Do you think Google is the only viable solution for getting directions? Wrong. There are other maps available, even accessible from the browser
There’s no doubt that Google Maps is one of the best satellite navigation tools available on smartphones and tablets. It’s fast and reliable, and over the years it has become increasingly accurate. Not to mention that, thanks to frequent updates, it is often enriched with very useful features. But it is certainly not the only system available.
There are several equally good alternatives with which to get reliable directions. Some are available in the form of a website, while others are programs that, just like Google Maps, can be downloaded to your devices. And, according to the users who use them, they have nothing to envy to the Mountain View navigator.
Between other things, these systems are also very easy to use and include services not always present in Google Maps. For example, there are navigation solutions that rely on the community of users, to provide traffic information, and not only, in real time.
Alternatives to Google Maps: MapQuest GPS
One of the best alternatives, little known in Italy, is MapQuest GPS, available both by browser and in the form of an application for Android and iOS. In addition to the classic route, this navigation service also allows you to find nearby hotels, stores, cafes, gas stations, electric charging stations and much more.
MapQuest GPS also allows you to stay up-to-date in real time on traffic and receive alerts in case of traffic accidents. And that’s not all: you can even save and send the maps to your smartphone.
Bing: Microsoft’s alternative to Google Maps
Not everyone knows that Microsoft also has its own maps: they are the Bing maps that, like Google Maps, are complete and very detailed. Setting a route, here, is very simple: you access the platform, also available as an application for Android and iOS, you enter the address and follow the route thanks to the information in the bar on the left. You can also view traffic news on Bing maps.
OpenStreetMap
OpenStreet Map stands out for being an open source service, created thanks to the contribution of the huge community of users. It is accessible both from the web and via app and – in the latter case – it is a real satellite navigator. On its maps, in fact, is based “OsmAnd Maps and Navigation”, an application for Android and iOS mobile devices.
OpenStreet Map reminds a bit Wikipedia: users can insert their maps in the platform, simply by pressing the “Start mapping” button. Finally, there is a very special function that allows you to update and correct any errors on the maps.
Citymapper
City Mapper is an application that, in addition to being very functional, is also “fun”. Thanks to City Mapper you have the possibility to know the route to do not only using cab, Uber, public transport, car, bicycle, but also using car sharing. In addition, for each route, City Mapper tells you how many calories you have burned, how many trees you have saved and how much money you have saved. That’s not all, because CityMapper informs you in real time about probable problems on subway lines, trains and buses, and also tells you which section of the subway is free. Finally, thanks to Citymapper you’ll have the arrival time updated in real time.
Alternatives to Google Maps: Waze
The most popular alternative to Google Maps was actually purchased by Google itself. Waze’s success depends mainly on its users, who provide real-time information about traffic and traffic incidents. Leaving aside the numerous and efficient functions present in the application, Waze is also excellent because of its maps: in fact, it is sufficient to access the “Live Map” service via browser and enter the route to get directions. The “plans”, as on OpenStreet Map, can be updated and corrected by users.
Here
Here is much more than a website on which to search and view simple maps: it is also a satellite navigator, to be used both on Android and on devices produced by Apple. To access the maps you need to “head” to wego.here.com. The platform offers many services, including the ability to choose how to get to your destination: by car, bus, public transportation, car sharing, cab, bike and on foot.
Once you get directions, by clicking on “In this area”, you can check if there are ATMs, gas stations, restaurants and even events along the way.
Also, you can stay up to date on traffic and know what’s nearby. Among the different alternatives to Google maps, Here is one of the most complete and one of the best in terms of graphics: its interface, in fact, is simple and clear.