While Google Maps doesn’t have a dedicated compass feature on the desktop version, there are a couple of ways to determine which direction is north:
Method 1: Using Map Orientation
By default, Google Maps displays the north direction at the top of the map. This is helpful for general orientation, but it won’t work in situations where you’re zoomed in or using Street View.
Here’s what you can do:
- Open Google Maps on your PC or Mac web browser.
- Navigate to the location you’re interested in.
- By default, the map will be oriented with north at the top. Straßennamen (German for “street names”) and other labels will be aligned accordingly.
Method 2: Using Street View Compass (Limited Use)
While Google Maps removed the compass from the main map view, Street View still offers a temporary compass for close-up exploration.
Here’s how to use it:
- Locate your desired area on Google Maps.
- Zoom in until you can see individual buildings and streets clearly.
- Click and drag the little orange pegman icon in the bottom right corner onto a street. This activates Street View.
- Once in Street View, a small compass will appear in the upper left corner. The red tip of the needle always points north.
Important Note:
The compass in Street View only works for the specific direction you’re facing within the scene. It won’t show you north relative to the overall map orientation.
Additional Tips:
- If absolute precision is required, consider using a compass app or a dedicated online map service with a compass feature.
- You can use knowledge of the terrain or landmarks to help determine north. For example, rivers typically flow south to north in the Northern Hemisphere.
By understanding these methods, you can effectively navigate and determine north on Google Maps on your PC or Mac.