GraphHopper

Self-Hosted

Open-source routing engine for maps and GPS applications

Overview

GraphHopper is an open-source routing engine that supports multi-modal transport (car, bike, foot, public transit) using OpenStreetMap data. It offers fast turn-by-turn directions, isochrone calculations (areas reachable in time), and customizable routing profiles. Deployment options include Docker (simplest setup), JVM-based instances, or cloud hosting. Its REST/GraphQL APIs integrate easily with web/mobile apps, allowing developers to self-host routing services without relying on third-party SaaS. Lightweight and scalable, it’s ideal for apps needing privacy-focused, custom routing logic.

Self-Hosting Resources

Find Official Image on Docker Hub View Source & Docs

Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml. ⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.

docker-compose.template.yml TEMPLATE


version: '3'
services:
  graph_hopper:
    image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
    container_name: graph-hopper
    ports:
      - "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
    volumes:
      - ./data:/app/data
    restart: unless-stopped

Key Features

Multi-modal routing (car, bike, foot, public transit)
OpenStreetMap data integration
Fast isochrone and route calculation
Customizable routing profiles
REST/GraphQL API support

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is GraphHopper hard to install?

Basic setup is straightforward via Docker (pre-built images available). The docs provide step-by-step guides for OSM data integration. Advanced setups (custom profiles, large regions) need server admin and OSM processing knowledge, but community support helps mitigate this.

? Is it a good alternative to Google Maps Routing API?

Yes! It offers similar multi-modal routing but is open-source and self-hosted, giving full data control. Ideal for privacy-focused apps, though it lacks Google’s real-time traffic (unless integrated with external services like TomTom Traffic).

? Is GraphHopper completely free?

Yes—100% free under MIT License for use/modification/self-hosting. Costs may apply for server hosting, OSM data storage, or cloud resources (AWS/GCP), but no licensing fees.

Top Alternatives

Google Maps Routing API Search Google

Mapbox Directions API Search Google

TomTom Routing API Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Open Source

Category Maps and Global Positioning System (GPS)

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Privacy-focused (self-hosted, no third-party data sharing)
⊕ No subscription fees (MIT License)
⊕ Customizable routing rules for specific use cases
⊕ Supports offline routing with local OSM data

Cons

⊖ Requires technical setup (OSM data import, server config)
⊖ Steeper learning curve for advanced customization
⊖ Needs regular OSM data updates for accuracy
⊖ Resource-intensive for large geographic regions