Google Maps opens directions in the travel mode you used last, which is often driving. Switching to walking takes one tap, and walking directions show footpaths and shortcuts that driving routes skip.
Quick Answer
Search for your destination, tap Directions, then tap the walking icon (the person) in the row of travel modes. Tap Start for turn-by-turn walking directions.
How to Switch Google Maps to Walking
- Open Google Maps and search for where you want to go.
- Tap Directions.
- In the row of travel modes at the top, tap the walking icon. Swipe the row if you do not see it.
- Check the suggested route, time and distance. Tap other gray routes to compare.
- Tap Start to begin walking navigation. On supported phones, Live View can show arrows over the camera view.
- On a computer, search for a place, click Directions and then click the walking icon.
Travel Modes
| Mode | Best for |
|---|---|
| Walking | Short trips, footpaths and pedestrian areas |
| Driving | Car routes with traffic |
| Transit | Buses, trains and subways |
| Cycling | Bike lanes and trails where available |
| Two-wheeler | Motorbikes in supported countries |
Troubleshooting
- If walking is missing, the route may be too long for walking, or the mode is hidden in the row. Swipe the row sideways.
- If Maps keeps opening in driving mode, it is using your last choice. Pick walking once and it usually stays until you change it.
- If the blue dot jumps around, turn on precise location for the app and calibrate the compass by moving your phone in a figure eight.
- Add stops with how to plan multiple stops.
Related: update gas prices on Google Maps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I set walking as the default?
There is no permanent default in all versions. Maps generally remembers the last mode you used, so choosing walking once often keeps it.
Do walking directions work offline?
Offline maps mainly support driving. Walking directions may be limited without a connection.
How do I switch walking directions to kilometers?
Change Distance units in settings. See how to change miles to km in Google Maps.
Does walking mode avoid stairs?
Not by default. Check the wheelchair accessible option under transit routes where available.
Summary
- Search for a destination.
- Tap Directions.
- Tap the walking icon.
- Tap Start.
- Maps usually remembers walking next time.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.