If you use Google Maps often, you’ve probably noticed how much information is packed into tiny icons. Roads change color, buildings turn into symbols, and small markers can tell you everything from where to eat to whether traffic is bad. This article explains the most common Google Maps symbols, what they mean, and how to read them quickly. Keep in mind that Google updates icons from time to time, so designs may vary slightly by device or zoom level.
Common Google Maps Symbols and Meanings
Below is a table of widely used Google Maps symbols. The “Symbol” column uses simple visual icons since the exact look can vary.
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
 | Directions |
 | Restaurants |
 | Hotels |
 | Gas Stations |
 | Parking Lots |
 | Banks |
 | Bars |
 | Groceries |
 | Coffee Shops |
 | Hospitals |
 | Post Offices |
 | Save Location |
 | Nearby |
 | Share |
 | Send to Phone |
 | Transit |
 | Traffic |
 | Biking |
 | Terrain |
 | Street View |
 | Wildfires |
 | Air Quality |
 | Travel Time (Tool) |
 | Measure (Tool) |
 | Satelite (Type) |
 | Default (Type) |
 | Your Location |
 | Recents |
 | Driving (Travel Mode) |
 | Transit (Travel Mode) |
 | Walking (Travel Mode) |
 | Cycling (Travel Mode) |
 | Flights (Travel Mode) |
 | Statue |
 | Your Contributions |
 | Your Location |
 | Searched or Saved Location |
 | School or University |
 | Location Sharing |
 | Your Timeline |
 | Your Data in Maps |
 | Share or Embed Map |
 |
Final Words
Google Maps symbols are meant to reduce clutter while still telling a clear story. Once you understand what the main icons represent, the map stops feeling busy and starts feeling helpful.
