Google Maps Distance Calculator
Enter two places to calculate straight-line distance and get a quick travel estimate. You can type city names, full addresses, or latitude/longitude coordinates.
Tip: Coordinate format must be lat,lng (for example: 51.5074,-0.1278).
How to calculate Google Maps distance the right way
If you have ever asked, “How far is it from point A to point B?” you already know there are multiple ways to measure distance. Google Maps usually shows route distance (roads and pathways), while many calculators show straight-line distance (“as the crow flies”).
The calculator above gives you a fast estimate by computing the direct geographic distance between two coordinates. It then adds a realistic travel estimate based on your selected mode (driving, walking, bicycling, or transit) and provides a one-click link to open the route in Google Maps.
What this calculator does
- Accepts addresses, city names, or latitude/longitude coordinates.
- Calculates straight-line distance using the Haversine formula.
- Converts results between kilometers and miles.
- Provides estimated route distance and travel time by travel mode.
- Creates a Google Maps directions link instantly.
Straight-line distance vs route distance
1) Straight-line distance
This is the shortest possible path over the Earth’s surface between two coordinates. It is useful for logistics planning, aviation checks, and fast “ballpark” comparisons.
2) Route distance
Route distance follows roads, paths, and transit lines. It is usually longer than straight-line distance and changes with one-way roads, highways, traffic patterns, and available transportation options.
When to use each
- Use straight-line distance for quick estimation and geographic analysis.
- Use route distance for real trip planning, fuel costs, and schedule timing.
Step-by-step guide
- Enter your start location.
- Enter your destination.
- Choose travel mode and distance unit.
- Click Calculate Distance.
- Use Open in Google Maps to view exact route options and live traffic.
Examples of practical use
Trip budgeting
Before you commit to a weekend drive, estimate distance and travel time, then convert that into expected fuel use and toll costs.
Delivery and service planning
If you run a field service business, quick distance checks help with scheduling windows, assigning technicians, and setting customer expectations.
Fitness and walking routes
Compare points around your city to estimate how long a walking or biking outing might take before opening a full route map.
Accuracy notes
- Address lookups rely on geocoding and may choose the closest matching place name.
- Travel-time estimates are generalized and do not include live traffic conditions.
- For legal, commercial, or safety-critical decisions, verify with official routing tools and current map data.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use coordinates only?
Yes. Coordinates are usually the most precise input format.
Why is Google Maps showing a different distance?
Google Maps shows route-aware distance, while this calculator first computes direct geographic distance. Roads are rarely perfectly straight.
Does this work worldwide?
Yes, as long as the location can be resolved to valid coordinates. Coordinates always work globally.
Final takeaway
A good distance workflow is simple: use a fast calculator to estimate quickly, then open Google Maps to validate the exact route. That gives you both speed and real-world precision in seconds.