I used to treat Google Maps as just a way to get from point A to point B. But after years of hopping between new neighborhoods, restaurants, and weekend trips, I realized I was barely scratching the surface of what it could do.

The feature that changed everything was the humble Lists option. By creating custom lists like “Restaurants to try,” “Quiet work spots,” or “Must-visits for my next trip,” I turned Maps into my own curated city guide.

Now, instead of scrolling through reviews or bookmarking random links on my phone, I can pull up exactly what I need in a few taps, complete with notes and reminders I’ve added myself.

Here’s how I built a system that makes exploring effortless and keeps me from scrolling through a hundred browser tabs when someone asks for recommendations.

Start with the essential lists

Too many lists can get overwhelming

The first step was to keep it simple. I created three core lists:

  • Favorites: The places I know I’ll return to again and again. It includes my go-to restaurants, a few cafés, and my favorite bookstore.
  • Want to try: Any restaurant or shop I hear about goes here. It’s a running list of new spots I hear about from friends, social media, or while walking around.
  • Practical places: The list includes ATMs, clinics, or repair shops I don’t often visit, but always forget the names when I need them.

With just these three lists, I created a foundation that was easy to maintain.

To make a list in Maps, go to the You tab, tap New list, enter the details, and tap Save.

Use custom lists in Google Maps

Go beyond basics

When I had my three core lists in place, I started experimenting with more tailored ones.

For example, I built a list called Quiet work spots for cafés where I know the Wi-Fi holds up and the background noise isn’t too distracting.

I also have a Special occasions list for restaurants that are perfect for celebrations or nights out, and a Visitors list of landmarks and eateries I can instantly recommend when friends are in town.

Before heading out, I download the region’s map. Tap your profile photo > Offline maps > Select your own map. Now my saved pins guide me even when the network drops.

Custom lists also double as collaborative itineraries. Google Maps lets you share them with friends so that everyone can add suggestions or comments.

Add notes for each saved place

Turn it into a personal guide

While custom lists are great, the real magic comes when you add context. That’s why I make it a habit to jot down quick notes for every spot I save.

For example, when I add a café, I note my favorite drink or whether the Wi-Fi is reliable. For a boutique or store, I might add the floor that had the best selection or a tip from the staff.

Weeks or months later, when I revisit a list, I don’t have to rack my brain for the specifics. A simple note can make every outing smoother and more enjoyable.

Pair with Calendar for seamless planning

Turn your lists into actionable plans

Saving and annotating places is only half the battle. Visiting them requires planning, and that’s where Google Calendar comes in handy.

For a dinner reservation, I copy the restaurant’s Google Maps link into the Add location field in Calendar. When the evening comes, one tap takes me to directions.

For day trips, I add the list link to a shared calendar invite so that friends can see the plan and add their own stops.

Share lists for easy recommendations

Make your lists useful for friends

Whether friends are visiting your city or you’re collaborating on a group outing, sharing a curated list takes the guesswork out of recommendations.

For instance, when my friend came to town, I shared my Must-try cafés list. She could open it in Maps, see my notes, and easily navigate to spots I’d already vetted.

I’ve used shared lists to coordinate meetups with friends, ensuring everyone knows exactly where to go without sending endless messages or back-and-forth planning.

I maintain several evergreen collections, including the best restaurants in the city and weekend getaways, to help visitors with minimal effort.

Build your own ultimate guide with Maps

What started as a simple habit of saving favorite spots has turned Google Maps into my ultimate city guide.

By creating essential lists, adding personalized notes, and linking them with Google Calendar, I can plan outings with zero stress and avoid the usual decision fatigue.

Custom lists help me explore my interests, while sharing them makes city discoveries easier for friends and visitors.

This simple strategy has transformed how I navigate both familiar streets and new cities. With just a few tweaks, anyone can turn Maps into a resource that makes exploring feel effortless.