How to Add Google Maps on Website

Adding Google Maps on website is one of the easiest ways to enhance user experience, build trust, and improve local SEO.

Whether you run a business, manage a blog, or build websites for clients, an embedded Google Map lets visitors find your location with ease and interact with it directly no need to open another app.

This guide walks you through multiple methods for adding Google Maps to your site, including using iframe code, JavaScript API, and CMS integrations like WordPress.

Why Embed Google Maps on Your Website?

Before diving into the “how,” it’s important to understand the “why.”

Maps provide a visual, interactive reference that static addresses simply can’t match. According to Wikipedia, Google Maps offers more than just navigation, it’s an ecosystem with location sharing, street view, and business discovery features.

Benefits of Embedding Google Maps

Businesses, event organizers, and content creators all benefit from having maps embedded directly into their contact or landing pages.

Additionally, pairing Maps with other tools like Google Translate can make your site more accessible to a global audience.

Method 1: Embed Google Maps Using Iframe

This is the fastest and simplest way to add Google Maps. You don’t need coding skills, and it works on nearly all website platforms.

Steps to Embed via Iframe:

1. Go to Google Maps
2. Search for your desired location
3. Click the “Share” button
4. Select the “Embed a map” tab
5. Copy the <iframe> code provided
6. Paste it into your website’s HTML where you want the map to appear

Example:

htmlCopyEdit<iframe 
  src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!..." 
  width="600" 
  height="450" 
  style="border:0;" 
  allowfullscreen="" 
  loading="lazy" 
  referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade">
</iframe>

Pros and Cons

Use this method if you simply want to display a static location with minimal configuration.

Method 2: Use JavaScript API for Custom Maps

If you need more control over the look, behavior, or functionality of your map, the JavaScript API is the way to go.

It requires a bit more setup but delivers unmatched flexibility.

Setup Instructions:

1. Go to the Google Cloud Console
2. Create a project and enable the Google Maps JavaScript API
3. Generate your API key
4. Add the Maps script to your HTML

htmlCopyEdit<script src="https://maps.googleapis.com/maps/api/js?key=YOUR_API_KEY&callback=initMap" async defer></script>

5. Add the map container and script:

htmlCopyEdit<div id="map" style="height: 400px; width: 100%;"></div>

<script>
  function initMap() {
    const location = { lat: -1.2921, lng: 36.8219 }; // Nairobi coordinates
    const map = new google.maps.Map(document.getElementById("map"), {
      zoom: 14,
      center: location,
    });
    const marker = new google.maps.Marker({ position: location, map: map });
  }
</script>

Why Use the API Instead of Iframe?

Use the JavaScript API if you’re building a directory, adding custom layers, or offering map-based user interaction.

Method 3: Add in WordPress

For WordPress users, you don’t need to touch code at all.

There are plugins that let you add maps with drag-and-drop ease.

Popular Plugins:

Steps to Add:

1. Install a plugin like WP Google Maps
2. Configure your location and markers
3. Paste the shortcode into any page or post

While it may seem basic, this method provides plenty of functionality for most use cases and avoids technical setup.

Adding Google Maps on website isn’t just about showing people where you are. It’s about improving trust, boosting SEO, and enhancing usability.

Whether you choose an iframe for simplicity or the API for advanced features, Maps should be a standard component in your site design toolkit.

And if you’re building a global site, don’t forget to pair it with Google Translate for accessibility.

Together, these tools help create a digital experience that’s as functional as it is intuitive.

By using Google Maps, you’re not just plotting a pin but giving users the fastest route to connect with your brand.