How to Use Google Maps in London: A Simple Beginner’s Guide
Figuring out how to use Google Maps in London can be confusing, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the city. Fortunately, navigation with Google Maps can be your ultimate companion, helping you travel the sprawling metropolis with ease. You just need to figure out how to use the app first, and it’s easy!
In this blog post, we will walk you through a simple, step-by-step guide on how to use Google Maps effectively in London. So, let’s get started!
How to Travel London Using Google Maps
1. Install the Google Maps App
Before you figure out how to use Google Maps in London, you have to download it! Before you arrive at the airport, make sure you have the Google Maps app installed on your smartphone. It is available for both iOS and Android devices. Visit your device’s app store, search for “Google Maps,” and download the app to get started.
You can also use Citymapper as a good alternative, if you prefer a different mapping app!
2. Enable Location Services
Trip planning using Google Maps won’t work unless your phone knows where you are. To ensure accurate navigation, ensure that your phone’s location services are turned on. You can do this by going to your device’s settings and granting location access to the Google Maps app.
3. Launch Google Maps
Once installed, open the Google Maps app on your device. The app will display a map of your current location, indicated by a blue dot. This dot represents your real-time position in London.
Check Out My Brand New London Guide
4. How to Use Google Maps in London: First, Search for a Destination
To search for a specific destination in London, tap the search bar at the top of the screen. You can enter the name of a place, an address, or even a general category like “restaurants” or “museums.” Google Maps will display relevant suggestions as you type.
Note that sometimes, if you’re going to a general area and not a specific destination, it may be most accurate to enter a postcode instead of a destination.
5. Trip Planning Using Google Maps
After selecting your desired destination from the search results, tap on it to view its details. To get directions, tap on the blue “Directions” button at the bottom of the screen. You can choose whether you’re traveling by car, public transportation, walking, or cycling. Tap the symbol at the top for which transport option you want directions for.
Keep in mind that depending on where you are and where you’re going, the quickest option may be to walk, and you can see some incredible sights along the way walking the streets of London!
6. Explore Different Routes & The Cheapest Way to Get Around London
Google Maps will provide you with multiple route options to reach your destination. You can view these routes on the map, along with estimated travel times and traffic conditions. Compare the routes and select the one that suits your preferences or requirements.
The cheapest way to get around London depends on where you are and where you’re going. But generally, here are the prices for public transport in 2023:
- Bus Fare: £1.75
- Tube Fare: £2.50-£5, with an Oyster Card or contactless card, depending on how many zones you travel through
- Train Fare: (for leaving London or arriving in London) Prices depend on the train line and route. Book ahead to ensure a seat.
7. How to Use Google Maps in London: Decoding What Different Routes Mean
If it’s your first time in London, you may be overwhelmed at the amount of transport options you get for some destinations. But don’t worry, it’s pretty simple. Here are the symbols that you’ll see and what they mean.
There are 3 general categories for public transportation: tube, bus, and train. What confuses most visitors to London is that there are different symbols and names for different parts of the London Underground. The tube has different branches, including the DLR, the Elizabeth Line, and the Overground. You’ll know it’s part of the tube network because they all have the same roundel symbol, just in different colors.
These branches of the tube work exactly the same as the rest of the underground. You tap in and use them in the same way.
For trains, there will be different names and colors depending on which train line you use. But generally, you buy tickets for trains at the station (or book ahead), and use Google Maps directions just as you normally would.
8. How to Travel London: Use Real-Time Navigation
Once you’ve selected a route, tap the “Start” button to begin navigation. The blue dotted lines are where you need to walk, and the solid lines are your bus or train route.
Google Maps will now guide you with turn-by-turn directions, both visually and audibly. Follow the directions and stay aware of any upcoming turns or instructions.
If you are going underground or to a crowded place where the service will be limited, download the map area so you can use it offline. Here’s how to download google maps directions on iphone and how to download google maps offline on android.
9. Utilize Live Updates
Delays can happen, train lines can occasionally shut down or strike, and major events can wreak havoc on city transport.
It’s beneficial to use Google Maps’ live updates feature. If your route is congested, your train is running late, or your station is closed, google maps will alert you on your journey and offer alternatives.
10. How to Travel London: Don’t Forget to Explore Nearby Places
Google Maps offers a wealth of information about nearby attractions, restaurants, shops, and more. To explore the area around your current location, tap on the map and zoom in. You’ll see icons representing various places of interest. Tap on an icon to view more details and reviews.
You can also add a stop when you’re trip planning using google maps. Add a stop to your route by clicking on “add stop” and enter the location you want to stop at.
11. Save Favorite Places
As you discover interesting locations in London, you can save them as favorites within the Google Maps app. Simply tap on the place you wish to save, and then tap on the “Save” button. This way, you can easily access your favorite spots in the future.
When you’re trip planning using Google Maps, it may be helpful to save all the locations you want to go, then you’ll easily see all the locations on your live map.
How to Use Google Maps in London FAQ
How do I use Google Maps on London Underground?
Follow my instructions above, and make sure to download the area so if you’re stuck without a signal, you can still follow your directions.
What is the best map app to use in London?
Either Google Maps or Citymapper are the most accurate and easiest map apps to use in London. They both offer real-time bus and tube schedules and tell you exactly how to travel London. .
Can I use my phone on the London Underground?
Some stations have Wifi and some don’t. In overground trains, like the DLR or London Overground, having a signal won’t be a problem. But in trains that run deep underground, you won’t have a signal and can only connect to Wifi while you’re stopped at a station.
What app do I need to use the Tube in London?
You only need an app for directions. To tap in and out of the tube, you need a contactless card, an Oyster Card, or a digital wallet like Apple Pay.
What is the cheapest way to get around London?
Public transport is always the cheapest way to get around London. A bus costs £1.75, and the tube runs upwards of £2.50. A black cab or Uber will cost several times what you’d pay for public transport.
Is it cheaper to use contactless on underground?
An Oyster Card and a contactless card cost the same. A single journey (like a single ticket purchased at a kiosk) is the most expensive, so it’s very much worth getting an Oyster Card to save money if you don’t have a contactless payment option.
How do you pay to get on the tube?
Tap in and out at the gates on the yellow circle with your Oyster Card or Contactless payment card. If you need help, there are always TFL employees at the station to assist you!
Is there an app to pay for London Tube?
No. TFL does not offer it’s own app to pay for the tube. There is an Oyster App which you can use to top up and manage your Oyster Card balance, but you cannot tap in and out with the app. I suggest using a digital wallet like Apple Pay or Google Wallet if you want to use your phone to pay for the tube or bus.
Is there AC on the Tube?
Some lines have air conditioning, but most don’t. Bring water and a fan during the summer months to prevent overheating; the underground gets very hot.
How to Use Google Maps in London: Final Tips
Google Maps is an indispensable tool for navigating London’s busy streets. By following these simple steps, you can make the most of this powerful app, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey through the vibrant city. Embrace the convenience of Google Maps, and let it guide you through the wonders of London!
More on Visiting London:
Where Can I Charge my Phone in London? Local’s Ultimate Guide (2024)
Itinerary for 3 Epic Days in London: An Insider’s Guide
How to Get Cheap Train Tickets to and From London
Where to Stay your First time in London
London Hotels for Family: 10 Great Values to Book Now
Your Ultimate Guide to a Family Trip to London on a Budget
