How to Print a Map Poster: Size, Paper, Resolution & Frames
You have designed a map you love. Now it has to look as good on the wall as it does on screen. Here is how to choose the size, resolution and paper, and the three ways to get it printed: at home, at a print shop, or ordered online and delivered framed.
1. Pick the size first
Decide the size before you export, because it sets the shape of the map and how much detail fits. The most common choices:
- A4 / 8×10 in — desks, shelves and small gifts.
- A3 / 12×16 in — the classic framed city map.
- A2 / 18×24 in — the best all-round wall poster.
- A1 / 24×36 in — a statement piece above a sofa or bed.
A-sizes (A4, A3, A2, A1) all share the same proportions, so a design made for A3 scales to A1 without cropping. Inch sizes like 18×24 are a little wider, so set that exact size in the editor if you plan to print in inches.
2. Get the resolution right
Resolution is measured in dots per inch (dpi). For a poster you look at from a step away, 150 dpi is plenty. Use 300 dpi for small prints you hold in your hand. In PrintMap every resolution is free, and a vector PDF or SVG stays sharp at any size, because lines and labels are drawn rather than made of pixels.
3. Choose the paper
- Matte art paper (180–200 g) — no glare, rich colours; the best choice for most map styles.
- Satin or semi-gloss — deeper blacks for dark and satellite styles, with a slight sheen.
- Canvas — textured and frameless; works well for watercolour and vintage styles.
4. Three ways to print it
At home
Fine for A4 and A3 on a good inkjet with matte photo paper. Print at 100% scale (not "fit to page") so the edges are not cropped.
At a print shop
Download a PDF or a 150–300 dpi PNG and bring it on a USB stick or upload it to the shop. Ask for "poster print on matte paper, no scaling". Large sizes (A2 and up) are where a shop is worth it.
Order it printed and delivered
The easiest route: after designing your map in PrintMap, click Order it printed & shipped. Your design goes straight to a print partner — you don't upload anything again — and you choose paper, size and frame there:
- US, Canada, UK and 9 EU countries — printed by Peecho on art paper, framed (8 frame colours) or on canvas, from A5 up to A0.
- Everywhere else — printed as a poster and shipped worldwide by Zazzle.
You pay the print shop directly; the digital download in PrintMap stays free.
5. Framing tips
- A thin black or natural wood frame suits most city maps; gold works with vintage styles.
- A white border (mat) around the map makes small posters look larger and more finished.
- For a gallery wall, keep one frame colour and one map style across several cities.
Design your map, then print it your way
Free download in any size — or order it printed and shipped.
Create your map →Frequently asked questions
What resolution does a map poster need for printing?
150 dpi is enough for a poster seen from a normal distance; 300 dpi is ideal for small prints viewed up close. A vector PDF or SVG prints sharp at any size.
What is the best size for a map poster?
A3 and A2 (or 12×16 and 18×24 inches) are the most popular for framed city maps. A1 or 24×36 inches makes a large statement piece.
Can I order my map poster printed and shipped?
Yes. In PrintMap click Order it printed & shipped after designing your map. It is printed on art paper, framed or on canvas by Peecho in the US, Canada, the UK and 9 EU countries, and by Zazzle everywhere else. The digital download stays free.