Table of contents

Why add Google Maps to WordPress?Method 1: Embed Google Maps manually (no plugin)Bonus: Create a custom map in Google MapsMethod 2: Add Google Maps using a pluginTroubleshooting common issuesAlternatives to Google MapsNext stepsAdditional resources

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WordPress Guide → Build → Add Google Map

How to add a Google Map in WordPress

Adding a Google Map to your WordPress site is one of the easiest ways to improve local SEO, help visitors find you, and add an interactive element to your site. Whether you’re running a brick-and-mortar business, promoting an event, or simply want to share a favorite spot, embedding a map makes your content more helpful and trustworthy.

Let’s walk through all the ways to add a Google Map to WordPress, from simple copy-and-paste embeds to advanced plugin integrations.

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Why add Google Maps to WordPress?

Google Maps helps users connect with your real-world presence. Adding a map can:

Show customers exactly where you’re located without them needing to search
Improve local SEO by reinforcing location-based keywords and content
Enhance your contact page or sidebar with interactive, clickable maps
Provide directions to event locations, offices, or stores
Help travelers or directory users explore geographic information visually

Maps aren’t just for addresses. They build trust, offer convenience, and support conversions.

Method 1: Embed Google Maps manually (no plugin)

This is the quickest way to add a Google Map and requires no extra plugins or settings. It’s perfect if you only need to add one or two maps and don’t need advanced features.

1. Get the embed code from Google Maps

Go to Google Maps.

Enter the address, location, or landmark you want to feature.

Once the correct location appears, click the “Share” button.

In the popup, switch to the “Embed a map” tab.

Choose a size (default is Medium, but you can pick Small, Large, or Custom).

Copy the HTML iframe code provided.

Elementary …

2. Paste the code into your WordPress post or page

In the WordPress editor:

If you’re using the Block Editor (Gutenberg), add a Custom HTML block and paste the iframe code inside.
If you’re using the Classic Editor, switch from the “Visual” tab to the “Text” tab and paste the code where you want the map to appear.

3. Save and preview your page

Click Preview or Update to make sure the map is rendering properly. The iframe should display the location and allow users to interact with the map (zoom, move, and open directions).

Pros and cons of manual embedding

Pros:

No need to install a plugin
Fast and easy
Clean and lightweight

Cons:

Limited customization
Not mobile-optimized unless styled manually

If you need more control or want to add several maps, jump to Method 2.

Bonus: Create a custom map in Google Maps

It’s a common misconception that you need a plugin to create custom markers or show multiple locations, but this isn’t true. Plugins are fine, but you can create a custom map in Google and embed it into your WordPress site.

Open the Google Maps menu.

Click Saved.

Switch to the Maps tab.

Click Open My Maps. My Maps will open in a new tab.

Click Create a New Map, at the top.

Type in an address you want to show and click Add to Map.

You can add multiple locations to different layers, and toggle the layers on or off.

When your map is ready, click Share and set the map to Public. Then, click the kebab menu next to the map name, and select Embed on my site.

If you need to make changes later, you can come back to My Maps, edit the map, and it will automatically update wherever you have it embedded.

Method 2: Add Google Maps using a plugin

For more complex needs, plugins might be a better solution. They also help non-technical users avoid touching code entirely.

Best plugins for Google Maps in WordPress

Here are a few top-rated options:

WP Go Maps: Feature-rich, allows custom markers, directions, multiple locations, and mobile responsiveness.
Easy Google Maps: Good for contact forms and styled maps.
MapPress Maps for WordPress: Easy-to-use interface with shortcode integration.

How to install and configure a map plugin

Assign a CSS class to a menu item under CSS Classes (e.g. menu-home).
Add custom CSS in Appearance > Customize > Additional CSS:

Create and customize your map

Each plugin has its own interface, but generally, you’ll:

Create a new map and name it
Set the center location manually or via address search
Add one or more markers (e.g., your store, event venue)
Choose the zoom level, map type (roadmap, terrain, satellite), and size
Style the map with custom colors or icons if supported

Some plugins require a Google Maps API key, which you can get from the Google Cloud Console. If needed, the plugin will prompt you and walk you through setup.

Add the map to a page or post

Most plugins provide a shortcode you can paste into any post, page, or widget:

[wp_map id=”1″]

In the Block Editor, you can add a Shortcode block, or in Classic Editor, paste it into the content area. Some plugins also offer a dedicated Map block.

Pros and cons of using a plugin

Pros:

Customizable maps with multiple locations
Easier for non-coders
Responsive and mobile-friendly
Directions, category filters, and other advanced features

Cons:

Slight performance overhead
Plugin must be kept updated
May require a Google API key with billing enabled

Troubleshooting common issues

Sometimes even the best-laid plans …

Map not displaying

Double-check that you pasted the iframe code in the Code/HTML view and not the visual editor
Ensure there are no missing quotation marks or malformed HTML
Preview the page on the front end

API key errors

Some plugins will show a message like “For development purposes only” or won’t display the map. This means you need a Google Maps API key:

Go to Google Cloud Console
Create a project and enable the Maps JavaScript API
Generate an API key and restrict it to your domain
Enter the key in your plugin settings

Map loads slowly or isn’t responsive

Make sure the iframe or plugin settings use 100% width for mobile scaling
Choose a plugin that supports lazy loading or defer options
Resize your map to avoid overloading small screens

Alternatives to Google Maps

If you’re concerned about performance, privacy, or Google’s billing policies, here are some alternatives:

OpenStreetMap: Free and open-source, with plugin support like Leaflet Maps Marker.
Mapbox: Offers beautiful custom map designs and developer-level control.
Bing Maps or HERE Maps: Less common but usable with custom integrations.

Getting started with adding a Google Map in WordPress

Adding a map is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to enhance your site’s usability. Whether you paste in an iframe or use a flexible plugin, you’ll be helping your visitors get to where they need to go—and giving them more confidence in your business.

If you only need to show a single location and don’t need styling or interaction, the manual embed works great. But for recurring use or added functionality, a plugin is worth the setup time.

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