What it does
MAPS.ME provides offline maps, place searches and turn-by-turn driving, walking or cycling navigation. Its publisher describes travel guides, shared bookmarks and categories for attractions, restaurants, accommodation and transport.
Download a map while connected before using it as the arrival plan. Offline search can then help locate a cafe, attraction or accommodation without consuming mobile data for every lookup. Bookmarks retain important places and can be shared with companions.
The app also provides ready-made travel guides and displays uphill or downhill information for walking and cycling. Those features serve a different purpose from deciding whether a place is open or a particular hotel is available. A Booking.com link supplies a separate accommodation-booking route. The publisher warns that continued background GPS can substantially affect battery use, so account for tracking during a long day.
Strengths
- Combines offline navigation with place categories and shared bookmarks
- Offers travel guides alongside walking and cycling terrain context
Watch out for
- Continued background GPS can substantially reduce battery life.
Best for
- Travellers who want downloaded maps and saved visitor places