Frequently Asked Questions

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Welcome to our FAQ page: find quick answers about using Carta Volta, accessing maps, payments, and more.
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Getting Started

What is a Carta Volta map?

A Carta Volta map is a curated digital map filled with personal recommendations from a Creator who knows a city, region or destination well. That could be a local, a passionate traveller, a host, a guide or anyone with places they genuinely love to share.

Instead of scrolling through endless lists, saved posts or random pins, you get one clear map with handpicked spots, organised into easy-to-use categories. Each place comes with a short, honest description, so you know why it was added and what to expect before you go.

Carta Volta is designed to help you decide where to go while you are already exploring. The map shows you which places are (about to) open, so you spend less time searching and more time discovering.

How is this different from Google Maps?

Carta Volta maps are built on top of Google Maps, so the map itself feels familiar from the start. The difference is in what you see and how you use it. Google Maps is designed to show you almost everything. Carta Volta helps you focus on a curated selection of places chosen by a Creator who knows the city, region or destination well.

Carta Volta also adds helpful categories, short descriptions and smart labels. The maps are dynamic, so you’ll only see the places that are open. This means your map can change throughout the day, making it easier to decide where to go next without getting lost in too many options.

How does the map work?

Once the map is unlocked, you can access it instantly in your browser, on any device. There’s no app to download and no elaborated login process, so you can start exploring quickly. The map works on a familiar interface, but only shows the places selected by the Creator. You can browse spots by category, read short descriptions, see what is around you, and navigate to the places you want to visit. The map is dynamic, which means it changes throughout the day based on which places are open at that moment. This helps you focus on relevant options nearby.

Not sure yet? Every map includes a free preview, so you can unlock a first selection of spots and see how the map works before accessing the full version. You’ll find the preview by scrolling down on the page of the map you’d like to explore.

Do I need a password to access my map?

No, you don’t need a password to access your Carta Volta map. Instead of traditionally logging in with an email address and password, you simply enter your email address. We’ll send you a secure magic link that gives you access to your account and your unlocked map or maps. The magic link is only valid for a limited time, but you can request a new one whenever you want to access your map again. Just go to My Maps, enter your email address, and we’ll send you a (new) link.

Can I use the map offline? Is there an app?

Carta Volta works directly in your browser, so you don’t need to download an app or install anything. Because the map is dynamic, you do need an internet connection to use it properly. This allows the map to adapt throughout the day based on which places are open, and helps you access the most relevant spots while you are exploring. It also makes it possible to click through to useful links or make a reservation.

Using the Map

Can I see my own location on the map?

Absolutely! Your current location is visible directly on the Carta Volta map, so you always know what's nearby. And when you're ready to head somewhere, just tap the navigation button on any pin to open directions in your preferred app such as Google Maps or Apple Maps.

Can I filter what I see on the map?

Yes, every Carta Volta map is already curated, which means you only see places selected by the Creator. From there, you can use the legend to show or hide categories whenever you want. Just had dinner? Hide the restaurants and look for a bar, a nice walk or something else to do nearby. This helps you adapt the map to your plans in the moment, without losing the Creator’s personal selection.

What do the labels on pins mean?

Some pins include helpful labels that give you extra context at a glance. They can show things like whether a place is about to open, about to close, often busy, reservation recommended, tickets required, pet-friendly or suitable for kids. These labels help you understand what to expect before you go. That way, you can make quicker decisions while exploring and avoid losing time on places that may not fit your plans at that moment.

Can I personalise the map while using it?

Yes, you can personalise the map while using it, starting with what you see. Use the legend to show or hide categories depending on what you need at that moment, whether you are looking for food, shops or drinks.

You can also add a limited number of your own places to a map you’ve unlocked. These places are only visible on your version of the map and are not added to the Creator’s original map. That means you can add your hotel, a supermarket nearby, or a cute bookshop you pass along the way. It makes the map a little more personal and even more useful during your trip.

Can I add my own places to the map?

Yes, you can add a limited number of your own places to a map you’ve unlocked, such as your hotel, a supermarket nearby, or a spot you discover along the way. These personal pins are only visible on your version of the map. They are not added to the Creator’s original map, so the curated selection stays intact. Every Carta Volta map is built around places carefully selected by the Creator, so it’s best to choose a map that already matches the way you like to travel. The option to add your own places is there to make the map even more useful for your specific trip.

