps is great until you hit its limits. Upper gives you the power to optimize up to 500 stops in minutes, so you can get more done with less effort. Try it Free! 2. MapQuest: Best for cost-conscious drivers looking for gas price comparisons User rating: 4.1/5 (66.4k) Works on: iOS, Android, Web Launched in 1966, MapQuest is the trailblazer of web-based mapping services and a great turn-by-turn GPS navigation app. It is one of the top multi-stop route planner apps, allowing you to optimize routes based on traffic jams and reduce your driving distance, time, and fuel costs. It also features a speedometer that lets you compare your actual speed against the maximum legal speed along your route to ensure compliance. This online map tool also facilitates comparing prices at nearby gas or fuel pumps to help choose the most cost-effective station. Usability: Classic mapping service with easy turn-by-turn navigation Accuracy: Good for main roads but lacks depth in rural areas and specialized routes Downsides: Route planning is available for only up to 26 stops User-reported issues with driver-tracking search functionalities Lack of industry-specific features Optimize Your Routes Without Limits Tired of Google Maps' 10-stop limit? With Upper, you can plan routes with hundreds of stops, making it perfect for businesses with multiple destinations. Try it Free! Best Privacy-Focused Alternatives to Google Maps 3. Apple Maps User rating: 2.6/5 (30.4K) Available on: iOS, MacOS Apple Inc. released Apple Maps on September 19, 2012, making it the default map system for Apple device users. This web mapping platform provides a clean and intuitive user interface for navigation and works smoothly across all Apple devices. The USP of Apple Maps is its high level of privacy, which is better than Google Maps. It doesn’t require a sign-in using your Apple ID, so it doesn’t keep a history of where you visited. 💡 If you’re interested in making the most of Apple Maps, check out our guide on how to use the Apple Maps Route Planner. As part of its unique features, Apple Maps offers: Accurate estimated times of arrival (ETAs) based on the estimated traffic Real-time information about public transport vehicles like buses or trains Advanced search capabilities with specific filters to find places nearby. 💡 Learn how to create and manage multiple stops in your Apple Maps itinerary with our step-by-step guide. Usability: Simple interface integrated with Apple devices, but limited to 15 stops per route Accuracy: Good for urban areas, but sometimes lacks precision in rural or lesser-known regions Downsides: Requires a special JavaScript API (MapKit JS) to integrate into your website Not available for Android users Route planning is available for only up to 15 stops in one go Keep Your Data Private Upper respects your privacy and doesn't collect extensive data. You can focus on efficient route planning without compromising your personal information. Try it Free! 4. OsmAnd User ratings: 4.5/5 (203k) Works on: iOS, Android OsmAnd is an offline mapping app that uses OpenStreetMap (OSM) data to help you navigate roads based on your preferences and vehicle size. It even lets you plan routes considering inclines and slopes. Since it’s open-source, you don’t need to sign in with an email, and you have control over what data you share. OsmAnd also offers various map styles for activities like touring, boating, desert driving, or off-roading. It provides GPS navigation for different transport modes, lets you plan multi-stop routes, and makes it easy to search for places by category and plan your trips accordingly. However, one of the users from the GrapheneOS Discussion Forum highlighted that “Organic maps is foss, fast and fun! For me its better than the cluttered OsmAnd.” Usability: Versatile for various terrains but less intuitive compared to other apps Accuracy: Reliable for offline navigation, though slower recalculations may impact real-time usability Downsides: Poor route recalculation capabilities Sharing of routes is not possible Not as intuitive as other mapping services Best Real-Time Traffic Navigation Apps 5. Waze User rating: 4.1/5 (8.77M) Works on: iOS, Android Waze is one of the most popular community-driven navigation apps, offering real-time traffic alerts based on continuous input from drivers. These alerts include information on traffic congestion, construction, accidents, police, or speed cameras. The app’s ability to adapt to live traffic conditions makes it a reliable choice for many users.However, it is important to note that Google acquired Waze in 2013, which raises privacy concerns. While Waze provides reliable navigation features, the data shared through the app may be integrated into Google’s broader data collection framework. Additionally, cybersecurity researchers have pointed out potential vulnerabilities in the Waze API allowing hackers to track users and gather data, compromising data security. On a positive note, Waze’s real-time traffic data and community-sourced updates