What it does
Leaflet is an open-source JavaScript library for interactive maps. It supplies the map container, controls, markers, popups, event handling and layers, while a tile provider supplies the basemap imagery. A developer can set a starting location, add a tile layer and place markers or shapes on top. It is a map interface library, not a source of map tiles or a hosted geocoding service.
Leaflet's quick start makes the dependencies visible before the first map appears: include its CSS and JavaScript, add a div with a defined height, initialize a map with a center and zoom, then add a tile layer with its URL template and attribution. From there, add a marker or popup for a location that matters to the page.
The tile service is a separate choice. The quick-start example uses OpenStreetMap tiles and explicitly tells readers to review the tile usage policy before production use. Select a provider whose terms and capacity fit the expected traffic, and preserve the required attribution. Leaflet handles interaction with the map, but it does not remove the need to plan tile hosting or licensing.
Strengths
- The quick start shows a small route from a map container to a working view with markers, polylines and popups.
- Map controls and touch interactions are enabled by default for a basic map instance.
Watch out for
- A map container needs a defined height, and a tile layer must be selected and attributed separately.
- The OpenStreetMap tile endpoint used in the example is subject to its own usage policy and should not be treated as unrestricted production hosting.
Best for
- Adding interactive maps to a site with an independently selected tile provider.
- Showing locations, routes, markers or popup details in a web application.
Sources
- Leaflet Quick Start Guide (Oct 26, 2026)
- Leaflet official repository (Oct 26, 2026)
- Leaflet BSD 2-Clause license (Oct 26, 2026)