Whether you’re planning a trip or mapping historical landmarks, plotting points one by one in Google Maps gets tedious fast. Use Google My Maps to import a simple spreadsheet or CSV file and transform dozens of locations into a custom interactive map in seconds.
First, Google needs to know what to plot and where to put it. Create a spreadsheet in Google Sheets or Excel with clear column headers in the first row. Your AI of choice is likely a great resource to create the Excel file or Google Sheet.
- Required Columns: Include at least one location field so Google can place the pin. This can be a full street address, a set of GPS coordinates (Latitude/Longitude), or a combination like City and State/Country.
- Optional Columns: Add any extra details you want to see when you click a pin, such as Location Name, Category, Description, Website, or Notes.
Next, import into Google My Maps
- Head to mymaps.google.com(opens in new tab) on your desktop browser and click Create a New Map.
- Under the Untitled Layer on the left menu, click Import.
- Upload your CSV, XLSX, or Google Sheet file.
- Choose location columns: Select which columns tell Google where to place the pins (e.g., check Address / Location). Click Continue.
- Choose title column: Select the column that should label each marker (e.g., Location Name). Click Finish.
Once you import your file, Google auto-plots every row as an interactive pin. You can easily polish the presentation:
- Color-Code by Category: Click Uniform Style under your layer, change it to Style by data column, and select Category. Assign unique colors or custom icons (like coffee cups, hiking boots, or camera icons) to different types of spots.
- Organize with Layers: Add additional layers to group locations by day of a trip, region, or priority level.
- Add Personal Notes: Click any pin to edit its display card, upload custom photos, or fine-tune notes.
Your custom map saves directly to your Google Account. To open it on your phone:
- Open the Google Maps app (iOS or Android).
- Tap the Saved tab at the bottom.
- Scroll down and tap Maps.
- Select your custom map to overlay your saved pins right onto your live GPS navigation.
You’ve now turned a scattered list of addresses into a map you’ll actually want to use. Skip the manual pin-dropping next time and let your spreadsheet do the heavy lifting.
