You probably think of maps as just a simple navigational tool. It helps you find that new coffee shop you saw on the internet, a faster route to that mall, or help you find your way when travelling.
But did you know that they serve as one of the most useful visual elements for a lot of brands? This is because map-inspired elements like arrows or globes can instantly communicate concepts like direction, momentum, speed, geographic association, or global reach–all in just one icon!
Map logos indeed remain a powerful and flexible design choice. Interested in using one for your business? We’ve curated a list of the top map logo design concepts that can serve as inspiration below.
Let’s take a look at them!
Map Logo Design Ideas
Map logos tend to fall into a few clear categories. Understanding these categories makes it easier to choose a logo that aligns with your brand’s identity and target audience.
They are:
- Location-based map logos
- Directional and navigation map logos
- Abstract and symbolic map logos
Location-based map logos
These logos use recognizable geographical elements such as city outlines, continent shapes, or flags to anchor a brand to a specific location.
These are great for businesses that rely on local or regional appeal. Think neighborhood restaurants, real estate agents, tourist resorts, local service providers, and the like.
Browse our location logos below:
Locator Light Bulb by Design.com
Bee Location Pin by BrandCrowd
Golf Location Pin by Design.com
Castle Location Pin by BrandCrowd
Smile Location Pin by Design.com
Dog Location Pin by BrandCrowd
Coffee Location Pin by Design.com
Airplane Location Pin by BrandCrowd
Road Location Pin by Design.com
Pin Location Parachute by BrandCrowd
Bird Location Pin by Design.com
Beak Bird Locator by BrandCrowd
Turtle Location Pin by Design.com
Paint Brush Location by BrandCrowd
Creative Location Pin by Design.com
Location Pin Building by BrandCrowd
Location Pin Hands by Design.com
Home Location Pin by BrandCrowd
Wine Location Pin by Design.com
Multicolor Location Pin Icon by BrandCrowd
Directional and navigation map logos
Next on the list are navigation logos.
These focus on direction, movement, or the act of getting from one place to another. These feature icons such as arrows, maps, compass, location pins, etc. They are best suited for businesses like GPS app, route planners, courier service, ride-hailing service, and other similar industries.
Alternatively, it can also signify growth, momentum, and speed. So even consulting firms, marketing agencies, tech platforms, and the like can use them. It's totally versatile!
Take your pick from our samples below:
Tech Navigation App by Design.com
Navigation Startup Compass by BrandCrowd
Navigation Compass Direction by Design.com
Modern Navigation Compass by BrandCrowd
Sun Compass Navigation by Design.com
Navigation Pin Location by BrandCrowd
GPS Navigation Arrow by Design.com
Navigation Steering Wheel by BrandCrowd
Eye Compass Navigation by Design.com
Compass Navigator Location by BrandCrowd
Navigation Map Direction by Design.com
Puzzle Navigation Compass by BrandCrowd
Navigation Compass Mountain by Design.com
Sea Compass Navigation by BrandCrowd
Direction Compass Navigator by Design.com
Abstract and symbolic map logos
Last are abstract logos. These take inspiration from geography without being literal. You may see stylized globes, a circular line, airplanes, trains, or something related to the place without being too obvious. These could be a location’s national flower, bird, or a famous landmark.
An example is the maple leaf in Tim Horton’s logo, which is a nod to their Canadian roots. Or the lines in the Cisco logo, which represent the Golden Gate Bridge. Or the Matterhorn mountain in the Toblerone logo!
See our examples here:
Star Wings Map Pin by BrandCrowd
Circle Airplane by Design.com
Compass Globe Navigation by BrandCrowd
Airplane Travel Agency by Design.com
Globe International Worldwide by BrandCrowd
Thunderbolt Train Transit by Design.com
Globe Charity Care by BrandCrowd
Montana Landmark Monument by Design.com
Modern Business Globe by BrandCrowd
Bridge Landmark Contractor by Design.com
Compass World Globe by BrandCrowd
Abstract Texas Map by Design.com
Blue Airplane Flight by BrandCrowd
Abstract Wave Map by Design.com
Airplane Travel Courier by BrandCrowd
How To Design a Map Logo
Creating an effective map logo is easy if you know the right foundations. These are:
Understand your brand
What is the purpose of your brand? What are your products and services? Who is your target audience? What message do you want to convey?
Knowing all of these can help you decide the direction of your logo. You may want to highlight your speed in navigation or you may want to symbolize your pride in your country. Either way, this should help you figure out the right elements to use or the appropriate art style to go for.
Choose symbols with intent
As mentioned above, symbols can help you convey your message. So choose the one that is right for you. These could be an arrow to symbolize growth, an airplane to show global reach, or a kangaroo to showcase your Australian roots.
Pair the right color and typography
Visual elements like color and typography can amplify your message and build your brand identity more effectively. For example, color psychology dictates that using red can induce hunger. So it may be a smart idea to use a red color for your neighborhood restaurant.
Meanwhile, the Parisine typeface is the font used in the Paris public transport system. Using the same font for your Paris-inspired map logo can also be a great idea since it further establishes that your brand is Paris-based.
Keep it clean and balanced
It may be tempting to add a million references to your location since you feel like it may be more effective that way. But too many elements can make your logo look cluttered, unpolished, and unprofessional.
It’s best to keep it simple. Choose one focal element and add maximum 2 elements as accent. Use 2-3 colors only and ideally just one typeface in the logo. Avoid overly detailed maps as well. Focus on recognisable shapes or symbols that remain clear even at small sizes.
Build Your Map Logo Today
Whether you are a travel agency, airline, hotel, resort, or transport app, a map logo can be a great logo choice for you.
If you’re ready to get started, check out our logo maker tools for professionally designed templates you can customize in minutes.
You can also hire a designer on DesignCrowd to create a custom map logo built specifically around your brand’s vision.
Keep in mind though that great branding doesn’t end with just a logo. Make sure to also browse our other branding assets like business name generator, Facebook cover, poster maker, and more.
Get started with your branding today!
Faviola Publico is an SEO Content Writer specializing in branding and digital marketing strategies. Outside of work, she enjoys reading slice-of-life novels and watching any mystery thriller-themed series.
Header Image by Khim John Blazo
Written by DesignCrowd on Friday, January 16, 2026
DesignCrowd is an online marketplace providing logo, website, print and graphic design services by providing access to freelance graphic designers and design studios around the world.
