How do I create a navigation menu in WordPress?

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Applies to: WordPress.org and WordPress.com
Last updated: May 2025

Problem

You want to create or customize a navigation menu so visitors can easily find pages, posts, categories, or external links—but you’re not sure where to start.

Solution

WordPress allows you to create custom navigation menus through the dashboard. You can include pages, posts, categories, custom links, and more.

Step-by-Step: Create a Navigation Menu

1. Go to the Menu Settings

  • In your WordPress dashboard, go to Appearance > Menus

If this is your first menu:

  • Enter a Menu Name (e.g., “Main Menu”)
  • Click Create Menu

2. Add Menu Items

Use the panels on the left to add items:

  • Pages: Select from existing pages like Home, About, Contact
  • Posts: Add specific blog posts
  • Custom Links: Link to an external site or custom URL
  • Categories: Add blog categories to the menu
  1. Check the boxes next to the items you want
  2. Click Add to Menu

3. Arrange Menu Items

  • Drag and drop items to reorder them
  • Drag items slightly to the right to create submenus (dropdowns)

Example:

- About
- Services
   - Web Design
   - SEO
- Contact

4. Set Display Location

Scroll down to Menu Settings:

  • Check a Display Location (e.g., “Primary Menu” or “Header Menu”)
    The available options depend on your theme.

Click Save Menu when done.

Step-by-Step: Edit Menus via the Customizer (Alternative Method)

  1. Go to Appearance > Customize
  2. Click Menus
  3. Select an existing menu or create a new one
  4. Add, arrange, and publish your changes in real-time

Notes

  • Each theme supports different menu locations (header, footer, mobile, etc.)
  • You can create multiple menus for different parts of your site
  • For advanced styling or mobile behavior, consider using a Mega Menu plugin or a theme that supports responsive menus

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