Last updated on 12 May 2026
When it comes to using maps for your courses or personal needs, it has become very difficult to replace the Google Maps service. It is undoubtedly one of the best services for cards today and is also completely free of charge.
Difficult to replace but not impossible either. If you want to avoid falling into the Claws of Big Google, you can turn to solutions that are more respectful of your privacy.
Here's the proof by three. Three alternatives to Google Maps.
Table of Contents
OpenStreetMap. A map of the world in free license
If there is only one left, it will be OpenStreetMap. It is a site of Wikipedia Maps. Created and maintained by an increasingly large community of volunteer users who insist on offering a free alternative to the all-powerful Google. The project hosts in a London university uses a geographical database, contributors’ GPS systems, and other open data. The result is a complete and accurate mapping for everyday or professional uses.
Link: OpenStreetMap
Qwant Maps. The bet of the European search engine
The French search engine continues to grow by developing practical services for its users while scrupulously respecting their privacy. I have already said here all the good I thought of the Qwant Junior project.the search engine for children.
Qwant has just opened, although the service is still in the testing phase, QwantMaps. It is a mapping service that wants to compete or at least offer a credible alternative to Google Maps. The proposed maps are particularly clear and colorful. The background map used is that of OpenStreetMaps with Qwant superimposed a graphic overlay to improve its ergonomics. The search engine also intends to offer a whole series of additional services in the coming months. A project to follow.
Link: Qwant Maps
OsmAnd. A complete card system for your mobile
This third alternative is also based on OpenStreetMaps but also on Wikipedia to offer a mobile map solution for navigation on foot by bike or car. The code is open and everyone can participate in the enrichment of this mobile application.
The basic version of the application is free of charge. You will then be able to add additional functions via an integrated purchasing system, but prices are still very reasonable.
Link: OsmAnd
English
Hello,
And https://www.geoportail.gouv.fr ?
It is also an interesting alternative to Google Maps that I use a lot. Its advantage ? tools for measuring distance, surface, altimeter cutting very practical, but especially many layers of data. Not to mention the historical aerial photos, which are very useful for checking ‘whether it was really like this before’.
It is free of charge, without advertising, because it is built with our taxes, so use it as much.
Sincerely,
Yes, the Geoportal is great! Let us tell ourselves!!!
I confirm geoportal is great (complex interface that can confuse at first)
Hello,
As an alternative to Google Maps, there is also the ArcGIS JavaScript API: https://developers.arcgis.com/javascript/
There are 1 000 000 maps offered and geocoding per month, many possibilities for visualising data, both in 2D and 3D. The API can read many formats (CSV, GeoJSON, KML, Vector tiles, BIM files, … imaging layer).
There are a lot of samples available to draw inspiration from the existing code https://developers.arcgis.com/javascript/latest/sample-code/ and especially tutorials to learn precise features in 10 min https://developers.arcgis.com/labs/?product=javascript&topic=any
There are interesting articles on the CodeTheMap blog to get started quickly on the ArcGIS JavaScript API
– make a card in 5 minutes: https://www.codethemap.fr/2019/05/creez-facilement-une-carte-pour-votre.html
– Make a card app in 15 minutes: https://www.codethemap.fr/2020/02/tuto-js-appli-carto-15-minutes-max.html
– The ArcGIS JavaScript API, a great alternative to Google Maps: https://www.codethemap.fr/2019/05/arcgis-api-for-javascript-une.html
– What can be done free of charge with the ArcGIS JavaScript API: https://www.codethemap.fr/2019/02/construisez-des-applications-de.html
For cycling or walking in France, the Geoportal (https://www.geoportail.gouv.fr/carte) is very practical with the map at 1:25000 of the IGN and the aerial photos to find your way around, it’s magical!
Using MaCarte (https://macarte.ign.fr/) you can add your own information (a GPS track) and publish your map to go on a walk …