The best navigation and route planner apps

The best navigation apps for iOS and Android

Want to arrive at your destination without any hiccups? Then install an app that suits you before you hit the road. We have selected a wide range of the best navigation apps for you, which you can install on both Android phones and iPhones . You always find the navigation app for that works for you. Drive safely!

Google Maps: user-friendly, for cyclists as well

Google Maps is one of the best navigation apps. This app is particularly useful because you can select different modes of transport. Want to know the fastest walking route? Or the fastest route by bike, public transport, or car? You'll get specific directions, no matter how you travel. Another advantage: it also works offline, since you can download maps in advance.

Are you using Google Maps for your cycling adventures in the Netherlands? Note that you are not allowed to hold your phone while cycling , so make sure you type in your destination beforehand and use a smartphone holder to check the map. Google Maps also offers free traffic information, so that's another bonus. Google Maps is free for iOS and Android and comes pre-installed on most Android phones.

Flitsmeister: avoid unnecessary fines

Flitsmeister is not only a very useful and accurate navigation app, but it is also known for its speed camera alerts. How does Flitsmeister work? The app shows you exactly where a speed camera is located and how fast you are allowed to drive. This helps you avoid unnecessary fines and makes driving more enjoyable.

The app also provides notifications about traffic jams, accidents, and detours. If you’re driving and there’s a broken down vehicle nearby, the app will also notify you of this. This allows you to maintain complete control over your journey. Additionally, you'll also find a parking function, an objection to fine service, and toll payment. Just like any other navigation app, you will also be guided by a navigation map.

Flitsmeister is free for iOS and Android .

Waze: for reliable traffic information and alternative routes

Waze is a great app for real-time traffic information. From reports about traffic and road hazards to which gas station offers the lowest prices. It's ideal for saving money. Are there delays on the road? Waze will suggest a faster, alternative route for you.

Waze is free for iOS and Android .

Here WeGo: for free offline road maps

Here WeGo is one of the best apps for offline navigation. You can specify in advance which road maps you want to download. Just the Netherlands? Or other countries too? The choice is yours. And the best thing? They're free to download. You can easily specify whether you only want to use the app offline or whether you also want to receive traffic information. That way, you avoid using mobile data unnecessarily.

Here WeGo is free for iOS and Android .

TomTom Go: on the road online and offline

Before we even knew navigation apps existed, we all drove around with a TomTom stuck to the windshield. Now that we've switched over to apps instead, the physical TomTom disappeared, but the GPS company has also developed an app to guide you from A to B.

If you're online, the app gives you real-time information about traffic, but it also allows you to plan your route without having to be online while driving. In short: you don't need to use up your data bundle while driving. The app conveniently marks your lane and alternative routes in case of a diversion or traffic jam.

TomTom Go is free for iOS and Android .

Apple Maps: the alternative to Google Maps

Apple Maps is Apple's own map service. Apple launched its own app in 2012 to offer users an alternative to Google Maps. With the popularity of the iPhone, it's no wonder that the app is popular as well. Just like with Google Maps, you can search for specific locations, navigate, find stores (including opening hours), and the same goes for restaurants, gas stations, and train stations in the area.

Just like Google Maps, you can add your home and work addresses so you can easily navigate from A to B. Need to share your location with other Apple users? That's easily done. Especially for iOS, this is one of the best navigation apps to use offline. Just like with Google Maps, you can download areas beforehand, so you can navigate through them offline.

Apple Maps is free on iOS and is installed on your Apple device by default.

There's more than navigation apps: 3 bonus apps every car owner should try

EasyPark: goodbye parking meters

Once you're at your destination, it's time to park your car. With the EasyPark app, you can say goodbye to struggling with parking meters you can't find. You can already find a parking spot from the comfort of your own home, and never pay too much again. On the app, you register your car and link it to your chosen payment method. When you arrive, just activate the EasyPark clock in the app at the correct parking meter. Thanks to the app, you'll know exactly where it's located. Don't forget to end your parking session in the app. Otherwise, your payment will continue.

EasyPark is free for iOS and Android .

Find My Car: no more looking for your car

Did you park in a rush and do you have no idea where your car is? Find My Car helps you find your car in no time. It'll save you time and stress. In the app, you can enter the GPS location of your parked car and then save it using Google Maps. Is it time to go, but can't find your car? Just open the app and it will guide you right to your car.

Find My Car is free for iOS and Android .

TuneIn Radio: live sports, music, news, and podcasts

With the TuneIn Radio app, you always have a wide range of music, radio, news, podcasts, and sports broadcasts at your fingertips while driving. This makes your car ride a lot more enjoyable, even when you're stuck in traffic. Done driving? You'll be all up to date.

TuneIn Radio is free for iOS and Android .

Navigation apps and data usage: what to expect

It shouldn't matter where you are: the best navigation apps ensure that you never get lost. But what about data usage for your Sim Only data bundle ? Using GPS alone doesn’t use any mobile data. However, downloading the road map, using the app with data, or receiving traffic information will cost you data.

Navigation apps won't use much data, but you’ll still want to monitor your data usage. You can do that via the Mijn Simyo-app or Mijn Simyo . Need more, or less data? In the app you can also adjust your monthly data bundle. So you’re always ready for the road.