How to Get Walking Directions on a Map App

Tap through each step in order.

  1. Search for your destination

    Open your map app and search for the place you want to walk to.

  2. Tap the directions button

    From the search results, tap the directions icon.

  3. Select the walking icon

    Choose the icon of a walking person, next to the driving and transit icons.

  4. Check the route and estimated time

    Review the suggested walking route, along with the estimated time and distance.

  5. Why it is useful

    Walking directions can route you through shortcuts, stairs, and alleys that do not appear on driving routes, giving you a far more accurate path on foot.

Shortcuts a Car Could Never Take

Alleys and paths that cut through a park or a block are invisible to a driving route, but a walking route can guide you straight through them. Choosing walking directions unlocks a route built specifically for pedestrians.

Turn-by-Turn Voice Guidance Works on Foot, Too

Just like in a car, most map apps will call out each turn by voice as you walk, so you can keep your phone in your pocket and still know exactly when to turn without staring at the screen the whole way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do walking directions account for stairs or slopes?

Some map apps flag sections with stairs or offer a separate accessibility-friendly route for wheelchair users, though this level of detail varies by app and region.

Can I get voice guidance for walking directions?

Yes -- most map apps announce each turn by voice during walking navigation, just as they do for driving.