To see location information on Instagram, there are several ways depending on what exactly is meant by "location":
- Location Tags in Posts and Stories: Users can add location tags to their posts and stories, which can be seen by their followers or anyone if the profile is public. These tags may show a general area (like a city) or a specific place (like a restaurant). This is the main way Instagram users share location on the platform.
- Instagram Map Feature: Instagram recently introduced a map feature (launched August 2025) that allows users to share their real-time location with selected friends via their DM inbox map. This feature is opt-in only and users can choose who can see their location or keep it off completely. Even if location sharing is off, users can see location-tagged content such as stories or reels from people they follow on the map for 24 hours after posting.
- About This Account on Profiles: For business or public accounts, Instagram allows viewing basic location info under "About This Account" through the three dots menu on the user's profile. This may reveal the country or area where the account is based.
- Searching Location Tags Directly: It's also possible to search for posts tagged with a specific location using Instagram's search bar (Places tab) to see all posts from that place.
Therefore, to see someone's location on Instagram, the user must share it either by tagging posts, stories, sharing on the Instagram map, or through bios/business info. Instagram prioritizes user privacy by making location sharing optional and controllable through settings.
If the goal is to see location shared on a map:
- Open Instagram and go to the DM inbox.
- Tap the map icon at the top.
- Opt in and choose which friends can see your location or see their shared locations.
- Note your location updates when you open the app, not continuously.
If you want to see location in posts or stories, look for location tags under the post or swipe up on stories with location labels. For profiles, check "About This Account" in the menu to see business or account location info if available. All these options require the user to have shared their location voluntarily or have a public account with visible location tags.