Found a place you think really belongs on the map? You can also share it as feedback with the Creator. If they agree it fits their selection, they may decide to add it for future travellers.

Does the map change throughout the day?

Of course! Carta Volta maps are dynamic, which means the map can adapt throughout the day based on which places are open at that moment. Instead of showing every recommendation all the time, the map helps you focus on places that are relevant right now. For example, a breakfast spot may appear in the morning, while bars or dinner places become more useful later in the day.

What are “Quirks” on the map?

Quirks is one of the categories you may find on a Carta Volta map. It is used for the small details that are easy to overlook, but make a place more memorable. Think unexpected stories, fun facts, local anecdotes or surprising things to notice while exploring. They are not places you visit in the same way as a restaurant, shop or viewpoint. Instead, Quirks add extra context to your surroundings and help you notice details you might otherwise walk past.

Recommendations

What kind of places are included in a map?

No map is just a greatest hits list. Each Carta Volta map combines well-known highlights with lesser-known spots, hidden gems and personal favourites that most visitors might not find on their own. The exact selection depends on the Creator behind the map. That’s why it’s worth reading who the Creator is and what their connection is with the city, region or destination. It helps you understand their style, what they like and what kind of places you can expect. That way, you get a richer, more personal experience of the city and can choose a map that matches the way you like to travel!

Who creates the maps?

Behind every map is a real person with a real connection to the city. Some grew up there. Others keep coming back. Either way, their picks come from experience, not algorithms. Read their story in the Creator description to see what makes their map worth exploring.

How are the pins selected?

Only the Creator decides what makes it onto their map. Every pin is chosen because they believe it adds something valuable to the experience, whether that is quality, charm, atmosphere, local character or genuine personal connection. These are the kinds of places they would go back to themselves or recommend to someone they care about. No fillers, no random spots. In the pin description, Creators can explain why they selected a place and what you can expect when you go there. That way, you don’t just see where to go, but also understand why it might be worth your time.

How up-to-date is the information?

Transparency matters to us. Every map shows when it was last updated, so you can see how fresh the recommendations are. Even after a map is live, Creators can keep improving it. They can add new places, remove spots, update descriptions or adjust details whenever needed. Any changes they make go live instantly. How often a map is refreshed depends on the Creator, but Carta Volta is built so maps can keep evolving over time. So, if a place is permanently closed, it won’t appear on the map, so you don’t have to worry about being sent somewhere that no longer exists.

Do Creators include affiliate links or partners?

Some Creators may include links to things they personally recommend, such as hotels, activities, rentals or other useful travel services. These links can help you plan your trip more easily and may sometimes be affiliate or partner links.

That does not mean places can simply pay to appear on a Carta Volta map. The recommendations on the map are selected by the Creator, based on what they genuinely think belongs there. In other words: useful links are possible, but paid placements or random advertisements are not.

Can I interact with the Creator of a map?

Yes, every map includes a feedback option, so you can message the Creator directly through Carta Volta. You can use it to suggest a place you think they might like, tell them how much you enjoyed the map, let them know if something has changed, or share that one of their recommendations made your trip better. It is a small way to help Creators keep improving their maps.

If the Creator has added social links to their profile, you can also follow them there. And if you liked their style, you can discover the other maps they have created on their Carta Volta profile.

Can I share suggestions or feedback?

Absolutely! You can share feedback in different ways, depending on what it is about.

If your feedback is about the map itself, such as a place suggestion, a correction or something about the city, you can send it to the Creator through the map. This helps Creators keep their recommendations relevant and useful for future travellers. And if you simply want to tell them they created a great map, don’t hesitate. A kind message is always appreciated.

If your feedback is about Carta Volta as a platform, for example if something does not work as expected, you need help with something or you have a suggestion, you can contact us directly at support@cartavolta.com.

Access & Payments

Can I preview a map before buying it?

