Navigation apps are one of the most essential things to prepare before traveling abroad. With these apps, users can find the fastest routes, explore the surrounding area, and discover public transportation without having to ask for directions.
In today’s digital era, navigation app options are becoming increasingly diverse and sophisticated—even many countries have their own flagship apps designed specifically to help both tourists and locals.
In this article, Global Komunika will share recommendations for the best navigation apps based on the destination country.
KakaoMap & Naver Map — South Korea
KakaoMap and Naver Map are the two most popular and accurate navigation apps in South Korea, compared to Google Maps which is less effective in the country due to government-imposed geographic data restrictions.
KakaoMap is known for its user-friendly interface and good English language support, making it easy for international tourists to use. This app stands out with real-time updates for bus stops, allowing users to know bus arrival times accurately.
On the other hand, Naver Map excels in providing comprehensive information, from transportation routes, reviews, photos, opening hours, menus, to ticket prices. The “Smart Around” feature also helps users find interesting spots nearby, and its foreign language support makes it accessible for travelers.
Its downside is that Naver Map’s interface can be more complex and sometimes overloaded with information, which may confuse new users or burden devices.
In conclusion, KakaoMap is more suitable for quick navigation, transportation routes, and integration with Kakao services, while Naver Map is ideal for exploring locations with more detailed information.
Waze — United States
In the United States, one of the most popular navigation apps is Waze. The app is renowned for its ability to provide accurate real-time traffic updates, thanks to direct reports from its users.
The shared information typically includes traffic congestion, accidents, road closures, and even police presence along certain routes. This data is processed quickly, ensuring that travel routes are constantly updated according to current conditions.
Waze also offers various top features such as alternative route options, precise travel time estimates, speed limit alerts, and integration with music and podcasts. All of these make travel more efficient, safe, and enjoyable.
In addition, Waze can also be used in countries outside the United States, including Indonesia.
Baidu Maps — China
In China, all Google platforms are inaccessible due to “The Great Firewall of China,” a national internet surveillance system aimed at restricting information flow, maintaining social stability, and promoting the growth of local digital platforms.
This restriction makes foreign apps difficult to access, while creating a huge opportunity for domestic companies to grow—one of which is Baidu, the developer of the popular navigation app Baidu Maps.
Baidu Maps offers complete navigation features, from road maps, public transportation information, travel time estimates, to real-time traffic conditions. The app also makes it easy to search for restaurants, hotels, ATMs, and other public facilities, complete with reviews and ratings from local users, making it very helpful for exploring China.
Citymapper — Singapore
Citymapper is a very practical navigation app for exploring Singapore. It displays the fastest routes along with transportation options—ranging from MRT, buses, to ride-hailing—complete with estimated times, costs, and step-by-step directions. The information is updated in real time.
Unique features like the “rain safe” option help select routes that are sheltered from rain, perfect for Singapore’s often unpredictable weather. With a simple yet informative interface, Citymapper is the best navigation solution for travelers who want a comfortable, efficient, and hassle-free journey.
Beyond Google Maps: Navigation Apps for Multiple Countries
In addition to Google Maps, there are many other reliable navigation apps that can help with cross-country travel. By using these apps, you can explore various destinations around the world more easily, efficiently, and with minimal risk of getting lost.
Apple Maps
Apple Maps is the default navigation app for Apple devices, providing directions for walking, driving, and public transportation, complete with travel time estimates and real-time traffic conditions.
Its strengths lie in its sharp visual display, 3D and Look Around features, as well as smooth integration with Siri and other Apple devices. With regular map updates, Apple Maps is a practical and accurate choice for travel both domestically and internationally.
HERE WeGo
HERE WeGo is a popular navigation app thanks to its offline usability. Users can download maps for a specific country or city in advance and then access them without an internet connection—a very useful feature when traveling abroad.
The app supports various modes of transportation, including cars, bicycles, walking, and public transit, complete with travel time estimates and clear route guidance. Its simple and easy-to-understand interface makes it convenient for anyone to use.
MAPS.ME
MAPS.ME is a navigation app well-known for its complete and detailed offline maps. Users can download maps for an entire country or a specific city and then use them without an internet connection—ideal for traveling in areas with limited signal coverage.
In addition to providing driving, walking, and cycling routes, MAPS.ME also lists points of interest such as restaurants, hotels, ATMs, and tourist attractions.
Its advantage lies in its detailed maps, which often include small paths or remote areas not always covered by other apps.
