How to Get Map View in Google Earth

Techwalla may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.

Google Earth is a computer program that allows you to view satellite images of nearly every piece of land in the world. Its applications vary widely -- you can use it to gain a comprehensive understanding of a certain city's topography, for example, or to enjoy an aerial view of your childhood neighborhood to see how it's changed since you were little. Google Earth is also useful as a navigation tool if you adjust the program to show images as maps.

Advertisement

Step 1

Download and install Google Earth onto your computer if you haven't already done so (see Resources). Launch the program once it's finished downloading and installing from Google's website.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Enter a location, such as "Shanghai, China," in the "Fly To" field. Although it's not necessary to have a certain location pulled up to switch the program to "Map" view, doing so will give you a frame of reference to ensure that the adjustments you make to the program have worked.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Step 3

Change Google Earth to "Map" view. Click the "View" drop-down menu, then click "Map" to view streets instead of terrain. Click "Hybrid" to view streets and terrains overlaid.

Video of the Day

Advertisement

Advertisement

references & resources

Report an Issue

screenshot of the current page

Screenshot loading...