ensure accurate ETAs and dynamic route adjustments. It also shows nearby gas stations with price comparisons, making it a versatile tool for drivers. For tips on planning your routes with Waze, see this blog post on using the Waze Route Planner. Usability: User-friendly interface with live updates from other drivers, but lacks offline capabilities Accuracy: Most accurate alternative to Google Maps for real-time traffic information, but less effective for planning in areas without cellular connectivity Downsides: Unsuitable for oversized or emergency vehicles High battery consumption due to continuous data reporting Acquired by Google Lack of offline mode 6. Open Street Map User rating: 4.7/5 (3) Works on: Web and supported apps like OsmAnd OpenStreetMap (OSM) is a free, open-source alternative to Google Maps. It’s maintained by a community of volunteers who update the maps using surveys, aerial imagery, and other data sources. OSM even offers detailed information on landmarks like parks, trails, and rivers and stores this data in various file formats for different uses. One of OSM’s major advantages is its commitment to privacy. It doesn’t track or share your data; you don’t need to sign up or log in to use its features. This makes it a safer choice if you’re concerned about privacy. 💡Want to make the most of OpenStreetMap? Check out the in-depth guide on how to use OpenStreetMap. Usability: Community-driven platform with a clean, customizable maps interface Accuracy: Relies on volunteer updates, which can vary by region Downsides: There is no centralized technical support, unlike other Google Maps competitors Lack of Points of Interest (PoI) like hotels and restaurants Best Offline Map Apps for Travel 7. HERE WeGo User rating: 3/5 (500K) Works on: iOS, Android HERE WeGo Maps is a great app for getting around, whether you’re traveling locally or internationally. It guides walking, driving, and using public transit. You can even add waypoints to improve your route. The app provides real-time traffic information to help you save time and fuel. You can also download maps for entire regions or countries to use offline, so you won’t get lost even if you lose your internet connection. However, a user on GrapheneOS Discussion Forum pointed out that “HERE WeGo, Sygic, tom-tom, all seem to work well, but if you’re looking for a more privacy-minded alternative, Magic Earth seems to work the best for me.” Usability: User-friendly for multi-stop trips but lacks active alternative routes suggestion for pedestrians Accuracy: Decent for city driving, but struggles in rural areas or complex routes Downsides: Limited offline customization functionality Missing active rerouting and compass functions for pedestrians Inadequate support for seamless integration of third-party app 8. Sygic GPS Navigation & Maps: Best for high-quality 3D maps and offline use User rating: 4.2/5 (1.76M) Works on: iOS, Android Sygic is among the most popular route planner apps, like Google Maps. It offers high-resolution 3D offline maps for countries worldwide, plus real-time updates on speed camera alerts and traffic. With millions of Points of Interest (PoI) and a satellite view option, you can easily find your destination. Sygic also provides voice guidance navigation to help you get around new areas. Additionally, you can save on roaming charges by using its oddline detailed maps. Usability: Feature-rich app with intuitive turn-by-turn navigation tools Accuracy: High-quality maps with regular updates Downsides: Limited functionalities in its free version No cycling or public transit guidance 9. Maps.Me: Best for offline map apps for travel enthusiasts User rating: 4.1/5 (1.18M) Works on: iOS, Android Maps.Me keeps maps up-to-date by using data crowdsourced by OpenStreet contributors. It offers clear routing for driving, walking, and cycling and even partners with content creators to guide you to hundreds of destinations. Maps.me stands out with its offline maps, which allow you to navigate without using data or worrying about spotty internet connection. You can also find points of interest, hiking trails, and unique spots along the way, making it a top choice for planning road trips. In addition to this, you can bookmark your favorite places and share them with friends for easy group trips. Usability: Simple interface with extensive offline search capabilities Accuracy: Good for popular destinations but inconsistent for lesser-known locations Downsides: High battery consumption Absence of the web version Lack of satellite or aerial imagery Think Google Maps Can Handle 500 Stops? Think Again Google Maps caps you at 10 stops. Upper handles 500. Whether it’s deliveries, sales calls, or a road trip, you’ll never look back once you’ve tried Upper. Try Upper Best Public Transit and City Navigation Apps 10. Bing Maps User rating: 4.4/5 (209) Works on: Web Bing Maps, formerly Live Search Maps or Windows Live Maps, is Microsoft’s mapping service. This popular Google Maps alternative offers different map styles, like standard road maps, aerial views, and dark mode. When you start typing an address, Bing Maps helps by suggesting locations to speed up your search. It also has useful features like density maps (heat maps), which show data density so you can quickly see where there are many points. Bing Maps gives you real-time traffic updates and shows any incidents on your route. This makes it a reliable tool for navigating and staying informed about road conditions. 