Bring your spatial data to life with immersive 3D visualizations in QGIS. Geo-ICT’s QGIS 3D Visualization course is built for GIS professionals and enthusiasts who want to move beyond flat maps and unlock the full potential of the third dimension. Whether you're working in urban planning, environmental analysis, or infrastructure design, this hands-on course will teach you how to create, manage, and present detailed 3D models using QGIS’s powerful open-source tools.
QGIS 3D Visualization
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What is 3D GIS?
In a world increasingly shaped by data, understanding the spatial relationships between objects, places, and environments is essential—and 3D GIS makes that understanding clearer than ever. Unlike traditional two-dimensional mapping, 3D GIS adds height and depth, allowing for more realistic and context-rich analysis. Whether you’re assessing terrain, visualizing cityscapes, or planning development projects, 3D visualization brings geospatial data to life in ways that 2D maps simply can’t.
Thanks to QGIS 3, 3D GIS is more accessible and affordable than ever. This free, open-source platform supports a range of 3D functionalities, making it possible to create interactive models using data like LiDAR point clouds and digital terrain models. The ability to view and analyze geodata in three dimensions opens up new opportunities for professionals in a wide range of sectors—from government and infrastructure to environmental science and geodesign. In short, 3D GIS helps you see the bigger picture—literally and figuratively.
What you will learn
This course provides a thorough introduction to 3D GIS using QGIS, combining hands-on exercises with real-world datasets to develop both technical skills and spatial thinking. You’ll start by learning how to collect and manage 3D geospatial data from sources such as LiDAR and digital elevation models. As you build your skills, you’ll explore how to visualize raster data in 3D, applying color gradients, shadows, and textures to enhance visual depth and meaning.
Next, you’ll move on to vector data, learning how to use extrusion and custom symbology to model features like buildings, trees, and infrastructure. You’ll also practice integrating data from different sources to build complete 3D models. By the end of the course, you’ll know how to create interactive, compelling visualizations that enhance analysis and make it easier to communicate spatial insights to stakeholders.
Why choose this course
Geo-ICT’s QGIS 3D Visualization course focuses on practical skills you can apply immediately. Here’s why it stands out:
- Expert instructors with real-world GIS and 3D visualization experience
- Hands-on learning with real data in a project-based setting
- Small groups for individual attention and personalized feedback
- Up-to-date curriculum using the latest QGIS 3D tools and features
Course structure
Day 1
This one-day course begins with a brief refresher on QGIS fundamentals to ensure everyone is comfortable with the basics. You’ll then dive into the 3D environment in QGIS, exploring how to access and load openly available national and international datasets suitable for 3D visualization. Along the way, you’ll review common data formats and their properties, gaining insight into how different types of geospatial data can be prepared for 3D display.
A key part of the session focuses on understanding the difference between raster and vector data—how each behaves in a 3D context, and how to style them effectively for clear and meaningful visualization. By the end of the day, you’ll have created your own 3D map layers and integrated them into an interactive scene, ready for further analysis or presentation.
Learning Outcomes
- Gain experience collecting and managing 3D geospatial data, including LiDAR and digital elevation models
- Learn to visualize raster data in 3D using color gradients, textures, and shading techniques
- Develop skills for representing vector features—such as buildings and infrastructure—using extrusion and custom styling
- Integrate multiple data sources into unified 3D models for dynamic analysis and communication
- Apply 3D visualization techniques to real-world use cases in planning, design, and environmental assessment
More Information?
Do you have questions about the course content? Not sure if the course aligns with your learning objectives? Or would you prefer a private session or in-company training? We’re happy to assist—feel free to get in touch.
Frequently Asked Questions about QGIS 3D Visualizations
QGIS 3D Visualization allows users to create, explore, and analyze geospatial data in 3D. It enables rendering of terrain using elevation models, extrusion of vector data (e.g., buildings or geological layers), and integration of raster and vector layers for detailed analysis. Key features include interactive 3D navigation, realistic visualization with textures and lighting, and export options for sharing. Ideal for urban planning, landscape analysis, and environmental studies, QGIS 3D offers a powerful open-source solution for immersive mapping.
The QGIS Basics course is designed for:
- Beginners in GIS: Individuals new to Geographic Information Systems who want to learn foundational skills.
- Students and Researchers: Those in fields like geography, urban planning, environmental science, or geology needing GIS for academic projects.
- Professionals: People working in urban planning, environmental management, agriculture, infrastructure, or similar fields seeking practical GIS skills.
- Data Enthusiasts: Anyone interested in analyzing spatial data or creating maps for personal or professional use.
This course is ideal for those with little to no GIS experience, providing hands-on training to confidently use QGIS in various applications.
No prior experience is necessary. This course is designed for beginners, though some familiarity with mapping concepts is helpful. The course will start with the basics and progress to advanced visualization techniques.