Yes! Every map includes a free preview with a selection of pins across different categories. This lets you explore a small part of the map before unlocking the full version. You can get a feel for the Creator’s style, the type of places they recommend, how they describe their spots and whether the map matches the way you like to travel. It is a simple way to see what kind of experience you can expect before deciding to access the full map.

What do I unlock when I buy a map?

When you buy a Carta Volta map, you unlock the full map for life. That means access to all pins, categories and descriptions the Creator has added. You don’t just get a list of places, but a practical way to explore a city, region or destination through the eyes of someone who knows it well.

Instead of spending hours researching, scrolling through saved posts or second-guessing where to go, you get one clear, colour-coded map you can open instantly in your browser. No app, just practical recommendations you can use before and during your trip. It helps you avoid tourist traps, dead ends and endless searching, so you can explore with more confidence and make the most of your time there.

How do I pay?

You can pay for a Carta Volta map through a familiar online checkout.

Choose the map you want to unlock, follow the steps at checkout and select one of the available payment methods. Once your payment is completed, your map is unlocked and you can start using it right away.

How do I create an account on Carta Volta?

You don’t need to create an account in the traditional way. When you buy a map, create a map or access My Maps, you simply use your email address. We’ll send you a magic link that gives you access to your Carta Volta account. That account is linked to your email address, so you can always return to My Maps later.

How do I access the map after purchase?

Once your payment is completed, your access to the map is unlocked. You’ll be redirected to the map so you can start using it right away. You’ll also receive an email with a secure magic link. If you don’t see it, it’s worth checking your spam.

Want to access your map again later? Go to My Maps on the Carta Volta website, enter the email address you used for your purchase, and we’ll send you a new magic link to access your account and unlocked map(s).

Can I access my map again later if I lose the link?

Yes, if you lose the link, if it has expired, or if you want to access your purchased map again later, go to My Maps. Enter the email address you used for your purchase, and we’ll send you a new magic link. Magic links expire automatically after a limited time, but you can always request a new one whenever you need access. Through that link, you can access your account and your unlocked map or maps again on any device.

How long does my access last?

When you buy a Carta Volta map, you unlock the full map for life. That means you can keep using your purchased map whenever you need it, whether it is during your current trip, later that week or for a future visit to the same city, region or destination. If the Creator updates the map after your purchase, those changes will appear on the map too. So your access does not expire, even though the magic link you use to log in is only valid for a limited time.

Can I get a refund?

Because Carta Volta maps are digital products with instant access, we do not offer refunds. To help you decide before buying, every map includes a free preview. You can scroll down on the map page to unlock a first selection of spots, get a feel for the Creator’s style and see whether the map matches the way you like to travel. If something didn't go as expected, don't hesitate to contact us by sending an email to support@cartavolta.com.

For Creators

How do I create a map on Carta Volta?

Creating your own Carta Volta map is easy. Go to My Maps and enter your email address to receive a magic link to your account. Once you’re in, click the “Where to next?” tile under My maps, enter the city or destination your map will be based on, and you’ll land in the Map Builder. From there, you can start adding your favourite places, organise them into categories, and build your map step by step. You’ll also receive helpful emails along the way, with guidance, tips and small tricks to help you get your map ready to share.

How can I get my business featured on a map?

Creators are free to run their maps as they see fit, but we've built in safeguards to keep things honest. There's no way to pin one spot above another, no sponsored placements, and no tools that would make commercial commitments worthwhile. Quality stays the only currency.

If you'd like to be featured, reach out to the creator, not with a pitch, but with a genuine introduction. The best way onto any map is simply being worth recommending. For the original Carta Volta maps, we're always open to new finds, just say hello at maps@cartavolta.com.

Does Carta Volta collaborate with influencers?

Definitely! Carta Volta already works with travel, food, and lifestyle creators who want to turn their local knowledge into interactive maps people can actually use while exploring. You don’t need a (big) audience to become a Creator. We value different perspectives on a city, region, or destination, whether you know the best hidden cafés, family-friendly spots, local food places, scenic walks, or underrated neighbourhoods.

With Carta Volta, you can group your recommendations in one easy-to-use map, grow your voice, and share places people genuinely want to discover. Interested in creating a map? Send us an email at creators@cartavolta.com and we’ll be happy to tell you more.

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