A map customization module builds a customized map for a user based on the user's interest and historical activities. A database stores processed map data including layer data, element data and/or tile data related to maps. The map customization module obtains the necessary processed map data from the database and combines the map data with the user's interests to generate a customized map. The map customization module recognizes the user's interests based on explicit user input and/or implicit user input.