How to create a QR code for a location
Find coordinates as close as possible to the intended destination. For a large building or site, the correct entrance is often more useful than its geometric center.
- Enter latitude as a number from -90 to 90. Positive values are north of the equator, while negative values are south.
- Enter longitude from -180 to 180. Positive values are east of the prime meridian, while negative values are west.
- Scan the preview and inspect the marker in your map app. Zoom in to verify the side of the street, access point, and surrounding area.
- Download the QR code as a PNG and test it once more on the finished sign, map, ticket, invitation, or event document.
The geo URI, coordinates, and an example
The code uses a geo URI containing decimal degrees. Latitude and longitude follow geo: and are separated by a comma. Zurich, for example, can be represented with this content:
geo:47.3769,8.5417
Decimal values use a period, while the comma separates the two coordinates. They follow the common global geographic reference used by mainstream map and GPS applications. The QR code contains no location label, street address, floor number, or route. It describes only the specified point.
Practical uses for location QR codes
On invitations, a location QR code opens the exact meeting point. Event organizers can mark entrances, parking areas, and pickup zones, while trails can identify starting points and viewpoints. Property documents, construction notices, delivery instructions, and emergency plans benefit from a precise point when a street address is missing or too broad.
Add a plain-language label beside the code so its purpose remains obvious. Temporary events should also show a date or context. Be cautious with sensitive places: a publicly printed QR code makes its coordinates available to anyone who can photograph or scan it.
Accuracy, map apps, and navigation
After scanning, the device decides which map app opens the geo URI. Apple Maps, Google Maps, and other applications can display markers, map styles, and prompts differently. The code normally does not start navigation automatically; the person chooses the route, transport mode, and starting point.
Coordinates do not describe floors, room names, or accessible entrances. GPS variation and an imprecisely placed point matter particularly in cities and buildings. Reading the code works offline, but map tiles, place information, and directions may require an internet connection or previously downloaded offline maps.
Privacy: Latitude and longitude are processed entirely within your browser. OnlineToolkit.ch does not receive or store the location.