Downloaded a map and not sure where it goes? Installing a custom map takes a couple of minutes. The steps differ between Java and Bedrock, and every platform is covered below.
Java Edition (PC/Mac)
Download and extract the map
Maps are downloaded as compressed .zip or .rar files that need to be extracted before use. You should end up with a folder containing a level.dat file.
Windows: download 7-Zip (free) to extract files.
Mac: use the built-in Archive Utility for .zip, or The Unarchiver for .rar files.
Locate your saves folder
Navigate to your Minecraft saves folder where all your worlds are stored:
Windows
%appdata%\.minecraft\savesPress Win+R, paste the path, and hit Enter.
Mac
~/Library/Application Support/minecraft/savesIn Finder, press Cmd+Shift+G and paste the path.
Place the map files
Extract the downloaded archive and place the entire map folder into your saves directory.
level.dat. Make sure these files sit inside a folder within the saves directory, not loose.Bedrock Edition (Windows 10/11)
Using .mcworld files
Double-click any .mcworld file and it will automatically import into Minecraft.
Manual installation (v1.21.120+)
Since version 1.21.120, Bedrock Edition moved files to a new location. Open this folder first:
%appdata%\Minecraft Bedrock\UsersPress Win+R, paste the path, and hit Enter.
Inside you will see a folder with a random number (your account ID) and a Shared folder. Your worlds are in the account folder:
%appdata%\Minecraft Bedrock\Users\YOUR_ACCOUNT_ID\games\com.mojang\minecraftWorldsExtract your map folder and paste it into minecraftWorlds.
Shared\games\com.mojang\resource_packs.Older versions (before 1.21.120): if you are on an older version, the path is:
%localappdata%\Packages\Microsoft.MinecraftUWP_8wekyb3d8bbwe\LocalState\games\com.mojang\minecraftWorldsBedrock Edition (iOS)
Download the map
Most modern maps use the .mcworld format. Tap the download link and the map will automatically install in Minecraft.
For older .zip files
If you have an older map in .zip format:
- Download iExplorer on your computer.
- Connect your iPhone or iPad via USB.
- Navigate to
Documents > games > com.mojang > minecraftWorlds. - Drag and drop the extracted map folder.
Bedrock Edition (Android)
Automatic installation
Maps with the .mcworld extension install automatically when you tap the download. This is the easiest method.
Manual installation
For .zip files, you will need a file manager:
- Install ASTRO File Manager from the Play Store.
- Locate the downloaded .zip file.
- Extract and copy the map folder.
- Navigate to
games > com.mojang > minecraftWorlds. - Paste the map folder.
Helpful tips
Check your Minecraft version
Run the version the map was built for. The map page lists its version requirement, and running the wrong one can break command blocks and redstone.
Empty chests?
If chests appear empty, you are probably on the wrong version. Most modern maps need Minecraft 1.8 or newer.
Resource packs
Some maps ship with a resource pack. Enable it in-game for the intended look and sound.
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