Leaving Google Maps? Here's everything you need
Compare 3 EU alternatives side-by-side. Find the right fit based on migration difficulty, pricing, and privacy features.
Your data may be subject to US surveillance laws
Google Maps is headquartered in the US. Under the CLOUD Act and FISA Section 702, US authorities can access your data without your knowledge. Switch to an EU alternative to keep your data protected under GDPR.
All EU Alternatives at a Glance
| Alternative | Country | Pricing | Difficulty | Time Estimate | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
OsmAndRecommended OsmAnd is a comprehensive navigation and mapping application that leverages the power of OpenStreetMaps to provide reliable and detailed maps for users around the world. Designed to function seamlessly offline, OsmAnd ensures that users can access maps and navigation tools without the need for an internet connection, making it an ideal choice for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. Key features include turn-by-turn voice guidance, customizable map displays, and the ability to save favorite locations. OsmAnd stands out with its commitment to privacy and security, hosting data within the EU to ensure compliance with GDPR and offering users peace of mind regarding data sovereignty. This makes it particularly appealing to privacy-conscious users and organizations operating within Europe. The app is suitable for a wide range of users, from casual travelers to professional drivers and cyclists. OsmAnd offers a freemium pricing model, with a free version available and additional features accessible through a paid subscription. By prioritizing user privacy and offering robust offline capabilities, OsmAnd provides a reliable and secure navigation solution for those who value data protection and accessibility. | 🇪🇺EU | Free plan available | Medium | Varies | |
Organic MapsRecommended Organic Maps is a open source navigation app for iOS and Android. It uses the maps of OpenStreetMaps. | 🇪🇺EU | Free | Medium | 1-2 hours | |
komoot Komoot is a versatile navigation and maps application designed for outdoor enthusiasts in Europe, offering comprehensive route planning for cycling and hiking. With its intuitive interface, users can easily create custom routes, set waypoints, and access community-generated trail recommendations to enhance their outdoor adventures. Key features include offline maps for uninterrupted navigation, voice guidance for hands-free operation, and seamless integration with fitness tracking devices. Komoot caters to cyclists, hikers, and outdoor explorers who seek reliable and customizable navigation tools. A standout feature is its commitment to user privacy and security, with GDPR-compliant data handling and EU-hosted servers ensuring data sovereignty and protection. The app supports multiple languages, making it accessible to a diverse user base across Europe. Komoot offers a freemium pricing model, allowing users to access basic features for free, with premium options available for advanced functionalities. | 🇪🇺EU | Free plan available | Medium | Varies |
Our Top Picks
Best for Privacy
OsmAnd is a comprehensive navigation and mapping application that leverages the power of OpenStreetMaps to provide reliable and detailed maps for users around the world. Designed to function seamlessly offline, OsmAnd ensures that users can access maps and navigation tools without the need for an internet connection, making it an ideal choice for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. Key features include turn-by-turn voice guidance, customizable map displays, and the ability to save favorite locations. OsmAnd stands out with its commitment to privacy and security, hosting data within the EU to ensure compliance with GDPR and offering users peace of mind regarding data sovereignty. This makes it particularly appealing to privacy-conscious users and organizations operating within Europe. The app is suitable for a wide range of users, from casual travelers to professional drivers and cyclists. OsmAnd offers a freemium pricing model, with a free version available and additional features accessible through a paid subscription. By prioritizing user privacy and offering robust offline capabilities, OsmAnd provides a reliable and secure navigation solution for those who value data protection and accessibility.
Certifications:
Migration difficulty data is being enriched for these alternatives.
Detailed Comparison of Each Alternative
OsmAnd is a comprehensive navigation and mapping application that leverages the power of OpenStreetMaps to provide reliable and detailed maps for users around the world. Designed to function seamlessly offline, OsmAnd ensures that users can access maps and navigation tools without the need for an internet connection, making it an ideal choice for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. Key features include turn-by-turn voice guidance, customizable map displays, and the ability to save favorite locations. OsmAnd stands out with its commitment to privacy and security, hosting data within the EU to ensure compliance with GDPR and offering users peace of mind regarding data sovereignty. This makes it particularly appealing to privacy-conscious users and organizations operating within Europe. The app is suitable for a wide range of users, from casual travelers to professional drivers and cyclists. OsmAnd offers a freemium pricing model, with a free version available and additional features accessible through a paid subscription. By prioritizing user privacy and offering robust offline capabilities, OsmAnd provides a reliable and secure navigation solution for those who value data protection and accessibility.
