How to Add Google Maps & Google Satellite as a Base Layer in QGIS3

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will learn how to add Google Maps, Google Satellite, and Google Satellite Hybrid as base layers in QGIS3. This method serves as a workaround for the now-defunct OpenLayers Plugin, allowing you to incorporate these popular map services directly into your QGIS canvas. By following this guide, you'll enhance your mapping projects with detailed and visually appealing backgrounds.

Step 1: Prepare QGIS for Adding XYZ Tiles

Before you can add Google Maps as a base layer, ensure that your QGIS environment is ready.

• Open QGIS3 on your computer.
• Navigate to the Browser Panel. If it's not visible, enable it by going to View > Panels > Browser.

Step 2: Add XYZ Tiles Connection

Now it's time to add the XYZ Tiles for Google Maps, Google Satellite, and Hybrid.

• Right-click on XYZ Tiles in the Browser Panel.
• Select New Connection.
• In the dialog box that appears, enter a name for the connection (e.g., "Google Maps").

Step 2.1: Enter Connection Details

For each type of map, you will need to enter specific URL details. Use the following URLs:

• Google Maps

  • URL: https://mt1.google.com/vt/lyrs=m&x={x}&y={y}&z={z}

• Google Satellite

  • URL: https://mt1.google.com/vt/lyrs=s&x={x}&y={y}&z={z}

• Google Hybrid

  • URL: https://mt1.google.com/vt/lyrs=y&x={x}&y={y}&z={z}

• Paste the chosen URL into the URL field in the connection dialog.

• Click OK to save the connection.

Step 3: Add the Base Layer to QGIS Canvas

With the connections established, you can now add the base layers to your QGIS project.

• Expand the XYZ Tiles section in the Browser Panel.
• Double-click on the connection you just created (e.g., "Google Maps") to add it to the canvas.
• Repeat this process for Google Satellite and Hybrid if desired.

Step 4: Adjust Layer Properties

After adding the base layers, you may want to adjust their properties.

• Right-click on the layer in the Layers Panel.
• Select Properties to open the Layer Properties dialog.
• Here, you can change the opacity, visibility, and other settings to suit your project needs.

Practical Tips

• Ensure that your internet connection is stable while retrieving map data from Google.
• If any layers do not display, verify the URL and ensure it is entered correctly.
• Consider using these maps as background layers for projects that require a more visually appealing context.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, you learned how to add Google Maps, Google Satellite, and Hybrid layers to your QGIS3 project using XYZ Tiles. By following the steps provided, you can enhance your mapping capabilities with these widely used base layers. Next, explore additional functionalities in QGIS to further customize your mapping projects!