Open maps in QGIS

This article demonstrates how to open maps rendered by MapTiler Engine in QGIS (formerly Quantum GIS): setting up a WMTS service, rendering the map in an MBTiles format, or using a GeoPackage. All methods can be used in QGIS3.

MapTiler QGIS Plugin

Simply copy and paste the link to JSON style (from MapTiler Cloud) into the respective field in the MapTiler QGIS plugin, as shown in the pictures below:

WMTS

Setting WMTS (Web Map Tile Service) is the most difficult but at the same time the most powerful method of using maps from MapTiler Engine in QGIS. It allows multiple users to access the map at the same time without the need to distribute your map files. The downside is a bit higher complexity to set it up and a need to be connected to the internet.

In MapTiler Engine, select the “Folder” rendering output method. After the rendering is done, copy the whole folder to the HTTP server (in most of the cases using an FTP client) and open it in your browser.

In the right menu, either click on the “WMTS” link in the top right corner, which leads to the XML GetCapabilities file and copy the URL, or click on the “Engine” tab and in the Step by step guide for QGIS, copy the link which will generate on the very top of the page.

In QGIS, add a new WMS/WMTS layer (from the right menu, by navigating to “Layer” -> “Add Layer” -> “Add WMS/WMTS Layer…”, or by using Ctrl+Shift+W shortcut). The new window will pop up, click on “New”, populate the “Name” field with your preferred name and “URL” by XML’s URL, and confirm. The new layer will be available in the Browser panel.

MBTiles

MBTiles is a file format for storing map tiles in a single file using SQLite database. It can be set as an output in MapTiler Engine and loaded in QGIS. The usage doesn’t require an internet connection.

Loading MBTiles in QGIS is simple: you just drag and drop it into the main window and it will be added to activated layers.

GeoPackage

GeoPackage is an open standard data format for exchanging geographic information. The implementation contains a simple SQLite database container. It can also be used offline.

Loading GeoPackage in QGIS is simple: you just drag and drop it into the main window, a new window will pop up asking you which projection you want to use. After you select the desired projection and click “OK”, it will be added to the activated layers.

How to connect XYZ tiles from MapTiler Server to QGIS

The process of connecting XYZ tiles to QGIS via MapTiler QGIS plugin is simple. Follow these steps:

1. In MapTiler Server, go to Maps.
2. Click to select a map you want to connect to QGIS.
3. Scroll down to XYZ tiles (raster tiles).
4. Copy link to the map (https://localhost:3650/api/maps/your_style_name_/{z}/{x}/{y}.png).
5. In QGIS, Right-click the XYZ tiles in the left vertical menu.
6. Select New connection.
7. Put in the name and the URL link to the map (from step 4).
8. Double-click the map you have just selected to add it to your layer view.
9. Continue working on your edits.

How to connect XYZ tiles from MapTiler Cloud to QGIS

The process of connecting XYZ tiles to QGIS via MapTiler QGIS plugin is simple. Follow these steps:

1. In MapTiler Cloud, go to Maps.
2. Click to select a map you want to connect to QGIS.
3. Scroll down to Raster tiles (choose resolution - 256px or 512px).
4. Copy link: (https://api.maptiler.com/maps/YOUR_STYLE/256/{z}/{x}/{y}.png?key=YOUR_KEY).
5. In QGIS, Right-click the XYZ tiles in the left vertical menu.
6. Select New connection.
7. Put in the name and the URL link to the map (from step 4).
8. Double-click the map you have just selected to add it to your layer view.
9. Continue working on your edits.

Useful links

Creating a map with MapTiler Engine
Choosing the output format for your map
QGIS website