How to Change Route on Google Maps?

Google Maps, one of the most reliable navigation apps, allows you to find directions whether you are driving, walking, cycling, or using public transportation. While Google Maps usually selects the fastest route automatically, there are times when you may want to take a different road. You might want to avoid heavy traffic, toll roads, highways, construction zones, or simply choose a more scenic drive.

For your knowledge, changing your route on Google Maps is quick and easy. You can manually select another route before you start your trip or even while you are already navigating. 

Let’s learn every step in detail!

How to Change Route on Google Maps [Complete Guide]

Google Maps automatically analyzes current road conditions and recommends the best available route. However, you are always in control. You can pick one of the suggested routes or manually drag your route on the desktop version to travel through a specific road or location.

The following steps explain exactly how to change your route on both the Google Maps mobile app and the desktop website.

Step 1: Open Google Maps

Begin by opening the Google Maps app on your Android phone or iPhone. If you are using a computer, open your preferred web browser and visit the Google Maps website.

Make sure you have an active internet connection because Google Maps needs to load the latest maps, traffic information, and route updates. If you are signed in with your Google account, your saved places and recent searches will also be available, making navigation more convenient.

Once Google Maps opens, allow the app to access your location if prompted. This helps the app determine your current position and provide accurate directions.

Step 2: Enter Your Destination

Tap the Search here box located at the top of the screen.

Type the name of your destination, its address, or even a business name. As you type, Google Maps will display matching results. Select the correct location from the list.

After selecting the destination, Google Maps displays information about the place, including photos, reviews, operating hours, and directions.

Now tap the Directions button to begin planning your trip.

Step 3: Choose Your Starting Location

Google Maps usually sets your Current Location as the starting point. If you are leaving from somewhere else, tap the starting location field.

Enter the address, business name, or location where your journey will begin.

Using the correct starting point is important because Google Maps calculates routes based on where you are beginning your trip.

Once both locations are entered, Google Maps generates one or more available routes.

Step 4: Review the Suggested Routes

Google Maps normally highlights the fastest route using a blue line.

Other available routes appear as gray lines. These alternatives may take a little longer, but they can help you avoid traffic, highways, or toll roads.

Each suggested route displays useful details such as estimated travel time, total distance, expected traffic conditions, and any toll charges.

Take a moment to compare these options before choosing the one that best matches your travel preferences.

Step 5: Select a Different Route

If you prefer another route, simply tap one of the gray routes displayed on the map.

Once selected, that route immediately turns blue, indicating it has become your active navigation route.

You do not need to change any settings or confirm your selection. Google Maps automatically updates your estimated arrival time and begins navigation using your chosen route.

This is the easiest way to change your route before starting your trip.

Step 6: Add a Stop Along the Way

Sometimes changing your route means stopping somewhere before reaching your final destination.

Tap the More menu and choose Add stop.

Enter the location you want to visit. This could be a gas station, grocery store, restaurant, coffee shop, or any other destination.

Google Maps automatically adjusts your route to include the additional stop while still providing the most efficient navigation possible.

If you add multiple stops, you can rearrange them by dragging them into your preferred order.

Step 7: Avoid Highways, Tolls, or Ferries

If you want Google Maps to automatically avoid certain roads, tap the More menu before starting navigation.

Choose Route options.

Here you can enable options such as Avoid tolls, Avoid highways, or Avoid ferries.

Once selected, Google Maps recalculates your route and looks for roads that meet your preferences.

Keep in mind that avoiding certain road types may increase your overall travel time.

Change Your Route While Driving

If traffic conditions change during your trip, Google Maps may recommend a faster route.

A notification usually appears asking whether you want to switch to the faster route. If you agree, simply tap the option to accept the new route.

If you prefer to stay on your current road, ignore the suggestion and continue driving.

You can also tap one of the alternative routes shown on the map while navigation is active if you decide to travel a different way.

Always make route changes safely and never operate your phone while driving. If necessary, pull over before interacting with the app.

Change a Route on Google Maps Using a Computer

The desktop version of Google Maps offers an additional feature that is not available on most mobile devices.

After creating your route, place your mouse pointer over the blue route until the cursor changes.

Click and hold the route, then drag it onto another road.

Release the mouse button once you reach the road you want to use.

Google Maps immediately recalculates the trip based on the new path you created.

This feature is especially useful when planning road trips or choosing scenic roads before leaving home.

How to Save a Route on Google Maps

If you frequently travel to the same destination, saving your route can save time in the future.

On Android, create your route as usual and tap the Pin option at the bottom of the screen. The route is then saved under the Go tab for quick access.

On iPhone, you can save the destination by tapping Save or Label. Although route pinning is more limited on iOS, your recent routes and saved places remain easily accessible.

Another option is to save the destination as Home or Work. This allows Google Maps to quickly generate directions whenever you need them.

If you are planning a trip on your computer, you can also send directions directly to your phone while signed in with the same Google account. 

FAQs

Can I change my route after navigation has already started?

Yes. Google Maps allows you to select an alternative route during navigation if another option is available. It may also suggest faster routes automatically when traffic conditions change.

Why does Google Maps keep changing my route?

Google Maps constantly monitors live traffic, accidents, road closures, and delays. If it finds a faster route, it may recommend switching to help you reach your destination sooner.

Can I create a custom route with multiple stops?

Yes. You can use the Add stop feature to include multiple destinations during your trip. Google Maps will optimize the order unless you manually rearrange the stops.

Can I avoid toll roads and highways?

Yes. Open Route options before starting navigation and enable Avoid tolls, Avoid highways, or Avoid ferries based on your preferences.

Can I drag my route on the Google Maps mobile app?

No. The drag-and-drop route feature is primarily available on the desktop version of Google Maps. On mobile devices, you can choose from the alternative routes that Google Maps provides.

Does changing my route affect my estimated arrival time?

Yes. Every time you select a different route, Google Maps recalculates the estimated travel time based on distance, speed limits, traffic conditions, and road type.