Google provides street views of Italian cities (on the iPhone, too)
I’m constantly impressed by the fast pace at which Microsoft and Google are innovating in the mapping technology space.
Some time ago I created a short video tutorial describing the two online services, then I blogged about how Google allows users to customize their maps and how Microsoft introduced bird’s eye views of several cities in Italy.
This time I’ll talk about Google’s street views. Imagine a car with a panoramic camera on its roof to capture thousands of pictures while it’s circulating around a city. Now, link those images to Google maps and you can experience on your computer what a busy Italian street looks like in the reality.
Google for now provides coverage only for Milan, Rome, Florence and the Lake Como area. Check some of these links, drag your pointer around to discover the surroundings and follow the arrows to move along the streets:
- Piazza di Santa Croce in Florence
- Piazza del Popolo in Rome
- Piazza Castello in Milan
- Piazza Roma in Arzegno (on Lake Como)
If you own an iPhone, you’ll be happy to know that Google street views are available for your mobile device too.
For example, search for ‘Rome’ in the Google Maps iPhone application and click on the orange little man on the label:
and you’ll magically experience what’s like driving in Italy without time constrains.
Now that you are “virtually ready” for Italy, consider the next steps to get “totally ready” for Italy.
Download a free chapter of our eBook and start discovering more than 350+ tips that will help you navigate Italy like a local.
Related Posts
One Response to “Google provides street views of Italian cities (on the iPhone, too)”
Leave a Reply
Hot tips from real Italians
The Definitive Survival Guide for Travelers.
If your goal is to visit Italy and don't feel just like another tourist, then this eBook is exactly what you need.
Don't take our word for it. Read what our customers are saying.
Preview FREE chapter and read customer testimonials
Name: Paolo and Francesca Tosolini
Location: Bellevue, Washington, United States
Paolo was born and raised in Italy for his first 30 years. He now lives in Seattle, WA (USA) where he works for Microsoft as a New Media Business Manager.
Francesca worked as a travel agent before choosing the career of full time mom of two beautiful kids.
Through this blog, Paolo and Francesca want to share an insider view of the Italian culture, and offer useful tips and information to make your trip to Italy the most enjoyable ever.
Suggest a new topic to blog!
Email: paolo@tosolini.com
Cell: (425) 985-7886.
p.s. Of course, this blog reflects only my opinions and not my employer's.
iPhone view
I agree these technologies have come a long way in such a short time. I am particularly impresses with the recent ability to use the maps on your mobile phone as a gps, to get directions in real time. Can be very helpful for first time visitors to Italy – or driving anywhere for the first time really.