💡Need help with Bing Maps? Our simple guide on using Bing Maps Route Planner can walk you through the process. Usability: Straightforward interface but less advanced compared to other options Accuracy: Decent for general navigation but inconsistent ETAs and limited advanced routing Downsides: Privacy concerns No advanced route planning capabilities Not-so-accurate ETAs at times 11. CityMapper: Best for public transit and ride-sharing integrations User rating: 4.8/5 (303K) Works on: iOS, Android, Web CityMapper is a great tool for getting around the city. It helps you compare different travel options and transit modes in real-time to make smart choices for your journey. CityMapper gives you clear turn-by-turn detailed directions and detailed routing guidance, whether driving, walking, or cycling. The app also partners with major cab and bike-sharing services like Uber, Lyft, JUMP, and Scoot. This means you can compare fares, book rides, or find nearby e-scooters all in one place. Usability: Perfect for city dwellers but restricted to major cities worldwide Accuracy: Highly accurate for public transportation in big cities Downsides: Currently limited to only major cities worldwide Offline access constraints No support for third-party app integrations FAQs About Google Maps Alternatives What is the best Google Maps alternative for user privacy? Top Google Maps alternatives for privacy-focused users include OpenStreetMap (OSM), OsmAnd, Organic Maps, and Upper. These apps prioritize user data protection, offering minimal tracking and advanced navigation features while keeping your personal information secure. Which alternative map apps work offline without tracking? OsmAnd, Maps.Me, HERE WeGo, and Organic Maps are excellent options for offline navigation that don’t compromise your privacy. These apps allow you to download offline maps and navigate without constant data transmission or tracking. Are there any Google Maps alternatives that are more feature-rich and budget-friendly? Quora discussions highlight several alternatives that offer advanced features at a lower cost. Many recommend apps like Upper, which offers advanced route optimization at a competitive price. Others suggest apps like OpenStreetMap, OsmAnd, HERE WeGo, and Tom Tom. These apps are either free Google Maps alternatives or are often more budget-friendly than Google Maps’ premium services. How to De-Google and replace Google Maps? To deGoogle and replace Google Maps, start by switching to alternative apps like Upper, Apple Maps, Waze, Organic Maps, or OpenStreetMap. These apps offer navigation and detailed route planning without relying on Google. You can also adjust your device settings to limit Google’s access by removing your Google account, disabling tracking location-based services, and using privacy-focused apps for web browsing. What are the alternatives to Google Street View? Alternatives to Google Street View include Mapillary, a crowdsourced street-level imagery platform, and OpenStreetCam, an open-source project for sharing street-level imagery. Which are the best free alternatives to Google Maps API? Some of the best free alternatives to Google Maps API include OpenStreetMap (OSM), a community-driven platform offering extensive map data, and Leaflet, a lightweight JavaScript library for interactive maps. MapLibre GL is another great open-source option for creating customizable map experiences. Find Your Perfect Mapping Tool Choosing the right navigation tool depends on what matters most to you: data privacy, offline map access capability, route optimization, or real-time updates. Google Maps is a solid choice for many, including those using a Google Maps trip planner, but there are great alternatives that might better suit your needs. Whether you need a privacy-focused option like Apple Maps or a versatile route planner like Upper, there’s a tool out there that fits your requirements. Explore these alternatives and see which one works best for you. Author Bio Jeel Patel Jeel Patel is the Chief Executive Officer at Upper. With 5+ years of experience in dev, outbound, and inbound sales, He is committed to growing conversion through inbound and outbound activities. Outside the office, Jeel loves to spend time with his dog and take him on long walks. Read more. Share this post: Break Free from 10-Stop Limits!Struggling with Google Maps' stop limit? Discover Upper – a smarter route planning solution that lets you add unlimited stops, optimize routes in seconds, and stay ahead of the game.Start Hassle-Free Routing Now!
