1. Use an app with real offline transit data
The single biggest upgrade is an app whose route planning works offline — not just cached map images. CityNav pre-loads every major transit line and key station for 28 cities, so you can plan metro routes with airplane mode on. Nothing to download per-city, nothing to remember.
2. GPS works without data — use it
A little-known fact: GPS does not use mobile data. Your phone's location dot keeps working with data roaming off. Combined with an offline map, you can always see where you are — you just can't load new map tiles or live results. CityNav's AR walking arrows also run on GPS and compass, so they keep pointing the right way with no connection.
3. Plan the day's routes on Wi-Fi
Each morning on hotel Wi-Fi, look up your day's journeys. In CityNav the transit routes stay available offline anyway, but for anything else — restaurant bookings, opening hours — screenshot it. Screenshots are the tourist's offline database.
4. Know your emergency info before you need it
If something goes wrong with no signal, you don't want to be searching for the local emergency number. CityNav's Safety Centre pages — emergency numbers, tourist police, hospitals and common scams for all 28 cities — are available offline once you've opened the app.
5. What still needs a connection (and how to cope)
- Live disruptions — check on Wi-Fi before leaving; metro stations increasingly have free Wi-Fi for a quick refresh.
- Ride-hailing — needs data; agree taxi fares up front instead, or use station taxi ranks.
- Translation — download an offline language pack before you fly.
Get the app that works when the internet doesn't
CityNav's offline transit covers 28 cities free — open it once on Wi-Fi and you're set for the whole trip.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I navigate a city without any internet connection?
Yes. GPS works without mobile data, so with an app that stores transit data offline — like CityNav, which pre-loads all major lines and key stations for 28 cities — you can see where you are and plan metro routes with no connection at all.
Does GPS use mobile data?
No. GPS is received directly from satellites and works with mobile data switched off, and even in airplane mode on most phones (re-enable location services). You can always see your position on an offline map.
Does Google Maps work without internet?
Partially. You must download offline areas in advance, and offline transit directions are limited or unavailable. CityNav includes full offline transit route planning for all 28 supported cities with nothing to download.
How do I check metro routes underground with no signal?
Use an app with pre-loaded transit data. CityNav's route planner works entirely offline, so you can re-plan a journey on the platform even in a deep tunnel with zero bars.
What should I prepare before travelling to avoid needing data?
Open CityNav once on Wi-Fi (loads all 28 cities' transit and safety data), download an offline translation pack, screenshot bookings and addresses, and note your accommodation address on paper as a backup.