Want to see what Google Search results look like in another country or language — without changing your settings or using a VPN?

You can do it with a quick URL tweak.

Instead of opening advanced settings each time, just add two simple parameters to the end of your Google Search URL:

  • &hl= for language
  • &gl= for country

This method is quick, browser-friendly, and often used by Google’s own John Mueller.

Here’s how to do it.

🪄 Step-by-Step: Customize Google Search Region & Language

Open https://www.google.com in your browser.

For example, search for:
best smartphones 2025

3. Add the language and country code at the end of the URL

Use this format:
&hl=languagecode&gl=countrycode

For example:

  • Italian in Italy
    &hl=it&gl=it

  • Hebrew in Israel
    &hl=he&gl=il

  • English in the US
    &hl=en&gl=us

Your final URL will look like:
https://www.google.com/search?q=best+smartphones+2025&hl=it&gl=it

🧠 What Do hl and gl Mean?

  • hl= is for host language (e.g., en, es, fr, he)
  • gl= is for geographic location (e.g., us, fr, in, il)

These parameters help simulate what a user in that region would likely see.

🧪 Pro Tip: Use Extensions or Spoofing

If you run international SEO audits or global campaigns regularly, you can:

  • Use browser extensions that automatically add these parameters
  • Use location spoofing tools to simulate exact regional behavior
  • Set up bookmarks with your most-used combinations

This makes it easy to switch between regions without logging out or using different devices.

📎 Did You Know?

Google’s John Mueller says he prefers using these URL hacks over changing settings manually — it’s faster and more flexible for testing.

🧭 Final Thought

If you’re an SEO, a global content marketer, or just someone curious about how results vary around the world, mastering this little trick will save you time and help you better understand how Google personalizes by region and language.