Getting lost in a foreign city can eat time and nerves, but a few simple habits almost entirely prevent it. Here is how not to get lost in a foreign city and move around it confidently from day one.
Download offline maps
Save the city map for use without internet. It works even without signal or roaming — the most common reason navigation fails at the least convenient moment.
Save your accommodation as a pin
Before you head out sightseeing, mark your accommodation address on the map. You will always have a sure point with the simplest way back.
Remember landmarks
A river, a tower, a big square or a distinctive building help you orient better than street names alone. After a while you start to feel the city's layout.
Keep a backup just in case
A charged phone, a power bank and your accommodation address written on paper are a cheap way to stay calm. It also helps to know your district's name in case you need a taxi.
Turn walks into a map
Places you discover along the way are easy to lose to memory. Mark them in TRAMFI to build your own map of the city and return to the best spots. More on route planning in how to plan sightseeing a city in 2 days.
Frequently asked questions
How do I navigate without internet abroad?
Download offline maps before heading out and save key points. They work without signal and without roaming.
What should I do if I get lost?
Return to the nearest known landmark, check the offline map or ask for directions. A saved accommodation address always saves the day.