I use the following platforms to plan or edit routes independently.
+Apps for planning points of interest (scroll down!)
For my instructions: click on the respective list item! Translate the explanations using DeepL Translator, ChatGPT or similar tools if necessary…
You can find excellent step-by-step instructions for all apps on YouTube.
- Bikerouter
What? Web interface / online planner for bicycle routes
Function: Convenient planning in the browser with map, elevation profile, export (GPX), calculates routes based on profiles (e.g. road bike, MTB, trekking, low traffic, flat, etc.)
Technology: Uses, among other things, BRouter in the background (similar user interface)
Strengths: Easy to use, no installation required, ideal for quick tour planning
Website: https://bikerouter.de/ - Brouter
What is it? Open-source routing engine specifically for cycling and hiking routes
Function: Calculates routes based on profiles (e.g. road bike, MTB, trekking, low traffic, flat, etc.)
Strengths: Highly customizable (profiles are text files), can also be used offline (e.g. on Android)
Website: https://brouter.de/brouter-web - Strava
Strava is an app for recording, analyzing, and sharing sports activities (mainly cycling and running).
It shows the route, time, pace/speed, elevation gain, and compares performances (if you want – I don’t really like it…) via segments with others, optionally including community and training features.
I use Strava as a training diary. With the Premium version, you can also download routes from other users, which I then edit using other tools.
Strava also offers a route-planning function on the web (and in the app), which allows you to draw and save a route on the map. You also get an estimate of distance and elevation gain. In my opinion, it’s only of limited usefulness.
Website: https://www.strava.com/ - Openrunner
OpenRunner is an online route planner for sports such as running, cycling, and hiking. You can plan routes on the map, view elevation profiles, export GPX files, and share routes with others. Navigation and analysis are simpler than with specialized training apps.
My use: I import my routes here and get a great, informative elevation profile, which I copy as an image and then annotate in Paint with all the important information for use on the go (see image above).
Website: https://www.openrunner.com/en - Komoot
Komoot is an outdoor tour planning and navigation app for cycling, hiking, trail running, and other activities.
You can plan routes, use turn-by-turn navigation with voice instructions, save offline maps, and get tour-optimized routes (e.g., road bike, gravel, mountain bike, hiking trails).
Komoot shows elevation profiles, points of interest, user experiences, and allows sharing tours within the community. Both smartphones and GPS devices are supported.
You can search for routes, upload and edit tracks, get an overview of surface type, slopes, etc., and calculate times based on different fitness levels, bike types, etc. Time, distance, and elevation gain per section are also displayed.
With a Premium account, the app offers several practical benefits: multi-day tour planner, live tracking, weather along the route, sport-specific maps, and the ability to collect routes in personal collections, …
Website: https://www.komoot.com/de-de
My apps for finding Points of Interest (POI)
With these apps, which I also use on my smartphone while on the go, I organize supplies (water, supermarkets, restaurants, cafés, bakeries, …) and accommodations (campsites, hotels, B&Bs, …). - OnRouteMap
OnRouteMap is a free web tool that you can use directly in your browser to analyze GPX routes and view POIs along the way.
You can access it easily through the browser (also on mobile) – no additional app or registration is required. The tool shows supply and service points along the route, such as: gas stations, cafés & restaurants, supermarkets, drinking water sources, bike shops, hotels & accommodations.
Website: onroutemap.de - Google, my maps
Google My Maps is a free online tool from Google. You can upload maps and create POI lists for them. The POIs are color-coded on the map and can be accessed very quickly while on the go. Since My Maps runs through your Google account, registration is required.
You can draw markers, lines, and areas, label locations, and customize the colors or icons of the POIs.
GPX/KML files can be imported.
Maps can be shared publicly or privately.
I really enjoy using the app, both in advance and while traveling, to find POIs.
Website: https://www.google.com/intl/de/maps/about/mymaps/ - Organicmaps.app
Organic Maps is a free, privacy-friendly offline maps and navigation app (open & ad-free). It needs to be installed via the Play Store or App Store.
It’s ideal because no internet connection is required!
It is based on OpenStreetMap data and offers:
Offline maps (downloadable and usable without internet)
Search for places & POIs
GPX import for tracks/routes
No data sent to big corporations (privacy-focused)