Advantages
- OsmAnd uses OpenStreetMap data, which is community-driven and regularly updated.
- Offline maps available for download, saving data and battery life.
- Full GDPR compliance ensures user data is handled according to EU laws.
- Open-source nature allows for community contributions and transparency.
Trade-offs
- Migration requires exporting Google Maps data, which can be complex.
- Lacks real-time traffic updates, impacting navigation accuracy.
- Learning curve for new users unfamiliar with OsmAnd's interface.
Organic Maps is a open source navigation app for iOS and Android. It uses the maps of OpenStreetMaps.
Advantages
- Organic Maps is fully GDPR compliant.
- Detailed offline maps with no data charges.
- Open-source code ensures transparency.
- EU-hosted servers enhance data privacy.
Trade-offs
- No real-time traffic updates available.
- Lacks Street View and business listings.
- Potential learning curve for new users.
Komoot is a versatile navigation and maps application designed for outdoor enthusiasts in Europe, offering comprehensive route planning for cycling and hiking. With its intuitive interface, users can easily create custom routes, set waypoints, and access community-generated trail recommendations to enhance their outdoor adventures. Key features include offline maps for uninterrupted navigation, voice guidance for hands-free operation, and seamless integration with fitness tracking devices. Komoot caters to cyclists, hikers, and outdoor explorers who seek reliable and customizable navigation tools. A standout feature is its commitment to user privacy and security, with GDPR-compliant data handling and EU-hosted servers ensuring data sovereignty and protection. The app supports multiple languages, making it accessible to a diverse user base across Europe. Komoot offers a freemium pricing model, allowing users to access basic features for free, with premium options available for advanced functionalities.
Advantages
- Komoot offers community-generated trail recommendations for hiking.
- Customizable waypoints allow tailored trip planning for cyclists.
- GDPR compliance ensures user data is handled with strict privacy standards.
- Integration with fitness devices tracks your activity metrics effectively.
Trade-offs
- Missing real-time traffic updates can hinder urban navigation.
- Learning curve for new users unfamiliar with komoot's interface.
- Limited public transit info compared to Google Maps' extensive database.
Before You Switch
Export your data from Google Maps before you start the migration. This ensures you have a backup and makes the transition smoother.
General Data Export Steps
- 1Log into your Google Maps account and navigate to Settings or Privacy.
- 2Look for "Download your data", "Export", or "Data portability" options.
- 3Select all data you want to export and choose a standard format (ZIP, CSV, JSON).
- 4Wait for the export to complete — large accounts may take hours or days.
- 5Download and verify the export before proceeding with migration.
Under GDPR Article 20, you have the right to data portability. Google Maps is required to provide your data in a structured, commonly used format upon request.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best EU alternatives to Google Maps?
There are 3 European alternatives to Google Maps. OsmAnd, Organic Maps, komoot are among the top-rated options. All are GDPR-compliant and store your data in European data centers.
How long does it take to switch from Google Maps?
Migration time varies by alternative. Most migrations can be completed in under an hour with our step-by-step guides. We provide detailed migration guides for each alternative.
Can I export my data from Google Maps?
Yes, most services including Google Maps allow you to export your data. Check the settings or privacy section of your Google Maps account for data export options. GDPR also grants you the right to data portability.
Is switching from Google Maps to an EU alternative safe?
Yes, switching is safe when done correctly. We recommend: 1) Export your data from Google Maps first, 2) Set up the new EU service, 3) Import your data, 4) Run both services in parallel for a transition period, 5) Update any linked accounts or integrations, and 6) Cancel your Google Maps subscription only after verifying everything works.
Why should I switch from Google Maps to an EU alternative?
EU alternatives provide stronger privacy protection under GDPR, keep your data in European data centers, and are not subject to US surveillance laws like the CLOUD Act or FISA Section 702. By switching, you gain true data sovereignty and support European tech innovation.